Why You Shouldn’t Take a DIY Approach to Your HVAC

Here at Bob Jenson, we’ve heard DIY stories that run the gamut when it comes to folks trying to tackle their HVAC systems. From the guy who improperly installed a replacement cooling unit in his attic and ended up ruining expensive electronics to the woman who didn’t realize something was wrong until her unit started smoking, there seems to be an endless supply of these sort of tales.

Do-it-yourself projects may be entertaining, but they often involve doing it wrong, especially when it comes to HVAC systems. In some areas, mistakes might be part of the learning curve and not that big of a deal, but when it comes to your HVAC, you probably don’t want to risk it.

Bottom line: Your handyman skills are, well, handy for fixing a stuck door or building a new end table, but here are just a few of the reasons you ought not to try your hand at HVAC repairs and replacement. Instead, reach out to the team at Bob Jenson. Our award-winning, industry-certified technicians are best in class.

You Don’t Have the Right Tools

Though you might have a fancy set of forty screwdrivers and your grandfather’s trusty pair of pliers, you likely do not have the specialized equipment and talent required to work on your heating and cooling system. Watching YouTube videos doesn’t provide the same knowledge as proper training and hands-on experience.

But you know who does have access to these expensive tools and technology? Educated, skilled HVAC field technicians who have trained for years to work on these complicated systems. Bob Jenson’s technicians are not only well-trained, but they’re licensed, insured, and bonded to ensure your confidence in their work.

You’re Putting Yourself (and Your Family) at Risk

Working with HVAC systems can be awfully dangerous if you’re not prepared. Toxic fumes, high voltages, carbon monoxide, sharp metal edges, flammable natural gas — these are but some of the dangers that professionals know how to navigate.

Working with cooling systems also means working with refrigerant chemicals, and the EPA has very specific requirements with regards to handling and disposal of those dangerous materials. Bob Jenson has the know-how and all the necessary safety equipment — like goggles, gloves, earplugs, and respiratory protection — needed to safely complete the job.

You’re Causing Costly Long-Term Issues

Even if you have managed to avoid injuring yourself while tooling around with the ducts in your home, the odds are strong that you will have made your system less efficient. Even small issues or changes can lead to much more significant (and expensive) problems in the future; for instance, even a slight uptick in humidity because of a change you made could lead to a future outbreak of mold or mildew.

Who pays a heavy cost for those small inefficiencies in the long run? Your bank account knows the answer. Leave the fixing to the pros and you’ll save big.

You Might Void Your Warranties

Your HVAC system is comprised of many different parts, machines, ducts, levers, pieces, and assorted components, and many of these have manufacturers’ warranties that will be voided if you tamper with them. Most warranties require a certified HVAC professional to maintain or repair your system. That warranty is valuable — keep it intact by relying on Bob Jenson instead.

You’re Lowering the Value of Your Home

Shoddy HVAC work will negatively affect your home’s resale value. Consider the potential homebuyer who inspects the attic only to find the heating system barely held together with duct tape, the remnants of a botched repair job.

Most people sell two or three homes in a lifetime, so keep your home as valuable as it can be with regular maintenance and proper (read: professionally performed) repair work.

Checklist for a Healthy HVAC System

Even though you’re now aware of many reasons to leave your HVAC system’s repair and replacement to the professionals, you may be wondering what you can do to positively impact your air quality and HVAC system.

Here are some actions you can take:

• Replace your HVAC system’s air filter regularly, about once each month, but at least once a season.
• Regularly check and clean other filters in your home, such as air purifier and clothes dryer filters.
• Clear away any branches and leaves to maintain clear space around your outside unit.
• Check the batteries in your carbon monoxide detector, or buy one for each level of your home if you do not own any.
• Keep aware of any signs of wear and tear, including unusual noises coming from the ductwork.
• If your air is not blowing cool enough or strongly enough, check that no vents are blocked and all registers and vents are open.

Most importantly, contact us to help with any and all HVAC maintenance, sales, and repair needs. We are always prepared to assist you!