Never DIY These 5 HVAC Repairs

HVAC systems are durable yet highly fragile equipment that only experts with the right experience and equipment should service. Doing the job yourself might give you pride in getting your hands dirty and productive, but DIY repairs can deal danger to yourself and to the unit itself. In this blog post, local heating and air conditioning expert Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating takes a look at five HVAC procedures that you should never ever DIY under any circumstances.

1. Gas Furnace Repair. Attempting to repair a gas furnace by yourself is a dangerous endeavor. Gas furnaces involve combustible gasses and intricate electrical connections that, if mishandled, can lead to severe safety hazards, including gas leaks or fires. 

2. Air Conditioning Repair. Air conditioners are also complex systems that involve refrigerants, high-voltage electricity and delicate mechanical components. DIY repairs could inadvertently cause more damage to these systems, leading to expensive repairs down the line. Additionally, mishandling refrigerants not only poses a risk to your health but is also regulated due to its environmental impact.

3. Electrical Repairs. HVAC systems are heavily reliant on electrical connections and components. Without the proper knowledge and safety tools, trying to fix an electrical issue could result in electric shock or even fires. Electrical repairs should always be left to heating and air conditioning installation professionals who have the necessary equipment and expertise to diagnose and safely resolve these issues.

4. Refrigerant Leak Repairs. The refrigerant is essential for your AC unit to function; however, handling it is not a task for a layperson. Apart from requiring specialized tools to correctly diagnose and repair a leak, there’s also the matter of legal regulations regarding the handling and disposal of refrigerants, due to their harmful effects on the environment.

5. The Risks of DIY HVAC Repairs. The allure of potentially saving money by fixing your HVAC system yourself can be tempting. However, the long-term risks significantly outweigh the short-term benefits. DIY efforts can lead to improper installations or repairs, reducing the efficiency of your system, increasing energy costs, and possibly causing extensive damage that requires costly repairs or replacement. Moreover, warranties often stipulate that repairs and maintenance must be carried out by licensed professionals, meaning a well-intentioned DIY fix could void your warranty.

Rather than risk getting harmed or causing your HVAC system to malfunction while performing DIY repairs, it’s best to leave the job to the professionals. Reliable Air Conditioning & Heating is your go-to for all things heating, air conditioning and indoor air quality in Los Angeles, CA, and the surrounding areas. Call us at (818) 487-0671, or fill out this contact form to get an estimate.