Anyone who’s ever had to wait for an order to show up understands it can be an aggravating 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, many people are waiting weeks for their new HVAC system to be installed. If you’re considering upgrading your current system with a service like furnace installation in the Bay Area, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
These shortages are a result of multiple problems within 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?
Common HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Usually this is a good thing for homeowners, as this means more convenient heating and cooling. But recent turmoil in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems can be produced and shipped. There are a few reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is taking longer, like:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As workers continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and other safety precautions have gradually contributed to the backlog. A few extra days every now and then adds up over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are fine-tuned for peak efficiency and may take a while to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials change. While companies seek alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs have made steady, if slow progress.
- Rise in Costs of Raw Materials: Metals such as steel and copper are invaluable for efficient HVAC equipment. Key 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 take time to train to make sure they provide dependable, efficient services.
As you can imagine, all these different elements have slowed the gears of the HVAC industry. As equipment takes longer to arrive, people could have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Fortunately, you still have options for minimizing delays.
4 Ways to Lower the Impact of HVAC Product Shortages
Are you actively looking 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 like preventive air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make in your HVAC system. Components stay in better shape, which means more efficient performance and a smaller risk of problems.
- Keep an eye out for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown can leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for unusual sounds and keep an eye on your energy bill for signs the HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to install a new furnace or air conditioner, it may 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 want it.
- Research alternative equipment: If a current make or model is experiencing a shortage, exploring alternatives might open up additional options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more options for high-efficiency HVAC systems than ever.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC experts at Contra Costa Heating & AC 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 510-343-9841.