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Air Conditioner Repair: Doing it Yourself vs. Hiring a Contractor

If you’re a homeowner, you’ve probably thought about doing your own a/c repair and maintenance. But air conditioners are complicated devices, and while DIY maintenance and repair can save you money upfront, it may cost you quite a bit in the long run.

With the summer months just around the corner, it’s a good idea to get your HVAC maintenance done to ensure your unit can get you through the scorching Houston heat. Here’s why you should hire an HVAC contractor instead of attempting to do that maintenance yourself.

Your HVAC Tech is an Expert

Your HVAC technician has the right equipment and the knowledge necessary to diagnose problems quickly and accurately. Having the right equipment means repairs are done right the first time which saves you money.

An HVAC technician won’t just look at your air conditioner; they’ll look at your ductwork to make sure there are no leaks or other problems and ensure that your system is right for your home and working properly.

Technicians have to stay current on all things HVAC. They usually have to undergo yearly training to keep their mechanical licenses and stay current on HVAC technology which is changing rapidly, along with current building codes.

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Most air conditioning problems are caused by a lack of maintenance such as changing filters and keeping condenser coils clean. Hiring an HVAC company like Custom Air Systems means you can develop a regular maintenance schedule to ensure your air conditioner is ready for the upcoming season, whether that’s summer or winter.

This also cuts down on costly repairs, and you’ll have an idea of how much each maintenance service will cost and when it should be scheduled so you’re prepared instead of shocked when the a/c unit breaks down. Your HVAC technician can also tell you what you can do yourself to keep your air conditioner running smoothly, like changing filters.

HVAC Companies Offer Discounts

Whether you need regular maintenance or 24 hour a/c repair, most HVAC companies in Houston, like Custom Air Systems, offer discounts for regular customers. That means not only will you save money long term by keeping up on maintenance, but you’ll also save money on inevitable a/c repair services that crop up when you least expect them.

If you need a new a/c unit installed, Custom Air Systems makes things easy by offering discounts on new systems and units as well as financing and the ability to make payments with a credit card.

Some Things Can’t Be Done DIY

Some air conditioner problems can’t be dealt with by the homeowner. Things like replacing refrigerant require a licensed HVAC technician to ensure the job gets done correctly. They can also look for things like refrigerant leaks that you may not see because you don’t have their trained eye.

If you’re doing major renovations to your home and work needs to be done on the ventilation, HVAC technicians will know if you need to get a permit. Aside from getting the work done right, having a professional come in also means there is a paper trail for your renovation project in case something goes wrong because hiring an HVAC contractor in these types of situations typically requires a contract.

Safety is Important

Installing an air conditioner and making repairs can be a dangerous undertaking if you don’t know exactly what you are doing. In fact, it’s not only dangerous to yourself to do any repairs, but it’s also dangerous to your family if you wire something incorrectly or cause a carbon monoxide leak.

Your HVAC technician can also check your ductwork for problems like mold you may not even know you have or leaks where cold air is escaping and give you options for correcting the problem.

You Get a Warranty

One of the major benefits of hiring an HVAC contractor is the warranty they provide on any parts they use in repairs or on the air conditioner itself if you had a new one installed. If you do things yourself, you don’t get a warranty on parts or labor, meaning if you do something wrong or the part you used suddenly fails, you have to spend even more money to fix it again.

Call the Experts at Custom Air Systems

While DIY projects are a great way to spend money, some things just should not be done by the average homeowner. A/c maintenance and repairs are one of those things. It’s best to call in a professional, especially if you do not know HVAC systems.

Our HVAC technicians will analyze your system and your home, making sure your HVAC unit is working efficiently. We can also help you set up a regular maintenance schedule, so you don’t have to worry about being left to swelter in the Houston heat because your air conditioner needed maintenance. Contact Custom Air Systems today to schedule an appointment for a technician to visit your home.

(281) 466-4297