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Supply Chain Issues in the HVAC Industry  

HVAC Supply Chain Issues

McCullough Heating and Air Conditioning has served Austin and the surrounding communities since 1977. We are deeply involved in philanthropic organizations in the city. Additionally, our HVAC pros undergo constant training to help ensure quality work and excellent results. Several accolades — Carrier® President’s Award, Angi’s Super Service Award, US DOE Century Club and more—attest to our dedication to right-the-first-time service.

As part of our commitment to informing Austin homeowners, we have put together the following blog post on how supply chain issues are impacting the HVAC industry. We also break down how that can affect your HVAC replacement and repair projects and what you can do to prevent delays.

Understanding the HVAC Product Shortage

Modern heating and cooling systems such as air conditioners and furnaces have many interacting components. While that results in more convenient home comfort, it also exacerbates the product shortages that have interrupted the supply chain.

Here are the major causes of HVAC equipment and labor shortages that can cause possible delays:

  • Pandemic Precautions: Outbreaks of COVID-19 in Texas and throughout the country mean labor shortages that disrupt work on your new furnace, AC, mini-split or heat pump. This can create a backlog of work orders.
  • Supply Chain Problems: International supply chains designed for efficient performance take time to adjust to limited supplies and materials. While backlogs are far shorter than during the pandemic, they can still significantly impact your project.
  • Higher Material Costs: Many home comfort systems rely on semiconductors and microchips, metal, plastic, and other scarce resources.
  • Worker Shortage: The good news is that companies are recovering. As they do, more people are getting back to work. However, even with an influx of new HVAC technicians, it takes time to train them properly.

Rising Material Costs Impact Your Spending Power

The supply chain problems for HVAC equipment have led to higher prices. Here’s why:

  1. Manufacturers increase prices to cover the higher cost of raw materials.
  2. Distributors and suppliers markup the price again to cover their extra costs.
  3. Because there is more demand than supply, this additional cost trickles down to homeowners.

 

Many factors have conspired to slow down the production of HVAC equipment. So, you may wonder how long it will continue impacting the market.

How Long Will the HVAC Equipment Shortage Last?

Deloitte predicts that semiconductor chip shortages will last into 2023. That will create a drag on the rest of the supply chain. Rising inflation will also continue to affect prices and delivery times. With all of these potential disruptions, it’s important to partner with an HVAC contractor who knows the needs of homeowners in the Austin area.

At McCullough Heating and Air Conditioning, we have a large inventory of new HVAC units and parts for service. This commitment ensures faster HVAC installation and service. However, there are a few things you can do to help the process go more smoothly.

Ways You Can Help Keep the Supply Chain Moving (and Get Products on Time)

Are you on the lookout for new HVAC equipment because of the age or lack of energy efficiency in your old system? Here are a few ways to keep your current system running a little longer:

  • Invest in maintenance: HVAC tune-ups and preventive care can prevent your furnace or air conditioner from malfunctioning. By cleaning and lubricating all moving parts, we can keep them in good shape.
  • Recognize equipment failure: There are many signs that your heating or cooling system requires immediate service. If you hear loud sounds or the air in your home is overly moist or dry, you may have issues with your HVAC equipment. Similarly, higher energy bills often mean less efficient equipment is costing you a lot of money.
  • Report problems immediately. We highly recommend that you call us about these problems right away so that they don’t turn into bigger problems.
  • Explore alternative equipment: If there is a long wait for a particular make and model, we suggest looking for similar alternatives to get your system up and running sooner. And, as always, if you need an HVAC replacement, we recommend upgrading to an energy-efficient model.

Forward-Thinking HVAC Contractor in Austin

McCullough Heating and Air Conditioning offers preventive maintenance programs to catch problems before they become major issues. The sooner we know there’s a problem, the faster we can get the equipment repaired, or new equipment delivered and installed in your Austin home.

By scheduling off-season inspections, you can shop early and beat the rush. HVAC supply chain issues are expected to last throughout 2023. So, now is the time to act to prevent a long wait for HVAC equipment.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and we’ll send a NATE-certified technician to inspect your HVAC system!

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