Maybe you consider yourself handy and like to tinker with home improvement projects on the weekends. No matter how many YouTube videos you’ve watched, attempting to fix a broken HVAC unit can quickly turn into a misadventure.
But beyond the aggravation factor, DIY repairs can compromise your physical safety, wallet and longevity and function of your equipment.
Here are a few reasons why you should call a pro instead of trying to fix the issue and hope for the best.
Unsafe Conditions
It might not be obvious to homeowners but fixing repairs without the right knowledge, tools, or experience can pose unseen threats such as:
- An electric shock or fatal electrocution
- Fire or explosion
- Poisoning from inhaling carbon monoxide or gas fumes*
Something as simple as a small crack or hole in a gas line can cause carbon monoxide to fill your home. Any time there’s a chance of carbon monoxide getting into your home, your family might be vulnerable. So that means it’s doubly important to rely on a trusted professional.
A licensed HVAC contractor has the skills and specialized tools to minimize the risk of injuries while providing repair services. Also, most reputable HVAC companies have insured and bonded technicians. If an insured technician gets injured while working on your property, you won’t be financially responsible for their injuries. The same can’t be said of an accident caused by your own ignorance.
Equipment Integrity
Even if you’re successful in your efforts, the system might not work as well as before and you might notice issues with efficiency. That’s because it’s easy to make mistakes with essential tasks like correctly adjusting the thermostat or ensuring optimal airflow and drainage.
Similarly, you may feel comfortable tackling HVAC system repairs yourself to save money. However, you might find that a misstep results in bigger and costlier damage. All the components of your HVAC system are interconnected and part of a whole. Damaging one component can result in a larger system issue. That’s why our HVAC technicians undergo thorough training to work on these systems. They understand the interworking of the mechanics and have the correct tools and safety gear to perform repairs.
Warranty Void
Are you familiar with the terms of your unit’s warranty? There’s a good chance that it spells out that it’s only valid if the system is professionally repaired and maintained. DIY repairs could set you back and shorter-term savings could mean longer-term regret.
Longer Repair Time
There’s never a good time for a breakdown, but professionals know how to work quickly in extreme weather conditions to resolve the issue. As this is their expertise and domain, they can often diagnose the problem without a lot of time or effort. Homeowners, no matter how patient or dedicated to a solution, would most likely take much longer. Furthermore, investing hours into a project like this can be foolish when leisure time is at a premium today.
Things You CAN Do Yourself
They say the best defense is a good offense. That means being proactive can save you a lot of hassle and you might be able to avoid an unnecessary repair.
Being active and engaged in home maintenance activities is a worthy effort. Here’s a look at some of the benefits that can translate to the longevity and condition of your HVAC unit and improve health and comfort at home:
Maintain Your Warranty
As alluded to above, a repair claim may be denied if you can’t furnish proof that you’ve invested in regular tune-ups. As maintenance is critical to ensure the proper functioning of HVAC units, many manufacturers include a clause in their warranty stating that it will be void if the unit is not getting the recommended maintenance. There’s also the important consideration that the amount you’ll pay for a tune-up will be well worth it if you encounter an unexpected and expensive failure while under warranty.
Improve Air Quality
You can’t put a price on clean air. Tune-ups can curb the amount of dust, pet dander, or other allergens in your home’s air. The same goes for changing out air filters as recommended. Your lungs will thank you.
Prioritize Safety
In the course of doing the tune-up, your tech may also prevent something from going awry in your home. If your heat fails in sub-zero temperatures, for example, your pipes could freeze and burst. Also, it’s possible for HVAC units to leak carbon monoxide. Part of your HVAC checkup will include inspecting for such unseen threats.
Put Efficiency First
Electing to schedule regular HVAC checkups is also an environmentally friendly option. That’s because HVAC systems require less fuel and operate more efficiently when they’re on a regular maintenance schedule. In addition to saving you money, using less energy benefits the planet. Bottom line: A tune-up is worth every penny for the reasons mentioned above.
Call the Pros
In short, keep in mind the information you find online isn’t always reliable. The stakes are too high to throw caution to the wind because you think you can tackle the project yourself. Plus, there are no one-fits-all solutions when it comes to HVAC systems, as each one has different mechanics and requires its own approach. However, skilled, trained professionals can diagnose the problem correctly and perform necessary repairs efficiently so you can rest easier knowing that.
On that note, summer will be here before we know it. Is your HVAC ready for warmer temperatures? Rely on JO Mory to take excellent expert care of your unit so you can relax! We’re the go-to company for repair, maintenance, and replacement for heating and cooling systems. HVAC professionals recommend servicing your AC unit annually. It’s an affordable way to keep your air conditioner functioning properly, especially during the summer heat.
At JO Mory, we take pride in serving customers in Northern Indiana, the Tri-State area, and beyond. If you have questions or would like to arrange for a free quote, please use this form or give us a call: 800.621.6679.