Although we are aware that many people enjoy doing their own home repairs, any HVAC maintenance should be left to the experts. Despite the fact that almost anything can be learned by homeowners from YouTube videos, improper HVAC maintenance and repairs can be risky.
Our team at Integrity Home Solutions outlines HVAC repairs you should never attempt to DIY, plus a few that you can take on by yourself!
Why Leave HVAC Repairs to the Pros
You shouldn’t try to DIY HVAC repairs because:
- For repairs and upkeep, HVAC specialists employ specialized tools and equipment.
- The risks associated with HVAC maintenance range from natural gas to high electrical voltage.
- You might jeopardize the security and welfare of everyone who resides in your home.
- Doing do-it-yourself repairs could result in poor operation of your furnace or air conditioner.
- The warranty on your system can be voided as a result.
Leave These Repairs to the HVAC Professionals
Don’t attempt to do the following HVAC repairs:
#1. Installing a Smart Thermostat
Unfortunately, even a seemingly simple activity like installing a smart thermostat should be left to a qualified HVAC technician.
We advise speaking with an HVAC technician to confirm that your system is compatible before even considering purchasing a smart thermostat. Because some older HVAC systems aren’t set up to effectively connect with more recent smart thermostats, we advise against it.
Also, due to the electrical wiring required, the typical homeowner shouldn’t attempt to change their thermostat. When wiring is loose or frayed, it can lead to all kinds of issues for a person who is not knowledgeable about electrical. Before installing the smart thermostat in these situations, the electrical wiring must be rectified, and many homeowners lack the skills necessary to do so.
Learn More > How Long Do Thermostats Last?
#2. Cleaning the Outdoor Condenser Unit
The external condenser of your air conditioner may be enclosed in a metal cage, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t delicate. The interior coils are quite delicate and ought to be handled with care.
Splashing water on the condenser’s exterior will harm the condenser coils, which will harm your system. When in doubt, call in a professional technician.
#3. Fixing Refrigerant Leaks
Your HVAC system may be running low on refrigerant, also known as freon or coolant, if your air conditioner is constantly running but your home isn’t cool.
But, you should never try to maintain, top off, or repair HVAC refrigerant on your own. Because HVAC refrigerant is a toxic chemical, only qualified HVAC technicians like those at Integrity Home Solutions should handle it.
#4. Electrical Component Testing
The indoor and outdoor AC units are constructed from a variety of electrical parts, including relays that link to various electrical devices, including:
- Compressors
- Motors
- Capacitors
- Transformers
- A circuit board
- Thermostat
- And more
These HVAC parts all use high-voltage electricity, which poses a risk to your safety and the health of your HVAC system. For this reason, we never advise homeowners to replace, fix, or troubleshoot an air conditioner on their own.
Trust our experienced and qualified HVAC professionals at Integrity Home Solutions instead.
HVAC Maintenance You CAN Do
To keep up with HVAC maintenance between seasonal tune-ups, here are a few things you can do!
#1. Tidying Around the Outdoor Unit
Since it is outside, the condenser unit gets its fair share of harsh weather and sunshine.
Cleaning up around the outside condenser unit periodically will prevent plants from breaching the unit and causing problems.
#2. Changing the Air Filter
One of the easiest things you routinely do to keep your AC running in optimal shape is to change your air filter every 30-60 days.
Learn More > When to Change Your HVAC Air Filter
#3. Clearing a Clogged Drain Line
Your HVAC system may stop working or blast warm air if the drain line is plugged. If this occurs, you will need to clean the condensate drain line for the system.
To do so, follow these steps:
- Pour ¼ of vinegar into a measuring cup.
- Flip the breaker into the “off” position and make sure the air conditioner is turned off too.
- Look for the PVC pipe near the condenser unit outside your home. (Typically white, gray, or black.)
- Remove the cap of the drain line and look for any clogs.
- If a clog is visible, you can clear it manually with a vacuum or your hands. (Make sure to wear gloves!)
- Pour the vinegar into the condensate line and let it sit for 30 minutes or longer.
- Flush the line with water, and check to see if the clogs are gone and that everything is flowing freely.
- Repeat this process every three months to keep clogs at bay.
Lean on Our 5-Star Rated Team!
Remember, though there are some maintenance tasks you can do on your own, NEVER try to complete the above HVAC tasks on your own. Instead, call our team at Integrity Home Solutions for any HVAC problems that you may come across, plus maintenance and installations!
Add our number to your speed dial in case of an HVAC emergency; 813-473-6007. And remember, we are available 24/7!
