Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Replace Your Air Conditioner or Furnace in 2022
Anyone who’s ever had to wait for an order to show up understands it can be a frustrating 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, many people are waiting weeks for their new HVAC system to be installed. If you’re considering upgrading your existing system with a service like a furnace installation in Franklin & South Indy, it may be a good idea to order sooner rather than later.
These shortages are a result of a few problems along the supply chain. We’ll explore 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. Normally this is a good thing for homeowners, as this means more effective heating and cooling. But recent disruptions in the supply chain impact how quickly these products can be assembled and shipped. There are several reasons why your new air conditioner or furnace is taking longer, such as:
- COVID-19 Precautions: As people continue to navigate COVID-19, taking sick days and other safety precautions have somewhat contributed to the backlog. A few extra days here and there add up over time.
- Supply Chain Issues: International supply chains are designed for optimal efficiency and may take time to correct themselves when consumer demands or the availability of materials change. While companies set up alternatives to help catch up, existing backlogs have made steady, if slow progress.
- Higher Costs of Raw Materials: Metals including steel and copper are crucial for efficient HVAC equipment. Valuable 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 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 the gears of the HVAC industry. As equipment takes longer to arrive, people may 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 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 things you can do to minimize how the HVAC product shortage affects you.
- Stay on top of routine maintenance: Services like preventive air conditioning maintenance are one of the best investments you can make in your HVAC system. Components remain in better shape, which means more consistent performance and a smaller risk of problems.
- Watch for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown may leave you stuck waiting on a replacement. Listen for loud sounds and monitor your energy bill for signs your HVAC system is in trouble.
- Order in advance: If you were waiting to install a new furnace or air conditioner, it may be a better 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 an existing make or model is facing a shortage, considering alternatives can open up additional 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 professionals at Winters Heating and Cooling want to help lower your wait times for a new furnace or air conditioner. If you’re thinking about a new or replacement installation, it’s a good idea to get started soon. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at 317-406-5382.
