HVAC systems with forced air furnaces are complicated, with an intricate and interconnected set of electrical and gas components that can be a little fragile. Understandably, many people don't want to perform any DIY maintenance on the HVAC system, especially the furnace. On the other hand, many people will find online video tutorials and try to maintain their furnace on their own. This can be a good idea but can also prove to be very ill-advised if you don't really know what you're doing. If your HVAC system does need some maintenance, there are a few things you should consider before starting any project.
Be Wary of Online Video Tutorials
First of all, be wary of following online tutorials, even if they have videos. These can be difficult to follow, and you don't even know if the person making the video is a licensed contractor. Also, you have to keep in mind that not all HVAC systems are the same. An HVAC system in any given building will have a different setup, even if the same appliances are used. When it comes to cleaning the inside of your furnace, follow an online tutorial if it is made by the manufacturer and for the exact make and model of your furnace. Even different models made by the same brand will have different cleaning requirements. So, you don't want to risk working on your furnace unless you know you have instructions that pair with your very make and model.
Can You Do the Work?
Even if you do find good instructions, you need to be realistic about your own abilities. If you don't have any sort of HVAC knowledge and you are uncomfortable working with tools, especially around gas and electricity, you should not take it on yourself.
Ultimately, most professional HVAC maintenance is quite affordable, and furnace cleaning is one of the simplest DIY jobs. Obviously, some furnaces are easier to work on than others, but others are more complicated so they should only be serviced by a licensed HVAC contractor. You just have to use your best judgment and make sure you don't get yourself into a project that you won't be able to finish yourself. If it is going to take you four hours to clean your furnace when it would only take a pro one hour, you should save your time and hire a company in your area like Moore Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.
Share22 January 2019
While sitting in my living room on a hot summer day, I could feel the heat coming through the ceiling out of my attic and making the house warm up more than it should. I crawled up into the attic one evening to find out that the roof vents weren't working any longer because they were clogged with all sorts of debris. Did you know that when this happens, your home's temperature can rise to very uncomfortable levels? Did you know that your home could actually be damaged if the attic isn't well vented? This blog will show you all about attic ventilation.