Mini Split Air Conditioner Issues: 7 Common Problems

It’s hugely annoying if your mini-split stops working on a hot summer day.

Toaster Hisory
Toaster Hisory

But, before you lose your cool, remember that complications and problems can occur regardless of brand, and there are things you can do to get your mini split up and running again.

Continue reading if you find yourself in this situation with your mini split.

Mini Split Won’t Turn On

Pressing the remote control and the mini split is not turning on. Frustrating on a hot humid day!!

If your mini split isn’t turning on, it’s most likely due to a tripped circuit breaker or being improperly plugged in.

If you find yourself in such a situation, refer to the solutions mentioned below.

Possible solution(s):

  • The first thing you should do is check if the power cable is plugged in properly and if the circuit breaker has not been tripped. You can also plug the power cable into a different socket to test if there’s an issue with the socket. 
  • Before you call a technician check if there is a blown fuse or a tripped breaker, If the fuse is found to be burnt out, replace the burned-out fuse and reset the circuit breaker to fix the error.
  • If the AC seems to be getting a constant supply of power, there’s something wrong with the internal machinery of the AC. Cleaning the clogged filter might help at times; however, usually, you’ll need a professional to fix the condenser coil or compressor.

Mini Split Fan Not Working

If the fan on your mini-split is not working, it is most likely due to a faulty motor or relay board.

If that’s the case for you, your AC fan has failed to work.

To fix this problem, continue reading the solutions for this issue below.

Possible solution(s):

  • If you’re not receiving any air, chances are, there’s something wrong with the fan. Usually, there are three issues with the fan that include obstructions between the blades, bent blades, and a jammed fan axle. To fix these issues, simply open the AC unit and bring the blades back into shape, removing any obstructions.
  • If the fan appears to be fine, there’s something wrong with the fan motor. Test the motor with the help of a multimeter. If the motor does not have any current, call a professional to replace it.

Mini Split Not Cooling

If your mini split isn’t cooling, it’s most likely due to a clogged air filter or a faulty thermostat.

However, there’s no need to worry, as you might be able to fix it by reading the solutions and causes below.

Possible solution(s):

  • The cool air passes through the air filter before it reaches you. However, if the air filter is too dirty, most of the air will be held back. So, open up your mini split unit and clean up the filter thoroughly for a quick fix.
  • If the air filter is already cleaned up, your mini split unit has some faulty components that need to be replaced. Typically, these components include a thermistor and a condenser coil. You will need to call a professional to fix these components.

Mini Split Remote Control Not Responding

When you want to change the settings of your mini split system without having to use the control panel on the AC, the remote control, like a TV, comes in handy.

If your mini split remote isn’t working, the problem is most likely with the batteries.

Possible solution(s):

  • Usually, this issue can be easily fixed by simply replacing the low batteries in the remote control. However, if the remote control still doesn’t work, you may be using it out of range. 
  • The control panel in the mini-split is responsible for receiving signals from the remote. However, if the control panel is faulty, the system will remain unresponsive. To fix this issue, you need to check the connections of the control panel to the main power and replace them if broken. 

Mini Split Making Too Much Noise

While properly functioning, the mini-split will make some noise, and it can become a problem when your unit begins to make excessive noise.

However, this problem can easily be fixed by using the solutions below.

Possible solution(s):

  • If you hear something rattling or vibrating inside the mini-split system, it’s usually due to debris. So, open your AC unit and remove any unwanted objects near the vents, filter, and fans. 
  • If there is no debris in your AC, clean up the air filter, as air passes through a clogged air filter can produce a lot of noise.

Mini Split Faulty Compressor

The culprit behind a faulty compressor might simply be a lack of power. So, make sure the circuit breaker hasn’t been tripped and the power cable is plugged in correctly. There may also be a disconnection of power within the unit that you’ll need to fix by opening the unit.

Failed AC parts are another reason behind a faulty compressor. If the capacitor and thermostat have failed to work, the compressor won’t start either. To fix these components, you will need to call a professional.

Mini Split Producing Bad Odor

Mold, a lack of refrigerant, or a faulty unit are the most common causes of an unpleasant odor in a mini-split.

A refrigerant leak is likely if your mini-split smells like fish, or vinegar or has a sweet odor. A lack of chilled air is another tell-tale sign that you don’t have enough refrigerant.

If you’re dealing with this issue, it’s best to use some of the solutions mentioned below as soon as possible.

Possible solution(s):

  • If your mini-split has been spreading an unpleasant smell, it could be due to the presence of mold. After all, the humid internal environment of an mini-split is the perfect place for mold to grow. You will need to contact a professional to get rid of the mold for you.
  • If mold isn’t a problem and your mini-split is still spreading a bad smell, your unit might have an issue with its components. Overheated parts can easily spread a burning smell. Additionally, a gas leak can produce the smell of rotten eggs. To fix faulty components, call in a professional

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