Air Conditioning Maintenance Checklist: DIY vs Professional Service

In today’s world, where DIY solutions are easily accessible online, it’s often tempting to take matters into your own hands when it comes to air conditioning and heating repair. But while performing maintenance on your own might seem like an easy way to save money, it can lead to serious problems and additional costs if not done correctly. 

Let us guide you through the pros and cons of DIY vs. professional HVAC maintenance, and why investing in professional services is often the wisest choice.

What You Can Do Yourself

Believe it or not, there are some aspects of air conditioning maintenance that you can handle yourself. These tasks generally involve:

• Changing the filters: Regularly replacing or cleaning the filters can improve the efficiency of your AC unit.
• Removing debris around the unit: Keeping the area around your HVAC system clear ensures that airflow isn’t obstructed.
• Monitoring your thermostat: Regularly checking your thermostat ensures that it’s working properly and helps maintain a comfortable temperature.

These tasks are relatively simple and can be performed by most homeowners. However, when it comes to more complex air conditioning and heating repairs, a professional touch is needed.

What You Need a Professional For

Certain maintenance and repair tasks require specialized knowledge and equipment that only professionals have. When it comes to HVAC maintenance, you should call a professional to:

Clean The Coils

A professional HVAC technician will clean AC coils using specialized tools and cleaning solutions designed for this purpose. They will first shut off the power to the unit, then access the coils, often located within the evaporator and condenser. 

Using coil cleaning brushes, sprayers, and commercial cleaning agents that are safe for the coil material, your technician will remove dirt, grime, and buildup, then rinse the coils with water if necessary. This process not only ensures proper cleaning but also avoids any potential damage to the coils that might occur with improper handling.

Check The Airflow 

Proper airflow is crucial for maintaining the desired temperature and ensuring your system’s longevity. Your local HVAC technician will check the airflow of your AC unit by using specialized tools like anemometers to measure the air velocity and volume at various points in the system. They will also inspect the ductwork, filters, and fans for any obstructions or issues that might restrict airflow. 

By analyzing these measurements and observations, they can ensure that the air is flowing correctly throughout the system, making necessary adjustments or recommendations to optimize performance and efficiency.

Inspect Electrical Controls

A professional will inspect the electrical controls of AC units by first turning off the power for safety. They will then use specialized tools such as multimeters to test electrical components like relays, capacitors, and wiring. 

By carefully examining connections, assessing wear and tear, and verifying the proper functioning of electrical components, they can ensure the entire system is operating safely and efficiently, and make any necessary repairs or replacements to prevent future problems.

Common DIY Mistakes

While some DIY enthusiasts may feel competent to tackle HVAC maintenance tasks, the risk of mistakes is high. Hiring a professional helps protect you from common DIY mistakes such as:

• Fire hazards: Incorrect handling of electrical components can lead to fire.
• Electrocution hazards: Without proper training and tools, tinkering with electrical parts can be dangerous.
• Inefficient operation: Mistakes in maintenance can lead to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan for your AC unit.

Hire a Professional Nashville HVAC Company

While there are some maintenance tasks that you can perform yourself, the complexities of air conditioning and heating repair often necessitate professional expertise. Investing in professional HVAC maintenance not only ensures the efficiency and longevity of your system but also safeguards you from potential hazards.

C&M Heating and Cooling offers a wide range of professional HVAC services in Nashville. With experienced technicians, we guarantee top-notch service tailored to your needs. Don’t gamble with DIY solutions; trust the experts and ensure your comfort and safety. Contact us today and take the first step towards worry-free HVAC maintenance!