2020 was one of the most challenging years in history. After a long shutdown, there are still lingering effects that we must deal with. Just like in most industries, the HVAC sector is being affected by supply chain problems that may take a while to resolve.
Contractors nationwide have faced a labor shortage, rising costs, and difficulty getting microchips and other needed materials adding to their delays. The HVAC procurement process became lengthy too. The supply chain issues have taught us a valuable lesson about logistics and the global economy. On top of lower supply, there was also increased demand. Heating and air conditioning repairs became a priority during the pandemic since people were spending more time at home, they wanted to be comfortable. They also wanted to make sure their air was clean and that there was something in place to help filter possible germs in the air.
In this article, we are going to discuss more on the supply chain issue but also give some tips on what to do if you need a repair or replacement fast and don’t have time to wait in line.
The Beginning Of The Supply Chain Crisis
Due to this global crisis, factories with much of the global manufacturing capacity were shut down. Lockdowns led shipping companies to believe consumer demand would drop, but they were wrong. Since consumers could order from home, there has been an increase in online purchasing for everything from gadgets to home equipment. Supply chains were overwhelmed and the transportation of goods slowed down as a result of the increased demand. In the past year, just about anything produced or manufactured has been in short supply. The supply-demand gap is still here as we approach 2022.
Why Is The Supply Chain Disrupted?
A major contributor to supply chain disruption in the HVAC industry is the global shortage of skilled labor that is needed to manufacture and distribute HVAC equipment. In other words, there was an employee shortage.
A shortage of sheet metal and lumber is happening because there isn’t enough labor to produce them. While many of the products we use are made in the United States, the materials used to make them come from around the world.
The economy needs people to return to work, but incentive programs and wage increases aren’t bringing them back. To make high-end products, more skilled workers are required, which is why most consumers today have access to mid-range and base models but high-end products are scarce.
It is clear that there is a domino effect across all the industries including the HVAC sector. The supply chain needs to work in unison for our global marketplace to function.
Growing Need for Air Purification During Pandemic
Indoor air pollution is one of the top five environmental health risks.–U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
While furnaces and air conditioners have been in high demand over the last year, air purifiers became increasingly popular too including:
- IAQ products which include MERV 13 filters
- UV lights
- Bipolar ionization
The majority are turning to MERV 13 and, occasionally, HEPA filters. The key to fighting COVID-19 is to reduce pathogens’ concentration in occupied areas. The tighter the MERV filter, the better the filtration you get.
Protecting hospital patients with and without COVID-19 was of highest priority. The Healthcare industry requires HEPA filters for isolation rooms, COVID-19 patient rooms and entryways. Therefore, there was a high demand for air filters.
With the increase in demand and the decrease in supply if you would like the extra protection of an Air Scrubber or Air purification system we would recommend acting now!
How to Choose an Air Purifier
In choosing an air purifier, look for two things:
- For high-efficiency particulate air filtration, use HEPA filters
- Ozone-free – When an air purifier doesn’t use HEPA filters, it can produce ozone which can damage respiratory systems.
Using Room Air Purifiers
For smaller spaces, room air purifiers are great. They are convenient because they are usually programmable and portable. Those with seasonal allergies can use them when they are needed and store them for future use. If you need to use the air purifier in more than one room, a whole-house system may be more cost-effective.
Whole-House Air Purifiers
Compared to in-room systems, whole-house systems are more cost-effective due to the greater area covered. Furthermore, they can extend the lifespan and efficiency of your HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) system. Whole-house air filters are usually integrated into air conditioning systems, making them less noisy and less visible. You can also program them through your thermostat.
What to do if you need a replacement Now
Look for a company that has inhouse stockpiled equipment, not one that is waiting on backorders.
In contrast to other HVAC companies, we at Pacific Aire will guarantee you can get your new home comfort heating system that works without the wait. We have inventory in stock and are able to start your project as soon as tomorrow. We have available products now.
We don’t want finances to be the thing holding you back. We are offering 0% *Financing for up to 12 months or up to a $2,000 Rebate towards a full HVAC system. Get ready to feel good about your home comfort system today. Absolutely no equipment waitlist!
