DIY is becoming more common, especially with people putting tutorials on YouTube and other websites. Although doing your own business HVAC maintenance may appear to be a smart idea at times, there are instances when you should delegate the task to the professionals.

Today, we’re going to look at the difference between DIY and professional maintenance for commercial HVAC.

DIY HVAC Maintenance: What You Can Do

It is true that some tasks are best left to professionals, but there are others that you can complete yourself.  Here are some business HVAC maintenance jobs you may complete on your own.

Routine Tasks for  Homeowners

If you’re a homeowner, below are some of the routine things that you can do without worrying about safety.

• Take care of air filters– This is an easy task that helps keep your system running well. The filters should be cleaned around every three months or so.
• Clean the registers & vents – This is simple to do while vacuuming. Simply vacuum them with an attachment.
• Make sure your outdoor unit is clear – Before turning on the AC for the season, spring clean around the unit. Remove sticks, leaves, and any other debris from around it.
• Remove the blockages from air ducts – When ducts are blocked, it can make your system run less efficiently. It also can reduce your air quality.

Benefits of DIY Maintenance

If there are professionals who can do this routine maintenance, why do it yourself? There are many benefits you might not have thought about.

• Lower costs – Can you do it safely? You’ll save money on a service call by doing it yourself.
•  Keeping the system running well – The three things mentioned above help your system run efficiently and help it last longer.
• It’s convenient – When you take care of simple tasks yourself, you don’t have to wait for the technician to show up. It’s done immediately when you want.

 When to Call the Pros

Although there are things that can be done by homeowners, there are times when a professional should be called for commercial HVAC repair.

Complex Repairs and Services

Photo by José Andrés Pacheco Cortes: https://www.pexels.com/photo/repairman-repairing-a-air-conditioner-5463587/

Here are the more complex repairs to leave to your commercial HVAC provider like Fusion Repair.

• Anything with Electricity  – This type of work is very complicated and intricate. Leave this repair to your professional HVAC technician.
• Refrigerant – This is another thing that you shouldn’t do. When the system is low on refrigerant, call the professionals. It’s very dangerous and may hurt your eyes and skin.
• Repairing/replacing the Compressor – This is a very technical job. If the compressor is improperly handled, you may find that you have high repair bills in the future.  Therefore, you want to leave this to the professionals.
• Anything to do with Gas – Due to the danger of fire and explosions, anything to do with gas repairs is not a DIY job.

Signs You Need Professional Help

Sometimes, you need commercial HVAC servicing, but you may not know it. Below are some signs that it’s time to call in a commercial HVAC repair company.

• Weird Noises – If weird noises are coming from your system, such as banging, squealing, and rattling, it’s time to call the professionals to diagnose the problem.
• Uneven Temperatures – If there are rooms that are colder/warmer than the others, it could be a problem with airflow. Your system also might be failing.
• Higher Energy Bills – If your utility bills are suddenly spiking and you haven’t changed your use, your system might be working less efficiently.
• Frequent Cycling – If your system is always turning off and on, you could have a thermostat problem. Your system could also be the wrong size or you might have a malfunctioning component.
• Weak Airflow – This could be due to a variety of reasons, from a dirty air filter, problems with your blower motor, or a blockage in the system.
• Unpleasant Odors – Musty or foul odors coming from your system might mean a burned-out component, debris in your ductwork, or mold growth.

The Risks of DIY vs. The Benefits of Hiring a Professional

Risks of DIY

• You can make costly mistakes due to inexperience
• You may make decisions that risk your safety
• You don’t have the right parts or tools
• You may make a wrong diagnosis
• You aren’t covered by insurance if something happens.

In conclusion

With an HVAC system, there are things you can tackle on your own, but there are others that a professional should fix. We’re always glad to get questions and comments, so leave your thoughts below.