Common DIY HVAC Mistakes Homeowners Make

Many homeowners are eager to save money and tackle projects themselves, but it's crucial to understand that HVAC systems are complex and require professional expertise for optimal performance and longevity. In this blog, let’s review some of the most common DIY HVAC mistakes homeowners make and why it's essential to rely on experienced professionals:

• Closing air vents in certain rooms
• Neglecting regular maintenance
• Mishandling refrigerant
• Buying & installing the wrong-sized air filter
• Installing inadequate insulation
• Improper installation of HVAC equipment

With some helpful guidance, you can avoid potentially costly mistakes and keep your HVAC system running smoothly for years to come.

The best way to avoid HVAC problems is by working with a trusted HVAC company. At Red Cap, our technicians come highly-trained and experienced. Whether you need a quick AC repair, maintenance check, or an estimate for a new AC installation, we’re here to provide honest advice and reliable, efficient service. Call (813) 963-3056 (Tampa) or (727) 474-8287 (Pinellas) or click below to schedule online today. We’re proud to have over three thousand 5-star reviews!

One of the most common DIY HVAC mistakes is closing air vents in unused rooms. It's natural to assume that closing the vents redirects airflow to the rooms where you spend most of your time. Unfortunately, that's a myth. Closing the vent in an unused room causes air to back up into your ducts, increasing the pressure level within the ductwork. Over time, the ducts begin leaking, reducing system efficiency.

Even if you keep your vents open, make sure not to block them with large pieces of furniture. To increase efficiency, move couches, tables, desks, chairs, and other items away from the air vents. You may also need to move appliances and other obstructions to ensure that air flows freely.

HVAC systems require regular maintenance to operate efficiently and prevent costly breakdowns. Some homeowners opt to skip or overlook routine maintenance tasks, assuming they can handle it themselves or that it's unnecessary. However, neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced performance, increased energy consumption, and even system failures.

Trained HVAC pros have the knowledge and expertise to perform comprehensive maintenance, including cleaning, lubricating moving parts, checking electrical connections, and identifying potential issues before they escalate. Don't risk compromising your HVAC system's reliability. Contact Red Cap for fast and convenient scheduling. We make it easy to address your heating and AC maintenance needs in a single visit.

Your AC system relies on chemical refrigerant to absorb and release heat. If there’s a refrigerant leak, it may stop blowing cold air, leading to increased humidity, poor cooling, higher utility bills, and a buildup of ice on the evaporator coil. To address this problem, you must fix the leak and charge the refrigerant. Unfortunately, some homeowners attempt to recharge or repair their units without understanding the potential risks involved.

It's best to leave these tasks to an HVAC professional. Mishandling refrigerant isn't a minor mistake, either, as it's both flammable and toxic. It's safe when it's contained within an HVAC system, but there are serious consequences associated with spilling it, inhaling it or ingesting it. At Red Cap Plumbing, Air & Electric, we treat our customers like family. When you schedule an AC maintenance appointment, we'll take every possible precaution when adding refrigerant to your HVAC system.

Air filters prevent dirt and debris from building up inside furnaces and AC units. If you plan to do your own HVAC maintenance, checking the filter and replacing it when necessary are two of the easiest tasks to complete. Unfortunately, one of the most common HVAC system mistakes is buying a filter that doesn't fit.

If the filter isn't the correct size, it won't provide as much protection against dirt, dust, and other particles. As dirt builds up, it may impair the performance of your HVAC system. If you don't replace the ill-fitting filter quickly, your furnace or AC unit may break down, leaving you scrambling to find a replacement.

Adequate insulation prevents warm or cool air from escaping, keeping your home more comfortable in all types of weather. If you don't have enough insulation, your HVAC system must work harder to reach your desired temperature. As a result, a lack of insulation leads to increased energy usage and higher utility bills. It's common for homeowners to skimp on insulation, making their HVAC systems less efficient.

If you don't install your HVAC equipment correctly, you may be plagued by loud noises, high energy costs, duct leaks, and poor air quality. Depending on the extent of the problem, the system may not work at all, leaving you to sweat through one of Tampa's notoriously hot summers without any relief.

HVAC contractors possess the necessary training, certifications, and experience to navigate local building codes and regulations. By entrusting installation to experts, homeowners can avoid costly mistakes, ensure proper functioning of the system, and have peace of mind knowing that their HVAC equipment is in capable hands.

At Red Cap Plumbing, Air & Electric, all of our technicians are knowledgeable and exceptionally well-trained. We also offer an on-time guarantee, making it more convenient than ever to have your HVAC equipment repaired, maintained, or installed correctly. If we don't show up during your appointment window, we'll credit you $100 toward any current or future service with Red Cap.

Call us at (813) 963-3056 (Tampa) or (727) 474-8287 (Pinellas) to enjoy our renowned family treatment. We offer honest prices and emphasize safety on every job.