As a homeowner, you may be tempted to try to repair your HVAC system if it breaks down. While “Doing It Yourself” is popular these days, there are several factors to consider before attempting DIY repairs. As your local HVAC contractor, we would like to point out the dangers of DIY repairs and maintenance so that you can avoid making a costly mistake. Our highly trained professionals at Bexley Heating & Cooling can enlighten homeowners about the do’s and don’t s of HVAC repair and maintenance.
What Are the Physical Risks of HVAC System DIY?
We’ll first address that your residential HVAC system is a complicated machine that takes years of practice and hands-on training to master. Because your HVAC system requires electricity to function, it is directly linked to your home’s electrical wiring, which, if done wrong, can result in electrical shocks or fires. Second, since the operation of your HVAC system heavily relies upon the usage of numerous strong chemicals such as refrigerant and other flammable fuel sources, if you are not a trained, licensed, and NATE-certified HVAC technician, a simple DIY could turn dangerous. On top of that, gas lines, explosions, and fires are all possible hazards. Furthermore, some HVAC maintenance might require climbing into attics or onto roofs, which might result in a disastrous or even deadly fall if not done correctly.
What Are the Financial Risks of HVAC System DIY?
Many financial risks come with your home’s HVAC system. This includes worsening the damage already done to your system, lowering its overall energy efficiency, and voiding your warranty. Keep in mind that your HVAC system is connected to other moving components throughout your house. So, if you damage one element or part, it might damage another or, worse, a total HVAC system failure. Furthermore, if you don’t have the required tools and try to MacGyver or jerry-rig parts together, in that case, it can have an impact on the overall performance of your system. Also, most warranties state that your HVAC equipment must be maintained by a professional. If you’re not a licensed HVAC technician and attempt to repair your residential HVAC system yourself, you risk voiding its guarantee, costing homeowners thousands of dollars in needless repairs.
What Repairs and Maintenance Can Homeowners DIY?
So far, we’ve discussed everything that homeowners can’t do with their home’s heating and cooling equipment, yet, we want to illuminate what you can do. Cleaning the outdoor A/C unit is one of many easy maintenance jobs that homeowners can accomplish on their own.
Because this portion of your HVAC system is outside, homeowners have the ability to clean out sticks, leaves, and other debris. This will prevent your A/C condenser or fan from becoming clogged. Changing the air filters on your HVAC system is another easy maintenance job that you can do yourself. As a friendly reminder, our specialists at Bexley Heating & Cooling recommend changing your HVAC filters at least once a month. If you can’t recall when your air filter was swapped out for a new one, this is your sign to replace it.
Overall, our customers’ safety is our top priority. We realize that saving money on home maintenance may be beneficial; nevertheless, you should also know when to call a specialist. We hope this article will assist homeowners in determining what must and must not be done DIY repairs and maintenance when it comes to your residential HVAC system. However, if you have any questions or concerns about your HVAC system safety, or require a spring preventive maintenance appointment, give Bexley Heating & Cooling today at (614) 924-7856, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
