What maintenance is required for a mini-split AC system?
Ductless mini-split AC systems can be downright impressive when they’re in top operating condition. However, they do require a bit of maintenance despite their reputation as fairly low-maintenance HVAC solutions. Be sure to care for these six maintenance tasks to get the most out of your mini-split AC System.
1. Clean or Replace Filter Regularly
One of the best things you can do for any HVAC system is to clean or replace its filters regularly. Filters collect dust, dirt, dander, pollen, and other stuff as they do their job. This reduces airflow, which ultimately undermines the mini-split’s performance and efficiency by making it work harder to cool and move the same amount of air. It also diminishes indoor air quality.
Know the requirements for your specific system. Some models require replacement filters, but others allow you to vacuum them. Warm water and mild soap may also be necessary for filter cleaning.
Our tip: Clean filters once a month during peak cooling season, such as the middle of the summer. You may also want to consider a monthly schedule if your household has pets, is near a high-pollution area like an intersection, or has an indoor smoker.
2. Wipe Down the Indoor Unit
The air handler is the indoor portion of your ductless mini-split, and it can easily collect just as much dirt as your filters. Wiping down the outside of the handler reduces the amount of debris that gets into the system.
Our tip: Dust the unit at least once a week with a damp cloth and some type of cleaning solution. Also, keep furniture and other large items at least four feet from the unit to provide the maximum airflow to the air handler.
3. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean
Your mini-split’s outdoor component is known as the condenser. It does most of the heavy lifting for the cooling process, exchanging heat to the outdoor air and passing cooled refrigerant to one or more of the handlers. Keeping it clean is just as important for your unit’s performance and efficiency.
Notably, the condenser often has fins that are prone to potential damage. Be gentle when you clean it. Many people use a garden hose on a light setting. You can also have one of our HVAC technicians perform a professional cleaning during the unit’s annual tune-up and inspection.
Our tip: Clear any large debris regularly from or near the unit every six months or so. Also, check for debris after any major storm. You should keep an eye out for ice collecting on the condenser, too, because it could be a sign that the system requires repairs.
4. Check the Drain Line for Clogs
Many mini-splits have a drain line that exits the air handler. This takes away excess moisture, a notable problem when air conditioning any home in Florida. The drain line may terminate at an indoor or outdoor drain hole.
Out tip: Inspect the drain line for visible blockages, which may appear due to the accumulation of mold or debris. A wet-dry vac can remove many clogs. You also may be able to break a clog using cleaning-grade vinegar. For stubborn clogs, have one of our technicians use a professional cleaning solution to clear the line.
5. Inspect the Electrical Connections
Electrical issues can cause a mini-split to malfunction. For example, the thermostat might not be able to communicate with the air handler if there’s a loose wire. You can look for obvious signs of loose wiring, such as hanging wires or exposed copper, while cleaning. More complex or less visible electrical issues are a job for one of our HVAC technicians.
Our tip: If you suspect your system has an electrical issue, check the thermostat’s batteries first. Many thermostats use batteries, and the batteries can drain and cause issues. Minimally, you can rule out dead batteries before being suspicious of a more serious electrical problem.
6. Keep Coils Clean
Both the air handler and condenser have coils that serve as an essential part of the heat transfer. If the coils become fouled, the grime can significantly affect efficiency and performance.
Our tip: Using a soft brush or a vacuum attachment with a brush, you can clean the coils every six months. If the coils are heavily fouled, check your mini-split manufacturer’s recommendations for a cleaning solution. In severe cases, our HVAC technicians can also take care of cleaning very soiled coils.
Arrange Professional Tune-Ups
Systems that go without a professional tune-up can easily lose 10% of their efficiency for every year they go without attention. Annual tune-ups are necessary for AC-only mini-splits. If you have a dual-use system for both heating and cooling, a six-month schedule is best so there’s a tune-up for each HVAC season. Folks dealing with a mini-split AC and older homes should also consider a six-month schedule.
Our technicians are always thorough in performing tune-ups. We check key metrics, such as:
- Refrigerant levels
- Airflow rates
- Thermostat accuracy
- Cycle times
We can also verify that all of the mini-split’s control systems can communicate regularly and accurately with each other.
Benefits of Regular Mini-Split Maintenance
Longer Lifespan
A well-maintained system generally has to fight against poor airflow less. This means that regular maintenance usually extends the expected lifespan of your mini-split. Reducing internal component wear and tear means you will have to replace things like the air handler and condenser less often, saving you major money.
Lower Bills
Clean surfaces exchange heat more efficiently. This means your mini-split doesn’t have to work as hard to achieve the same unit of cooling.
Better Comfort
A well-maintained system outputs more consistent cooling. This leads to fewer swings in temperature and humidity, ultimately making your home more comfortable.
Fewer Repairs
Less wear and tear means your mini-split’s components are less likely to break down. That means fewer repair bills.
Why Trust Lakeland One Hour AC & Heating?
At Lakeland One Hour AC & Heating, we’re on time or you don’t pay a dime. Our business proudly serves the residents of Lakeland, FL, and handles everything from installations and repairs to maintenance and tune-ups. We have specials available, too.
If you have questions about maintaining the mini-split AC in your home, contact Lakeland One Hour AC & Heating right away.