If you’re one of the many people in Dover, DE, who have a ductless AC system, you know that it can be a great way to cool your home without installing expensive and invasive ductwork. However, like any other system, a ductless AC can sometimes malfunction. Here are seven tips for troubleshooting potential problems.
1. Strange Sounds
Check if you can hear strange sounds from your ductless AC when the system is on. The sounds may be due to various factors, such as loose parts like bolts and screws.
The coils might also be dirty or covered. Over time, the build-up can cause them to vibrate and produce strange sounds in the process of cooling your home.
2. Your System Fails to Turn On Immediately
Check whether your AC will turn on immediately. If not, the cause could be a faulty remote control, incorrect settings, or a power issue. Ensure that the batteries are correctly inserted, and the remote is working properly and within the range of the thermostat.
3. Steam or Mist Coming from Your AC
Check whether steam or mist is coming from your mini split system. The condenser coils might be freezing. This can happen if the filter is dirty, thus restricting airflow.
The refrigerant levels might also be low, forcing your cooling system to overwork and steam to build up. You can also check the drainage tube to ensure it’s not blocked. If it is, clear it so that water can flow freely.
4. Check for Weak Airflow
If your ductless AC system has weak airflow, check to see if the air filter is clean or if it has frozen evaporator coils. Again, a dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the system to work harder than necessary.
5. Check for Unusual Smells
When the indoor unit emits unpleasant or unusual odors, the cause could be a dirty filter which hopefully doesn’t need a replacement. Just like weak airflow, a build-up of dirt can cause your system to smell.
The unit may also be low on refrigerant. When this happens, the indoor coil can overheat, causing it to emit burning or smoky smells. Finally, if the drain pan is full of water, it can produce biological growth, which can also cause unpleasant odors.
6. Your System Isn’t Working at All
If your ductless AC isn’t working at all, first check to see if the power is on. If your system is receiving power, the next step is to check whether there is a clog in the filter that’s restricting airflow and causing the system to shut down. If the air filter is clean, the problem may be with frozen evaporator coils.
7. The Outdoor Unit Appears to Leak
If you notice that your outdoor unit is leaking, the first thing to do is check the coils for condensation. If they are wet, wipe them down with a clean cloth. A leak can also result from the refrigerant line.
If you see a large amount of water, it could be a sign of a more serious problem. One way to troubleshoot the cause is to check the drain pan and see if it’s full. If so, you may need to clean the pan and replace the drain line, but that’s where our pros come in.
To conquer all ductless AC problems, trust Griffith Energy Services. Since 1898, we’ve grown to be a powerhouse provider of HVAC equipment, including ductless min split air conditioners. Our team is equipped with well-trained experts to troubleshoot any issue and get your system up and running again in no time.
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