Most of the mistakes that can make it unsafe to run a ductless mini-split system happen during installation. A good HVAC professional avoids these problems, but there are still things you need to avoid to make sure your system runs safely.
Not Changing or Cleaning the Filter Regularly
One of the worst mistakes to make when it comes to your mini-split system is to never change or clean the air filter. A clogged filter can’t remove pollutants from your indoor air and makes the system work harder than it should. This runs up your energy bill and shortens the life of your system. Check and clean the filter every month or so or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Not Cleaning the Cabinet
As the air filter itself needs cleaning, so does the inside of the cabinet. Make sure to turn off the power, then use a vacuum with the brush attachment, a microfiber cloth or a dry, lint-free cloth to clean.
Not Cleaning the Condenser
An outdoor condenser that’s allowed to fill up with debris and dirt also stresses the system and will need to be replaced prematurely. Remove trash such as dead leaves from around the condenser, and make sure there’s a clear area around it free of plants and shrubbery. Use a garden hose, not a pressure washer, to rinse off the coils after you’ve shut the unit off at the circuit box. The condenser’s fins are very delicate and should not be bent. If you see dirt and debris between the fins, you might be able to clean them with a special brush. If you’re unsure, call in an HVAC professional to do this job. Once the condenser is clean, don’t turn it on again until it’s completely dry.
Never Calling in an HVAC Technician
Not wanting to damage the fins in your condenser unit is a good reason to call in an HVAC professional, but there are other reasons as well. A professional can clean and inspect parts of your mini-split system that you shouldn’t handle. They’ll also be able to tell if the system is low on refrigerant. If it is, they can recharge it. Recharging refrigerant is something that a layperson shouldn’t do.
Ignoring Signs of Trouble
The signs of some safety mistakes might go unnoticed by a layperson. This is another reason to call in a professional for troubleshooting. People may ignore weird sounds from the indoor or outdoor components of the system. They may overlook excess condensation or frozen coils. They might even see something that looks awry but are unsure of how to fix it or whether it needs fixing in the first place. Other problems people put off solving include getting only warm air when the system should be blowing cool air, or getting reduced airflow. If you have concerns or require mini split installation services, contact Integrity Home Solutions in Tampa Bay, FL.