Mini-split air conditioners, also known as ductless air conditioners, have become increasingly popular due to their efficiency, versatility, and space savings they have to offer. However, like any AC system, they can develop issues over time, such as water leakage.
Water leakage can cause serious damage to your home and pose a health risk. If you are looking for information to fix AC leak issues, read on to learn what the experienced technicians at American Home Water and Air told us about this problem.
Condensate Drainage Issues
The most common cause of water leakage in a mini-split air conditioner can be traced back to the condensate drain. These systems work by removing moisture from the air and releasing it outside.
This moisture collects in a drain pan and is drained off through a pipe. If this pipe becomes clogged or is not installed correctly, the drain pan will overflow, causing water to leak from the unit.
In order to prevent condensate drainage issues, it is important to have your mini-split air conditioner installed by a professional. An experienced HVAC technician will ensure that the drainage pipe is correctly installed and that it is the appropriate size for your system.
You will also want to have your system serviced regularly to ensure that the drainage pipe doesn’t become clogged. As with most things, preventative maintenance is always better than waiting for an issue to occur.
Dirty Air Filters
While mini-split systems don’t have ducts that can get dirty, they do have air filters. These filters are designed to remove dust, dirt, and other particles from the air so that they don’t continue to circulate through your home.
As time passes, these filters can get clogged, reducing the airflow through the system. When this happens, the evaporator coil can freeze, causing water to build up and leak from the unit.
To prevent dirty air filters from causing water leakage, it is essential to replace your filters regularly. The frequency of filter replacement depends on the usage of your system and the air quality in your home.
Typically, it is okay to change your filters quarterly, but if you have pets, periods of high use, or members of your household with allergies or other breathing concerns, you should change your air filters at least monthly.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant levels can also cause water leakage in a mini-split air conditioner. Refrigerant is a vital component of your system, as it is responsible for cooling the air. If the refrigerant level in your system is low, not only will the evaporator coil not cool the air effectively, it may freeze. This will result in water leaking from the unit.
Having your system routinely maintained will prevent low refrigerant levels. During regular servicing of your unit, the HVAC technician will check the refrigerant levels in your system and add more if necessary.
Poor Maintenance
Skipping on regular maintenance is another cause of water leakage in a mini-split air conditioner. Regular maintenance is key when it comes to keeping your system functioning correctly. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs and potentially dangerous conditions, such as mold growth in your home.
Typical maintenance performed by a professional will include all or some of the following:
- Air filter inspection, cleaning, and replacement.
- Cleaning of removable parts, including fans and coils.
- Cleaning the condensing unit.
- Application of a fungistat or bacteriostat to help avoid buildup on the coils.
- Inspect system components like mounting hardware, electrical connections, and refrigerant levels and lines.
Preventing Leaks in your Mini-Split AC
To prevent water leakage and other issues, it is essential to have your mini-split air conditioner serviced regularly. Professional maintenance and inspection will ensure that your system is operating efficiently and catch any potential issues before they become more serious issues.
Water leaks in a mini-split air conditioner can be caused by a variety of issues, but having the system installed by a professional, replacing air filters regularly, having it serviced regularly, and taking care of any issues as soon as they arise can prevent them from happening and reduce your chances of experiencing downtime when you need the system most.