Air Conditioning Installation: Reasons It Could Cost You More to DIY

In theory, taking on a project yourself instead of hiring a professional could possibly save you money. It doesn’t always work out that way in the real world. Some tasks prove to be much more complex than they seem and end up requiring more time, money or both when you try to DIY.

Air conditioning installation is one DIY project a lot of people underestimate. Most homeowners assume it's a quick and painless project completed in an hour or two while saving them hundreds of dollars in the process. However, there is a lot you must consider when installing an air conditioner. In some cases, doing it yourself could end up costing you more in the long run than if you had hired a professional in the first place. Here are four reasons why.

1. You Do Something Wrong

There is a lot that can go wrong when installing an air conditioner on your own. Professional installers handle the job and complications that arise during the process with no fuss. Online videos and instruction manuals contain guides on installing the machine, but these aren't enough if you don't have hands-on experience.

If you complete any aspect of the installation process incorrectly, the air conditioner won’t work. In most cases, it will be difficult, if not impossible, for you to troubleshoot the issue. Instead, you’ll need to call out a professional to not only undo your handy work, but install it correctly. In some cases, this is more expensive than hiring a professional installer in the first place.

2. There’s a Leak

Another issue facing those who install an air conditioner without the help of a professional is a leak. This can happen when the unit is not installed properly. The performance and efficiency of the unit are reduced when a leak is present.

A weak air conditioner is the least of your troubles when it comes to a leak. Leaks can end up damaging the air conditioner you invested in if left undetected. And, you will also need to hire an expert to repair the leak, squandering your savings from installing it yourself.

3. It’s in the Wrong Location

Installation professionals know the best location to place an air conditioning unit to ensure efficiency. This is an important factor to save money on electricity during the summertime. Putting your air conditioner in the wrong place can lead to costly utilities bills that add up for years to come, eventually surpassing the cost of hiring a trained installer to take care of the job.

4. Insurance Rates Could Increase

Insurance companies are not keen on insuring homes where a professional hasn’t installed the air conditioner. That’s because there is more of a risk involved for them. They will pass this risk on to you in the form of higher premiums. While you may have saved in the short-term by going the DIY route, this saving disappears once it comes time to pay for home insurance. And, should you choose to install a spilt system air conditioner on your own, most insurers will drop you from your policy.

Hiring a professional installer to put in your new air conditioner isn’t that expensive when you consider the hidden costs of DIY. It is a good idea to get quotes from multiple installers to see how much they charge and if they’re willing to work with you when it comes to pricing and paying.

You could install an air conditioner on your own, but the risks far outweigh the rewards. It’s safer and more cost efficient to hire a professional to complete the job.