Dangers Of DIY Air Conditioner Repairs
Many homeowners fix air conditioning repairs to save money they would otherwise give to a professional technician. While you can handle some repairs like cleaning coils and adjusting settings, it is a high risk to attempt to fix complex problems independently. The following are some dangers of DIY air conditioner repairs.
Safety Hazards
Air conditioners consume a large amount of electricity. Therefore, they present a significant risk of electric shock to amateurs. If you accidentally short the wires, you can damage your home's electrical system. This could lead to a fire outbreak. Additionally, this will damage other electronic equipment in your home.
Moreover, leaking refrigerant should be handled with caution. Inhaling refrigerant vapors can lead to oxygen deprivation.
Wrong Equipment
When professional technician goes to fix an air conditioner problem, they are equipped with expertise and the right tools. Many homeowners think that with a screwdriver and hammer, they are fully equipped to repair their AC systems.
Air conditioner repair requires specialized tools such as a reciprocating saw, leak detector, and refrigerant pressure gauge, which are updated periodically according to advances in HVAC technology. The cost of acquiring this equipment and the training to use it can be overwhelming for the layperson. Therefore, hiring a technician is more cost-effective than handling the repairs yourself.
Lack of Advanced Skills
Many air conditioning technicians hone their repair skills by working on old systems. Understanding the inner and outer components of an AC unit can take months. Approaching AC system repairs with the knowledge of YouTube tutorials may not be enough. One improper adjustment can damage the whole system. Hire an air conditioner technician to avoid the risk of damaging the components of your AC unit and the cost of buying a new system.
Legal Risks
Handling air conditioner repairs without any professional skills may be illegal in your area. The Environmental Protection Agency has laws on handling equipment that uses refrigerants. This includes refrigerators and AC systems. In many jurisdictions, only certified professionals are permitted to repair these systems. Therefore, in these areas, DIY air conditioner repairs are illegal. If you are unsure whether this law applies in your area, hire a local HVAC technician.
Voided Warranty
A warranty covers air conditioners. So, if your AC unit malfunctions, you can take it to the manufacturer and have it fixed at no cost. However, a DIY repair can nullify this warranty. Therefore, if any costly repairs arise, you will have to pay for the expenses out of your pocket. Leave air conditioning repairs to certified professionals to ensure your warranty is valid.
For more information about residential AC repairs, contact a local company.