If an air conditioner is having a problem, it’s truly best to have it repaired as quickly as you can. This can save you a lot of time and money in the long run, as you’re much less likely to end up dealing with breakdowns, more expensive repairs, or even an air conditioner that fails completely well before you thought you’d need to replace it.
One of the best things about a ductless mini split is its impressive efficiency. But when an AC or heat pump system needs repair, it almost always becomes much less efficient. You certainly don’t want to deal with skyrocketing electric bills! The important thing is to notice a problem right away, so you can get it fixed promptly. But what are the signs that your ductless mini split needs repair?
Noises
Just like any other complex system, whether it’s your furnace or your car, unusual noises mean you need professional help. Banging, booming, rattling, clattering, hissing, whistling, bubbling, dripping, buzzing, and clicking are all sounds that an air conditioner or heat pump might make when something is wrong. Really, any change in the sounds you’re hearing are cause for concern.
Smells
A refrigerant leak might leave your home smelling like sweet chemicals. Bacterial growth smells sour, like vinegar, and can happen if there’s a clog in your AC’s condensate drain. If you smell mildew, there’s mold growing somewhere, probably inside an air handler. And anything that smells hot, like burning dust or melting plastic, is a sign of an overheating motor and an urgent repair need.
Short Cycling
Your system should run a cooling cycle a few times an hour, bringing the temp down and then turning off for a while. A variety of problems can cause short cycling, when the system shuts down too soon and starts up again right away. This isn’t just a sign of an existing problem, it’s also a cause of more problems, like rising utility bills and a strained compressor, so get repairs straightaway.
Moisture
One of the biggest differences between ducted and ductless AC systems or heat pumps is about moisture. Since there are evaporator coils in each and every air handler, condensation develops in each air handler, and needs to be safely conducted out of your home. That means each air handler has a condensate pan and a drain line, while a central AC or heat pump only has one for the whole system.
This simply increases the odds of something going wrong with the drainage mechanisms of your ductless system. Algae, bacteria, or mold can grow in a condensate pan and block the drain, or damage or deterioration can allow water to leak out of the pan. Excess humidity, dripping water, moisture stains on the wall near an air handler, or odors from a specific air handler all mean you need repairs now before you have serious water damage.
For these or any other concerns about your ductless mini split in Hayden, ID, don’t hesitate to reach out.
ACI Northwest is here to help. Contact us today with any questions about your air conditioning.