It is a universal truth that you can cut costs by doing things yourself, which is why DIY activities are so popular. There is yet another universal truth, and that is, everything is not a DIY activity. Some things require specialized knowledge. Until you train in them specifically, you can’t learn them overnight. AC installations happen to fall in the specialized knowledge category.
As an HVAC contractor, we have encountered several situations, including the mess created by installing the AC yourself. Therefore, we decided it’s time to let you know why you should not resort to it even if you are money pinched. The urge to save money might be high, but you need to reel it in as it can lead to several situations best avoided.
Warranty Becomes Void
When you purchase a new AC, the contract between you (the buyer) and the manufacturer clearly states that the AC should be professionally installed. If you fail to fulfill this critical demand, the manufacturer will not honor any defect or malfunction in the AC. There is no way you can drag them to the court shouting foul as the fault lay at your end.
A new AC with no warranty is sure to make you feel the pinch sooner than later. We say so because there will be no end to your DIY aspirations, and doing everything correctly even without any proper training is setting too high a standard. Mistakes will happen, and your AC will demand professional repairs. Sadly, when that time arrives, you will have to pay dearly from your pockets.
If you wish to keep the warranty on your AC intact, make sure that only a qualified technician gets to install it. The best is to ask for recommendations and visit the HVAC contractor’s website before engaging their services.
Incorrect Installation Causes Frequent Malfunctions
There are several things that one needs to consider during AC installation. If you are one of those who think it’s about placing an indoor and an outdoor unit, connecting the two, and plugging in the complete set-up to a power source, you are mistaken. The choice of location and how well the unit is installed will be the deciding factor in your indoor comfort and the need for expensive repairs. Some things that could go wrong are:
1. The location of the indoor and outdoor units is not selected wisely.
2. The units are not balanced, or one or both of them sit unevenly on the surface.
3. The thermostat location is chosen without thinking.
4. Ductwork is not checked to gauge its condition.
5. While connecting the indoor and outdoor units, you mix up the connections.
6. The refrigerant line gets damaged due to rough handling.
The whole point of mentioning these mistakes is to make you aware and accept the fact that you should not take anything at face value. Yes, the YouTubers make it look easy, but it really isn’t so.
When you are gripped with the urge to install the AC yourself, remember, even the best contractors don’t allow new technicians to do this job alone. They, too, perform the task under the guidance of a mentor who has several years of experience. Your experience is limited to a few videos.
The Cost Of Correcting Your Mistake Will Be High
As mentioned earlier, your self AC installation attempt will cease the manufacturer’s warranty on the AC. If you have purchased a repair and maintenance plan from an HVAC contractor, that too will come into jeopardy. Both these agreements are based on the foundation that only a trained and qualified technician will ever work on the AC. Therefore, you will have to bear the complete expense for rectifying any mistakes that lead to repairs.
The other issue with mistakes is that unknowingly you can cause massive damage to the cooling system. If that happens, the cost of correcting the folly will be exorbitant.
AC Installation Is A Dangerous Activity
Finally, we come to the most critical aspect of all AC installations. It is a dangerous job. Firstly, the unit is very heavy, and you can hurt yourself easily. Secondly, you are working with electrical connections where any carelessness can be fatal. Not only is your good health at risk, but also the well-being of your property.
AC installation needs to be done in a specific order, and that too with full precautions. Since your knowledge in that capacity is limited to what the YouTube video mentioned, it is best to avoid performing such hazardous jobs yourself.
But The HVAC Contractor Is Charging Too High A Price For AC Installation
If that’s what you think, you are grossly mistaken. The prices are as per the standard set by the industry. It still varies from household to household depending on the type of unit to be installed, the time it will take, complexity in completing the job, etc. Do keep in mind, the technician makes the job look easy, not because it is simple. Instead, they have done it so many times that they have become fast and efficient in completing it.
The Crux
As an HVAC contractor and your well-wisher, we advise everyone never to attempt AC installation by themselves. Financial repercussions aside, doing so will put you and your property at risk. Whether your DIY decision pays off or not, only time will tell. Ultimately, you have more to lose and little to gain by going against popular opinion.
Aztil Air Conditioning in West Palm Beach, Florida, can help you install your new AC or replace the old one. We are a premier HVAC contractor proudly serving South Florida since 1981. Our repertoire of HVAC services includes installations, repairs, and maintenance of commercial and residential HVAC systems. We also extend air duct cleaning services and provide indoor air quality solutions for a more refined indoor experience. Since our offices are open 24/7 to cater to all HVAC emergencies, you can contact us anytime. To book an appointment, call us at +1-888-729-8452.
