The Air Conditioning Contractors of America issued the following statement regarding Houston-based KPRC Channel 2’s segment entitled, “DIY or Pay: Save hundreds on air conditioner repair you can do yourself:”

“ACCA strongly urges KPRC Channel 2 to retract their irresponsible segment encouraging homeowners to replace air conditioning capacitors,” said Paul T. Stalknecht, president and CEO of ACCA. “Consumers run the risk of being shocked by the equivalent of a 220-volt outlet if they mishandle a capacitor. It is unwise for Channel 2 to advise consumers and untrained people to undertake these tasks, which should only be handled by trained professionals.”

Todd McAlister, executive director of the Texas Air Conditioning Contractors Association, said, “TACCA is aware that consumers across Texas would like to save on HVACR repairs during the hot and long summer months here in Texas. However, TACCA warns consumers of the potentially deadly consequences when dealing with electrical components and your HVAC system. The capacitor generally fails due to other issues within the HVAC system that require a licensed professional to assess. Cheaper is never better when it comes to your homes’ comfort system and your safety.”

ACCA and TACCA believe that consumer pieces should focus on how to choose a professional HVAC contractor. That is the best way to protect consumers from unlicensed and unscrupulous actors who aim to take advantage of homeowners when their system fails.

On May 14, KPRC Channel 2, based in Houston, featured a consumer piece urging homeowners to diagnose their air conditioning systems and to replace faulty capacitors.

ACCA and TACCA sent a letter to KPRC Channel 2 demanding that this segment be retracted. A copy of the letter can be found here.