If you are a homeowner who enjoys tackling household projects and performing tasks yourself, you probably fall into the category of being an avid DIYer. While DIYers are usually quick learners and well-rounded in many skills, it is not advised for homeowners to take on HVAC repairs themselves. Suppose you are experiencing issues with your heating or cooling systems, then we highly suggest you have only a licensed service professional like Hilliard-Dublin Heating & Air take a look at your system. Several risks are involved with performing a DIY repair or maintenance on your system. Let’s take a look at the dangers involved.
How Will a DIY HVAC Repair Result in a Voided Warranty?
Most manufacturers have it in their policy that if any DIY repairs or maintenance is done to your equipment, it will automatically result in a voided warranty. So before you decide to go down the road of the DIY process, you should read the details of your equipment’s warranty and then make an informed decision.
How are DIY HVAC Repairs a Safety Hazard?
When a DIY repair is performed, unless you are a licensed service professional, it is possible an HVAC component or hazardous substance may be overlooked or improperly handled. Potential hazards could be poisoning by inhalation of natural gas, oil, or AC refrigerant. Electrocution can also occur due to incorrect wiring. And last, of all, it is also possible that a house fire or explosion can be sparked due to faulty wires or mishandling of flammable substances like gas or oil from the furnace. This is why we stress the importance of hiring a professional. Not only does a licensed service professional have all the correct training required to perform the job correctly, but they also come with truly invaluable work experience.
Will DIY HVAC Repairs Save You Money?
Usually, when a homeowner is considering doing a DIY repair or maintenance job, they want to save on costs. We totally understand. But it is good to consider all the aspects before deciding to take the plunge. If you choose to continue the DIY repair, you will probably pay more out of pocket than you initially planned. HVAC repairs require specific tools and parts not usually available in regular home improvement stores. This will mean you have to deal with a malfunctioning HVAC system a bit longer due to waiting for the correct tools and parts to be ordered and arrive.
In addition, when choosing to do it yourself, it cannot be guaranteed that the problem will be fixed. More often than not, DIY HVAC jobs lead to other issues. Your DIY repair could even result in long-term damage to your system. Often, DIY jobs result in decreased system efficiency and increased energy costs. It is a common recurrence for our expert technicians at Hilliard-Dublin Heating & Air to have to fix what started as a DIY repair and ended in a DIY disaster. Take it from us, and cut out the extra stress by having the job done correctly right from the beginning.
What Can You Do as a Homeowner?
Most things that are safe to do as a homeowner for your HVAC system fall more along the lines of preventative maintenance. The following are tips and tricks that we believe will help to increase your system’s efficiency and enable it to function at its highest capacity:
- Check and replace your air filters- Don’t forget about those air filters! You don’t have to wait for a technician to change the air filters upon your next seasonal tune-up & safety check. We recommend you replace your air filters every 1-2 months.
- Clean your outdoor unit – The area around your outdoor unit (also known as the condenser) needs to be kept clear of leaves, sticks, weeds, and objects that might cause blockage to the unit’s airflow. You should regularly do this throughout the warmer months due to the possibility of plant vegetation taking over the vicinity.
- Clean your registers & vents- Your vents and registers must also be kept clear of dust buildup. Dust buildup can hinder airflow and negatively affect your home’s indoor air quality. Keep your vents and registers clean by wiping them with a damp cloth and vacuuming in between the slats if necessary.
If you are looking for a heating and cooling company you can trust, you don’t have to look any further! Hilliard-Dublin Heating & Air would be more than happy to assist you with your HVAC needs. You can find assurance in knowing that all of our technicians are NATE-certified. When there is an issue that needs to be fixed, we work to find the best resolution for you, your home, and your family! Reach us at (614) 490-7520, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
