AC Repairs: DIY or Hire a Professional?

When To DIY and When To Hire a HVAC Pro

Home AC repairs of any kind can be inconvenient and costly. Because expenses can add up, many homeowners try to do repairs themselves to avoid spending money on labor costs.  However, it is important that you recognize what you are able to handle on your own versus what it too difficult to do on your own.  Because your HVAC system is an important part of your home, it is essential that you don’t take on more than you can handle, leading to more repairs and more expenses.

Here are Some Tips

Tasks for Homeowners

Regular maintenance on your AC unit each year is necessary so that it works efficiently all year long.  Simple tasks, like cleaning the outside of your unit and removing all debris from around it, are things that can easily be done by homeowners.  Checking the condensation drain for leaks or cutting back vegetation away from the unit is also recommended.  Inside, homeowners can change air filters regularly for cleaner air and a more efficient HVAC system.  Additionally, check the thermostat each season to make sure it is working correctly. Homeowners can sometimes even lubricate parts for increased efficiency.  Just be sure all power is turned off before attempting to clean or lubricate any part of the unit.

During the winter, homeowners can and should turn off the AC and cover it to protect it from elements during the cold months.   Most of these tasks are preventative and can keep larger problems from occurring during times of significant use.  If at any time, you feel uncomfortable performing any task, rest assured that the professionals at Comfort Experts are willing and able to help you maintain your ac unit during the spring and fall seasons.

Why You Should Call the Professionals

It is best to call the professional ac repair technicians any time parts need to be repaired or replaced.  The professionals are guaranteed to do the job right the first time.  While it may be more money upfront, it can save you money on costly mistakes if you try to attempt repairs on your own.

HVAC professionals will have all the necessary tools to complete ac repair jobs.  Furthermore, because of their business, they have access to discounts on parts that you don’t have through wholesale markets.  You may actually be getting a discount on parts that you otherwise wouldn’t get.

Safety can be a major factor to consider before attempting to repair jobs on your own.  AC repair experts are knowledgeable and take safety precautions so that no one gets injured during a repair.  Not only do professionals practice safety during installation, but they are also guaranteed to get the job done right.  You don’t have to worry about possible gas or chemical leaks that can occur when you try to do a repair yourself.

AC Mistakes To Avoid

Here are some of the “bad” things you could do with your air conditioning as summer rolls into its hottest days of the year. Make sure that you’re avoiding these air conditioning mistakes that could cause you to need AC repair.

Not Changing the Air Conditioner’s Filter Regularly

Changing out your air conditioner’s filters is one of the easiest things you can do for maintaining your system. You don’t even need an AC repair serviceman to help you with that part. The general recommendation is to change out your air conditioning filters at least once every three months – or more if your unit is running nearly non-stop.

Forgetting or neglecting to change the filters can lead to poor air flow (increased AC energy usage), the freezing of the AC’s evaporator coil (requiring AC repair), and can shorten the lifespan of your unit. AC filters are relatively cheap and can help in reducing your AC bill, too.

Not Having Your AC Serviced Regularly (at Least Once a Year)

Having your air conditioning serviced at least once a year allows a professional AC technician go through all the checks and balances to make sure your unit is working efficiently and that nothing is broken down. Without a technician to help out, your unit might be running less efficiently (and costing you more money in the long run) or a component within your system is about to break which will cost even more in AC repair bills.

It’s worth taking the time to schedule an annual AC servicing so that a professional technician can make sure your entire unit is working effectively.

Setting Your Thermostat Too Low

Although it might feel great to set your thermostat really low during the summer, you can cut a small but notable amount off your air conditioning bill simply by raising the AC’s cooling temperature a couple of degrees. Often times the humidity is what bothers us more than the temperature, and running the AC can help to filter out the humidity in the home even if it’s “warmer” than you think you might normally like.

Spending Energy to Cool Rooms You Never Use

If you have rooms in your home that you’re not regularly using, you should close the vents to help the air conditioning system circulate the air into rooms you are using. Otherwise, you end up raising your AC bill just to cool a room nobody is actually in.

DIY vs Professional A/C Repair: Which Is Better?

Before taking on an HVAC repair job yourself, consider the risks.  If you feel it is out of your league, call the experienced professionals at Comfort Experts for peace of mind and a job well done.