• Clean the filters, coils, and outdoor unit regularly to keep your mini split working well, and clear the drain line once a year to avoid water damage.
• Watch for signs like poor cooling, ice on coils, or strange sounds, and test the thermostat. Schedule professional help to catch bigger issues early.
• Quality Heating & Sheet Metal Company, Inc. offers expert maintenance and repairs to keep your mini split running smoothly and save you from expensive fixes.

Mini-split systems are a great option for controlling the temperature in your home. They’re efficient, compact, and easy to install. However, just like any other HVAC system, mini-splits need proper care to keep them running smoothly. If you want your mini-split to last and perform well, cleaning and maintenance are key.

How to Clean Your Mini-Split

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean and maintain your mini-split system.

1.    Switch Off the System Before You Start

Before you touch anything, always turn off your mini-split system. This is important for safety. You can either use the remote to turn it off or switch off the circuit breaker. After that, wait a few minutes for the system to cool down before you begin.

2.    Clean the Air Filters

The air filters in your mini-split catch dust, dirt, and allergens. Over time, they clog, reducing airflow and forcing the system to work harder. This leads to higher energy bills and poor performance. Cleaning the filters regularly keeps the air clean and helps the system run efficiently.

How to clean the filters:

• Open the front panel of your mini split.
• Carefully remove the filters from the unit.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove the dust and debris.
• If the filters are too dirty, wash them with warm water and mild soap. Let them dry completely before putting them back.

Try to clean the filters every month or two, especially during high usage periods. If you have pets or if you live in an area with more dust, you may need to clean them more often. Keeping the filters clean will help improve airflow and make sure the air quality inside your home stays fresh.

3.    Clean the Coils for Better Performance

Mini-splits have two types of coils: the evaporator coil (inside) and the condenser coil (outside). These coils help transfer heat. Over time, dirt can accumulate on the coils, making it harder for the system to do its job. When this happens, your mini-split may not cool or heat your home as effectively.

How to clean the coils:

• Turn off the unit and remove the front cover to access the coils.
• Use a soft brush or vacuum with a soft brush attachment to gently clean off the dust.
• If the coils are very dirty, use a coil cleaner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when applying any cleaner.
• Inspect the coils for any damage. If you see any issues, consider calling a professional to fix them.

Cleaning the coils is important for your mini split’s efficiency. Do this every 6 months to keep the system working well. If you’re unsure about cleaning the coils, it’s a good idea to get a professional to do it.

4.    Unclog the Drain Line

Mini-splits help keep your home cool by pulling moisture from the air, which travels through a drain line. Over time, the line can become clogged with debris or mold, leading to potential water backup in the system. This can cause water damage and even system malfunctions.

To keep the line clear, inspect it for any visible blockages or mold. Cleaning the drain line annually is typically enough, but addressing any drainage issues as soon as you notice them can help avoid bigger problems down the road.

5.    Check the Outdoor Unit

The elements expose the outdoor unit to dirt, leaves, and other debris. When the outdoor unit becomes blocked, airflow reduces, and your mini-split may not perform well. Cleaning the area around the unit helps maintain its optimal performance.

How to clean the outdoor unit:

• Turn off the system before cleaning.
• Clear any large debris, such as leaves, sticks, or dirt, from around the outdoor unit.
• Use a garden hose to spray off the unit. Don’t use too much pressure, as this could damage the unit.
• Inspect the condenser coils. If they’re dirty, use a vacuum with a soft brush to clean them gently.

Clean the outdoor unit every six months or after heavy storms and the fall season when leaves accumulate. A clean outdoor unit keeps the system running efficiently and helps prevent damage.

6.    Watch the Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is what cools the air in your mini split. If the refrigerant levels drop, your system won’t cool your home properly. Low refrigerant levels could also indicate a leak. While you can’t check the refrigerant levels yourself, you can check for signs of low refrigerant:

• The system doesn’t cool or heat your home as well.
• Ice starts forming on the evaporator coils.
• The system makes strange noises or runs longer than usual.

If you notice these issues, it’s best to call a technician. They can check the refrigerant levels and refill it if needed. Don’t try to fix refrigerant issues yourself. A professional can also check for leaks and fix them to prevent further problems.

7.    Test the Thermostat

Your mini-split thermostat controls the temperature in your home. If it malfunctions, the system won’t know when to cool or heat your space, which can cause discomfort and waste energy.

If the thermostat uses batteries, replace them once a year. If it doesn’t respond properly, it may need recalibration or replacement. A properly functioning thermostat helps your mini-split maintain the right temperature and improves the system’s efficiency.

8.    Schedule Professional Maintenance

Your mini-split plays a key role in keeping your home comfortable, but it needs professional attention from time to time. While regular cleaning and basic maintenance can keep it running, certain technical checks require the expertise of a trained technician.

A professional technician will assess your system’s performance, identify potential issues, and handle repairs beyond everyday cleaning. These inspections can detect problems that might not be obvious, helping you avoid larger, more costly repairs down the line.

Why Choose Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric for Your Mini Split Maintenance?

When it comes to keeping your mini split system in top shape, Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric is the team you can trust. We specialize in heating and cooling solutions, and our experienced technicians are well-versed in maintaining mini-split systems.

We know every home and system is different, so we offer personalized service to meet your specific needs. Whether it’s a quick check-up or a more detailed maintenance session, we make sure your mini-split continues to work as it should, saving you money and avoiding unnecessary repairs.

If you are ready to schedule maintenance or need assistance with your mini split system, Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric is here to help. Contact us to book your next service appointment!