The mini split system is a sleek and modern type of air conditioner that is both energy efficient, and powerful in cooling large spaces. This cooling system is low maintenance, but would benefit from a regular cleaning once a month. In this article, we present the step-by-step way you can clean a mini split unit easily and thoroughly.
How to Clean Mini Split Air Conditioner: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
The first step in cleaning your mini split system is to gather your materials before you start the cleaning process. This will ensure you have the tools you need on hand to remove all the dirt from your mini split ductless air conditioner. Here's what you'll need:
- 3% Hydrogen peroxide OR
- Commercial coil cleaner
- Dish soap or Mild detergent
- Warm water
- Fin comb or Soft-bristled brush - or any coil cleaning tool
- Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment
- Compressed air
- Sturdy ladder - optional; for when your mini split air conditioner is too high
- Blunt knife - to realign fins
- Regular garden hose
Step 2: Reach Up to the Mini Split Air Conditioner
Using a ladder or a sturdy base, reach up to your mini split unit. You won't need to take the indoor unit off its mount, but be sure you have a sturdy base to step on as you do the cleaning. You may also prepare tarps around the area to protect your floors, and other furniture from dripping water or dust.
Step 3: Unplug, and Open the Front Cover
Unplug your ductless mini split system. It is important to unplug the unit before you start cleaning to prevent accidental electrocution. If you cannot unplug the unit, temporarily cut off all electrical connections through the circuit breaker connected to your mini split. Next, open the front cover of your unit to start the mini split cleaning procedure.
Step 4: Clean the Air Filter and Drain Pan
Inside, you will find the air filters, the drain pan as well as the drain hose connected to it, and the evaporator coil. Take out the air filter and the removable drain tray, and wash them separately with some warm water and mild soap. Use a brush to clean the mesh of air filters, and leave them out to air dry, or pat with a dry cloth.
Step 5: Vacuum the Evaporator Coil
Use your vacuum cleaner with the brush attachment, and gently vacuum up the dust and debris from the evaporator coil of your indoor unit. Use a brush or fin comb to clear away the dust from between the coils. A can of compressed air can remove the dust from deep inside the unit if needed. Vacuum up the dust that flies out.
Step 6: Spray with Disinfecting Solution
After dusting your ductless mini split air handler, spray the unit with disinfectant. A solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide does the trick, but if you have access to a commercial coil cleaner, you can use the cleaning solution as well - just follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 7: Clean the Unit's Exterior Surface
Clean the exterior unit of your ductless mini split system by wiping off the dust with a damp cloth, then applying disinfectant solution on the exterior housing. Be sure to brush the dirt out of the vents as well for a full clean.
Step 8: Fix Bent Fins
If you notice any bent fins in your coils, which may happen as time goes by due to wear and tear, simply use a blunt knife to straighten the fins back to their original position. However, do this with caution as the fins easily bend and break. Do not force the AC unit fins to bend if the resistance is too strong; instead, contact our technicians at Luce Aircon to fix them.
Step 9: Clean the Outdoor Unit
To clean the outdoor unit, unscrew the housing of the unit, and take the fan unit out of the housing. Use a garden hose to spray water on the compressor coils and fan blades to clear away the dust. Use a strong water spray to dislodge any stuck-on grime.
Step 10: Dry, then Piece Together
Let everything dry before placing the indoor and outdoor units back together. Bring the power back to your ductless air conditioner, and power on the mini split's indoor unit once the AC is completely dry to make sure everything is functioning properly.
Tips to Maintain Your Mini Split Air Conditioner
- Ductless mini split systems must be professionally cleaned once every 4-6 months to keep them in good working order. Let our technicians at Luce Aircon handle the deep cleaning for you!
- Avoid using household chemical cleaners on your indoor air handler as the ingredients may be too harsh for the internal components of a ductless mini split AC unit.
- Have your HVAC systems undergo a maintenance checkup often to catch problems, and fix them before they become bigger issues.
- Clean the indoor and outdoor units regularly. Wipe down the exterior surface of your indoor unit with a dry or damp cloth, and hose down your outdoor unit to prevent dust from entering through the vents.
Mini Split Cleaning
When it's time for your AC unit to have a thorough cleaning, contact our specialists at Luce Aircon for an all-around cleaning, chemical wash, maintenance, and repairs that will keep your unit in perfect shape longer!
Want more aircon cleaning tips? Check out our blog for articles on buying, installing, and cleaning AC units!
