Can I Install HVAC Myself or Do I Really Need to Hire a Heating and Cooling Professional? 

We Promise We Won’t Tell Anybody You Brought In the Experts…

When it comes to installing HVAC in your home, homeowners are  faced with a serious decision: should you go DIY or hire a professional? The answer to your question may have  a significant impact on your home’s future comfort, energy efficiency, and even safety. Let’s weigh some of the pros and cons of both choices, below.

DIY HVAC Installation

For many homeowners, the DIY route is tempting because of the seeming cost savings. On the surface, handling your own HVAC installation might look like a way to save on labor costs. But let’s take a look at the complexities and risks involved.

Pros:

Savings: Doing it yourself reduces your initial cost of replacement

Control: You can work at your own pace.

Cons:

Skill: Installing one of today’s complicated HVAC systems requires a range of expertise, including electrical and plumbing knowledge, as well as a serious understanding of all airflow dynamics. That’s above and beyond the issues involved in sizing your HVAC system correctly to your home’s specs.

Time Needed: A DIY installation can take much longer than hiring a professional, especially if you encounter unexpected challenges along the way.

Hassle Potential: We see this all the time. Installation errors, whether it be an incorrectly assembled part or a system that is the wrong size for your home will lead not only to inefficient operation, but also to higher energy bills, safety hazards and greater wear and tear on your equipment. So many homeowners we know thought they were saving money by installing things themselves, when really it meant having to buy a brand new system twice in 5 years.

Warranty Problems: Most HVAC manufacturers require professional installation for the warranty to remain valid. A DIY installation in most cases will nullify your equipment’s warranty.

Professional HVAC Installation

Hiring a licensed HVAC contractor means that your equipment will be installed according to manufacturer specifications and local building codes. And the great news? You’ll save big over the long term with a system that works and is perfect for the size of your home.

Pros:

Expertise: HVAC professionals are trained and experienced in system installation, troubleshooting, and more. Product offerings and specs change often. Hiring someone who knows what they’re doing means the equipment will be installed correctly the first time.

Time: Professional HVAC installers can often complete the job in a day or two, minimizing the time your home goes without heating or cooling. You’ll also get peace of mind knowing nothing is being damaged or installed incorrectly.

Warranty Protection: A licensed HVAC contractor doing the work will protect your equipment’s warranty, saving you from expensive repairs later.

Safety and Compliance: Air-Tro technicians know how to handle electrical systems, refrigerants, and ventilation procedures in compliance with local codes and safety standards. They’re also licensed, bonded and insured.

Cons:

Cost: The upfront expense of hiring a professional is more than what it would cost doing it yourself, but you’ll also avoid an emergency room visit as a result of the compressor breaking your handyman’s foot, or having to pay 25% more  in energy bills every month from poorly installed equipment being installed in your home

Less Control: You’ll need to rely on the HVAC contractor to make decisions about the installation process. Read the testimonials from happy Air-Tro customers, and check out our multiple Reader’s Choice awards from clients just like you. Choose Serenity Now!

If you have direct and recent HVAC experience, as well as the tools, and a high comfort level for possible electrocution or other catastrophe, then sure, a DIY installation might be a viable option for you. However, for most homeowners, hiring a professional offers the kind of safety, peace of mind and long-term cost savings our customers have come to count on. Get indoor comfort and sensible expertise with Air-Tro. We’ve been keeping California comfortable since 1969.

Did you know Air-Tro won the this year’s Readers Choice Award for San Gabriel Valley’s favorite heating and cooling company? Thanks, everybody! Call us at (626)357-3535 for all your HVAC needs.