How Regular Maintenance Extends the Lifespan of Your Mini-Split

TL;DR: In many parts of the US, air conditioning is essential, with mini-split systems becoming increasingly popular due to their efficiency. Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid decreased efficiency, reduced performance, and air quality issues. DIY tasks include cleaning filters and removing debris, while professionals should handle complex issues like refrigerant levels and electrical problems. Cool Clean AC in New York offers expert maintenance services to keep your mini-split running smoothly and your home comfortable.

 

Let’s face it – keeping cool is more than a luxury in many parts of the US – it’s a necessity. It’s no wonder most US homes have some form of air-conditioning installed to combat those sweltering days. According to the latest US census data, over 7 million New York housing units have air-conditioning systems.

While several types of air conditioners are available on the market, the mini-split system is quickly gaining ground thanks to its efficiency and versatility. But, just like any other appliance that sees daily use, the mini-split system requires consistent upkeep to function at its best. Ignoring regular maintenance can lead to performance drops, and before you know it, you’re sweating buckets wondering why.

In this article, we’ll cover how regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your mini-split. We’ll walk you through the ins and outs of keeping your mini-split in top-notch condition, ensuring it keeps you cool or warm for many seasons.

The Impact of Neglecting Your Mini-Split

When you overlook the upkeep of your mini-split system, you’re essentially setting yourself up for a host of problems that can hit your comfort and wallet pretty hard. Regular maintenance might seem like a chore or an unnecessary expense. In reality, it’s nothing compared to the problems you’ll face if you don’t do it. The most common issues homeowners can face include:

• Decreased efficiency: When you skip regular maintenance, your mini-split has to work overtime to cool or heat your space. On average, 52% of all energy consumption is done by heating and air-conditioning units in your home. When the AC is trying to compensate for a failing part, it uses more energy than it should. You might not notice this inefficiency immediately, but your increasing utility bills will be a big hint. They start going up, meaning you’re paying more for less comfort.
• Reduced performance: Neglect can lead to your mini-split struggling to maintain consistent temperatures throughout your space. That means one room ends up being a sauna, while the other is more like a fridge. It’s not exactly the environment that makes you or anyone else comfortable. Then, there’s the air quality issue. A well-maintained mini-split does a decent job of filtering out dust, allergens, and other airborne particulates. But when you let maintenance slide, the filters get clogged, and your system can start circulating dirty air.

Key Maintenance Steps for Your Mini-Split

Regular maintenance of your mini-split system is simpler than you think. As a homeowner, there are several steps you should consistently take to care for your mini-split so it can provide the comfort you need year-round.

• Cleaning the filters: Filters should be cleaned every four to six weeks. A dirty filter can significantly impede your system’s performance. Dust and debris accumulation forces the mini-split to work harder, reducing efficiency and slowly damaging the system. Regularly cleaning the filters allows air to flow freely, maintaining your home’s air quality and keeping energy consumption in check.
• Check refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant levels usually result in reduced cooling or heating capabilities or the system taking longer than usual to reach the desired temperature. These symptoms indicate it’s time to call a professional, as low refrigerant levels can affect your system’s performance and even cause premature failure.
• Inspect the condensate drain: You want to ensure the condensate drain is free of blockages and leaks so you can prevent water damage and mold growth. That might seem minor, but a clogged condensate drain can lead to water backing up and potentially damaging your system or home.
• Professional maintenance checks: This step can help you catch issues you can’t see or diagnose yourself. During a professional maintenance visit, the technician will thoroughly inspect the system, clean components that are difficult to reach, check electrical connections, and ensure the refrigerant level is optimal. They will take care of minor issues before they cause significant damage.

DIY Maintenance Tips

While you should leave the poking on the inside of your mini-split system to the experts, there are a few simple maintenance tasks you can do on your own. One of the first steps in maintaining your mini-split system involves a simple cleaning routine.

Cleaning The Exterior and Interior Units

The exterior and interior units of the mini-split can accumulate dust, dirt, and other debris that can affect its efficiency. Remove any leaves, twigs, or other debris blocking the vents of the outdoor unit. A soft brush or a gentle blast from a garden hose can do the trick. Just be gentle with the fins on the coil so that they do not end up damaged. 

Inside your home, the interior unit needs attention too. Most mini-split systems have easily removable filters that you can clean with mild detergent and water. Then, leave them to dry before putting them back in place. Regularly clean the AC unit so no dust gets blown around when turned on. 

Removing Obstructions

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the system but what’s around it. Make sure the area around both the interior and exterior units is clear. Furniture, curtains, or any decorative items should be a few feet away from the interior unit to avoid blocking the airflow. Similarly, the outdoor unit should have a clear space around it for optimal performance.

Ensuring proper airflow

You need to check the indoor and outdoor units for any signs of airflow restriction. If your system isn’t cooling or heating as effectively as it should, the issue might be as simple as a blocked vent or a dirty filter. Adjusting the position of your interior unit’s louvers can improve how air circulates through your space.

When to Call a Professional

When your mini-split system starts acting up, it can be tempting to try and fix it yourself. However, there are certain situations where calling in a professional is necessary. If you start noticing odd noises like grinding, buzzing, or whistling coming from your unit, it’s a sign something’s not right internally. Similarly, unusual smells, like a burning or musty odor, can indicate serious problems that require immediate attention.

Another clear signal you need expert help is if your system isn’t heating or cooling your space as effectively as it used to. That could be due to many issues, from low refrigerant levels to airflow problems. Without the right tools or knowledge, you’re unlikely to solve the issue yourself.

Electrical problems are another area that requires a professional touch. If your system frequently trips the circuit breaker or doesn’t turn on, it’s time to call in the experts. Tinkering with electrical components without proper training can be dangerous and might even void your warranty.

Find An HVAC Specialist in New York

Regular maintenance keeps your mini-split system running smoothly and helps it last as long as possible. By keeping on top of things like cleaning the filters, checking the refrigerant levels, and ensuring the outdoor unit is free from debris, you’re improving the efficiency of your system and preventing minor issues from snowballing into big problems.

You can do many routine maintenance tasks yourself, but when it’s time for a thorough inspection, the experts at Cool Clean AC in New York are here to help. We are a veteran-owned company that specializes in cleaning and maintaining mini-split systems. We are licensed and insured, and our technicians will ensure you’re 100% satisfied with their services.

If you want your house to stay cool and clean this summer, contact us today!