Mistakes during AC installation can be costly. Some errors take time to notice, and the noticing may happen when it’s too late. If that’s not convincing enough that you shouldn’t do a DIY AC installation, then what will? In other words, you should opt for professional AC installation.
Before opting for DIY AC installation, you must consider everything what could go wrong. Start by calling a technician to ask questions about common mistakes and see if DIY is a good idea. A DIY installation could help you save money, but there are reasons to avoid it. Your air conditioning system plays a vital role in your home’s comfort. Any problem with its installation could compromise the system’s efficiency, reducing your comfort.
Here are the some of the possible pitfalls during installation:
Possible Failure to Recognize EPA Guidelines
Before installation, ensure you understand where the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) stands. The agency has rules and regulations on handling air conditioning installations. It’s a necessary step to ensure you learn how to handle refrigerant.
There are tests you have to take to earn certification from the agency. In that regard, local authorities might require you to acquire a permit to install an air conditioner. Both of these are time-consuming processes.
Presents a Safety Issue
A lot of work goes into an AC installation. Some of the equipment to be used is heavy. Operating some of the kits takes skill which you might lack. An AC unit is quite heavy and installing it, especially at a high height, presents the risk of severe life-altering injuries.
The fact that it is an electrical appliance also presents a safety issue for you and the people around you. Unskilled installation could cause ignition, with the product being toxic fumes. Having an assistant during the installation might serve you best.
You Might Lack the Proper Tools
Technicians know the tools required in the installation process. It’s tricky to find wholesalers and retailers selling the necessary tools for their job, but experts know where to find them. The installation process might find you unprepared and without the recommended tools.
In that case, the most common solution for the inexperienced is to improvise and use. Unfortunately, improvising might lead to you damaging the unit design installation or installing it incorrectly. Therefore, you will spend more money on repairs and replacement than you would have paid a professional.
Could Void the Warranty
A warranty protects both you and the manufacturer. Some manufacturers require that an licensed technician does the installation work for a warranty to stand.
Failing to honor the requirements renders the warranty null and void. The reasoning is that an expert is less likely to damage the AC during installation, so there won’t be any claims. On the other hand, an amateur installation invalidates any claims on the warranty, which means you have to pay for repair or replacement out of your pockets.
Possible Damage to Air Conditioner
An AC installation process is delicate. It risks damaging specific components in the AC, especially if the installation is on a DIY basis. You might miss the damage and only come to realize it when it’s too late and you need the AC to work. Often you can fix AC damages through simple repairs while you have to replace entire units at other times.
Costly Repairs and Replacements
One of the reasons you might think of taking up DIY installation is that you could save some money. That plan could work if you have previous experience with it. A DIY risk is you are spending money on repairs and replacements after you damage the unit during installation.
As an amateur, you might need more critical components for the installation. Getting such pieces ends up costing you more than it would have for a technician. Usually, technicians know where to get parts and equipment at a discount, ensuring you can afford their services. So why not take advantage of that? Hire an expert and save money.
Wrong AC Unit and Thermostat Placement
Thermostat placement plays a significant role in the efficiency of your AC unit. You have to find a strategic position for it away from extreme heat or cold for the air conditioner to perform like it’s supposed to.
It involves placing it away from sunlight and windows and doors where the draft may trigger the sensors, resulting in temperature inaccuracies. Usually, hallways and corridors are the best places for a thermostat. In the same way, AC placements determine its energy efficiency.
Prior to installtion, you first have to look for a shaded away from direct exposure to the sun and from trees or hedges to ensure that the unit will work smoothly .
Incorrect Inspection
Inspection is an essential part of AC installation. A technician has hands-on knowledge about installing an AC and how to inspect the installation afterward. However, in a DIY installation, there is the likelihood of missing out on essential inspection points. One of those points is checking whether the unit is the correct size.
Do you know where to check for sizing and the test you can perform to tell if the unit you just installed is the right size for your space? It would be best if you also learned about ductwork insulation. Ensure you check the calibration and placement of the air conditioning components that require assembling. DIY could work if you can do these things.
Endnote
A lot of consideration goes into AC installation because several things could go wrong during the process. Therefore, consider the above points and decide if DIY is worth the risk. If you choose to do a DIY installation, ensure you get a trained technician to supervise your work. If you’re not confident, consider hiring an expert to help you with installation.
