Can I Install My Own Furnace?
Some people absolutely love working on their homes. No matter what it is — whether it's making a minor repair or renovating an entire bathroom — certain people look for opportunities to flex their DIY muscles and learn new skills, while hopefully saving money in the process.
While there are some tasks that can be left to the homeowner, installing your own furnace is something that you should absolutely leave to a professional. The risks are enormous, not only to your house, but also to your health, and can have ramifications months or even years down the road. If you're considering doing your own heating installation, below are a few reasons why you should think again.
It's Dangerous
Central air furnaces are usually installed in the attic, which means you'll have to lug a gigantic unit up the stairs and set it properly so that it's level. Even if you accomplish that, you'll have to snake the ductwork through your home, climbing over sheetrock and beams to make sure it's laid properly. Assuming that both of those happen safely, you'll need to hook it up to its energy source (which is illegal if you use gas) and make sure it fires up. The slightest miscalculation during the heating installation process can be dangerous for your home, causing a possible electrical fire or gas leak. If for no other reason on this list, you should contact an HVAC company to schedule a heating installation service for safety alone.
It's Expensive
As mentioned above, many people assume that doing their own repairs and installations around the house will save them money, when in fact, it's often the exact opposite. Buying the tools and resources necessary to complete this job requires a significant investment. Most HVAC companies purchase the unit straight from a dealer at a discount, whereas you'll have to purchase those at market rates. Once you've paid for those, you'll then have to take time away from work and family while you prepare and then complete the heating installation, which can be expensive. You'll also have to prepare for any kind of repairs that happen as a result of a faulty DIY job, which may not occur for several months while the system is working to set in.
It's Inefficient
Today's heating systems are so energy-efficient that they allow the homeowner to save extraordinary amounts of money without requiring much maintenance. They're so dialed in that the slightest error during the heating installation process can cause that energy efficiency to drop substantially, costing you money without even realizing it. If you want the job done right, you should contact an HVAC company that does these types of jobs regularly in order to make the most of your unit.
For more information about heating installation, contact a local HVAC technician.