A ductless HVAC system, otherwise called a mini-split system, comes with major benefits, but like any HVAC system, regular maintenance is crucial for peak efficiency and longevity.
From routine filter checks to professional inspections, proper care ensures your ductless air conditioner runs at optimal performance year after year.
DIY Maintenance Tips
When performing maintenance on your mini-split air conditioner, it is important to have an experienced professional inspect the system at least once a year to continue increasing your energy savings and keep it running smoothly. There are, however, a few simple tasks you can easily tackle yourself between those professional visits.
Keep it clean.
On a regular basis, make sure that the outside of your ductless air conditioner is clean and free of dirt and other debris. If dust or dirt begins to accumulate, those particles will find their way into the operating unit. This has a direct impact on how the system functions. This is one of the easiest things you can do yourself to keep your system in tip-top shape.
Wipe the exterior of the unit with a damp cloth or gentle chemical cleaner. Then, check to make sure the outdoor portions of the vents are free of debris so they don’t become clogged.
Give it space.
Mini-split air conditioning systems require less space around them than other systems, but they do work best when they have unobstructed room to operate. This means that the indoor unit(s) needs ample wall space.
Make sure that any large furniture, art, or other home items are not surrounding the unit in every direction - about four feet of space. This includes any bookcases, picture frames, TV stands, couches, etc.
Clean the filters.
Ductless, mini-split air conditioning systems need free-flowing air circulation around both the indoor and outdoor units to operate efficiently. This means that regular filter cleanings are crucial to the overall health of the system.
Each indoor unit has a removable air filter that should be cleaned regularly, at least as often as recommended in the manual. Use a clean, dry cloth to gently wipe down the filters. If you find at some point that the filters are not getting cleaned enough, or are damaged, it’s important to replace them with new, clean filters.
Call in the Professionals
The above simple cleaning tasks are crucial for the overall health of your mini-split system, but it is just as important to call in a professional, at least once a year, to maintain the components of the system that require a more experienced hand.
Check for refrigerant leaks.
Mini-split systems have a refrigerant line inside the conduit that connects the indoor and outdoor units. A professional will check for any refrigerant leaks, and patch or replace them where necessary. Even the smallest refrigerant leak can reduce your ductless system’s cooling capacity, leading to high energy bills and an inefficient system, so it is crucial to have a professional inspect and repair with the proper tools.
Inspect electrical components.
Unless you are a certified electrician, all electrical connections will need to be inspected by a professional. These connections inside the condensing unit need to be spot-checked for any loose connections, short circuits, or signs of overheating.
Check for drain hose blockages.
During their inspection, a professional will ensure that the drain hose that moves condensation from the units is clear. If that water is not flowing freely through the hose, it could lead to major leaks and damage to the system.
Clean pipes and condenser coils.
This is a crucial step in keeping your mini-split system operating effectively. If you feel comfortable, you can perform this step on your own - just make sure to power the system off and let it cool down before you begin.
However, a professional will ensure these parts are thoroughly cleaned, as the pipes are the pathways between the outdoor and indoor units of your ductless, mini-split air conditioner. This is a crucial step, and it cannot be emphasized enough how important it is to keep these pipes clean and free from blockages. These pipes can also develop leaks, which a professional can repair.
Debris and dirt can accumulate on the condenser coils, as well, so a professional can ensure that these are properly cleaned.
Prioritize Preventative Care
Being diligent about regularly maintaining your ductless air conditioning system, as well as scheduling annual professional maintenance, is critical for keeping the system running efficiently and at optimal performance. These steps pay off when it comes to the reliability, efficiency, and longevity of your mini-split AC unit.
Be proactive in cleaning and replacing air filters, keeping the outside of the units clean, and ensuring there is ample space for the units to operate. Protect your investment by scheduling annual, or even seasonal, maintenance with an experienced and trained professional.
With the proper care, your ductless mini-split air conditioner can ensure long-lasting comfort for you and your home for years to come! For more information on ductless systems, or advice on how to maintain them, subscribe to our blog today.
