If you consider yourself a jack of all trades and enjoy doing projects by yourself, then it is likely you also like to perform maintenance repairs on your own. While we totally support basic troubleshooting, unless you are a licensed professional, it is important to be aware of the can DIY repairs can cause. So join Monroe Heating & Air as we dive into the dangers of DIY HVAC repairs and maintenance.
Why Is It Harmful to Do Self Repairs?
Insisting on doing repairs yourself can result in a multitude of things going awry. Your home’s HVAC system is connected to various complex wires. Your furnace may be gas or oil-fed, which are both highly flammable. And your air conditioning unit has a refrigerant that contains harmful chemicals. All of these things can turn into hazardous situations if not handled exactly as they should be. The last thing you want is to experience electrical shock or spark an electrical fire while trying to complete the repair. Potential damage to your furnace’s gas lines can also occur. Therefore, if you are not licensed, please contact a service professional such as Monroe Heating & Air today.
Will Doing Repairs Myself Void My Manufacturer’s Warranty?
The short answer is yes. Performing DIY repair on your A/C or furnace will completely void your manufacturer’s warranty. Though it may seem like a simple fix you are willing to take on, if there is any damage to the system caused by the repair, it may mess with the whole system. So be sure to read the fine print on your warranty!
What Repairs Can I Do Myself?
You’ll be pleased to know all is not lost regarding DIY and HVAC maintenance. There are, in fact, a few things you can do to keep your HVAC system running smoothly and practice preventative maintenance. These are:
- You Can Change Your Air Filters- IAQ or indoor air quality is a huge factor as to why we recommend changing your air filters regularly. In addition, if you want your airflow to be distributed adequately, you also want to make sure your air filters stay fresh and unclogged. Clogged air filters are the number one culprit of restricted airflow and poor IAQ within a home. We suggest that homeowners change their air filters every 30–60 days.
- You Can Clean Your Outside AC Unit- Outdoor units tend to get bogged down with dirt, pollen buildup, leaves, and other loose debris from outside. It is alright if you want to tackle this task of cleaning it yourself. Just be sure to shut it off first. You can also clean the surrounding area and ensure there are no weeds, plants, or foliage growing in the condenser’s vicinity.
- You Can Put in Or Replace Insulation- Proper insulation affects your HVAC system’s overall performance and efficiency. Industry professionals say a home’s insulation should be 10-14 inches thick. So, if your home needs a few more layers of insulation added to it, this would be a job that an avid DIYer is welcome to take on.
If you are looking for a local heating & cooling company you can trust, look no further! Monroe Heating & Air would love to serve you and your family with all of your HVAC needs. We aim to please our customers and find a resolution that works best for you, your home, and your family! So what are you waiting for? Call us today at (513) 540-4890, or schedule an appointment online by clicking here!
