What to check if my split is not working?
Mini-split systems is a cheap solution for getting comfort in your home. Much like any other home comfort system, they can run into issues, occasionally. Here are some of the most typical mini-split issues.
1. Mini-Split Is Dripping Water
An air conditioner’s filters, coils, and fins require regular maintenance for the unit to function effectively and efficiently throughout its years of service. Neglecting necessary maintenance ensures a steady decline in air conditioning performance while energy use increases, and also gives water dripping.
If your mini-split is dripping water or not draining water, there might be a problem with the condensate drain or drain line. During time, it’s common for a drain line to be clogged with mold, forcing water to drip.
2. Mini-Split Making Weird Noises
Mini-splits typically don’t generate much noise when they’re on. But there are two instances where they could make sounds.
• Popping or clicking: This can be due to the plastic housing expanding or contracting while the system is running(cooling or heating).
• Crackling or gurgling: This can happen if your mini-split switches into defrost mode to prevent itself from icing over.
You shouldn’t panic if you hear these noises because that is a normal behaviour.
However, if your mini-split keeps going into defrost mode, it’s a sign that something is off, like low refrigerant, a faulty circuit board or malfunctioning sensors.
3. Mini-Split Heating Isn’t Working
If your mini-split is not heating or blowing hot air, frozen coils may be the problem. Like we mentioned previously, frozen coils may be due to low refrigerant in the system, a bad circuit board or defective sensors.
4. Mini-Split Is Not Blowing Cold Air
If your mini-split is not cooling your room, usually, but not always, it is a refrigerant leak. These leaks must be founded and solded by a calified person.
5. Mini-Split Doesn’t Extract Moisture
A mini-split is good enough to dehumidify your place during the summer. However, this might be stopped by blockages in the condensate drain line.
Another reason your mini-split air conditioner may not be dehumidifying very efficiently is if it’s too large. A system which is not properly seized to cool your space, could take a lot of time(and money) for dezumidification action.
6. Mini-Split Smells
If your ductless mini-split smells, it’s trying to grab your attention that something is wrong. Here are five of the most common smells and what they mean.
Mold or Mildew
If your mini-split smells musty, sour or like mildew, you likely have a mold issue. An inspection and cleaning the condensate line is required.
Vinegar Smell
If your mini-split smells like vinegar or has a sweet odor, you’re likely encountering a refrigerant leak. Another surefire hint that you don’t have enough refrigerant is a weak flow of cold air.
Fish
If your mini-split smells like fish, a couple of things could be wrong. In some instances this smell means there is electrical issue.
7. Mini-Split Won’t Turn On
First of all, the system must be plugged in.
If your mini-split still not power on, check the remote. If the batteries are weak, your mini-split won’t run. Usually, putting in fresh batteries will solve the situation.
If the compressor is not running after plugging, could be a compressor issue.
Finally, if nothing works, is the right time to call a technician.
