Though 87 percent of American households have air conditioning, central air conditioning systems are the most common due to their simplicity and accessibility. If you want to turn a switch for whole-house cooling, you might wonder if it’s possible to do it yourself. And the answer is yes, you most certainly will.
The Benefits of Installing Your Own Air Conditioning System
- Developing a New Ability – There’s a lot to be said about picking up a new skill and the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a DIY project. You can stand back and admire the job you did yourself after painting a room or laying new flooring, and you may get the same feeling after installing your air conditioner.
- Lower Cost on the initial investment – Although HVAC companies receive a contractor rate for air conditioners, especially from manufacturers with whom they have a special relationship, labor costs remain. Purchasing a device from a home improvement store would almost certainly save you money.
- Consumer Choice – While most HVAC firms would suggest a particular brand or model of air conditioner, homeowners who source and install their own units have complete control over the operation. If you like a brand but your local HVAC store doesn’t carry it, you can do it yourself and still get the product you want.
The Drawbacks on Installing Your Own Air Conditioning System
- Length of the Job – When you’re working on a project by yourself, it can take a lot longer than if you assigned the information to an experienced team. Installing a new AC unit on your own, particularly if you’re not familiar with HVAC work, could take much longer than hiring a contractor and a team to do it. Furthermore, since you will not be paid for your time, your time commitment will end up costing more than if you hired someone to do it for you.
- Certification Requirements – If you’re concerned with replacing an old air conditioner or installing a new one that needs refrigerant, you’ll need a special certification to do so. You can obtain an EPA certification by studying for and taking an exam, as well as paying a fee. You’ll need the same certification card to buy more refrigerants for a new device that’s been charged incorrectly.
- Manual Labor – Most do-it-yourself projects are exhausting, but HVAC can be especially difficult. Working with ductwork, carrying heavy equipment, and ensuring wiring are done safely and correctly is time-consuming, particularly if you’re not used to it.
- Long-term expenses – If you install your new AC unit yourself, you risk voiding the warranty because most require them to be installed by licensed technicians. Furthermore, unless you have extensive knowledge of fitting the existing ductwork to your new unit and ensuring it is properly sealed, you will be losing energy, resulting in a significant increase in your energy bills.
Do You Need an HVAC Installer You Can Trust?
Superior Mechanical Services, Inc. began in 1948 as a family-owned business with a vision to provide value-minded service with a down-to-earth approach to customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. As the premier Commercial and Residential HVAC Service provider for Livermore, Dublin, and Pleasanton, Superior Mechanical can do it all, from heating and air conditioning services to boiler services, to plumbing services. Our technicians are certified professionals who will ensure every part of your project is done right using a careful checklist to guide and test each step. At the end of your appointment, we’ll show you how to get the most out of your new system and give you tips on maintenance so it lasts for years to come. Contact us today for amazing service tomorrow!
