Why Are HVAC Costs Higher This Summer?
It seems almost everything is more expensive lately – and HVAC is no exception. It’s not atypical to see HVAC costs increase with rising temperatures; however, other contributing factors are directly impacting the heating and cooling industry as well as the businesses and consumers that rely on these systems. In many cases, the higher costs associated with these issues are increasing prices for HVAC goods and services. In this blog, we’ll share three reasons why HVAC costs are higher this summer.
The Price of Diesel Has Increased
Diesel is often favoured to fuel HVAC service vehicles as it tends to help trucks carry heavier loads and get better mileage. In recent years, the price of diesel fuel has been on the rise and this trend is likely to continue. With the economy now reopen following pandemic lockdowns, oil producers haven’t been able to keep up with the demand, and, as the price of diesel fuel continues to rise, HVAC companies are feeling the pinch. As a result, some HVAC companies may need to increase their costs and decrease their service areas.
Supply Chain Issues
Supply chain issues have affected many industries – not only when it comes to goods, but also with respect to services. Many HVAC manufactures have faced labour shortages, which has directly impacted production. Raw materials are also in short supply; aluminum, copper, plastic, steel, and even lumber can be difficult to source. Semiconductor chips, which are a key component in higher-efficiency HVAC units, are highly sought after by the automotive and smartphone industries (among others) and are also facing supply issues. Transportation delays are further exacerbating the problem.
Freon Isn’t Free – Or Freely Available
Refrigerant is a key component of air conditioning units; without it, air conditioners would not be able to operate. In 2020, Canada almost entirely banned certain hydrochlorofluorocarbons including Freon (R-22), due to environmental concerns, which has driven up the costs of permitted refrigerants. The good news is properly maintained HVAC systems should not need to be topped off. Preventative maintenance is key to keeping costs low.
Arpi’s North is dedicated to providing progressive and unique solutions to our customers’ mechanical needs and to prioritizing trust in our partnerships. If you have any questions about HVAC heating ventilation and air conditioning, if you’re looking for HVAC and plumbing companies, or if you need an industrial construction company, Arpi’s North can help. Contact us today!