Remember back in 2020 when there was a rush on toilet paper? Concerns surrounding the global pandemic strained the supply chain, demand spiked overnight, and people wanted to prepare by having this item well stocked.

Now in 2025, these concerns are re-emerging, but instead of toilet paper, major home systems like HVAC units, water heaters, and major appliances are "under pressure." If you're a homeowner with aging equipment, staying informed about trends potentially affecting your comfort and safety is a good idea.

The Growing Demands and Pressure on Big Home Items

Homeowners across the US are now experiencing longer wait times and increasing price quotes for replacing core home systems, leaving many to wonder why.

The answer isn't a single, isolated reason; several factors are to blame.

Tariff and Other Pressures on Imported Goods

Many home systems rely on imported components, and tariffs affect base costs. Additionally, global demand and limited availability of manufacturing materials, such as copper, aluminum, and steel, have contributed to rising prices.

Adding complexity, sourcing parts for older units is becoming more difficult. Some suppliers are phasing out older components, which could make even small repairs more challenging. Furthermore, increased demand and labor shortages among skilled tradespeople could create longer wait times.

Together, these pressures create an inconvenient situation, transforming a once-simple replacement into a project you may need to plan for weeks or months in advance.

Why This Could Be More Challenging Than Expected

A delayed home component installation might not seem like a major problem until mid-July. Imagine your HVAC unit stops working, and your technician tells you it could be three weeks before new stock units arrive.

Waiting could be the first hurdle. It's common for emergency repairs to be more costly. Perhaps you're paying for a temporary fix, only to discover you need a full replacement soon afterward. And if material prices increase while you’re waiting? The quote from last month might expire or no longer be valid.

What You Can Do Now

If the major systems in your home are older or showing signs of wear, this might be the best time to ask: Should you repair, or is it time to replace?

Our free Repair vs. Replacement Calculator can offer deeper insights into making the best decision. It considers factors such as system age and recent performance, weighing them against replacement costs to help you evaluate your options confidently.

And if price is a concern, there's good news: a better approach for managing your money might already be available. Our Velocity Banking Blueprint helps you free up cash by accelerating debt payoff, without simply “cutting back” everywhere. It's been among our most popular digital download resources this year, and for good reason.

If you're already getting quotes or wondering if you’re paying too much, check out our Tariff Calculator. It shows how recent policy shifts and global supply dynamics might influence the cost of large ticket items now or in the future.

Preparation is Important in 2025

The rush to stock up on toilet paper was driven by the global pandemic in 2020. Nobody wanted to risk running out at the worst possible time. HVAC and other home systems in 2025? Your home comfort depends on them, but you can't just pick up extra at the grocery store.

If your home systems are nearing the end of their lifespan, planning could be the difference between uninterrupted comfort and disruption in your home.

It's always better to be proactive and in control of your situation than left scrambling when your home suddenly becomes too hot, or too cold, for comfort.