While a ductless air conditioner keeps you comfortable as efficiently as a central air system, the manner in which it delivers air into the home during the summer is much different. Rather than relying on a system of ducts to direct the air throughout the house, ductless systems cool single rooms or spaces individually using a network of indoor air handlers that can be set at different temperatures. If you’ve been getting used to this method of home comfort, here are the most common issues to keep in mind.

What Problems Do Ductless AC Units Experience?

1. Failing Compressor

Like central air conditioning, ductless AC systems rely on an outdoor compressor to circulate the refrigerant needed to cool the air. Issues with the compressor affect whatever indoor air handlers are attached to it.

Through normal wear and tear, a compressor may experience problems like dirty or frozen evaporator coils, low refrigerant levels, or electrical problems. When one of these occurs, the ductless units become ineffective and push out warm air.

2. Inadequate Room Sealant

Since ductless air conditioners cool individual areas, each room with a unit must be sealed correctly. If this isn’t the case, it forces the system to work harder, which leads to more energy usage and a greater chance of a breakdown. If you notice a particular room is less comfortable than others, make sure the weatherstripping around each window and door hasn’t been compromised, and keep the windows closed when the system is running.

3. Refrigerant Leaks

When the system vibrates during operation, it can jostle joints and connections loose, potentially causing a coolant leak. It’s more common with ductless systems because there are multiple air handler units.

If you notice a hissing sound or warmer air coming from a particular room’s unit—or all the units assigned to an outdoor compressor—you may need to recharge the refrigerant or repair a leak. When the levels are too low, condensation builds up on the evaporator coil and may cause it to freeze. 

4. Blower Malfunction

The blower is the mechanism that pushes the cooled air through the unit and into its room. When it becomes damaged, the space won’t cool down as efficiently, and the evaporator coils are also more likely to freeze. The issue is commonly caused by a fan belt that’s come off its track. The unit may also have electrical issues that need addressing.

5. Clogged Condensate Line

As each air handler produces chilled air, it creates moisture that needs to be drained. A drain line is used for this purpose, but it can become clogged with debris. The most obvious sign is an unpleasant musty odor coming from the unit. If the clog isn’t removed, it may eventually lead to mold and mildew growth that results in costly water damage to the walls of your home.

 

If you’re experiencing any of these issues with your ductless air conditioner, contact the professional HVAC contractors at Gary Duncan Service Company. Serving the Olive Branch, MS, area for nearly 40 years, this locally owned company provides homeowners with expert AC maintenance and repairs. They’ll diagnose the source of your issue and get your system operating efficiently again to keep you comfortable all season long. Visit them online for more information about their services or call (662) 895-2023 to schedule a quote.