DIY HVAC Projects That Are Best Avoided

If you are an avid DIYer then you’ll probably feel that no project is out of reach. After all, there is a ton of information on the internet that will help you solve any issue and get the job done. Unfortunately, there are three issues with this approach:

  1. The Internet has too much information
  • ³3The internet is an awesome place. But, there is so much information online that it is now easy to read the wrong advice and find that you are struggling to get the job done. At that stage, you’ll need an expert in domestic and industrial air conditioning to get the job finished properly.
  1. It may not highlight the dangers
  • While the internet can talk you through the issue and a solution, it often doesn’t highlight the dangers associated with any job. The information is focused on the repair and assumes you will take the appropriate safety measures. If you’re not aware of the dangers you may not be able to protect yourself from them.
  1. Your problem is unique

Finally, no matter how simple your problem seems, there will always be unique factors that make the advice online less than perfect. In short, you’ll wish you had expert help.

Regardless of whether you still attempt the job or not, there are several HVAC projects that should never be considered DIY.

Repairing An Air Conditioner

It may seem straight forward but air conditioners have a lot of small moving parts. As soon as you start messing with them you can upset the balance of the machine, without solving the issue. 

Alongside this, there are several parts of the air conditioner that are harmful, such as the refrigerant which is kept under pressure. Older systems have a refrigerant that is now banned, spilling it on the ground or yourself can be highly dangerous.

Replacing A Hot Water Tank

In principle, you shut off the water, disconnect the plumbing and attach it to the new tank. However, it is rarely this simple as the plumbing doesn’t usually match the new tank. Alongside this, you are dealing with water and electricity at the same time. These two components are great friends as water conducts electricity. 

For you, that means there is plenty of danger and this is one job that should be left to the professionals, you don’t want it to go wrong! That can lead to water leaks and nasty electric shocks, neither is a desirable outcome.

Electrical Issues

HVAC systems tend to run on high voltage power supplies. This makes them more dangerous to work on. Of course, you should turn the power off before you start working. But, if you get the wiring wrong on the repair turning it back on can be a disaster.

While doing your own DIY is very satisfying, it is also important to recognize that some jobs are better done by the professionals. The job will usually be done faster and you’ll be given a warranty which will give you peace of mind.