HVAC Repair: When To DIY And When To Call An Expert

by | Jul 29, 2024 | HVAC Repair

The HVAC unit is one of the most essential appliances in any home. But what do you do when it breaks? Depending on the fault, you could choose to conduct the air conditioner repair yourself. However, repairing your HVAC is best left to the experts unless you know what you’re doing. If you have no idea what you’re doing, you could inadvertently put yourself and your home in danger. For the most part, a DIY job is nothing like a fix for a professional. If you’re reading this trying to understand which is which, then keep reading. This mini guide can help you tell if your HVAC needs professional attention or a simple DIY job. Let’s begin! Water leaking from an indoor HVAC unit Should I DIY My Air Conditioner Repair? It actually depends! Do you have the right tools or skills to perform an air conditioner repair? If you don't, then you are better off letting a professional handle the job. However, if you have the skills and tools required, there are a few HVAC repairs you can handle by yourself. Parts Depending on the issues, you might need to purchase new parts. Getting some parts is easier than others. For instance, if your unit is older, it might be difficult to find the part you need to complete your fix. It can also be difficult to find the right part if you don’t know what type of HVAC unit you have. The last thing you want is to get the wrong part and cause a minor fix to become a major problem. You should also consider the fact that you might pay more for parts than the air conditioner repair company. Experience You can be great at other DIY projects around the house, but that doesn’t mean you have the required experience and skills to conduct an air conditioner repair job. If you don’t have the experience, wait for the heating services professionals. Air Conditioner Repairs You Can Handle Minor Leaks If you discover water around your unit, then you have a leak. Any leak around an HVAC unit is an issue. If it’s a minor leak, you can fix it yourself. The leak could be caused by a clogged drain, meaning you simply need to remove the clog. Water around your HVAC unit coils also means a component or pipe is loose. Tightening these shouldn’t be a problem if you have the know-how. Air conditioner repair technician unscrewing HVAC vent cover Replacing/Cleaning Air Filter Cleaning or replacing your HVAC’s air filter is a maintenance job that every homeowner should regularly perform. The air filter catches debris, pollen, dust, and other particulates, stopping them from circulating around your home. Your air filter needs to be replaced at least every 3 months; you can replace it sooner if you notice the following signs:

  • Extremely dirty
  • Damaged
  • Covered in dust
Alternatively, you can replace your HVAC’s air filter if anyone in your home is experiencing respiratory problems. When To Hire An HVAC Professional There are situations where your HVAC will need a professional, even if you have all the skills and knowledge. If you notice any of the following issues, you should call a professional air conditioner repair technician instead of handling it yourself. HVAC replacement filter Mold Growth Mold in your HVAC system means you have excess moisture or a leak. Mold can cause serious health issues. So, cleaning the mold only solves the symptoms, not the underlying cause. If you notice mold in your HVAC system, call Ambient Cooling and Heating as soon as possible. A professional air conditioner repair technician can locate and fix the problem. High Energy Bills If you notice your energy bills have risen without any changes to other appliances, you will need a professional. Older units and those with efficiency issues use more energy to operate, which can shock your wallet at the end of the month. There isn’t a DIY fix for an old or inefficient HVAC unit; however, a professional air conditioner repair technician can make a few repairs to solve the issues. Nevertheless, when your HVAC is raising your energy costs, you are better off replacing the unit. DIY or Professional: Which Is Better For Your HVAC? DIY fixes offer a cheap and fast way to solve simple air conditioner repairs. However, if your HVAC requires significant repair or is potentially dangerous, you are better off leaving it to the professionals.