How to Maintain Your Ductless Mini Split System

Air conditioning is one of those things that’s difficult to live without here in Austin, especially during the dog days of summer. Regardless of what type of air conditioner you own, the best way to keep it running reliably and efficiently is with good maintenance practices.

Our team at AiRCO Heating and Cooling is well versed in the makes and models of all air conditioners. One popular air conditioning system today is called a ductless mini split system, also known as a mini split or ductless system. Like all air conditioning systems, the mini split requires special care to keep it running in tip-top condition.

What Is a Ductless Mini Split?

A ductless mini split is a high-efficiency, much smaller air conditioner without a need for ductwork. It’s designed to cool a smaller area in your home as opposed to an entire house. In addition to this system not utilizing a duct system, a mini split only requires a three-inch hole in the wall for a conduit where it connects to its outdoor component.

Mini split systems have an indoor air handling component and an outdoor compressor/condenser unit. The indoor unit is so compact, it mounts on a wall or ceiling. With its powerful capabilities, many ductless models can function as a heat pump in the winter, providing supplemental heating as well.

The Importance of Maintenance

Although all heating and air conditioning systems benefit from regular maintenance, it’s especially important to give your ductless mini split system the regular attention it needs.

Mini split systems need free-flowing air circulation around both the indoor and outdoor components to operate efficiently. As a result, regular filter cleanings are paramount to keeping your unit operating well in STATE. Not only will you waste energy and money if you fail to clean your filters in a timely manner, but you can also damage your mini split’s expensive interior components.

Cleaning Condenser Coils

Beyond basic filter changes, you need to clean your ductless system’s condenser coils, which you can do yourself if your prefer. First, start by turning off your power to your unit to prevent electric shock and giving your system an hour to cool down. In the meantime, take a look at the outdoor unit and be sure there is a minimum of four feet of clearance all around the unit.

Once the unit is cool, clean your air filter and the coil, as well as any components, with a soft, dry cloth. This is a good time to check for mold or mildew growth in the area, which requires a professional chemical treatment to address properly. Check for ice and condensation buildup as well. Call in one of our highly trained professionals for help with any of these more complicated issues.

Full Professional Inspection

You should always schedule an annual inspection, cleaning, and tune-up with one of our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professionals at least once a year. Our experienced technicians will do a comprehensive check of your ductless system and recommend any needed maintenance. This can help you avoid high emergency repair bills In the long run, as well as periods of time with no cooling in your home.

Benefits of Good Maintenance

According to Massachusetts’ Mass Save, an improperly maintained mini split can use 25 percent more energy to function every day you use it. One of the biggest advantages of a ductless system is it can save up to 30 percent in energy costs over central air conditioning systems. Don’t lose all those benefits from poor maintenance.

In addition, taking care of your ductless mini split also means you’ll extend the life of your unit. Since these systems are more expensive to purchase and install upfront (though you do recoup your costs in energy savings throughout the years), you’ll want to maximize your investment for as many years as possible.

Call AiRCO Today

If you have more questions about a ductless mini split system air conditioner, call our team at Airco Heating & Cooling in Austin Texas. We want to help you keep your system going strong throughout the season. Reach us at 512.537.1234 or request service online today.