Mini-Split Air Conditioners are known to be highly effective and efficient. However, that is primarily dependent on how well-maintained they are. Maintaining a mini-split air conditioner means you should clean it regularly to keep it running as smoothly as possible. So, let’s take a deeper look into how you can thoroughly clean your ductless air conditioner to keep it looking brand new.

How Can I Clean My Mini-Split Air Conditioner?

A ductless AC has two primary components: an interior and an outdoor unit. It is important to clean both these components periodically as dirt, dust, and debris accumulation could take place inside. While the indoor unit has air filters, the outdoor unit has parts like the compressor, evaporator, coils, etc.

This is why the majority of homeowners prefer cleaning the indoor unit and hiring an expert to clean the outside unit. If you are unsure of the maintenance schedule of your ductless air conditioner, you should consult the user’s manual. Manufacturers usually recommended maintaining both the indoor and outdoor unit at least twice a year or once by a professional. However, that depends on the usage frequency.

To clean your mini-split air conditioner, you should first turn off the unit and unplug it from the main socket. Wait a while before you can begin cleaning. Wear safety gloves and other necessary equipment to avoid injuries or electrocution.

Then, grab a soft brush, a soft cloth, and cleaning agents. If you intend to clean the outdoor unit of the system on your own, keep in mind that you will have to work slowly and take time to remove the dust and debris. The reason is that the components inside the outdoor unit can be sensitive and you can simply end up damaging them with harsh movements.

Cleaning The Indoor Unit Of Your Mini-Split

To begin cleaning the indoor unit, you should spray some cleaning agent directly on the cloth or the unit and use the soft cloth to wipe the cleaning agent, removing the dust and debris along the way. Next, you should take out the air filters and clean them using plain water and soap or detergent.

And now that you have accessed the air filters of the AC, take a look inside and make sure there isn’t any serious dust, dirt, and debris accumulation that might influence the performance of the unit in the future.

Once you are done cleaning the air filter, begin cleaning the evaporator coil. To access the coil, you will need to remove the cabinet. If you haven’t cleaned the coils in a long time, you can expect some serious dirt accumulation that will require a bit of time and effort to remove. Use a soft brush if necessary.

Finally, clean the condensate pan along with the drain. You might need to use a cleaning agent along with a soft brush and other cleaning agents to remove any mold growth or debris accumulation.

Cleaning The Outdoor Unit Of Your Mini-Split

After finishing up cleaning the indoor unit, it is time to clean the outdoor unit of your ductless AC. Since the outdoor unit is installed outside, it has to bear the brunt of extreme weather conditions and other external factors that might cause leaves, twigs, or grass to make their way inside.

First, you will need to clean the exterior of the outdoor unit and make sure any dirt accumulation is removed. Next, you will need to unscrew the exterior to access the interior. Examine the intensity of dirt accumulation and begin cleaning the components using a soft cloth and cleaning agent.

However, if the dirt accumulation is too stubborn, you might need to use a hard brush. Spray the cleaning agent on the components and let them sit for a while to loosen the dirt particles. Make sure that you clean the fan blades as well but be extra careful during the process. Allow the unit to dry or use an air blower to remove excess water or detergent.

Final Word

Cleaning your mini-split air conditioner might be a bit complicated at first but you will get a hang of it. Make sure that you follow the instructions mentioned above and slowly work your way through the cleaning process. If not, hire AC repair services Smithtown that can get the job done with relatively fewer risks involved.