In a central heating and cooling system, there is usually an AC that provides cooling and furnace that provides the heating. Unlike that, in a ductless system, the same components provide both heating and cooling. As a result, they need twice the care. The maintenance is delivered in the form of a tune-up, the absence of which will prevent you from enjoying the full benefits of your system.
Why The Ductless System Needs A Tune-Up?
A heating and cooling system, whether ducted or ductless, works days tirelessly on end. Continuous operations for long periods of time result in its wear and tear due to which some parts may become loose or start rubbing against each other, creating friction. The air that passes through the unit will also leave in its wake dust and other debris that accumulate inside the unit and cause interference in its working. An AC Tune-Up takes care of all these aspects and ensures that the unit is working efficiently.
Myth – Ductless ACs Don’t Require Tune-Up
The origin of this myth lies in the fact that most HVAC issues arise due to faulty ductwork. So if the ductwork is removed from the equation, a large part of the problems will not occur. Important is to note that ducts may play a major role in the probable cause of the problem, but they are not always the cause. Consequently, it is terrible to jump to conclusions and assume that a ductless system will not need any maintenance.
Fact – Ductless Systems Need Twice More Maintenance
As we mentioned above, a mini-split system or a ductless system caters to both the heating and cooling needs of your home. It works twice as hard as the HVAC, where heating is provided by the furnace and cooling by the air conditioner. An HVAC demands an annual tune-up. Therefore, the ductless system which works, even more, needs a semi-annual tune-up. One maintenance should be carried out at the onset of summer and the other just before the winters set in. The two tune-ups at a gap of 6 months will allow the mini-split system to keep the home at a comfortable temperature throughout the year.
Things That Are Checked During Tune-Up Of Ductless AC
All electrical and mechanical systems need a tune-up, and so does your mini-split system. Ductless AC tune-up or maintenance is a technical process that is best handled by professional HVAC technicians or contractors. It involves:
1. Checking for refrigerant leaks and loose electrical connections.
2. The run capacitors are given a thorough once over.
3. The hoses are inspected for any blockages.
4. The indoor and outdoor units, along with the filter of the indoor units, will be given a thorough cleaning.
5. Moving parts are lubricated to reduce friction and the wear and tear,
6. The thermostat is also given a once over to ensure that it is functioning satisfactorily.
In case any problems are detected by the technician during AC tune-up, they will bring them to your notice and carry out the necessary repairs after taking your consent.
Can You Do Tune-Up For Your Mini-Split System?
The mini-split system installed in your home is a costly investment that you wish to protect at all costs. You want to get full value for money from its use and also keep it in perfect working order till the very end. The urge to do an AC tune-up might hit you from time to time. If it does, remember that you cannot tackle all the activities that are a part of professional maintenance. Having said that, there are a couple of things that you can do with ease and will tide you over for a couple of days until you can afford the professional tune-up. So, here is a list of things that you can do for your mini-split system safely:
1. One of the simplest things that you can do is keep the outside of the indoor and outdoor units clean. Dusting both once a week will prevent any dust and debris from entering the unit.
2. Keep the area around the outdoor unit free of any obstructions. If there are bushes growing, cut them down. If there are dead leaves and clutter around it, sweep them away. The basic idea is to keep the vicinity free of any such thing that can restrict the free flow of air and damage the unit during a gale or high winds.
3. The ductless ACs tend to amass ice and snow when they are run for heating. In winters, regularly inspect the exterior of the unit for any deposits and build-ups. If you find any, carefully remove them.
4. You can also clean the air filter inside the air handler. Carefully remove them, the instructions for the same can be found in the manual that came with your unit, and wipe them clean. The instruction manual will also tell you how often it should be done.
5. The biggest challenge is to know your limitations and accept them. Do not try to do more than what the manufacturer and the HVAC technician approves. If you try to do everything yourself and in the process cause any damage to the unit, it will not be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. Call the HVAC technician for AC tune-up and also when you suspect that something is wrong with it. Refrain from making your AC your pet DIY activity.
Final Words
The ductless AC systems need a semi-annual tune-up to keep them operating efficiently throughout the year. If anyone tells you otherwise, they are misinformed. These systems though small in size, are still complicated, and one cannot overlook their maintenance for the sake of saving a few dollars. Ultimately, this penny pinching may come back to bite you in the form of costly repairs.
The air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning are eager to assist the residents of West Palm Beach, Florida, in regards to their heating and cooling systems. You can reach out to our elite team anytime, 24/7, at +1-888-729-8452.
