If you love learning to fix things and tackling your own home improvement projects, it might be tempting to try your hand at HVAC repair. But while there are some minor things you can take on, like changing the filters and sealing off air leaks, too much beyond that and you run the risk of turning any minor heating and cooling problem into something worse. Don’t get in over your head. DIY HVAC repairs can be dangerous and costly. Instead, leave these HVAC repairs to the trained and trusted professionals:
- Duct Cleaning
Even if you think your home is spotless, the ductwork in your HVAC system collects debris, dirt, and dust. And while it is appropriate to clean the outside of your heating and air conditioning registers, don’t try to clean inside the ducts yourself. It probably doesn’t seem that complex, but cleaning ductwork requires special tools. Professionals will be better equipped to clean all the components of your system and fix problems should they encounter any.
- Thermostat Calibration
You are certainly capable of adjusting the temperature and humidity levels with the thermostat in your home, but if your thermostat is not responding properly, it might need a re-calibration or replacement. For the closest accuracy and best performance, you want to get a heating and cooling professional on the job.
- Fluid Leaks
As you probably know, leaks from your heating or cooling can spell disaster. But it is important to not attempt repairs yourself. Instead, visually identify the source of the leak, find a container to catch leaking fluid, and contact a heating and air conditioning professional. They will be able to assess the problem and make the necessary repairs.
- Electrical Repairs
You are probably aware, but you should never attempt electrical repairs (unless you are a certified electrician). Heating and cooling systems require high currents and voltages. This makes electrocution a very real danger—as well as electrical fire. You can check to see if your HVAC system tripped a breaker and reset that yourself, but if you have a recurring short or overload, and your system keeps switching off, call an HVAC technician.
- Part Replacements
Aside from air filters, you probably shouldn’t try replacing the parts in your HVAC system. Even though you might think you know exactly what parts need to be replaced and you can look it up online and order it, resist the urge. The parts of your heating and air conditioning need specific calibration to get humidity, flow, air pressure, and temperature just right. And what if you misdiagnose the problem? No only could this make things worse, but self-made repairs could also void your warranty and you will have to pay out of pocket for costly A/C repairs.
Despite living in an age of DIY, there are some things best left to licensed professionals. HVAC repair is one of those things. For honest and reliable HVAC maintenance and air conditioning repair in San Jose, CA, contact (408) 800-2791. The professionals of Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning have been providing outstanding service and maintenance since 2002. Call us today or our shop front at 1045 N 10th St San Jose, CA 95112.