For residents all across the Dallas/ Fort Worth Metroplex, a working HVAC system is essential to their daily quality of life. Without the comforts of a working air conditioner, the scorching days of a Texas summer can be impossible to get through, and in the dead of winter, a well-maintained heating unit can be just as essential.
Even if you’ve got a knack for various maintenance jobs around the home, it is a good idea to give some serious thought to your situation before attempting to fix a problem with your HVAC system.
The bottom line is that the technology involved in modern furnaces and air conditioners has not been designed with simplicity in mind, and a simple problem can be made into an expensive problem if it isn’t taken care of the right way the first time.
While there are a few simple maintenance routines that can be handled personally, such as changing air filters regularly and cleaning around the unit, attempting to do anything beyond that can cause permanent damage to your system.
To help homeowners in North Texas understand why DIY repairs are never a good idea for HVAC systems, the team at H&H Heating and Air has put together a few important things to remember.
Special Tools are Needed, Even for Small Jobs
Even small maintenance and repair work on heating and cooling systems will require the use of specifically designed tools and other equipment that only a professional HVAC technician will have access to. Trying to tackle a problem using a pair of pliers and a screwdriver isn’t going to do the trick.
Most of these tools are too expensive for the average homeowner to keep on hand, and additional training is needed to be sure that this equipment is being handled the right way.
Basic Repairs can Spiral Out of Control Quickly
Even when a small repair job on an HVAC unit is needed, the cost of getting it done can escalate quickly if it isn’t handled the right way the first time. Trying to fix the problem alone can easily make the issue worse, and skyrocket the overall cost of having it looked at by a professional contractor.
Another important thing to remember is that small repair jobs can sometimes be indicators of a larger overall problem with your system. Without the skills and experience needed to recognize these underlying issues, then handling a small repair without addressing the larger problem can only make everything worse as time passes.
The Risk of Getting Injured is Real
Many aspects of HVAC systems involve the use of large amounts of electricity and chemicals that pose a risk to personal health and safety. Mishandling certain wires while working on your system could lead to a shocking experience.
Alongside the threat of electrocution, is the reality that air conditioning units involve the use of refrigerant chemicals. These substances can be deadly if not handled correctly, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires anyone working with these types of chemicals to have a special certification.
There are Possible Legal Ramifications
Most people, especially in Texas, probably don’t realize that the installation and repair of HVAC systems require the EPA certification mentioned above. Trying to install a unit on your own, or attempting to make repairs to an existing unit can land you in hot water under certain circumstances.
What you CAN Do
Just because you aren’t supposed to install or repair your HVAC systems yourself, that doesn’t mean you have to leave it completely in the hands of the professionals. In fact, performing regular maintenance and troubleshooting is a great way to take care of your equipment.
There are a few important things you can do to help your HVAC system continue functioning efficiently, including:
- Removing dirt and debris from on or around your outdoor unit to keep vents clear
- Changing out filters at least every three months to ensure air quality remains high
- In case air isn’t blowing well, checking the filters and vents for blockage can help
- If the unit stops entirely, a good first step is to check the power switch and breaker
When to Get Help from the Pros
If your HVAC system is not working properly for any reason, it is always a good choice to contact a professional contractor you can depend on as quickly as possible. You may also want to think about setting up a regular maintenance schedule to make sure that your system stays in good shape and continues to keep your home comfortable through the highs and lows of the year here in Texas.
At H&H Heating and Air, our team of skilled professionals is always ready to help the residents of North Texas with any kind of problems they might be dealing with. To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, be sure to contact our office right away!
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