Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Replace Your Air Conditioner or Furnace in 2022

Anyone who’s ever had to wait for a delivery to arrive understands it can be an aggravating 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, many people are waiting weeks for their new HVAC system to arrive. If you’re considering upgrading your current system with something like furnace installation in Abilene, it may be a good idea to order now.

These shortages are a result of multiple problems along the supply chain. We’ll explore 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?

Standard HVAC systems like furnaces and air conditioners are complex pieces of technology. Usually this is a good thing for homeowners, as this means more efficient heating and cooling. But recent turmoil 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, such as:

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 here and there accumulates over time.
Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chains are fine-tuned for optimal efficiency and can 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 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 wind 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 equipment takes longer to arrive, people may have to wait longer for services like air conditioning installation. Luckily, 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 left without heat or air conditioning? Whatever your reasons are, there are ways to minimize how the HVAC product shortage impacts you.

Stay on top of routine maintenance: Services such as 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 consistent performance and a reduced risk of problems.
Watch for signs of equipment failure: A surprise shutdown might leave you stuck waiting for a replacement. Listen for unusual sounds and keep an eye on 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 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.
Research alternative equipment: If an existing make or model is struggling with a shortage, considering alternatives could open up more 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 pros at Abilene Air-Tech Inc 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 started soon. Request your free estimate today by giving us a call at (325) 692-5850.