Is the HVAC system in your Franklin, TN, home on its last legs? Perhaps it’s over a decade old, has undergone several costly repairs, and contributes to higher energy bills.
If so, it may be time for a replacement.
But with new HVAC systems costing so much money, you may feel tempted to do the work yourself. So, is it legal to do so, and do you need a permit for HVAC replacement?
This guide addresses those questions, so read on.
Do You Need a Permit for HVAC Replacement?
If you’re replacing an HVAC system in Franklin, TN, you need not one but two types of permits. You must obtain an electrical HVAC permit and a mechanical permit.
In addition to those HVAC permit requirements, you’ll also need a Homeowner’s Affidavit if you plan to do the work yourself. After completing the job, you must request an inspection and approval. You can schedule this online via the Franklin government website.
Alternatively, you can hire a reputable HVAC contractor to replace your system. They’ll also pull all necessary permits on your behalf.
Why Are HVAC Permits Necessary?
HVAC permits are necessary because they help ensure all work done meets building codes and standards. These laws exist to protect the health and safety of people and the environment.
So, installing or replacing an HVAC without permits is against the law. Worse, it can put you, your family, your home, and others in danger.
The Dangers of Incorrect HVAC Installation
Let’s use an incorrectly installed furnace as an example. It can cause gas leaks that could lead to adverse health effects. They can cause dizziness, nausea, respiratory problems, and eye and throat irritation, to name a few.
A furnace that leaks natural gas can also cause explosions and fires.
Another example is an improperly installed AC that leaks refrigerants. Exposure to these chemicals can result in refrigerant poisoning. Such leaks can also cause poor cooling, be expensive to fix, and harm the environment.
Other Consequences
At the very least, improper installation can lead to the system’s erratic or inadequate performance. That can happen even if you invest in a high-efficiency HVAC system. No matter how efficient it is, it’ll be unable to work at its peak if installed incorrectly or if it’s too big or too small for your home.
Those problems can also shorten the lifespan of HVAC systems. On average, they last 10 to 20 years. However, if installed incorrectly, they can degrade faster and fail sooner.
The Solution: Always Hire HVAC Pros
Now you know the answer to the question, “Do you need a permit for HVAC replacement,” is yes, you do. You can pull the permits yourself, but it’s best to delegate this task, and most importantly, the installation job, to the pros. That way, you can rest assured your new system meets all building codes.
At Sewell Electric, you can rely on our HVAC experts to obtain all necessary permits and install your replacement system correctly. For over 70 years, we’ve provided high-quality HVAC services to customers throughout Franklin and Williamson County, TN.
So, if you’re in the market for an HVAC replacement, speak with us today! We’ll happily help you choose and install the right system.
