With the internet, YouTube, TikTok, and other digital resources, readily available information can allow homeowners to do just about anything around the house. From building porches to installing new windows and laying flooring, there are many things that homeowners can do with the right tools, information, and skillset. In most cases, DIY home projects produce very successful results. While many things can be completed without assistance, some projects still need to be left to professionals. A qualified technician should always do HVAC maintenance and repairs.
HVAC manufacturers and professionals alike agree that you need to have regular maintenance performed on your heating and cooling equipment every year. Your HVAC system should last around 15 to 20 years without major damage or failures. With preventive maintenance and proper care, however, you could extend the life of your equipment beyond the expected lifespan. Additionally, timely repairs will also help your system continue to operate. Changing air filters regularly, maintaining vents and airways, and keeping bushes and other debris away from outside units are all tasks that homeowners can complete. When it comes to routine maintenance, service, and repairs, however, professional technicians can do it safely and correctly.
Professional HVAC technicians have years of experience, specialty tools, and the training to tune up your equipment and provide quality repairs. Many people consider DIY repairs on their furnace or air conditioner as a way to save money. From the risk of injury to the probability of making the situation worse, however, DIY HVAC repairs aren’t worth the potential savings. Let’s take a look at the dangers of DIY HVAC repairs.
HVAC repairs can be dangerous.
Above all other things, the biggest reason for having qualified technicians perform HVAC repairs is for your safety. Today, HVAC systems have numerous integrated hazards that could be very dangerous for someone without training, knowledge, and skills. Heating and air conditioning equipment utilize flammable pressurized gases, toxic materials, and high electrical voltage. Without accurate knowledge and experience, a DIYer could be seriously injured while working on a heating or cooling system.
Heating and air conditioning maintenance and repairs are very routine for qualified technicians. For the average homeowner, however, doing their own HVAC repair could prove to be dangerous. HVAC professionals have to navigate the intricacies and hazards inside of your HVAC equipment with great care and consideration. As a result, HVAC technicians are among the 25 most dangerous jobs in the United States. Even if you suspect that the problem is minor, it is always best to let a professional handle any repairs for your safety.
You could make the problem worse.
As discussed, heating and cooling systems are more complex today. Professional technicians have undergone extensive training and certification to identify and correct problems with HVAC equipment properly. Additionally, correctly repairing and maintaining HVAC units requires specialized tools and equipment. The complexities and integrated technology in HVAC systems today require that technicians use tools that can cost thousands of dollars. Inexperience and the wrong tools could make problems worse and create the need for additional costly repairs. Most homeowners do not have the right tools, equipment, or training to perform their own HVAC repairs correctly.
DIY repairs could void your warranty.
Similar to other major items around your home, your HVAC equipment comes with a warranty that has specific exclusions and requirements. Your warranty protects against defects and failures. Additionally, it probably requires that HVAC maintenance and repairs be performed by a qualified technician. If you attempt to perform HVAC repairs and maintenance yourself, you could unintentionally void your warranty. Without a valid warranty, any problems that occur with your equipment aren’t covered, and you could be on the hook for very costly repairs or replacement.
In many cases, a combination of skills and knowledge can lead to successful DIY projects. However, to ensure that work is done safely and correctly, only certified technicians should perform HVAC service.
