Is your mini-split not cooling? California homeowners count on these small but mighty air conditioners to keep room additions and small spaces comfortable. But if your system is down, it can be a major inconvenience at best, or an HVAC emergency at worst. In this article, we’ll cover a few of the most common reasons a mini-split stops cooling, offer a few troubleshooting tips, and explain when it’s time to call a professional for AC repairs.
Common Reasons Your Mini-Split Is Not Cooling
Ductless mini-splits are a great way to cool smaller spaces when central AC is too impractical or expensive for a given area, or as an HVAC solution for older homes with no existing ductwork. But if your mini-splits aren’t working, you might be wondering if you made the right choice. Fortunately, there’s a good chance your issue is completely repairable. Here are a few of the most common reasons a mini-split AC stops cooling.
Incorrect thermostat settings
One of the most common reasons for a mini-split shutdown is also one of the easiest to fix: Incorrect thermostat settings. Double-check the power and your settings on either your wall thermostat or mini-split remote, and make sure the system is set to ‘cool’ or ‘auto’ and that the desired temperature is below the current room temperature.
Blocked airflow
If the thermostat isn’t to blame, airflow might be. Your mini-split requires an uninterrupted stream of air in order to function. If this is blocked by a clogged air filter or debris on the mini-split’s outdoor unit, it won’t be able to cool the air effectively. Make sure that the system is getting proper airflow before continuing to troubleshoot.
Low refrigerant
Refrigerant is the chemical responsible for cooling the air before it’s sent into your home via the mini-split AC. If the refrigerant system has sprung a leak, the refrigerant levels may be too low to properly cool the air, resulting in your mini-split not blowing cold air and acting like more of a bad heater than an air conditioner. Refrigerants are very hazardous to use without the right tools and knowledge, so contact a professional if you suspect a leak.
Evaporator coil trouble
Your evaporator coil is another key component in cooling the air for your mini-split. It helps to remove heat and moisture from the air, turning it into water condensate, which is then drained away. If your coils become dirty or freeze up, it will stop the mini-split from cooling effectively.
Broken or malfunctioning components
Your mini-split AC is a complex machine full of many components and moving parts. If any of these become loose, damaged, or broken, it could lead to the system shutting down entirely or performing very poorly. Generally, mini-split parts can be repaired or replaced, but you’ll need an expert to diagnose the issue and ensure accurate repair.
Mini-Split AC Not Cooling After Installation
Some people report their system failing to cool immediately after installation. This can happen for a few reasons, such as improper installation, a faulty refrigerant line setup, or inadequate power supply to the unit. If you installed your own mini-split and are facing issues right away, it’s worth contacting a professional to check your work and ensure that the unit has been placed correctly.
What to Do If Mini-Split Is Not Working at All
If your mini-split has shut down entirely, it can be a serious problem, especially if it’s during a hot, California summer and you can’t make it down to the beach! If your system won’t switch on, double-check a few things before calling a pro:
- Check the thermostat to ensure it has power and is set correctly.
- Check your circuit breaker to see if the mini-split’s circuit has been tripped.
- Check the air filter and replace it if it’s visibly clogged and dirty.
- Look at the condensate drain pan and line to see if it’s clogged.
If you can’t get the system to run after following these steps, it’s time to contact an HVAC professional to inspect the system.
Troubleshooting Steps You Can Try
In general, there are a few basic troubleshooting methods homeowners can use to try to get their mini-splits operational and blowing cold air again.
Checking the thermostat
The thermostat is one of the most common causes of mini-split issues and shutdowns, so it’s always worth checking before you take your mini-split apart or do anything more drastic. Sometimes, a simple new battery in your thermostat is all you need to start cooling your space again.
Changing air filters
Air filters are another surprisingly common cause of mini-split issues. You generally need to change or clean these every 1 to 3 months, or whenever they are visibly clogged and dirty. Follow your manufacturer’s instructions for info on how often to change your air filters for optimal airflow.
Cleaning the outdoor unit
Grass trimmings, twigs, fallen leaves, and other debris can clog up the external unit’s airflow, putting excess strain on the system or causing it to break down. Carefully clean and dry the outdoor unit (with the power off) and see if it resolves your issue.
Checking the drain pan and line
If your mini-split can’t drain condensate water due to a clog in the drain pan or drain line, it will eventually cause the system to shut down. Fortunately, these clogs are usually quite easy to clean out yourself.
Double-check the power supply
Take a look at your electrical panel and see if the breaker that your mini-split is on has been tripped. You may be able to simply flip it back and get back to cooling your home. However, if the breaker trips repeatedly, it indicates an issue with your mini-split, your electrical panel, or both.
When to Call a Professional for Mini-Split Repairs
If the above troubleshooting steps don’t fix your mini-split problems, it’s time to call a professional. The HVAC technicians at PDS Plumbing, Heating and Air are highly experienced in mini-split installation, diagnostics, and repair, and are here to thoroughly inspect the system and get it back up and running in no time.
We’re proud to offer comprehensive mini-split repair services across our California service area, including in Clovis, Signal Hill, Murrieta, Bellflower, Long Beach, and beyond. If you’re tired of unreliable cooling from your ductless AC system, we’re here to help.
PDS Plumbing & Air Offers Mini-Split Repairs You Can Trust
If you’re ready to put mini-split AC problems to bed, we’re here to help. We’ll arrive quickly, diagnose effectively, and work efficiently to ensure a quick, permanent resolution to your AC issues. With years of experience and a real commitment to your comfort, PDS Plumbing & Air is California’s go-to for HVAC service you can trust. Contact us today to schedule an AC service appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my mini-split leaking water?
If your mini-split is running but is leaking water, it’s usually due to an issue with either the condensate drain line, drain pan, or evaporator coil. This can usually be resolved with a simple cleaning and tune-up.
Do mini-split filters need to be changed?
Yes, mini-split filters need to be changed (or cleaned, depending on the model), regularly. Usually, you should change these filters every 30 to 90 days.
How long does mini-split AC repair take?
Depending on the nature of your mini-split AC issue, our team can usually repair your system in just a few hours.
