Here are some tips to help stay head of the HVAC supply chain shortage. If you’ve been paying attention to the news in the last two years, you’ve heard a thing or two about supply chain shortages for multiple industries. From automotive manufacturers to HVAC suppliers, there is a shortage of inventory and equipment leaving us with a supply chain management issue. Homeowners like you have been seeing higher prices, longer wait times, and a shortage of equipment.
Like most Americans, you may be wondering how this all started and how we can fix it. Those are good questions and the simple answer is it all started when COVID-19 started. Most experts agree that as COVID-19 began to spread, cities and countries all over the world instituted lockdowns. Manufacturers closed shop and stopped production leaving low inventory levels as demand skyrocketed. Add to that the consumers who were sent home and started shopping online for any and every thing they needed. Shipping companies couldn’t keep up and underestimated the transportation needs of our economy. Today, manufacturers and shipping companies are working hard to make up for lost time as we face supply chain issues in a variety of industries.
In the HVAC industry, we’ve seen a shortage of replacement parts like compressors and motors, a shortage of raw materials used in the manufacture of HVAC systems, and a shortage of labor. You may have already experienced longer wait times for the next appointment for service or an increase in replacement costs for your HVAC system. If you’re wondering what steps you can take to avoid any headaches during this time, we have you covered with our four tips to help you stay ahead of the HVAC supply chain shortage..
1. Tips to Give your system a little TLC
One of the best ways to stay ahead of shortages is to extend the life of your HVAC system and avoid repair and replacement costs. Our best recommendation is to take some small steps to maintaining your unit at home. Change your air filters monthly to keep your system running smoothly. In addition, you’ll want to keep your unit clean and free of any dust or debris.
2. Take it easy on your system
Your HVAC system is designed to keep you cool in the summer and warm all winter. But did you know that your system has to work harder in extreme temperatures and weather? When you notice extreme heat or bitterly cold temps, plan on turning your thermostat down a notch so your system doesn’t have to work so hard – which will extend the life of your unit and keep you from needing those repair and replacement service appointments.
3. Invest in Preventative Maintenance
Whether you pre-schedule this months ahead of time or procrastinate making that appointment for a tune up, investing in preventative maintenance can help you ride out the HVAC supply chain storm. Scheduling preventive maintenance checks each fall and spring can keep your equipment running to the manufacturer’s standards and help you avoid emergency calls to your HVAC company.
4. Tips to Shop Early
Replacing your HVAC system is inevitable for homeowners. If your system is starting to age and you know you’ll need a replacement, we recommend not waiting until your furnace or AC stops working when you need it most. Shopping early can give you and your HVAC company the lead time you need to order new equipment and get it installed before you need to use their after hours emergency phone line.
Working on these 4 tips will help you navigate the HVAC supply chain shortage with ease and keep your HVAC system running well all year long.
