Back To Blog

Can I Do My Own AC Maintenance? What the EPA & Manufacturers Really Say

HVAC technician servicing air conditioner

The DC Metro area endures some of the nation’s most sweltering summers, with neighborhoods like Georgetown and areas like the National Mall subject to extreme heat.

This relentless weather places enormous strain on air conditioning systems. While homeowners can safely tackle many routine maintenance tasks, critical operations, especially those involving refrigerants, require certified technicians. United Air Temp, the leading HVAC authority in the area, is here to guide you in proper AC care.

Do I Really Need AC Maintenance?

Annual AC maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and durability, especially during the DC Metro area’s scorching summers. Regular checks prevent costly AC repairs and ensure efficiency during peak usage.

What the EPA Says About AC Maintenance

According to guidance provided by the Environmental Protection Agency, with further details available on Energy Saver, homeowners can confidently clean filters and perform basic inspections.

However, any technical work involving refrigerant handling or intricate components should be left to professionals.

Maintenance That Should Be Handled by HVAC Technicians

There are several critical maintenance tasks that require the specialized skills of an HVAC technician:

  • Refrigerant management: Only a certified professional should manage refrigerant levels to prevent potential environmental hazards.
  • Electrical component inspections: Qualified technicians ensure that all electrical connections adhere to safety protocols that prevent malfunctions.
  • Compressor and coil servicing: Precision in servicing these core components is essential to maintaining efficiency and avoiding expensive damage.

Section 608 Technician Certification Requirements

Technicians working on refrigerant-related tasks must comply with the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification Requirements.

This certification confirms that they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform maintenance safely and in line with federal regulations.

What Manufacturers Say about AC Maintenance

Manufacturers insist on the importance of professional intervention, as only qualified technicians can uphold the limited warranties issued on their products.

Recommendations from HVAC manufacturers, such as American Standard, emphasize that adhering to manufacturer guidelines is essential for protecting your investment over time.

Hazards of DIY Cooling Maintenance

Taking a DIY approach to AC maintenance can expose you to several risks:

  • Lack of service warranty: DIY repairs might void your service warranty, leaving you unprotected against future failures.
  • Violated refrigerant requirements: Goodman strongly cautions against handling refrigerants because it can result in environmental and legal repercussions.
  • Violated HVAC safety codes: Inadequate repairs may breach established HVAC safety standards, endangering occupants and property.
  • Violated electrical safety codes: Improper handling of electrical components could lead to severe hazards, including fire risks.

Manufacturer Warranty Violation

Manufacturer warranties often exclude failures, defects, or damages, ranging from data loss to physical property damage resulting from third-party products, improper installations, DIY maintenance, or Acts of God.

This means unauthorized maintenance work can directly impact your warranty coverage and future claims.

Sign Up for a Maintenance Agreement

An HVAC maintenance agreement is wist, particularly for those holding extended warranties.

Such agreements guarantee routine tune-ups by professionals, ensuring that your system continues to operate at peak efficiency and remains compliant with warranty requirements.

Book AC Maintenance

Residents of the DC Metro area can rely on United Air Temp for comprehensive and dependable AC maintenance. Known for our reliability, honesty, and trustworthiness, we provide 24/7 emergency repairs and same-day service.

With technicians who receive over 40 hours of annual training through the UAT Academy, our upfront pricing and quality craftsmanship guarantee an experience that ensures your comfort is never compromised. We take pride in serving our local community and treating every customer as a lifelong partner.

Contact us today to secure your comfort with professional care that meets the highest industry standards.

Flag with over 90 years in business text
Leader in Home Comfort Since 1931Get Your Free Estimate

Sidebar

Why Choose Us Discover the United Difference
Trained Technicians
Upfront Pricing
Environmental Health & Safety
Value-Added Services
On-Time Scheduling
Commitment to Community
Quality Craftsmanship
Satisfaction Guaranteed
Trained Technicians
Upfront Pricing
Environmental Health & Safety
Value-Added Services
On-Time Scheduling
Commitment to Community
Quality Craftsmanship
Satisfaction Guaranteed
Save on Your Service Our Goal Is to Keep Your Home Comfortable
FREESurge Protector with Electrical Panel Upgrade
Expires 06/30/25
FREEsecond opinion – HVAC or Plumbing replacement
Expires 06/30/25
$25 OFFfor referrer and friend
Expires 06/30/25
$250 OFF tankless water heater replacement
Expires 06/30/25
FREEestimate on water heater replacement
Expires 06/30/25
FREEestimate on water treatment system
Expires 06/30/25
FREE estimate on HVAC system replacement
Expires 06/30/25
Call us for a FREE ESTIMATE to install a new ductless mini single zone system with white finished indoor air handler at a SPECIAL PRICE.
Expires 06/30/25
$50 Off Plumbing Repair
Expires 06/30/25
Expert Dryer Vent Cleaning. When combined with other services. $89.95
Expires 06/30/25
Free hot water tank cleaning & safety inspection with any HVAC repair!
Expires 06/30/25
Free hot water tank cleaning & safety inspection with any plumbing repair!
Expires 06/30/25
Flag with over 90 years in business text Over 90 tears in business banner
Satisfied Customers
Total Reviews
4.5 Google Rating
What Our Clients Are Saying
testimonial_image "I appreciate the service, care, and timely manner put into the service I needed to have done. Although I had a tough job to complete these guys worked together and got the job done."
testimonial_image "United Air Temp recently serviced my heating units and has serviced my AC units regularly for a few years. The prices are so reasonable."
testimonial_image "Our water heater broke down and Edson had it replaced in less than 24hrs. We had a subsequent HVAC issue and he sent a tech to repair it minutes after I submitted the request. We are so grateful for the services UAT has provided."
testimonial_image "I have been a United Air Temp customer for ten years and they never fail to give me prompt, reliable, HONEST service. Friendly, knowledgeable, and mindful of my time."

United Air Temp was named the 2022 HVACR National Contractor of the Year.

Contractor of the Year-2022 Click Here to Learn More
Affiliations & Awards
Plumbing heating and cooling contractors association logo
NATE blue logo with yellow text
Energy Star blue square logo
Better Business Bureau blue logo