Between Washington’s long rainy winters and summers that keep getting hotter, your HVAC is working almost all year to keep your family comfortable. But many homeowners make costly HVAC repair mistakes, from skipped tune-ups to risky DIY fixes, that lead to bigger problems and higher bills.
Luckily, with a little knowledge, you can avoid the most common pitfalls, protect your investment, and keep your heating and cooling system running smoothly for years to come. Read on to learn the top HVAC repair mistakes homeowners make, and what you should do instead.
HVAC Repair Mistake 1: Not Replacing Your Air Filters
This is the biggest mistake homeowners make: dirty air filters are one of the most common causes of HVAC repair calls. When filters clog with dust and debris, your system has to work harder to push air through, which puts extra strain on your HVAC system. This leads to higher energy bills and more frequent breakdowns. But changing your air filters is an easy task that takes very little time.
What to do instead:
Check your filter every month. Replace it at least every 90 days, or more often if you have pets, allergies or during the hot and cold months when your system works harder. During wildfires, you should change your HVAC filter much more frequently. Aim for every 2 to 4 weeks, especially if the smoke is heavy in your area. This small step improves indoor air quality, keeps your system running smoothly and has the biggest impact on avoiding costly HVAC repairs.
HVAC Repair Mistake 2: Closing Your Vents
Some homeowners close vents in unused rooms, thinking it will save energy. In reality, Southern Living explains that this creates uneven pressure in your ductwork and forces your system to work harder. Over time, that extra strain can cause leaks, frozen coils or compressor failure. These all turn into costly HVAC repairs.
What to do instead:
Keep vents open to maintain balanced airflow. If you want better or more efficient temperature control, consider upgrading to a zoning system. This contains dampers and multiple thermostats which can eliminate hot and cold spots without adding extra wear on your system.
HVAC Repair Mistake 3: Skipping Regular Maintenance
Another big mistake homeowners make is waiting until there’s a problem to think about their HVAC system. Just like your vehicle, your heating and cooling system needs regular checkups to stay reliable. The U.S. Department of Energy states that regular maintenance can improve your unit’s efficiency and extend its lifespan.
Without maintenance, dirt and condensate build up, parts wear out faster and your system stops working as well as it should. This not only increases your energy bills but also leads to costly yet preventable breakdowns that can leave your family stranded when you need your HVAC the most.
What to do instead: Schedule annual tune-ups with a licensed technician. Preventive maintenance helps identify small issues before they turn into costly HVAC repairs.
Tip: Schedule your maintenance in spring or fall, before it gets too hot or cold. That way, you won’t be stuck waiting when techs are the busiest.
HVAC Repair Mistake 4: Attempting DIY HVAC Repairs
It’s tempting to try fixing problems yourself, especially with so many online tutorials available. But your HVAC system is complex, and one wrong move can cause major damage or wreck it. Untrained HVAC repairs can also void your manufacturer’s warranty or create safety hazards, like electrical fires or toxic refrigerant leaks. The Environmental Protection Agency explains that Section 608 regulations require anyone adding or removing refrigerant to be certified.
What to do instead:
If something is broken, smells off or sounds wrong, leave your HVAC repair to licensed technicians. If you want to help maintain your system yourself, check out this DIY AC maintenance guide and focus on safe maintenance tasks like changing air filters and keeping vents and ducts clear. For everything else, professional service is the best choice.
HVAC Repair Mistake 5: Not Calling a Professional Soon Enough
The longer you wait to fix your HVAC system, the worse the problem can get. For example, a small refrigerant leak can quickly lead to a broken compressor, leaving your family without heating in winter or cooling in summer. Putting off repairs not only makes them more expensive but can also shorten the life of your system.
What to do instead:
At the first sign of trouble, call a trusted HVAC technician. Watch for warning signs like weak airflow, uneven temperatures or higher energy bills. Fixing problems early saves money and prevents stress, keeping your family cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Protect Your Investment and Avoid Costly HVAC Repair
Your HVAC system is one of the biggest and most important investments in your home. Avoiding these common HVAC repair mistakes helps you save money, improve efficiency and enjoy reliable comfort all year long.
Whether you need a quick fix, a seasonal tune-up or advice on maximizing the efficiency of your system, our licensed technicians are here to help. We help families stay comfortable in Auburn, Kent, Renton, Tacoma, Federal Way, and Bremerton.
With the right care—and by steering clear of costly pitfalls—you’ll enjoy lower energy bills, fewer breakdowns, and a longer-lasting system.
