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 central 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 arrive. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with a service like furnace installation in Des Moines, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
Current shortages are a result of a few problems along the supply chain. We’ll review how these issues have affected the HVAC industry as well as what you can do to reduce the impact.
Why Is There an HVAC Product Shortage?
Popular HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Usually this is a great thing for homeowners, as this means more convenient heating and cooling. But recent hiccups in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems can be manufactured and shipped. There are a few reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is taking longer, including:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As people continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and additional safety precautions have gradually contributed to the backlog. A few extra days here and there accumulates over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are fine-tuned for optimal efficiency and may 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 like steel and copper are vital for efficient HVAC equipment. Key materials also include plastics and even finished electronics like microchips and semiconductors. These two components are particularly scarce.
- Worker Shortage: As industries start back up, they’re also facing a shortage of workers compared to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also take time to train to ensure they provide dependable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these different elements have slowed the gears of the HVAC industry. As products take longer to arrive, people could have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Thankfully, you still have options for minimizing delays.
4 Ways to Lower 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 preventive air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make for your HVAC system. Components remain in better shape, which means more effective performance and a smaller risk of problems.
- Look for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown could leave you stuck waiting for a replacement. Listen for strange sounds and keep an eye on your energy bill for signs your HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to purchase a new furnace or air conditioner, it might be a good idea to go ahead and make the order. Even with current supply chain issues, you’re more likely to receive your new equipment when you actually need it.
- Explore alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is facing a shortage, exploring alternatives can open up other 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 pros at Heartland Heating & Cooling want to minimize your wait times for a new furnace or air conditioner. If you’re thinking about 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 515-344-3579.