DIY or Call a Pro? What Every Louisiana Homeowner Should Know

Running a household is a full-time job, and as a mom, business owner, and everything-in-between, I totally get wanting to tackle problems yourself.

DIY projects can save you time, money, and sometimes even a little pride.

But when it comes to your HVAC system? Knowing when to DIY and when to call a pro can be the difference between a quick fix — and a very expensive problem.

Here’s a simple guide to help you figure it out:

DIY: What You Can Safely Handle Yourself

1. Changing Air Filters

Changing your air filter is one of the easiest ways to keep your HVAC system running efficiently.

Rule of thumb: change it every 1-3 months (depending on pets, allergies, and how dusty your home gets).

Dirty filters = clogged airflow = overworked system = higher bills.

2. Cleaning Vents and Registers

If you notice dust piling up on your vents, grab a vacuum and clear it out.

Clean vents = better airflow and less strain on your system.

3. Checking Thermostat Settings

Before you panic that your AC isn’t working, double-check your thermostat.

• Is it set to Cool and not just Fan?

• Are the batteries still good?

• Has anyone (ahem kids) changed the temperature settings?

4. Clearing Debris Around the Outdoor Unit

Leaves, dirt, and even tiny sticks can clog your outdoor condenser unit.

A quick 5-minute cleanup can prevent bigger problems later.

Call a Pro: What Needs an Expert’s Touch

1. Refrigerant Leaks

Low refrigerant can cause your AC to blow warm air.

Handling refrigerant isn’t just tricky — it’s also illegal without EPA certification. (And trust me, you don’t want a refrigerant leak inside your home.)

2. Electrical Problems

If your HVAC is tripping breakers, sparking, or making weird clicking sounds, don’t go poking around.

One wrong move can cause permanent damage — or worse, personal injury.

3. Deep Cleaning Inside the Unit

Yes, coils and blower motors get dirty. But opening up the unit and cleaning the delicate parts without the right tools can bend coils, cause leaks, or throw parts out of alignment.

(Translation: a small cleaning job could turn into a full system replacement. Not worth it.)

4. Diagnosing Strange Noises

Banging, squealing, screeching — weird noises usually mean something inside is either loose, broken, or failing fast.

You might be tempted to “tighten a bolt,” but it could be a motor, a belt, or internal components you can’t see.

Signs It’s Time to Pick Up the Phone

If you notice any of these, skip the DIY and call your trusted Southern Chill HVAC team:

• Warm air blowing instead of cool

• Strange smells (especially burning or musty odors)

• Frequent cycling on and off

• Unusual sounds (grinding, banging, rattling)

• Skyrocketing electric bills without explanation

The Bottom Line: Know Your Limits

We’re all about empowering homeowners to take care of their homes.

Simple maintenance? Go for it.

But when it comes to refrigerant, electrical components, or diagnosing major issues?

That’s where the pros (like us!) come in.

DIY when you can. Call a pro when you should.

It’s the best way to save money, keep your family safe, and stay cool (literally).

Need help figuring out if your HVAC issue is a DIY fix or a pro job?

Reach out — we’re always happy to take a look before it turns into a bigger headache later!

Schedule Your HVAC Checkup Today!