There are two kinds of people in this world: the people who want to do things themselves and the ones who always want to call for help. It’s only natural to see a problem and jump into action. For the problem-solvers and handymen, if you see an issue with your furnace or heating systems, chances are you’ll want to jump right in and try to fix it yourself. However, this may not always be the smartest idea.
When it comes to your HVAC system, there are a lot of moving pieces and parts that make up a functioning unit. Service experts have years of industry experience they rely on when working on a furnace repair. For this reason and many more, an experienced technician is usually the best option to have your heater repaired quickly and correctly. Sure, you could try to fix any breakdowns of the old system by yourself, but for reliable service, it’s time to call in the big guns. Here are a few of the negatives of a DIY furnace repair that you should definitely avoid.
1. You could end up making the problem worse.
If you don’t really know what you’re doing, chances are you’re going to make things worse with your at-home make-shift heating repair. You may purchase the wrong piece, tamper with something that was working fine, or render the system completely unusable. This could easily take a quick, small fix and turn it into a giant problem or the need for a completely new furnace. There’s a reason furnace repair requires expertise. There are so many little pieces and parts that make up your furnace, and one wrong move could completely wreck the system. Rely on HVAC repair as your best solution rather than trying it yourself.
2. Working with the furnace could be dangerous.
Beyond the satisfaction guarantee you get working with technicians with years of experience, you are also keeping yourself safe by staying away from any furnace repairs. Whether you’re working with an oil or gas furnace, you’re going to be working closely with flames, hot material, and potential toxins. Your heat pump could be leaking carbon monoxide that can make you sick. One wrong move could cause a mini-explosion or even a fire from your furnace. As a homeowner, you’re better off staying away from your HVAC unit to keep yourself safe and protect your home overall.
3. Warranties may be negated.
When you first invest in your furnace, it usually comes with guarantees and warranties that the HVAC contractor can come replace broken parts if necessary. However, in many of these warranty agreements, companies will state that they won’t pay or replace anything if it has been tampered with by anyone who isn’t a professional. If you end up trying to fix something yourself and mess up, it could cost you later. Your HVAC installer may not be required to follow up or give you any compensation because you broke their specific contract. This is another reason why it just makes more sense to call a professional.
4. You could have difficulty selling down the line.
Professional service comes with official documentation and certifications. When your HVAC repair needs are met, the technician will leave you with specific statements and be able to register that your furnace is fully operational. When you go to sell your home down the line, these will be extremely important. Outdated or unkept systems may be a turnoff to potential buyers. Avoiding professional service offerings doesn’t just hurt you now, but a DIY fix that goes wrong could really end up costing you in the real estate market later on.