6 Common HVAC Repair Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

common HVAC repair mistakes

In 2021, the U.S. HVAC industry had a market value of $16.54 billion. Why is it so big? Because people need heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

However, HVAC systems require maintenance and repairs.

Unfortunately, many homeowners make common HVAC repair mistakes. The downside is that making these mistakes leads to problems and higher costs.

So it would help if you aimed to avoid them. Here are six common ones to avoid.

1. Using the Wrong Filters

Every furnace has a filter, which cleans the air entering the system. Some systems have reusable ones, which you don’t have to replace. However, others have disposable ones which require replacement.

Using the wrong filter size prevents it from cleaning the air. You can avoid this by looking at your furnace filter to see its size. Then, purchase the same size.

You can also ask an HVAC company if you need help deciding what size to use.

2. Ignoring Signs of Problems

What do you do when you notice a problem with your furnace? Addressing the problem, even if it seems minor, is the best option. However, ignoring the problems will only make them worse.

For example, you should address the system issues if you hear strange sounds from the device. You should also address the problems if your system runs too much or if it short cycles.

3. Failing to Get Tune-Ups

Routine maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent HVAC problems. HVAC tune-ups are one form of maintenance.

A tune-up includes cleaning the system and addressing any potential problems. Getting a tune-up in the spring helps you prepare for the summer. On the flip side, getting one in the fall helps you prepare for the winter.

Tune-ups detect problems. Once found, you can fix the issues before they affect your system’s performance.

4. Fixing the Problems Yourself

Do you ever worry about HVAC repair costs? Many homeowners want to spend less money on repairs. So they handle the repairs themselves.

DIY HVAC repairs are only a wise idea if you’re an HVAC technician. Doing the repairs yourself might result in fixing them improperly. You might use the wrong parts or fail to fix the actual problem.

As a result, hire a reputable company. These companies avoid common installation mistakes and repair issues.

5. Procrastinating With Repairs

You might notice a problem with your indoor or outdoor HVAC unit but put it off for a while. You might assume it’s not a big deal, or it will fix itself.

Unfortunately, procrastinating won’t fix the problems. Instead, they might get worse. Thus, addressing the problems quickly is vital.

6. Not Changing the Filters

Finally, part of regular HVAC maintenance is changing the furnace filters. As mentioned, you must use the proper sizes. But you must also change them regularly.

Change them monthly or quarterly, depending on your needs, to avoid problems.

Avoid These Common HVAC Repair Mistakes

Learning the common HVAC repair mistakes is the first step in proper maintenance. Avoiding them is the next step. You can learn more by hiring an HVAC company for maintenance and repairs.