7 Common Mini-Split Problems and How To Fix Them
Heating and cooling is an essential feature of any home. For some people, a ductless mini-split is the best temperature control option due to its improved efficiency and ease of use. Unfortunately, things do go wrong sometimes, leaving your installation in need of maintenance or repairs.
Ignoring ongoing issues with your mini-split can result in damaged components and an uncomfortable climate for your home. If you’re experiencing poor heating and cooling, you should have your equipment looked at immediately. Here are seven common mini-split problems and how to fix them.
Why Use a Mini-Split?
Mini-splits are an excellent way to add heating and cooling to specific rooms without investing in high-cost HVAC repairs or installations. The small form makes it easy to fit them into most spaces, giving you flexible zoning options that allow you to adjust your climate as needed.
A mini-split system connects multiple indoor units to a single outdoor compressor, making the system more efficient and easier to maintain. You can set the temperature for each space individually and don’t need to have ductwork throughout the entire home. Mini-splits are great for additions, finished basements, and other rooms that require climate control.
1. No Cooling
One problem you may encounter when using a mini-split is inadequate cooling. If your equipment isn’t blowing cold air, the problem may be due to a refrigerant leak or a bad thermostat. It could also be a faulty or clogged condenser coil preventing the air from getting through.
Leaky refrigerant can be the result of any number of problems. Corroded walls, tubes, and connectors can weaken and form holes. If you can locate the source of the problem, you may be able to repair it by cleaning or adding sealant. However, if the issue persists, replacing the unit is the best option to avoid water damage.
2. No Heating
Your mini-split may also have trouble putting out heat at some point. If you aren’t getting any hot air out of the unit, it’s likely the result of excessive buildup around the outdoor installation. Dirt, rocks, leaves, and other types of debris can accumulate around the mini-split, preventing it from moving air correctly. Ice and snow can also be an issue in the winter.
It’s a good idea to regularly inspect your outdoor unit, clean it, and move away materials if necessary so that air can circulate. In extremely cold weather, your coils can ice over, preventing them from drawing heat from the air. Coils can take up to 24 hours to unthaw, so keeping an eye on them for excessive condensation during the winter is essential.
3. No Dehumidifying
Mini-splits are also helpful in removing moisture from the air. However, if the unit is too big, it could prevent it from running at the correct speed. Units that are too large will cool the space more quickly, reducing the amount of moisture they can remove from the air.
Ensuring your mini-split is the correct size for the space you’re heating and cooling will help it run efficiently. You should also ensure your coils are clean. Excessive dust and debris will prevent them from condensing the moisture in the air. You should check to ensure your mini-split has a dry mode since not all systems have built-in dehumidifiers.
4. Dripping Water
You may also experience leaks, drips, and other types of fluid loss when using your mini-split. This issue is most commonly caused by a problem with the drain line. A clogged line will result in backups, forcing the water out of the other end of the line and causing it to spill out of the unit. This issue could also be due to a rusty or cracked drain pan if the unit is over five years old.
The first thing you should do if your mini-split is flooded is check your filter to ensure it doesn’t need to be cleaned or replaced. You can use a shop vac to unclog the drain if necessary. If the material still doesn’t budge, you can use a drain line cleaner to help break it down. In some cases, you may need to replace the line altogether.
5. Funny Smell
Another common issue that may be associated with poor dehumidification and dripping water is the presence of odors and funky smells. This situation is most often due to the presence of mold in the drain line. Mini-splits that aren’t properly cared for can develop bacterial growths that damage the equipment and cause illness.
Keeping your mini-split turned on is the best way to prevent mold. The unit should be cycled down rather than powered off entirely to keep it operating efficiently. If you smell dirty socks or cheese or are becoming sick while using the mini-split, it’s likely due to a mold issue.
6. Making Noise
Mini-splits can sometimes make odd noises that may or may not be cause for concern. Rattles, clicks, and popping sounds shouldn’t be ignored since they can indicate more comprehensive issues. Moist units will make some noises when the compressor switches over. However, if the noise continues, it might be a sign that the equipment is damaged or malfunctioning.
One common problem you may encounter is tiny bits of debris getting into the system. This material can cause an annoying rattling but probably won’t do much harm. A more significant problem can occur if the mini-split parts come loose and knock around the unit, resulting in bent fan blades, dented casing, and damage to essential components if not immediately attended to.
7. No Power
In some cases, your mini-split may not be powering on at all. This problem can be due to a wide range of problems, the most likely of which include a defective unit, a broken outlet, or a power outage. However, it could be something as simple as dead batteries in your remote.
The first thing you should do if your mini-split isn’t powering on is to ensure the unit is plugged in. Check your circuit breaker to ensure it wasn’t tripped due to an electrical surge. If everything seems like it should be fine, you may need to call a professional repair service or replace the unit altogether. You can find a good deal on mini-split wholesale parts online.
Take Care of Your Mini-Split To Maximize Its Life
Mini-splits offer homeowners many benefits but require care and attention to ensure they don’t break down before their expected end-of-life.
Considering these seven common mini-split problems and how to fix them will ensure you get the most out of your investment.
