Adding a ductless mini-split to your home can be a cost-effective and energy-efficient way to stay comfortable. However, because so many homeowners are new to mini-splits, they aren’t aware of the possible problems that they may encounter.
A good number of mini-split problems are straightforward. Some are even simple enough for homeowners to do. But others need the attention of an HVAC technician.
A Lack of Cooling or Heating
Sometimes the units can blow air out that isn’t particularly warm or cold. Lack of cool or heated air can be due to a refrigerant leak that prevents the system from cooling. You’ll need a technician to fix refrigerant leaks. If a lack of warm air is the problem, the exterior unit might be the issue. Leaves and other debris can clog it if you don’t keep the area around the exterior unit clear.
Sometimes the unit’s size is the culprit, too. Ductless mini-splits come in different sizes, measured in BTUs. If the unit is too small for the space it’s in, it won’t cool or heat the space adequately.
Drain Line
The moisture that the mini-split pulls out of the air has to go somewhere. Normally, that’s down a drain line. However, if the drain line becomes clogged, the water will back up and flow back into the unit. A technician can clear the drain line and confirm proper drainage.
Weird Sounds
Like most appliances, mini-splits can make noise, and sometimes the sounds can sound strange. You’ll hear a brief noise when the unit switches from fan-only to cooling or heating. That’s the compressor turning on or off.
But if you hear anything like rattling, repeated thumping, hissing, or buzzing, call an HVAC technician. Those types of sounds suggest that something is either loose in the system, there’s an electrical issue, or there’s a potential refrigerant leak.
Weak Air Flow
A weak airflow from the unit is often due to restricted air intake/output or a failing blower motor. These issues usually require a professional HVAC technician to fix. Air filters shouldn’t be the cause, since you have been replacing or washing them monthly, but clogged filters can cause weak air flow.
It Just Won’t Start
Not being able to turn on the unit can be a symptom of many potential causes. Some are simple. For example, check the batteries in the mini-splits remote, make sure the unit’s plugged in, and check the circuit breaker.
If none of those solve the problem, however, then you’ll want to call an HVAC technician. There may be faulty wires or other defects in the unit, which are issues for an HVAC company to determine.
Call Dilling Heating & Cooling to learn more about ductless mini-splits and our installation, maintenance, and repair services in Charlotte, NC.
