Watching tutorials on YouTube and watching HGTV does not qualify you to do repairs on your HVAC system independently. Just because something may seem easy doesn’t make it safe or wise. The risks are much greater than the rewards you believe will be gained. HVAC systems are complicated and your HVAC system is not a toy. With that being said, the damages that can ensue are inexcusable. It takes a special license to toil away on these systems without ending in such consequences. Westerville Air Conditioning & Heating wants you to know there are risks when comes to DIY HVAC repairs and maintenance; however, there are things you can do instead. Read on to learn more.
What Are the Legal Risks of DIY HVAC Maintenance/Repairs?
There are strict laws set in place by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that you could be breaking if you are not careful. HVAC systems contain refrigerants, which pose health and environmental risks. I first learned this when looking to dispose of a broken unit in my own home. Only qualified professionals should handle them, so be sure to contact the experts if your heating and cooling unit is lacking efficiency. By making the responsible choice, you can help protect yourself and the environment!
Is DIY Maintenance/Repairs Worth the Loss of Warranty?
No. Let me explain why. Many things can void your HVAC warranty, any tinkering done by an unlicensed individual being one of them. Cutting corners to save on some cash will do more harm than good to your HVAC system. Any untrained and unlicensed person is more likely to improperly care for your equipment correctly, resulting in poor efficiency and frequent breakdowns. Those problems will then no longer be a liability to the manufacturer, so now you not only have a dysfunctional HVAC system, but any future repairs will be coming straight from your pockets.
What Things Can I Do for My HVAC System?
I’ve got some excellent news for you! While you can not do everything, there are things you CAN do for your HVAC system. First, you can clean the borders of your outdoor unit. Debris can interfere with an air conditioner’s efficiency when blocking exhaust vents. Second, caulk your windows. Leaky windows let out treated air your HVAC system works so hard to maintain, causing strain on your system to keep a comfortable temperature within the household. Energy bills begin to rise, and your HVAC system will die out. Finally, changing your air filter is a straightforward DIY that you should do every time it is dirty. A clogged air filter can’t effectively trap pollutants and might even allow some to trickle back in.
Do what you can to maintain your HVAC system between routine maintenance appointments to keep your AC running efficiently. Preventative maintenance proves imperative to keep your home comfortable and safe for you and your loved ones. Thank you for your time, and don’t forget to call Westerville Air Conditioning & Heating today at (614) 810-0075, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
