What Is an OEM Part?
Appliance manufacturers supply Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts as replacements for units that need servicing. OEM parts match the original specification of the part. However, OEM parts are not always the exact original part. While OEMs may sometimes change vendors, the OEM part will match electrical rating, mechanical fit, and operational characteristics exactly.
In the HVAC space, technicians will use OEM parts to replace components like motors, blowers, fans and other critical equipment. OEM parts will get the job done, but they can present practical challenges for service technicians.
Why Would You Want An OEM Part?
With an OEM part, you will get exactly what belongs there. An OEM part will match the schematic on the unit and operate exactly as the manufacturer designed it to. OEM parts are often easier for the technician to install because they have the same electrical connections and mechanical fit as the original part.
Challenges Of OEM Parts in HVAC Repair
There are seven major OEMs in the HVAC industry, each with three to five sub brands. Do the math and you'll see more than 30 brands of unique HVAC equipment. With this many unique parts, it’s nearly impossible to carry all of these parts on your truck. It is also a challenge for a distributor to carry every unique part for HVAC brands they support.
Chances are, you will have to drive to get the part, and then it is possible that the distributor might not have it in stock, meaning you might not get the job completed the same day. In addition, OEM parts are often sold at a higher price point than universal replacements.
The Benefits of Universal Replacement Parts
Universal parts such as Genteq® Evergreen® ECM motors have been engineered to not only be compatible with the applications they are designed for but also provide easy installation. Evergreen ECM motors are as close to the original equipment in terms of electrical connections and mechanical fit as possible.
With universal parts, it’s possible to cover more applications with parts on the truck. It’s also more likely the distributor will have the part in stock. This means your chances of getting the job completed the same day are higher, and you may not even have to drive for the part. A technician’s job becomes easier when they can stock universal parts on their truck. Technicians see many benefits when they reduce HVAC inventory on their trucks.
In terms of price, think of universal HVAC parts in terms of car parts. For example, when you buy a set of brakes for a car, you will likely go to a national parts store to buy a set of universal brakes instead of from the car manufacturer. Similarly, universal HVAC parts are often more economical than the OEM part.
To locate a convenient HVAC universal parts source, click Find a Distributor below.