HVAC Equipment Shortages in 2021: Supply Chain Impacts on Consumers
As we head into cooler temperatures, HVAC contractors and homeowners are becoming increasingly affected by 2021’s HVAC unit and parts shortage. Below we’ll explain:
- The causes behind the shortages.
- Which supply chain shortages are impacting the availability of HVAC equipment.
- How consumers can expect to be impacted.
What Is Causing These Shortages?
There has been a lead-up to these shortages, but a huge factor was the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic’s emergence disrupted conventional production practices and timelines. Other factors have also bottlenecked supplies to HVAC manufacturers:
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The Suez Canal blockage, which impacted shipments internationally.
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The equipment fire at the Renesas semiconductor factory, located in Japan.
With the shortage of components and raw materials, HVAC manufacturers have had to reduce or even cut shifts on the assembly line leading to fewer HVAC parts and units produced in a given time.
Which shortages are affecting availability of HVAC equipment?
There are several “links” in the HVAC equipment supply chain from raw materials to consumer. Currently, here are some key shortages disrupting this supply chain:
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Raw materials like steel, aluminum, copper, and plastics. Steel and copper in particular cause the HVAC equipment manufacturing process to lag.
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Semiconductors. These components are crucial in electronics and electric appliances. Air conditioners also require semiconductors in their temperature sensors.
How will these shortages impact consumers like me?
Production has been bottlenecked by shortages, manufacturers can’t produce as many HVAC units and parts as quickly as before. This means that you may have to wait longer than you would have in the past for a new HVAC unit or a replacement part for your existing unit.
To avoid being without warm air this winter we highly recommend being as proactive as possible when it comes to your system:
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Change the air filter monthly since your system will be going through heavy use.
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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.
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If you plan on replacing your air conditioner, start getting quotes now, and don’t wait until it breaks down.
At Pacific Heating & Cooling, we are dedicated to providing our customers fair, quality repairs as quickly as we can. For help with your air conditioner, don’t hesitate to contact us online or call us at (253) 313-9022