While some do-it-yourself home repairs can be both a satisfying pastime as well as a money saver, DIY HVAC efforts are almost always a really bad idea. Today’s heating and air-conditioning systems require specialized knowledge and tools. The technicians who come to your home to do the job are professionals, often certified by industry organizations, and they undergo factory training by major HVAC manufacturers like Bryant and Lennox.
DIY HVAC work by unqualified persons typically causes more problems than it solves. Here are some good reasons to not do it yourself when it comes to your home’s heating and cooling components.
It’s Not Safe
Central air-conditioner components utilize 220-volt electrical power, which requires special precautions by technicians who are specifically trained for the job. Furnaces utilize flammable natural gas and a high-temperature flame. Furnace combustion also creates toxic carbon monoxide that could endanger occupants of the house if the unit is not professionally maintained and serviced.
It Costs More Than It Saves
The energy consumption of heating and cooling systems is a significant recurrent household expense. Energy costs are directly related to the quality of professional installation, maintenance, and repair of these units. The consequences of unqualified DIY HVAC efforts will likely show up as increased monthly electricity and/or gas bills for months and years to come, imposing long-term expenses that far exceed the cost of qualified professional service from a reputable contractor.
It May Cause Permanent Damage
Sensitive technology integrated into todays’s air-conditioning or furnace components is not DIY-friendly. Digital components — motherboards, sensors, controls, etc.— that are now incorporated in most systems may be easily and permanently damaged by the DIY HVAC efforts of unqualified individuals.
It Will Void the Warranty
Terms of virtually all major heating and cooling manufacturer warranties require maintenance and repair by certified technicians only. Amateur DIY HVAC repairs may be cause to void the system warranty, which would make all repair/replacement expenses the responsibility of the homeowner.
For more good reasons to avoid DIY HVAC work and options for qualified professional service, contact Ace Hardware Home Services.
