How to Clean a Ductless Mini Split AC 

A mini split AC and heat pump is an efficient way to cool or heat single rooms, combining an outdoor compressor and an indoor air handler with an evaporator coil. Because there is no ductwork, there are also no concerns over dust and germs coating the inside of your ducts and blowing into your space.

But a ductless mini split unit will still collect on both the indoor and outdoor components, as well as the interior parts where the debris can inhibit functionality and make your living between spaces less clean. Regularly cleaning a mini split, which most homeowners can do themselves, will safely remove dust and keep your unit in good condition. 

Steps for Cleaning a Ductless Mini Split

More and more homeowners are installing ductless mini split ACs for their localized cooling, efficient operation, and ease of use. But to maximize the capabilities of a mini split and help it to work for as long as possible, regular maintenance is necessary. 

There are a range of tasks for ductless mini split maintenance, as well as any in depth cleaning, that should always be left to a professional since a mini split has many moving and delicate parts that need to be handled with knowledge and care to avoid damage. For this reason, you should leave annual or twice yearly maintenance to professionals.

But there are several cleaning tasks you can handle on your own in between visits if you feel comfortable. These include:

• Cleaning the Indoor Cabinet – Like any surface in your home, dust can collect on the outside of the air handler inside your home. Wiping it down with a cloth or a vacuum is suitable for removing any dust on the plastic cover.
• Cleaning the Air Filter – Every one to two months, you should check the air filter and clean any dust from it. This will help the system more easily circulate air.
• Cleaning the Inside – When you are checking the air filter, this is a good time to also use a cloth to wipe up any dust that may have settled inside the air handler cabinet.
• Checking the Outdoor Unit – Every few months, you should check the outdoor unit for any debris that may have built up around it. You can also check the fins for debris that may have become caught between them. You can brush away debris or use a low powered garden hose to wash away dust, but be gentle as the fins and other components are fragile. 

When you are cleaning a mini split AC, practice safety and always turn off the unit before opening the cabinet or spraying anything with a garden hose.

If during the course of your cleaning you find more significant problems or need additional maintenance, California Energy Consultant Service can provide AC mini split system maintenance and repairs in Sacramento to make sure that your mini split heat pump continues to work efficiently and provide as many years of service as possible. Learn more about our mini split installation and other services with a call to our team.