Do you enjoy a good DIY project? Perhaps you like learning how to do things such as learning how to install a new ceiling fan or fixing a leaky faucet. It’s a fantastic thing to take on a task yourself and handle it accordingly. However, where HVAC is concerned, your Huber Heights Heating & Cooling family wants to make sure you are aware of the dangers DIY HVAC repairs and maintenance can bring. Several aspects can be affected should you choose to travel down the DIY road and fix your HVAC system yourself.
Will DIY HVAC Repairs Save You on Costs?
To start, usually, when a decision is made to perform a DIY HVAC repair, the decision is made in the hopes it will cut down on costs. But it is important to consider whether you have all the appropriate tools and parts to complete the job correctly. Unfortunately, most HVAC tools cannot be acquired at a regular home improvement store. So you will need to do the work to locate and find them and perhaps wait on them to be delivered if ordered online. In addition, you may never need those tools again. Therefore, you may just end up paying way more than you initially had planned in order to do it yourself.
Another thing to consider cost-wise is energy costs. It is common for our technicians at Huber Heights Heating & Cooling to have to correct a DIY disaster. What usually starts as a seemingly simple job can quickly become a homeowner’s nightmare. This is because there are so many components in your heating, cooling, and ventilation system that it is common for components and other issues to get overlooked, thus forming more problems. Your system will likely end up with long-term damage from the DIY repair due to reduced efficiency, which almost always leads to higher energy costs. You can prevent placing any more strain on your HVAC system and any more stress on you by calling a licensed service professional from the beginning.
Will a DIY HVAC Repair Void Your Manufacturer’s Warranty?
Next, what about your warranty? Have you thought about your warranty coverage while weighing all the pros and cons of doing a DIY repair? If you haven’t already done so, you should read through your warranty policy. Most manufacturers will automatically void your warranty if
What are the Safety Risks of Performing a DIY HVAC Repair or Maintenance?
Various things can go awry when dealing with an HVAC system. Due to multiple parts and hazardous substances, someone with the proper training and experience must handle your repair. AC units have a hazardous refrigerant that can cause poisoning when inhaled or mishandled during the DIY repair. This can also occur from other natural gases like carbon monoxide leaks or gas and oil from the furnace. If wiring is necessary to fix the job and the wires are not correctly done, you can experience electrocution or possibly start a house fire or spark an explosion. Should any of these scenarios happen because the tiniest detail was overlooked, the consequences could be detrimental. So, please call a licensed service professional to ensure the job is done correctly. You and your family’s safety is a top priority!
What Things Can You Safely Do Yourself?
- Keep your outdoor unit’s area clean– During the spring and summertime, pollen is in abundance, as well as plant vegetation. It would help if you kept the area around your outdoor unit clear of any plant overgrowth and make sure no pollen buildup is on top of the condenser. Any blockages such as leaves, sticks, or outdoor items need to be kept several feet away from the unit to ensure nothing will hinder its airflow.
- Replace your air filters regularly– Remember your air filters need to be replaced every 30-60 days. Every home is different based on lifestyle and the number of people and pets within the home. But the general rule of thumb to follow is to inspect and replace them as necessary every 1-2 months. This will keep the IAQ in your home at a positive level and ensure your HVAC system can function at a high capacity.
- Clean your vents & registers– Don’t let those pesky dust bunnies buildup and overtake your vents and registers. We have all done it a time or two. Dust buildup has a way of sneaking up on you. However, it is good to keep your vents and registers clean; you can wipe down dust with a soft, damp cloth and use a vacuum to vacuum in between the slats if needed.
Do you already have a heating and cooling service professional you can trust? Huber Heights Heating & Cooling is a local, family-owned business you can count on. Our customers are our top priority. We would feel honored to serve you for all of your HVAC needs. Call us today at (937) 226-9675, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
