How Do You Troubleshoot a Mini Split?
Ductless mini splits are far more efficient than a clunky old HVAC unit such as a heater or air conditioner, but even mini splits have their problems. Scheduling routine maintenance with your mini split technician is the best way to avoid many common issues.
What if your mini split begins acting up on a holiday or a weekend? Until you can get the technician out to you, you might be able to do a bit of troubleshooting yourself. Here are some jobs you can safely take care of before the pros come out to assess your mini split.
Replace the Filter
Your ductless mini split system uses a filter much in the same way your old air conditioner did. Since you were probably used to replacing that filter, it shouldn’t be much of a big deal to extend your filter-changing schedule to your ductless mini split.
If the filter is black with grime, dust, and dirt, you can be surprised how much that affects the functioning of your mini split. The unit has to strain harder since its parts are filthy. Once you replace the filter and keep doing it regularly, the internal parts of your mini split will be cleaner so your home feels cooler.
Clear the Drain Line
Your ductless mini split system includes a drain line for condensate to exit so it doesn’t accumulate around the outdoor compressor. When the drain line clogs, the condensate can build up within the line, rendering your mini split inoperable in some instances.
Drain line blockages can also cause a terrible odor that resembles the smell of mildew. The scent has been described by homeowners as sour and musty.
You can clean the drain line, but keep in mind that if it’s still not working even after clearing it, then you must allow your mini split technician to take over.
Clean the Exterior of the Compressor
The compressor, as we established, goes outdoors. When selecting the placement of the unit, you should ideally choose a place where the compressor isn’t exposed to the elements. Even still, you cannot stop the wind from carrying leaves and tree branches onto the compressor.
Every week or so, it’s not a bad idea to go outside and clear off whatever debris is on top of the compressor, from sticks to leaves and vegetation. When it snows, if you can access the compressor, then sweep the snow off the top of the unit.
Check Your Power
Sometimes, when your ductless mini split stops working or only runs intermittently, it could be due to power supply issues. You might want to test the breakers in your home. Oh, and although it seems like a very obvious solution, confirm that your compressor is plugged in and getting power. Sometimes the most obvious solution is the correct one!
If you do test the power, please turn off your ductless mini split first.
Sources:
https://www.cnrair.com/blog/7-common-mini-split-problems-and-how-to-fix-them
