One of the many benefits of living in the internet age is that when you need to learn how to fix something, you can just look it up! There’s an online DIY fix and tutorial for just about any project you can imagine. Whereas some projects, like fixing a squeaky front door, are relatively safe to do without a professional, other DIY projects are riskier. This is especially true for DIY fixes that involve your HVAC system.
When it comes to HVAC repairs, there’s a lot that can go wrong. Unless you’re an HVAC professional with a thorough understanding of how your system works, you probably shouldn’t attempt it alone. However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of affordable options. When you need a professional assessment of your HVAC, Dallas, TX-based pros at Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating are here to help. Keep reading to learn about the five biggest risks of attempting a DIY fix.
Need HVAC repairs? Don’t risk causing more damage by trying to fix it yourself. Contact Dial One Johnson for the best HVAC contractor Dallas has to offer. Visit us online to schedule service, or give us a call at 972-947-9487 today.
1. Safety Hazards
Most people don’t realize how complex their HVAC systems are. To provide a home with cool and warm air, an HVAC system relies on electrical or gas components. As a result, HVAC repair comes with significant risks, including electrical shock, fire, explosion and even gas poisoning. Professional HVAC technicians are trained in how to avoid these dangers, but most homeowners are not.
2. Voided HVAC Warranty
If you’ve ever bought a new furnace or air conditioner, you should have received a warranty. Remember all that fine print? Within most HVAC warranties is a clause stating that while the HVAC is under warranty, it should only be repaired and maintained by a professional.
Manufacturers include this warranty to avoid paying for damages that, rather than the result of a defect, were caused by a DIY repair. If damages were caused by an amateur repair, manufacturers are likely to void the warranty. That’s one of the many reasons that DIY repairs are just too risky, especially when an HVAC system is still covered by a warranty.
3. Decreased HVAC Efficiency
There are a lot of mistakes you can make when repairing an HVAC system. Even if you do manage to get it running again, chances are good that it won’t be running at optimal efficiency. When HVAC systems aren’t running properly, it causes more wear and tear on the entire system, increasing the likelihood of another breakdown. Additionally, an inefficient HVAC system can drive up utility costs, costing you more in the long run than a professional HVAC repair.
4. Lack of Tools and Parts
If you’re set on fixing your HVAC system by yourself, don’t expect to be able to get the job done with a hammer and a screwdriver. Repairing HVAC systems require a specialized set of tools and replacement parts that aren’t easy to come by. You could go out and buy all of the tools and parts you need, but it wouldn’t be a very good investment for a one-time use. In addition to the upfront cost, you’d need training on how to use the tools. When it’s all said and done, you’ll end up spending more repairing it yourself than if you’d hired an HVAC professional.
5. Wasted Time
It’s not just that professional HVAC technicians know how to repair a system safely and expertly; they’re also able to repair it quickly. That’s because they’ve worked on a lot of systems and are familiar with common issues and fixes. Professional HVAC technicians can act confidently and swiftly because they have experience. On the other hand, homeowners who’ve never repaired an HVAC system are unlikely to move quickly. If time is money, DIY HVAC fixes that require a huge time commitment are net losses.
When it comes to repairing HVAC, Dallas, TX-based company Dial One Johnson is your best bet for quality, affordable repairs. Worried you can’t afford HVAC services? We offer multiple financing options with no out-of-pocket expenses.
AC Repairs for HVAC Professionals
Although some minor repairs and maintenance can be done without help from a professional, there are a handful of issues that you shouldn’t attempt to fix alone. The following repairs require professional assistance:
- Refrigerant leak. Refrigerant, a chemical fluid found in ACs, is essential to cooling your home. You shouldn’t have to refill refrigerant, so if it’s run out, that means there’s a leak. Homeowners should never attempt to repair a refrigerant leak on their own because exposure to this fluid can cause refrigerant poisoning.
- Furnace repairs. In many jurisdictions, it’s illegal for anyone without a license to attempt to repair a gas furnace. That’s because a botched repair can lead to toxic gas exposure, fire and even explosion. If your gas furnace is on the fritz, hire a professional.
- Hot water tank replacements. Installing a new tank involves more than you might think; it’s not as simple as removing the old one and connecting the new one. Whether a hot water tank uses gas or electricity, there is danger involved. A professional HVAC technician can install your new tank according to code and safety regulations.
AC Repairs That You Can DIY
You may be thinking, “Well, what can I do alone?” Don’t worry — there are plenty of HVAC projects that homeowners can address without a professional, including the following:
- Cleaning the outdoor AC unit. Outdoor condensers get clogged with dirt, twigs, leaves and other debris. Removing this debris helps maintain your system.
- Changing air filters. Changing your HVAC filters goes a long way in improving indoor air quality. Contrary to popular belief, they need to be changed more than once a year. In seasons of high use, try changing air filters every couple of months.
- Replacing installation. Replacing or installing your insulation will help your house hold warm air in the winter and cool air in the summer. That means your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard or wear out as quickly.
Dallas HVAC Experts
Ready to repair your HVAC? Dallas, TX-based company Dial One Johnson is your best resource for all things HVAC and plumbing. Our experienced HVAC technicians can get the job done the right way: quickly, expertly and safely. Whether your HVAC system needs maintenance, repairs or replacements, we’ve got you covered. Visit us online to schedule service or give us a call at 972-291-0740 today.
Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.