Everywhere you look, someone is showing you how to DIY something. In fact, there is a whole industry focused on doing it yourself!
However, there are tasks best left to the professionals and HVAC repair is one of them.
Keep reading to find out why you should avoid DIY HVAC repair as well as some HVAC-related tasks you can perform on your own:
1. There is a Risk of Shock, Fire, and Poisoning
Air conditioners and furnaces are lovely additions to have in your home to ensure your family’s comfort but there are a lot of potential dangers that lurk within these systems.
For instance, touching the wrong electrical component can lead to electrical shock or fatal electrocution. And, if your system involves natural gas, mishandling it can cause a fire or explosion.
An improperly vented HVAC system can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning if the fumes are inhaled.
Keep in mind that these risks also extend to the members of your household – so think twice before conducting any DIY HVAC services.
2. DIY Repairs Can Compromise Equipment Efficiency
It could be that your DIY repair goes off without a hitch and you manage to get your heating or cooling systems up and running.
However, the system may not operate at peak efficiency which could end up increasing your energy costs.
Even the smallest mistake can compromise equipment efficiency. This is why HVAC repair is best left in the hands of trained and experienced experts.
3. Improper Tools and Parts
HVAC repair cannot be properly completed with a hammer and a screwdriver. HVAC repair requires a wide range of specialized tools and parts as well as the knowledge of how to use them.
In fact, the world of HVAC repair is forever evolving and these tools are updated as new advances are made.
Purchasing this equipment, as well as requiring the necessary training to use it, will cost you far more than hiring skilled technicians to do the work.
So if you’re looking for a way to save money on your HVAC repairs, bring in the pros.
4. You Could End Up “Fixing” the Wrong Component
HVAC repairs involve more than simply fixing a problem. A thorough inspection is necessary to properly diagnose the issue – which is not an easy task.
Air conditioners, furnaces, and other HVAC systems have many components and if you repair a part that is not broken, you will end up wasting your time.
Service experts are specially trained to diagnose HVAC issues so that repairs are done correctly and efficiently.
5. DIY Repairs Can Void Your Warranty
Most furnaces and air conditioners come with warranties and many contain a clause that stipulates that they are only valid as long as the system is repaired and maintained by a licensed and certified professional.
So where you may be trying to save yourself some money by doing the repairs yourself, it could cost you more in the end if you void your warranty.
6. DIY Repairs Take Longer Than Professional Repairs
It’s the middle of winter and the furnace stops working or your air conditioner gives out in the middle of the heatwave – how quickly would you like these issues fixed?
It’s likely that you would want them done in a timely manner, which you can’t guarantee if you’re attempting to DIY the repairs.
Instead, have a professional diagnose, advise, and repair in the shortest time frame possible. This way, you can have your systems up and running without disrupting your comfort.
8. You May Cause Further Damage
Again, you’re probably considering a DIY repair on your HVAC systems to save money but, the truth is, doing so can cost you more money in the end.
Apart from losing out on your warranty and compromising the system’s efficiency, there is no guarantee that your DIY efforts will fix the problem. In fact, you may end up causing more damage that will cost you more money.
The various parts of an HVAC system are intricate and designed in a way where all parts work together. Causing damage to one component can cause damage to another or result in the entire unit failing.
HVAC technicians can give you peace of mind that the malfunctioning component of your system is properly repaired with the right tools and know-how.
What Can I Do Myself to Repair My HVAC Unit?
We’ve gone on about why you shouldn’t do DIY HVAC repairs but, if you’re itching to do something yourself, there are maintenance tasks you can undertake to ensure your system continues to run smoothly and efficiently:
Change the Air Filters
One of the most important parts of HVAC maintenance is making sure your air filters are clean. Clean filters allow for better airflow which helps with the efficiency of your system.
They are also important in maintaining good air quality in your home.
Check your filters once a month and change them whenever they are full of dirt. At the very least, they should be changed every 90 days.
Clean the Outside Air Conditioning Unit
If you have an air conditioning unit, you can help maintain this system by cleaning out the condenser unit.
Make sure the unit is not clogged with leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris. This is a safe and easy job you should do regularly to ensure the optimal performance of your AC system.
Repair or Install Insulation
Good insulation around your HVAC system will help boost its performance and save you money when it comes to energy costs.
Installing insulation, or repairing and replacing old installation, is a DIY task that you can certainly do yourself.
Leave HVAC Repairs to the Pros!
Here at Emitless, we offer quality service and peace of mind so that, in the face of an HVAC issue, you don’t have to fix the problem yourself.
Get in touch with us today for more information and a free consultation!
