How to Clean a Mini-Split Outdoor Unit to Ensure Optimal Performance

In a climate as temperamental as the one in New Orleans, having working heating and cooling systems is crucial. High heat and humidity in particular can make staying in a building with a broken air conditioner uncomfortable, if not downright miserable. Thankfully, HVAC systems like ductless mini-splits can make it easy to cool most any property, even smaller spaces with little to no ductwork. However, in order to keep these systems working, it is important to ensure they are well-maintained, and that means regularly cleaning your outdoor unit.

Outdoor mini-split units can become coated with dust and debris, while objects like twigs can get caught inside the unit itself. Inspecting your unit, regularly clearing out foreign objects and planning maintenance visits are important aspects of keeping it in optimal condition for as long as possible. But how can you tell when it’s time to clean your unit, and when should a professional be called instead?

What is a Ductless Mini-Split System?

Like standard air conditioners, most ductless mini-splits consist of outdoor and indoor units. The outdoor unit contains the compressor, which is where the gaseous refrigerant, heated by the evaporator coils, is pressurized and recirculated back through the HVAC system. It also contains the condenser, which releases heat in order to cool the gas rapidly and revert it back to its liquid form, allowing it to begin its journey all over again. The indoor unit(s) contains the evaporator coils, which absorb the heat and moisture from your property’s air, and the blower fan, which pushes cool air into your space. These units are not connected by ductwork, like standard air conditioners, but instead by refrigerant lines. This has the added benefit of preventing the energy loss common in ductwork systems due to leakage.

Ductless mini-split systems can provide both hot and cold air to your property, and unlike standard systems, may utilize multiple indoor units to do so. Additionally, mini-split systems provide the added benefit of allowing each indoor unit to be set to different temperatures, depending on what is most comfortable to the room’s occupants. However, one unit cannot be heating a space while another cools it—each indoor unit has to be completing the same function.

Cleaning Your Outdoor Mini-Split Unit

Cleaning your mini-split unit regularly can help to prevent clogs and keep your system working efficiently. While property owners may not be able to do as thorough a job as professionals, you can still inspect and clean your unit once every month or so. Your outdoor unit may need the most attention, as it is regularly exposed to dust and debris. But if you’ve never washed an HVAC system before, you may be wondering how to clean a mini-split outdoor unit without accidentally damaging it. 

Thankfully, our Optimum Air Solutions team is here to help. Cleaning out your system isn’t too difficult; many property owners never even remove the covering. Start by clearing any leaves, twigs or other debris from around the appliance. Remove any easily reachable debris which is stuck inside in order to prevent it from obstructing the heat exchange process. Additionally, use some water and a clean cloth to wipe any dust and dirt off of your outdoor unit’s exterior. You can even gently turn on your hose in order to give it a good rinse.

Those who are looking for more in-depth cleaning tips for mini-split outdoor units can remove the covering and, if you feel comfortable doing so, gently clean some of the unit’s components. For example, the condenser coils and the fan which cools them. However, if the covering is not easily removed, or if you are concerned about damaging your outdoor unit, you can call a professional HVAC technician and ask them to do a deep clean of your system. This process will likely include all indoor and outdoor components, and consist of services including:

• Inspecting and changing filters
• Cleaning coils and fans
• Checking refrigerant lines for leaks or damage
• Cleaning out the condensate drain pain, which collects any water that drips from the evaporator coils

Benefits of Regularly Washing Your Outdoor Mini-Split Unit

Regular mini-split outdoor unit maintenance, whether personally or professionally done, has the potential to offer a host of benefits, including:

• Improved efficiency. Allowing dirt and debris to clog up your outdoor unit can cause your system to struggle to effectively cool the refrigerant, raising your energy costs. Once the clogs are cleared, your energy bill should once again reduce.
• Fewer repairs. Keeping your unit clean and well-maintained can help prevent unnecessary wear and tear, allowing you to avoid resulting repair costs. Additionally, professional maintenance will allow your technician to check for damages or other areas of concern and repair them before they become larger and more costly.
• Better air quality. A dirty HVAC unit can spread dust and mold spores throughout your property, potentially impacting your health. Regularly clean your system in order to allow yourself, as well as any other occupants, to breathe easier. 

Contact Optimum Air Solutions to Schedule a Mini-Split Maintenance Appointment Today

Ductless mini-split HVAC systems are beneficial for small spaces and homes without ductwork, allowing air to be pumped precisely where it’s needed with little to no energy loss along the way. But in order to keep your system working properly, you have to keep it clean and well-maintained. Outdoor units in particular may become clogged or coated in dirt, as they are regularly exposed to the elements.

If you’re wondering how to clean a mini-split outdoor unit, or if you think you might need professional assistance, our team at Optimum Air Solutions has got you covered. With over 20 years of HVAC experience, we are ready to help make sure your system is running smoothly and efficiently at the times you need it most. So if you think your mini-split system may be experiencing issues, or if you would like to schedule routine maintenance, just give us a call today