Common HVAC Mistakes You Should Avoid
Many homeowners are tempted by the prospect of completing their HVAC installation and repair themselves. If you have some basic DIY skills, you may think that you can save some money, but there are some common mistakes that can end up becoming a very costly fix. So, if you are tempted to try your hand at DIY, here are just a few of the common HVAC mistakes you should avoid.
Buying an Overly Large Unit:
In many cases, bigger is better, but when it comes to HVAC, this is certainly not a good idea. Of all the HVAC mistakes, this is one of the most common and the most costly. Buying a larger unit, will not only cost you more initially, but it will waste a great deal of energy, costing you far more in the long term.
Installing HVAC DIY:
Even if you have significant DIY skills, installing HVAC may still be a step too far. The installation of heating or cooling equipment involves more than just plugging in a unit, as it will need to be calibrated properly to ensure correct and efficient operation. For this reason, it is a good idea to rely on the expertise and experience of a professional specialist.
Look For Bargain Basement Repairs:
While shopping around for a good price is a sensible practice, it is important that you don’t take your bargain hunting too far. When you are in need of HVAC repairs, it is far better to choose a company you can trust, rather than focusing on saving a few dollars. Remember that if you cut corners with a cheap company, you are likely to find that the job won’t be done right first time, which means you will need to call in another technician.
Avoiding Professional Maintenance:
When you are trying to keep your household costs as low as possible, it can be tempting to neglect the maintenance schedule for your HVAC system. Unfortunately, this can be a costly mistake. Regular, professional maintenance can actually save you money in the long term, as it ensures that your system is operating correctly, at peak efficiency. Additionally, a regular maintenance schedule can prolong the lifespan of your equipment and minimize the risk of a breakdown.
Choosing Repair Over Replacement:
No one likes the prospect of needing to upgrade their HVAC equipment. Therefore, it can be tempting to keep having repairs conducted, even when the technician recommends a replacement. It may seem more cost effective to pay for smaller repair bills, but when you add up the cost of these repairs, you will see that it is usually more economically to replace the system. Additionally, an aging, worn out system is likely to be inefficient, so you will be paying more in your energy bills. This means that a replacement actually represents cost savings in the long term.
Not Having Ducts Professionally Sealed:
Leaking ducts are one of the leading causes of wasted energy. Some homeowners are tempted to just use a little tape to correct a leaking duct, but this is often not enough. A professional specialist will ensure that your ducts are properly sealed to maintain good indoor air quality and improve your energy efficiency.