Essential Tips for Longevity and Performance
Just like a traditional ducted system, ductless mini-split heat pumps require regular maintenance. Routine care and cleaning are cost-effective ways to ensure your mini-split performs reliably and efficiently for years to come.
Why Mini-Split Maintenance is Crucial
As a rule, there is a bit more work involved when it comes to maintaining a mini-split system over a standard ducted system. This is primarily because many mini-split installations, especially those configured for zoning include multiple air handlers paired to a single outdoor condenser, and each individual unit requires regular maintenance to keep the system running efficiently. Regular maintenance can help maintain performance levels and air quality while reducing the chances of breakdowns and component failure as your system ages. This extra care will not only increase the life span of your equipment, it will help you avoid rising energy bills that can occur when a system is overworked due to clogged filters or dirty coils.
Along with things you can do on your own, it’s also important that your system gets a check-up and/or tune-up at least twice a year from a professional HVAC technician. The trained eyes of a pro can identify emerging mechanical issues that you might not see or be aware of and take care of them before they turn into breakdowns or costly repairs.
Mini-Split Maintenance: A Step-by-Step
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Keep Indoor and Outdoor Units Clean
Keeping your equipment clean will reduce dust and debris build-up and make your other maintenance tasks easier. A regular wipe-down with a damp cloth should do the trick. - Clean and Replace Your Filters Regularly
most indoor units have a removable air filter. These should be cleaned and replaced at least as often as the manufacturer recommends. If you have pets or your family is sensitive to dust or allergens, you may want to clean and replace them more frequently. -
Inspect and Clean Condenser Coils
Build-up of any kind on the outdoor condenser coil can make the unit work harder than necessary to meet your comfort needs. Inspect the coils periodically. When you see debris or build-up, make sure the unit is powered off and spray the coils down with a hose to remove it. *Avoid pressure washers or high-pressure hoses as they can damage the metal fins of the coil further reducing its efficiency. -
Remove Debris and Obstructions
Ensure that there are no obstructions to air flow for both indoor and outdoor units.
Understanding Professional Maintenance 
As mentioned, along with maintenance you can do at home, it’s important to engage a professional at least two times a year to inspect your system and make sure there are no issues that require further attention.Your technician will check the following during a routine check-up and address any issues as needed.
- Check All Electrical Connections
Electrical connection will be checked for loose connections, short circuits, or heat damage. - Test Your System’s Run Capacitors
Bad capacitors can prevent a system from running. They are identified by bulges or leaks in the capacitor casing. Your technician should replace any suspect capacitors as soon as possible. - Check for Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant lines and connections will be checked for signs of leaks and patched or repaired as needed and the system topped off is needed. - Check and Clear Drain Tubes of any Blockages
Condensation drain hoses can easily become clogged with corrosion or debris. These will be inspected, cleared, and cleaned as needed.
Of course there is a cost associated with engaging an HVAC pro, but the minimal cost of a check-up or a tune-up is definitely preferrable to that of a costly repair that could have been avoided.
How Do I Know When to Call a Pro?
There are a few things to keep an eye – ear, and nose – out for that should prompt you to call your technician.
- Unusual noises or odors coming from any unit
- Inconsistent temperature control
- Increased energy consumption
All of these can be signs that your equipment is being overworked due to a mechanical issue. We definitely advise reaching out to a technician as soon as possible when encountering any of these issues.
The Benefits of Proper Mini-Split Maintenance
The combination of regular maintenance and professional check-ups will provide several benefits. Among them:
- Increased Life Span of Your Equipment
- Better Air Quality from Your System
- Consistent Temperatures and Air Flow in Keeping with Your Thermostat Settings
- Improved Efficiency and Lower Electric Bills
- A Reduced Possibility of High-Cost Repairs Over the Life of Your Equipment
Taking proper care of your mini-split system can go a long way to making life a little easier, and a lot more comfortable for you and your family.
As a final word, we’d like to caution against a few of the more common mistakes to avoid as you venture into any HVAC maintenance without a licensed technician.
- Always keep up with your scheduled filter cleanings and changes. Dirty filters are the most common problem with any HVAC system and can cause serious reductions in performance.
- Prevent any blockage of the airflow around your equipment, especially the outdoor condenser. Lack of air flow can cause the unit to overwork and eventually damage the coils.
- Never attempt a complex repair without professional help. This can not only result in further damage to your system, it can be dangerous without proper training.
We hope all you mini-split owners (and future mini-split owners) out there have gained something from this maintenance guide. If you have any questions or would like to book your next professional maintenance appointment, reach out to your local Lennox dealer and they’ll get you on their calendar.
