Many of us like to think we are quite the handyman or handywoman around the house. We feel equally comfortable with a saw, hammer or screwdriver in our hand as we do a knife and fork. Much of our skillset comes from experience, or from having been shown what to do by our father or a friend. The problem is, when it comes to carrying out repairs to HVAC units, that specific experience is lacking, the knowledge is a bit thin on the ground, and it is more often than not a case of “Well, how complicated can it be?”

The idea behind DIY is, more often than not, to save money rather than calling out a tradesperson to do the work for us. There is also that element of wanting to show that when it comes to looking after home and family, you are at the top of your game. It’s a pride thing. However, there are two relevant expressions here. “Pride comes before a fall” and “A little knowledge in the wrong hands is a dangerous thing”.

With today’s HVAC units, everything looks neat, tidy and relatively uncomplicated. In reality, HVAC units are no less complicated today than they used to be, the only difference is that modern technology allows for the replacement of cumbersome parts with more compact elements. What remains consistent is that without specific knowledge of what is responsible for what in an HVAC unit, how do you know what to do when a problem needs fixing?

Regrettably, in too many instances, here at A&E Air Conditioning and Heating we get called out to make good repairs to repairs, as well as make good the original repair. In more than a few instances, we have been faced with having to break the news that unfortunately, what was originally a small problem has now resulted in the whole HVAC unit needing replacing.

To succeed with DIY HVAC repairs, you need to know how to precisely diagnose problems, know how to handle refrigerant, you need to own the right equipment, and beyond that, be content in the knowledge that as soon as you carry out any work on your HVAC unit, you are likely to be voiding the manufacturer’s warranty. That last point should have you reaching for the phone and calling us here at A&E Air Conditioning and Heating when your HVAC unit develops a problem!