What to do when your ac fails – DIY  vs Professional Help

When your AC fails and you are in need of AC repair services, you might think you can fix the problem yourself and save some money. The truth is, it isn’t a simple decision. There are multiple factors to consider when choosing the DIY route or turning to the professionals. 

The experts at Airco Service are here to walk you through this decision and provide you with AC maintenance services. We’ll break down all of the considerations when it comes down to choosing to do it yourself or receiving professional help. No matter the path chosen, you’ll know what to do when your AC fails. 

Is DIYing a Good Idea When It Comes to Your Air Conditioner?

When your AC fails, thoughts of choosing the DIY option will probably cross your mind. But is it a good idea? To answer this question, you’ll have to look into these factors: 

Cost

You may think a DIY project will be cheaper, but that isn’t always the case. Going DIY requires the proper tools, supplies, and parts needed to fix the issue– and that all costs money. The combination of these may very well be more than hiring a professional. 

The other thing to consider is risking mistakes. If you end up making a mistake during the repair process, it might require more purchases, cost more money, and create an even bigger problem. 

Parts

As mentioned above, fixing your AC might require new parts. If your system is older, you may have a tougher time finding the correct parts and if you do, they might be fairly expensive. You also don’t want to run the risk of buying the wrong part. The professionals will have better access to the parts required. 

On top of that, you don’t want to regret spending loads of money on parts to the point where the professional option would have been cheaper. 

Experience

Not everyone has the proper experience, knowledge, and resources to properly fix their own AC. And even if you pride yourself on accomplishing DIY projects, AC is a different ballgame. Avoid doing it yourself if you don’t have the required experience, you may be putting yourself in danger. 

Danger  

AC issues might involve dangerous hazards such as refrigerant, gas leaks, and electrical problems just to name a few. Attempting a DIY project runs the risk of putting yourself in serious danger. Don’t run the risk of hurting yourself or others and instead turn to the professionals.  

Quickly Cool Your House If Your AC Breaks

Here are some noteworthy tips to quickly cool your home if your AC breaks: 

• Strategic Use of Fans 

Your AC might break down at the most inconvenient time, like a hot summer day. With the strategic use of different fans throughout your home, temporarily cooling your home is achievable until the issue is resolved. 

• Cool Yourself Down

You can also cool yourself down by placing a wet towel around your neck or wearing damp clothing. 

• Cool the Room with Ice

Another tip would be cooling various rooms with ice. Place a big block of ice on a baking sheet or inside a sizable dish to establish a cooling effect in that given room. This makes the room much more comfortable. 

• Reduce Heat Coming in From Outside

Reduce the heat coming in from the outside by drawing dark curtains over your windows. Trees surrounding your home can also help create areas of shade. 

• Reduce Heat Generated Inside the House 

When your AC breaks, avoid using heat-generating appliances such as the oven, stove, dryer, and dishwasher to name a few. These heat-generating appliances are only going to make your home and its occupants even more uncomfortable. 

Benefits of DIY A/C Service

If you have the experience, knowledge, and resources to fix a broken AC, going DIY is going to be much cheaper. You’ll ditch the flat rates and labor costs. Another benefit would be that a DIY project could save you more time. Yes, you may have to do the work on it yourself, but you don’t have to worry about working with a technician’s schedule and the time needed for service after that. 

However, this only applies to the individuals who have the proper experience to fix AC issues. If you don’t, you might end up wasting large amounts of money and putting yourself in dangerous situations.    

A/C Unit Repairs You Can DIY

Here are some basic AC repairs that you can fix on your own: 

• Cleaning or Replacing the Filter

Cleaning or replacing your air conditioner’s air filter is an easy and necessary task that anyone can do. 

• System Won’t Turn On

In the event that your air conditioning system won’t turn on, simply check the thermostat if it’s at the right temperature. If that isn’t the cause, check the circuit breaker. 

• Minor Leaks

Finding water leaking in or around your AC unit might call for the simple fix of tightening up loose components or connections. 

• Rattling Noises

If you hear rattling noises coming from your outdoor unit, debris surrounding the unit might just need to be cleared. Or, rattling noises can be fixed by tightening the unit’s fan and other connections and components. 

• Dead Thermostat

Has your thermostat stopped working? Check the batteries, it may have just run out of juice. Throw in some new batteries and if that was the issue, the thermostat should have new life. 

Benefits of Hiring a Professional

Hiring a professional for your AC problems comes with several noteworthy benefits. For starters, professionals have access to the proper and latest equipment alongside up-to-date industry techniques and knowledge. Professionals are typically available 24/7 as well to handle AC emergencies. Lastly, the professionals are going to take all of the necessary precautions to keep your family and home safe. 

When to Call an A/C Professional

There are going to be certain instances when it is necessary to call an AC professional. If your home starts to experience any of these symptoms, call an AC professional immediately.  

High Electric Bills

If you start to see a spike in your electric bills, your air conditioning could be the culprit. This commonly happens due to the air conditioning system having to work harder than usual due to many possible reasons. A professional will inspect your air conditioning system to determine the issue and find the right solution. 

Major (Or Hidden) Leaks

If you suspect that your AC unit is experiencing leaks, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. These leaks could contain refrigerant, which is dangerous. Even hidden and small leaks could be the result of a much bigger issue. The professionals will know what to do best. 

Mold Growth

Mold growth in your AC unit is the result of excess moisture. Neglecting mold growth can lead to numerous health concerns, so it’s important to get it professionally removed as soon as you spot it or experience symptoms. 

Foul Smells

If you smell burning coming from your AC, this likely means an electrical issue. If you smell mustiness, that means there’s mold growth. Each of these causes can be dangerous, so it’s best to leave it in the hands of a professional.

Loud/Scary Noises

Loud or scary noises such as screaming, banging, clanging, or buzzing could indicate severe issues with your AC unit. Turn off your AC and get in touch with local professionals. 

DIY vs Professional A/C Repair: Which Is Better?

When you need AC repair, hiring a professional is by far the best route to go. Hiring a professional means you’re getting the best resources, knowledge, and techniques to get your AC back in working condition to deliver the home comfort you deserve. 

Contact Airco Service Today

Don’t risk wasting money and putting yourself and others in danger and contact Airco Service today to fix your home’s AC problems. Airco Service also offers services for heating and generators.