It can be awfully tempting to hire an unlicensed professional to perform equipment installations and repairs in your home. Chances are, the price will sound much better than that which was quoted to you by companies that are in the business. But homeowners beware: You’re likely to get what you pay for.
Unlicensed HVAC Installations: What Could Go Wrong?
In a word, plenty. It takes a while to become adept at HVAC work. Most technicians go to school to learn the basics and then work for a couple of years as helpers before they’re turned loose to perform installations, repairs, and maintenance on their own. We continue their training on the job, encourage obtaining additional certifications as they learn about different methods and new equipment.
But let’s say you’re interested in installing a ductless mini split — a type of HVAC equipment that is growing in popularity but that is still not all that common. Maybe your neighbor managed to install one in his house or garage, and he says he thinks he can do one for your house.
There are so many potential pitfalls with this kind of arrangement, we hardly know where to begin. Here are just a few you might encounter:
- Incorrect advice on what size equipment to purchase.
- Shortly after installation, you start noting incorrect charging and/or refrigerant leaks at fittings.
- Incorrect wiring.
- Inadequate maintenance, leading to system inefficiency.
Why Hiring an HVAC Technician Is Better
In most cases, when your friendly neighborhood repair, installation, or maintenance fails, you’re out of luck. Your amateur repair person may just flake out and leave you hanging. You can rage on Facebook or call the Better Business Bureau, but if this individual isn’t in the business, then you probably won’t get much of a remedy.
An HVAC company, on the other hand, should be licensed, bonded, and ensured. Technicians should be certified. The company has a stake in maintaining a good public image, so it should be interested in correcting problems and performing a satisfactory service.
For more on hiring an HVAC technician, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company of Yuma.
