There is no doubt that you’ve heard the words “pandemic,” “quarantine,” and “COVID” way too many times. But there is also no doubt that the pandemic rocked our nation and changed our industry. HVAC and plumbing contractors faced a slew of situations, one being equipment shortages. The events of 2020 increased the frequency and impact of equipment shortages.
What causes equipment shortages?
When supplies and raw materials (copper, steel, aluminum, plastics) are in short supply, manufacturers must slow down production. Major events, such as the Suez Canal blockage in 2020, affect shipments of these materials, thus reducing production. Additionally, semiconductors are becoming scarce. Semiconductors are being used in many pieces of equipment, such as in air conditioners as temperature sensors. The scarcity of these parts reduces the number of units and parts that can be manufactured, resulting in an equipment shortage.
How to Handle Equipment Shortages
Shortages are unpredictable and spontaneous — they could happen at any time. It’s important to prepare for whatever may come so that you can provide your client with best possible service.
Stocking up on equipment
The best way to handle an equipment shortage is to stock up!
Take inventory of the work you have conducted in the past year. What are common issues you have found in your local area? This is unique for each contractor, as we all work with clients in different states, and therefore, different weather conditions. Clients in Arizona during the winter experience different HVAC/plumbing issues than clients in Nebraska.
From there, try to maintain an inventory of equipment you used in that previous year. In the event of a shortage, you could use these materials without compromising the timely service you want to provide your clients.
Addressing ductwork
Ducts wear down because of various reasons, such as inadequate design/installation, leaky ducts, improperly sealed registers and grills, or flexible pieces that have twisted, squished, or ripped. Ducts can also face damage from insects and rodents, extreme temperatures, or the natural income of pollen, dirt, germs, mold, mildew, or dust. Ductwork might be the prime reason your clients face issues. By addressing ductwork, you could find a tangible solution, such as improving air quality through indoor filters, changing the insulation around the ducts, or repairing poorly installed work.
Ductwork materials also experience less shortage, so you aren’t left without the materials to provide this type of service. If you train your techs in this type of work, you would increase revenue, client options, and decrease your experience with equipment shortages.
Cleaning ducts
Photo by Mika Baumeister on Unsplash
As mentioned above, dust and other outside particles impact the way the ducts function. One way to avoid the challenge of equipment shortages is just by cleaning! If a client complains about this easy fix, simply use the fiber optic camera on your smartphone to show them, or swipe a gloved finger in the duct.
Once the client realizes how dingy and smelly their ducts are, they’ll be begging you to give them a thorough clean.
Conducting air returns
Almost every customer assumes they need a bigger system, but often what they really need is a thorough clean-up and more returning air. By running the blower and removing the blower door, you’ll find a sharp increase in airflow. There would only be a shortage if there is a short supply of air or an impacted evaporator coil.
Renovating existing systems
To save on equipment and free up space in your stockroom, focus on the client’s existing equipment. By renovating the system, fixing minor duct issues, and adding IAQ, you could add thousands of dollars of revenue without having to purchase more equipment.
Equipment shortages are inevitable and spontaneous, especially during the pandemic. However, that doesn’t mean your business is a sitting duck with a list of unsatisfied, and impatient, clients. You can store extra equipment, pivot towards ductwork, conduct air returns, and fix what’s already there. By doing so, you open up potential revenue and while keeping your clients happy.
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