How to Maintain Your Ductless Mini-Split System for Optimal Performance
Ductless mini-split systems are quiet, energy efficient, and affordable options for heating and cooling your home, but without the proper maintenance, you can’t enjoy these amazing benefits. At DALCO, we specialize in installing and servicing ductless mini-splits across the Denver metro area. Here’s a maintenance checklist tailored specifically for Colorado’s climate to help you keep your system in peak condition all year long.
Replace Filters Monthly
Air filters are designed to capture dust, dirt, debris, and even allergens in your home’s air, but when they aren’t replaced regularly, they can restrict air flow, making your system work harder. Aim to change your filters monthly, especially if you live in a home with pets.
Clean Your Indoor Unit
Just like the lint trap in your dryer, even if you clean your mini-split system’s filter regularly, dirt and debris can still accumulate within the equipment. Therefore, you should wipe the surface of your indoor unit and carefully vacuum out the vents using a brush attachment before putting new filters in each month.
Inspect Your Outdoor Unit
Outdoor units have to withstand the elements, and while they are designed to handle most weather events, when dirt, leaves, trash, and even snow build up and around the system, it can cause it to have to work harder, leading to higher energy bills. To clean your outdoor unit, first remove any large debris by hand. Then, hose down the coils to clean off dirt and pollen.
IMPORTANT NOTE: You need at least two feet of clearance on each side of your outdoor HVAC unit to ensure optimal efficiency.
Monitor Refrigerant Levels
Mini-split systems require refrigerants to function properly, which means that when your levels are low, the system will have reduced cooling or heating performance and it can even cause your compressor to overheat. If your refrigerant levels are low, you likely have a leak, which means that it’s important to have your system checked to avoid costly repairs.
Signs of a leak include:
- Reduced heating and cooling capacity
- Longer run cycles
- Ice buildup on the evaporator coils
- Higher energy bills without changes in habits or big outdoor temperature swings
If you suspect a leak, it’s important to turn off your unit and to contact a licensed HVAC professional immediately.
Watch for Clogs in Your Drain Line
One of the big benefits of mini-split systems is that they help to control your home’s humidity levels by removing moisture from the air. This water is removed through a condensate drain line to outside of your home. However, if it’s clogged this can cause a slew of issues.
Signs of a condensate drain line leak:
- Reduced cooling efficiency
- Higher indoor humidity levels
- Pooling water around indoor or outdoor unit
- Musty smells near the unit
If a clog is suspected, turn off your unit at your main circuit breaker and then use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out the debris. You can also pour diluted distilled white vinegar into the drain line and allow it to sit for a few hours to help clear out the clog.
Schedule Seasonal Maintenance
Professional tune-ups are a simple way to ensure that your system is running at peak performance levels and to quickly address potential issues. It’s recommended that you have system maintenance done once or twice a year.
Why Maintenance Matters More in Colorado
While maintenance matters no matter where you live, Colorado’s reduced air density makes your system work harder and our drier air allows dust to accumulate faster. Add in the fact that we have large temperature swings, and it’s easy to see why regular checkups and upkeep are so important.
If you need seasonal maintenance, emergency repairs, a new system installation, or just have questions about keeping your mini-split in tip-top shape, DALCO’s expert technicians are here to help!