Anyone who’s ever had to wait for an order to arrive understands it can be an aggravating experience. The wait is even more annoying when it’s a central piece of HVAC equipment such as 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 something like furnace installation in Portland, it may be a good idea to order now.
These shortages are a result of multiple problems throughout the supply chain. We’ll review how these issues have affected the HVAC industry as well as what you can do to avoid the impact.
Why Is There an HVAC Product Shortage?
Popular HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Normally this is a good thing for homeowners, as this means more efficient heating and cooling. But recent disruptions in the supply chain impacts how quickly these systems can be produced and shipped. There are several reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is delayed, like:
- 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 designed for peak efficiency and can take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials change. While companies find alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs have made steady, if slow progress.
- Rise in Costs of Raw Materials: Metals like steel and copper are crucial 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 start back up, they’re also experiencing a shortage of workers compared to the spike in demand. Professional HVAC technicians also require time to train to make sure they provide reliable, 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 might have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Luckily, you still have options for minimizing delays.
4 Ways to Minimize the Impact of HVAC Product Shortages
Are you actively searching for new HVAC equipment? Or do you just want to avoid being left without heat or air conditioning? Whatever your reasons are, there are things you can do to minimize how the HVAC product shortage affects you.
- Stay on top of routine maintenance: Services such as 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 consistent performance and a lower risk of problems.
- Look 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 evidence the HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to order a new furnace or air conditioner, it might be a better idea to go ahead and make the order. Even with current 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 other options. Thanks to modern technology, there are more options for high-efficiency HVAC systems than before.
Request a Free Quote for New HVAC Systems
The HVAC experts at Three Rivers Heating & Cooling want to minimize 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 started soon. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at 503-213-4433.