Categories: HVAC

What Are the Risks of DIY HVAC Repairs & Installations?

Today, it’s hard to picture homes without cooling and heating systems. They’re essential to your indoor comfort, and help keep the air you breathe clean. If your equipment malfunctions, you need to contact a professional immediately. Attempting to fix or install such complex systems on your own will do them more harm than good. 

 

Here are some of the consequences of trying to fix or install an HVAC system by yourself. 

 

What Can Happen When You DIY HVAC Repairs & Installations?

You’re putting your safety at risk. Before you even attempt to install or repair your air conditioning or heating unit on your own, consider your safety first. HVAC systems require significant electrical voltage to operate, meaning there’s the possibility of getting shocked if you make mistakes on the job. Professional technicians wear protective gear when doing repairs and installations to minimize the risk of this occurring. 

 

Another thing that can happen when you make the wrong move with your equipment is a gas leak. You may end up accidentally interfering with the natural gas supply, which is usually the fuel source for furnaces. Injuries like cuts are also a possibility, especially when you’re dealing with sharp components like fan blades in the vents. 

 

You might do further damage. Air conditioning repairs and installations look so easy when you watch the process online, don’t they? Well, HVAC systems aren’t simple pieces of equipment. They’re complex systems with multiple parts. Tinker with these components improperly, and you may end up needing a new unit altogether. 

 

The information you find online isn’t always reliable. Following the wrong advice and instructions can do a lot of harm to your HVAC system. Keep in mind that no air conditioner, heater or thermostat is the same. Even if the instructions you’re following are for the same brand, the configurations of the equipment the poster is using may be significantly different from yours. This means that there are no one-fits-all solutions when it comes to HVAC systems. Skilled, trained professionals will be able to diagnose the problem correctly and perform necessary repairs efficiently. 

 

You might need to spend more on additional repairs or replacement. Just think about the amount of money you’d need to spend if you were to face accidents and severe injuries while fixing or installing your HVAC system. Also, HVAC-related jobs require the use of proper tools and materials. Using the wrong ones will do more harm than good to your equipment. Many homeowners believe that they’ll see major savings when they do the job themselves. However, is it really cost-effective to purchase tools that you probably won’t use very frequently? In the long run, hiring a professional to do the task correctly the first time remains the best option in terms of savings. 

 

Doing DIY HVAC jobs might be illegal. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implements strict laws concerning the handling of air conditioning and heating systems. You could be breaking the law by trying to repair or install your own equipment. Also, the refrigerant necessary for the efficient operation of the system can pose serious health and environmental risks. For your safety, they should only be handled by experienced professionals. 

 

Your warranty might be voided. High-quality heating and air conditioning systems are significant investments, meaning you want them to be protected. When purchasing new equipment, warranties are always something you should consider. Moreover, most manufacturers require HVAC systems to be handled by certified professionals.

 

When an unauthorized person handles your equipment, your warranties will become invalid. Is it worth it to lose warranty coverage over the DIY hacks you found online? If your HVAC system is malfunctioning, it’s always best to contact a reliable technician. 

 

Why Hire Professionals for Your HVAC Needs?

Professionals are licensed and insured. The components of your HVAC system constantly work to reach and maintain your desired temperature. Professional residential and commercial HVAC companies are licensed, and they know your equipment from the inside out. They can determine what’s causing any issues and the ideal course of action to take for the unit. By hiring a professional, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that the job was done correctly and up to code. 

 

They have the means to do the job safely and efficiently. Working with the pros minimizes the risk of HVAC-related accidents. They’ll arrive at your home with their vehicle equipped with different tools necessary for diagnosing and fixing heating and cooling problems. Many of these tools you wouldn’t be able to find at your local hardware store. Again, using the wrong tools on your equipment can lead to its potential failure. 

 

You’ll get an HVAC system that’s ideal for your space. Choosing new heating or cooling equipment isn’t that simple. Make sure that the one you’re getting is the right size for your home or business. When you choose an inappropriately-sized unit for your space, your energy bills may increase, and your living spaces will become uncomfortable. A reliable HVAC technician will be sure to survey your house first and listen to your needs and concerns. They’ll recommend the model that they believe will best fit your needs and lifestyle. 

 

You’ll avoid lowering your property value. Are you thinking about selling your home in the future? If so, then it’s even more important to work with reliable HVAC professionals. It’s your responsibility as a homeowner to keep your equipment in good condition. Potential buyers may not even consider your home if they learn that your heating and cooling system isn’t working properly. Moreover, during a professional home inspection, it may be discovered that you did DIY repairs, which can be a problem when putting a property up for sale.  

 

Save yourself from stress and additional expenses by working with a reputable residential and commercial HVAC company. At Acker Heating & Cooling, you can rely on us for quality HVAC installation, repair and maintenance services. We specialize in air duct sealing, air conditioning, indoor air quality and more! Give us a call at (706) 715-2607 or fill our contact form to request an appointment.

 

Bryan Acker

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