Are you thinking of saving money by repairing your heating, ventilation and air conditioner (HVAC) system on your on? Before you go down that road, you need to take a moment and understand the dangers you may face or create. Here are three reasons DIY HVAC repair isn't advisable:

It Contains Dangerous Chemicals

A typical HVAC contains a refrigerant (Freon) whose main function is to transfer heat from one part of the system to another. The common refrigerants are carbon compounds, such as chlorofluorocarbons and hydrofluorocarbons. Breathing in these chemicals can cause respiratory problems or even, in extreme cases, death. You don't have to breathe it in, however, to experience its dangerous effects; exposure to the skin can cause serious burns.

If you don't know how an HVAC operates or the kind of damage you are dealing with, you may be exposed to the chemicals during an attempt at DIY repair. For example, a lawnmower can damage the outside unit of your HVAC system and cause Freon to leak. Attempting to fix such damage without being aware of its dangers can expose you to the refrigerant.

It Runs On High Voltage Electricity

HVAC systems, especially central air conditioners, run on high voltage electricity. In fact, most residential homes don't have provisions for the kind of electricity that central air conditioners require, which is why the relevant electrical lines must be added by an electrician before installing a central air conditioner. The voltage used by HVACs, therefore, is enough to give you a critical or even fatal shock. As a DIY technician, you can't be sure that you won't make a mistake that will lead to an electrical shock during the repair.

You Can Make Things Worse

Lastly, you can't rule out the possibility that your attempt at DIY repairs will cause further damage to your HVAC. The system may look tough running all year round, but it does have some delicate parts that are susceptible to damage. For example, the condenser or compressor coils, which help to pass heat to and from the refrigerant, are delicate and can easily get damaged due to poor handling.

It's clear that HVAC repair shouldn't be handled by anybody who doesn't have the right tools and expertise. Don't forget that most manufacturers may also void your warranty if you mess up and damage your HVAC unit. Therefore, unless you are sure of your skills, let professional technicians handle all your HVAC-related issues. For more information, contact a business such as Scott's Heating & Air Conditioning Services.