4 Pitfalls of DIY Thermostat Upgrades
Many consumers end up calling the pros for help after failed DIY attempts at thermostat installation.
According to industry reports, the market for DIY smart home products is projected to more than quintuple between now and 2019. Right now consumers are spending about $1.3 billion on products and devices designed to given them a “smarter,” more automated, more efficient home. By 2019, this figure is expected to increase to 2019, and the growth is all driven by devices that consumers can buy, install, and manage on their own. Smart thermostats that have the ability to respond to changing temperature and humidity conditions inside and outside the home automatically (based on preprogrammed conditions) are definitely part of this trend. Smart thermostats have the potential to save consumers lots of money on their home energy bills. However, they need to be installed and configured properly in order to achieve good results. According to contractors surveyed by The Air Conditioning Heating Refrigeration News, HVAC techs are definitely seeing an increase in the number of consumers who attempt DIY smart thermostat installation but need help to get the job done right. Here are 3 common pitfalls that DIY thermostat installers face and how a professional HVAC repair company can help.
Buying the Wrong System
One common problem that DIY folks run into is accidentally buying the wrong type of thermostat for their HVAC equipment. Specifically, consumers often end up purchasing a single-stage thermostat when in reality they have a multistage system. The single-stage thermostat may still work, but it will need special adjustments not covered in the instructions. When you call the pros for a smart thermostat, you know you’ll get the right type of thermostat installed correctly the first time.
Return & Exchange Delays
Most DIYers are getting their smart home products online. If you accidentally buy the wrong smart thermostat for your home or end up with a damaged or defective unit, you’ll face the hassle of an online return and exchange. If you don’t want to spring for the overnight shipping, your project could get delayed. However, when you work with a professional contractor to source and install your equipment, there will be no delay in getting you the right, defect-free unit.
Installation Issues
Placing the thermostat’s sensors in the wrong locations can really hinder its efficiency and performance. Don’t just rely on wherever your old sensors were or choose new locations based on an online tutorial. Call the pros for an expert analysis of your home’s airflow resulting in precision thermostat sensor placement. The pros can also correct any wiring problems or other installation issues you may encounter on a DIY project.
Reduced Warranty Coverage
One final reason to go pro instead of DIY is that you typically get better warranty coverage. Whereas the manufacturer may offer a couple of years of warranty coverage for the device itself, a professional HVAC company will likely offer a warranty on labor and installation as well.