What You Need to Know About the HVAC Equipment Shortages
Tori Klein • August 19, 2021
Please note that with our long term standing with our suppliers, we are able to get the equipment and parts you need.
As the temperature continues to change, homeowners and HVAC contractors are all becoming increasingly affected by the recent HVAC unit and parts shortage. In this post we'll talk about:
- Which supply chain shortages are impacting the availability of HVAC equipment;
- What is causing the shortages;
- And how you, our valued customer can expect to be impacted.
Which Shortages Are Affecting HVAC Equipment Availability?
There are several things to consider when looking at what is causing the parts shortages. A major factor is being able to source the raw materials needed. There's a couple of key shortages that are the cause of the shortages:
- Raw materials like steel, aluminum, copper, and plastics. Steel and copper especially have been the culprits in the production making new HVAC equipment.
- Semiconductors are getting harder to come by. They play a very important part in electronics and electric appliances. Semiconductors are found in air conditioners because they need them in their temperature sensors.
What Is Causing These Shortages?
While we can't blame everything on the COVID-19 pandemic, that did play a huge role in the shortages we're now facing. During 2020 our traditional production practices and timeframes really went out the window. Many manufacturers shut down or had to change what they were processing to meet the changing demands.
A couple of major events also had a huge impact on slowing down supplies to HVAC manufacturers:
- The Suez Canal blockage, which impacted shipments internationally
- In Japan there was the equipment fire at the Renesas semiconductor factory
Where there isn't the raw materials and supplies needed to produce the HVAC parts and equipment, manufacturers have been forced to reduce production. Unfortunately this has resulted in fewer parts and we're now really feeling the results of this over the past year. This is very different than what we've been used to experiencing.
How Will These Shortages Impact Consumers Like Me?
For consumers, typically this means that you may have to wait longer than you would’ve in the past for a new HVAC unit or a replacement part for your existing unit.
Thankfully with our good standing and valued relationships with our suppliers, we can still get the parts you need.
We want all of our customers to stay comfortable and safe in their homes with working systems. A great way to do that is to be as proactive as possible and try to prevent problems from happening in the first place. Here are a couple of tips to keep your system in the best shape:
- Change the air filter monthly (or as needed for your unit).
- Get the system tuned up by a professional. This will help ensure that you catch any issues well in advance before they cause a system failure.
If you're thinking about or planning on replacing your HVAC system, start the process of getting a quote now, and don’t wait until it breaks down.
At Best Owner Direct, we are dedicated to providing our customers fair, quality repairs as quickly as we can. For help with your HVAC system, don’t hesitate to contact us online or call us at 503-442-5964.
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Best Owner Direct is your local, independent, family-owned and operated, residential and commercial HVAC service, repair and installation team. We're a trade ally of the Energy Trust of Oregon and our certified professionals offer services for all major brands. With over 20 years of experience, our team can handle all of your HVAC needs.
Free estimates available for installations. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment!
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