Ductless AC Troubleshooting Guide
Resolve Common Ductless AC Problems
While ductless heating and AC systems are designed to provide continued comfort for your home for years, you may eventually run into an issue with your system. Most issues are relatively minor and can be addressed with a few simple fixes. If, however, your system isn’t working at all or is experiencing some other major problem, call Dr. Ductless for professional ductless AC repairs in Los Angeles and throughout the surrounding areas.
Browse our ductless AC troubleshooting guide for solutions to common ductless problems, or call to schedule repairs with our highly trained team!
Problem: The Unit Won’t Turn On Right Away
Most ductless heating and AC systems have built-in protections to prevent fuse blowouts. If you turn off the system and then immediately turn it back on, the compressor (the indoor unit) may not start for approximately three minutes to avoid a fuse blowout. Alternatively, if there is a power outage or power is otherwise interrupted, the unit’s protection circuit may delay re-starting for a period of three minutes once power has been restored.
Problem: You Can Hear Noises Coming From The Unit
Though ductless systems offer very quiet operation, a certain amount of noise emitting from the unit is normal and to be expected. Immediately after you turn on the compressor (indoor unit) and for a few minutes afterward, you might hear a noise that sounds like water flowing through the piping. This is, in fact, the coolant flowing through the unit. The same noise can sometimes be heard during operation, as well as immediately after the unit is turned off and for a few minutes afterward.
When the unit is running, you may also hear a minor squeaking sound. This is typically just the front panel/cover expanding and contracting slightly due to the changes in temperature.
Problem: The Indoor Unit Is Emitting Unpleasant Or Unusual Odors
Some smells, such as a smoky or musty odor, may simply be due to environmental factors. If you smoke indoors, for example, the unit may take in tobacco odors and/or smoke which can then be emitted back into the room. Pet dander, dust, and mildew can also lead to a unit that produces unpleasant or unwanted odors.
Problem: Steam Or Mist Is Coming From The AC Unit
When your system is set to cooling, the indoor unit may produce a very slight mist. This occurs as a result of condensation that forms when the air inside the room is suddenly cooled. When the system is set to heating, the outdoor unit may produce a small amount of steam. This usually occurs when the outdoor unit’s fan stops as a result of the automatic defrosting feature.
Problem: Your System Has Weak Airflow Or No Airflow At All
Weak or nonexistent airflow may be a symptom of several things. If your system is set to heating, you may experience weak or no airflow immediately after starting the system, as the internal fan speed can be very low initially to allow the various components to warm up. Additionally, while heating, the outdoor unit may stop if the internal temperature of your home rises above the temperature set on your thermostat. This will prompt the indoor unit to reduce the fan speed. To boost airflow, simply turn the thermostat to a higher setting.
Most ductless systems have an automatic defrosting mode designed to protect the various components of the system. When the system switches to automatic defrosting mode, it will stop temporarily—usually for a period of about 7 to 15 minutes. When this occurs, an “operation” indicator light will turn on or flash, alerting you that the system is in automatic defrosting mode.
You may also experience lessened airflow when the system is operating in “dry” mode or when it is monitoring the ambient temperature. If your system is set to “super quiet” mode or “auto” operation, the fan speed will also be reduced. If your system has a weak or nonexistent airflow, check these settings first to determine if you really need ductless heating or AC repairs.
Problem: The Outdoor Unit Appears To Be Leaking
During automatic defrosting mode, the outdoor unit may produce a small amount of water. This is normal and nothing to be worried about. However, if you notice any signs of a refrigerant leak, be sure to call Dr. Ductless for prompt ductless heating and AC repairs in Los Angeles and the nearby areas.
Problem: Your System Isn’t Working At All
One of the most common reasons we are called for ductless repairs is due to systems that simply won’t turn on. A non-operating unit could be the sign of a serious issue, but it could also simply indicate a minor problem. Before calling our professional repair team, first check to see if there has been a power outage or failure or if a fuse has blown or a circuit has been tripped. You may need to reset the fuse or circuit to get your system back up and running. If this doesn’t solve the issue, check to see if the system’s timer is operating. If so, it may be the reason your unit has turned off.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Problem: The System Isn’t Heating Or Cooling Your Home Enough
Poor performance can be the result of several things. First, check the air filter to see if it is dirty or clogged. Air filters should be changed regularly, especially with frequent use, as a dirty air filter can seriously impact your system’s performance.
Next, check to see if the system’s outlet port or intake grille is blocked, dusty, or dirty, as this can also inhibit performance. If the outlet port and intake grille are both free and clear of debris, check to make sure that the system is not set to “super quiet” operation and that the temperature setting on the thermostat is not too low or too high.
Several environmental factors may also affect the overall performance of your system. If your system is not effectively heating your home, make sure there are no open doors or windows and make sure that any drafts are properly addressed. If you are not getting the cooling power you need, check to see if nearby windows are allowing bright sunlight into your home. If this is the case, you may want to consider installing blinds or heavy “blackout” curtains which can keep on any unwanted light and heat. Too many people in one area can also make the room warmer, as can multiple computers, heating apparatuses, and similar items.
Problem: The Remote Control Is Not Working
First check to make sure the remote control has batteries, that the batteries are not dead, and that they are loaded correctly. If all of these steps are taken and the remote control is still not working or is not working effectively, you may need to call for professional repairs.
