Best Practices for Maintaining (and prolonging the lifespan) your Ductless Mini Split

You want your customers to be happy with their new mini split. 

Mini split maintenance helps them get the most out of their new purchase. Well-maintained mini split can last up to 20 years or even longer!

In this brief post, we will discuss mini split AC maintenance and how to service a mini split as an HVAC tech.

Why Mini Split Maintenance is Important

All heating and air conditioning systems demand maintenance to operate correctly, but with ductless mini split systems, it's mandatory.

Energy Use

Mini split rely on free-flowing air circulation on the system's indoor and outdoor parts. The harder it is for the ductless system to operate, the more energy costs rise.

Some research suggests that a poorly maintained min split uses up to 25 percent more energy than a properly maintained one. Since one of the advantages of a ductless system is its energy efficiency, maintenance is critical.

Damage to the Unit

A lack of clean air filters also damages the indoor components of the mini split unit. Dirty filters are notoriously bad for ductless units, so it's a good idea to start your mini-split system maintenance there.

Longevity

Ductless AC maintenance is also important for the life of the system. The better care you take of them, the longer they last. Help customers stay satisfied with their purchase by servicing their mini split regularly.

Best Practices for Mini Split System Maintenance

For the best results, we recommend that you service mini split systems every year or every two years. Here are a few best practices for that maintenance process.

Inspect The Unit

Regular inspections are a crucial part of mini split maintenance. An inspection tells you:

• The condition of the unit
• Parts that need to be replaced
• Unusual wear patterns
• Electrical issues

When you inspect a mini split AC system, remember to look at the following:

• Electric wire or tubing rubouts
• Electrical connectors
• Refrigerant connections

Remove and Clean Air Filters

The AC and heat pumps for ductless mini split systems require clean air filters to function correctly. Take out any air and dust filters, clean them, and replace them as needed.

Clean the Drain Line & Condensate Pump

The drain line and condensate pump should be inspected and cleaned with each maintenance performance—typically every 12 months.

Run A Test

After you've cleaned and inspected the mini split system, it's time to plug it all back in and see if it's working correctly. Once everything is back where it ought to be, do the following:

• Leave the bib in place and run a blower to remove excess moisture
• Listen for any out-of-the-norm noises
• Test both heat and AC settings
• Turn the system to full cool to see if it's operating right

Take Measurements

Measurements are the key to a good maintenance check. Even if something's slightly off the normal measurement, it can be a big red flag for your unit. Here's what to measure:

• Suction pressure and superheat at full cooling
• Applied voltage
• Outlet air temperature
• Compression, CFM Amps, and Blower

Give Clients Peace of Mind with Mini Split AC Maintenance

Whether you started out wondering how to service mini split systems or wondering do mini splits need maintenance, we hope this quick post answers your questions.

When a mini split unit is working correctly, they are a real lifesaver for many homeowners. Routine mini split maintenance keeps ductless AC units in top-tier condition.

Don't forget to offer your customers ongoing maintenance services to stir up repeat business and maintain the reputation ductless units have.

Let us help you build and maintain the perfect mini splits for your clients by buying a mini split from us. Check out our mini split AC collection to learn more and use our 5-year warranties.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Practices for Maintaining (and prolonging the lifespan) your Ductless Mini Split

How to maintain a ductless mini split?

Regularly clean or replace filters, inspect and clean the outdoor unit, and schedule annual professional maintenance.

What is the rule of thumb for ductless mini splits?

A common rule of thumb is to allocate about 20 to 30 BTUs per square foot of living space.

What is the most efficient way to run a mini split?

The most efficient way to run a mini split is to set it to a consistent, moderate temperature and use the "auto" or "eco" mode.

Should my mini split be running all the time?

Mini splits are designed to run continuously at low power to maintain a consistent temperature efficiently.

What is the preventive maintenance on a mini split?

Preventive maintenance includes cleaning or replacing filters, inspecting and cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, and ensuring proper drainage.

Is it more efficient to leave mini split on all the time?

Yes, it is generally more efficient to leave a mini split on all the time at a consistent temperature.

What is the life expectancy of a ductless mini split?

The life expectancy of a ductless mini split is typically between 12 to 15 years with proper maintenance.

What temperature should I keep my mini split at?

For optimal efficiency, set your mini split to around 68-72°F (20-22°C) in the winter and 75-78°F (24-26°C) in the summer.

How often do mini splits need to be recharged?

Mini splits rarely need to be recharged if they are properly installed and maintained, but if refrigerant levels are low, it should be checked by a professional.