Can You Buy HVAC Equipment Without a License?
It's empowering being able to build or fix things yourself. With so many YouTube videos and DIY websites, you might think you can get parts for your HVAC unit. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) created regulations in 2010 where you cannot buy HVAC parts and equipment, like refrigerants, yourself unless you are a licensed technician. Read on to learn more.
Refrigerant Purchasing Requirements
Refrigerant keeps cool air running through your air conditioner, which is strictly regulated. Most air conditioners have HCFC and CFC, which are toxic to the ozone layer and illegal to release into the air. Companies sell refrigerants in cylinders and drums. Homeowners can't transport these containers easily. Releasing these chemicals into the air or transporting them without a universal refrigerant license will net you huge fines.
Specialized HVAC Equipment
You have to know what you're doing when working on an HVAC unit. There are many specialized tools you'll need to work on an HVAC. The tools and equipment you'll need to fix your HVAC system will cost you thousands of dollars. After all this money, you'll only need these tools a few times. Between regulations, safety issues, and money, it's best to leave this project to a licensed HVAC professional.
HVAC Warranty
Other than regulations and safety concerns, you'll want your system under warranty as long as possible. If you don't go with an HVAC professional and perform DIY work on your HVAC, you'll void your warranty. You will have to hire licensed professionals and keep records of what happens to your HVAC to keep it under an extended warranty.
Safety Concerns
You shouldn't open up an HVAC system when you're not a trained professional. HVAC systems usually have an electrical current that's separate from the rest of your house. There are many moving parts in an HVAC unit and charged capacitors that keep everything working. Most HVAC units are in the attic, and many only have flooring in a small area.
DIY projects are an excellent way to learn new things and build stuff with your own hands. However, when it comes down to purchasing HVAC parts, please leave them to a licensed HVAC technician for repairs. Contact us at Master Mechanical to schedule an appointment with our HVAC technicians today.
