DIY vs. Leaving It to the Experts: When to call in the pros?

As a homeowner, it’s inevitable that you’ll encounter issues with your home's heating and cooling, and plumbing systems at some point. Whether it’s a leaky pipe, a faulty part in your A/C unit, or a malfunctioning water heater, the question often arises: should you tackle the repair yourself or call in the experts?

Below, we’ll explore some scenarios where you might find yourself asking this very question.

A/C Repairs

DIY: If your A/C unit isn’t cooling correctly, it’s tempting to troubleshoot the problem yourself. Some quick tricks you could do are replacing a dirty air filter, cleaning around the outdoor unit by removing debris or objects limiting the airflow, and checking your thermostat settings. These straightforward actions can help improve your unit's performance without calling in the experts.

Call the Experts: If your A/C is making strange noises, leaking refrigerant, or won’t turn on, it’s best to call a licensed HVAC tech to run diagnostics on your unit and perform the proper diagnostic tests to fix it. Attempting to repair refrigerant leaks, electrical issues, or compressor problems can be dangerous and might void your warranty if done incorrectly.

Furnace Repairs

DIY: A few simple tasks that you can do at home would be changing your furnace filter, inspecting your thermostat, or ensuring that the pilot light is on. These tasks can help your furnaceb run more smoothly and are usually within the scope of a handy homeowner.

Call the Experts: If your furnace produces uneven heating or strange smells, or you notice a sudden spike in your energy bill, it’s best to call a professional. Issues like a cracked heat exchanger, malfunctioning gas valve, or ignition problems require the expertise of a certified technician. Not only can these problems be complex, but they also pose serious safety risks like carbon monoxide leaks.

Plumbing Repairs

DIY: A leaky faucet, clogged drain, or running toilet are common household issues that many homeowners can tackle with a bit of determination. Armed with the right tools and a basic understanding, these DIY projects can often be resolved quickly and efficiently, saving you both time and money. Nevertheless, it's important to approach each task with caution to avoid turning a simple fix into a bigger problem.

Call the Experts: However, when it comes to more severe plumbing issues like a burst pipe, water heater failure, or sump pump malfunction, it’s best to call the professionals. If not handled correctly, these problems can often lead to significant water damage and potential health hazards. A licensed plumber has the experience to identify the root cause and implement an efficient solution quickly.

While completing DIY projects can bring a sense of satisfaction, it’s important to know your limits and know that trying to fix “something small” could cost you more later on. At Atlas Butler, we understand the importance of your home’s comfort and safety. Our experienced professionals are here to help you with all your heating, cooling and plumbing questions and needs.

Atlas Butler is Here When You Need Us

The next time you're deciding whether to handle it yourself or call in the pros, remember that we're always here for you. We can take care of any HVAC or plumbing project in your home and we’re here 24/7 for any and all heating and cooling emergencies as well as any plumbing emergencies. Call us at 1-800-FURNACE or you can also schedule an appointment online whenever you need us.