Anyone who’s ever had to wait for an order to show up understands it can be an irritating experience. The wait is even more annoying when it’s a crucial piece of HVAC equipment like a new furnace or air conditioner. With backlogs and supply shortages, some people are waiting weeks for their new HVAC system to be installed. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with a service like furnace installation in Norco and St. Charles Parish, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
Current shortages are a result of several problems throughout the supply chain. We’ll review how these issues have affected the HVAC industry as well as what you can do to minimize the impact.
Why Is There an HVAC Product Shortage?
Standard HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Usually this is better for homeowners, as this means more effective heating and cooling. But recent disruptions in the supply chain impacts how quickly these products can be assembled and shipped. There are a few reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is delayed, such as:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As people continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and other safety precautions have gradually contributed to the backlog. A couple extra days here and there accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are fine-tuned for optimal efficiency and can take a while to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials shift. While companies find alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs have made steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals such as steel and copper are vital for efficient HVAC equipment. Important materials also include plastics and even finished electronics like microchips and semiconductors. These two components are especially scarce.
- Worker Shortage: As industries wind back up, they’re also experiencing a shortage of workers in comparison to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also require time to train to ensure they provide dependable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these issues have slowed down the gears of the HVAC industry. As equipment takes longer to arrive, people may have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Luckily, you still have options for reducing delays.
4 Ways to Reduce the Impact of HVAC Product Shortages
Are you actively searching for new HVAC equipment? Or do you just want to avoid being stuck without heat or air conditioning? Whatever your reasons are, there are ways to minimize how the HVAC product shortage affects you.
- Don’t ignore routine maintenance: Services including routine air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make for your HVAC system. Components stay in better shape, which means more efficient performance and a reduced risk of problems.
- Look for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown may leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for unusual sounds and monitor your energy bill for evidence your HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to install a new furnace or air conditioner, it might be a good idea to go ahead and make the order. Even with existing supply chain issues, you’ll be more likely to receive your new equipment by the time you actually need it.
- Consider alternative equipment: If a current make or model is struggling with a shortage, researching alternatives might open up more options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more choices for high-efficiency HVAC systems than ever.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC experts at Mayeuxs AC & Heating want to help lower your wait times for a new furnace or air conditioner. If you’re considering new or replacement installation, it’s a good idea to get a head start. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at (985) 764-2426.