HVAC systems usually break down on the hottest summer days, during holidays and at rather inconvenient times, when most professionals are off-duty and cannot help at a moments notice. It is not a big surprise that we try to find a DIY solution to our problems in such cases. Some of us are also frugal and believe strongly that we can do everything by ourselves to save money.

Most things we can actually fix with some elbow grease, but there are some repairs that you should never try to do on your own. The HVAC system, in particular, repairing it is not an easy or a safe task unless you are a trained professional since it involves harmful chemicals and dangerously high voltages. Here are some rules of thumb when considering a DIY repair of your HVAC unit.

Never Open Your Unit Without Proper Tools

Your basic toolkit might be useful when doing small tasks around the house, but using it to open up and tinker around your HVAC unit can cause further damage. Specialized tools must be used to identify possible issues and fix small and fragile parts.

Refrigerants Must be Handled With Care

A refrigerant is a highly toxic chemical that needs to be disposed of in a specific manner which is outlined by law, and that task must be done by a certified professional. Handling it yourself can cause serious damage to your surroundings and put you and your family in harm’s way.

Do Not Experiment With Electrical Repairs

All HVAC units use high voltages and strong electric currents that can cause electric shocks when touched, or even cause a fire in your home. If you notice something is wrong with your unit, hire a professional to find the problem and fix it.

Never Assume You Know What is Wrong With Your Unit

Unless you are an experienced professional, it is really hard to guess the real cause your HVAC system is malfunctioning. Short circuits, for example, are not always a sign of an electrical problem but can also be a symptom of a whole string of possible problems, such as a broken thermostat, a refrigerant leak or a blocked air filter that needs careful cleaning. By getting involved you might worsen the problem and actually increase your repair expenses.

If you encounter any difficulties or have any questions, contact us at Total Comfort Heating and Cooling to schedule a consultation with our team.