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How to Clean a Mitsubishi Mini Split

How to Clean a Mitsubishi Mini Split

Jon Hubal
8 minute read

Mitsubishi mini splits are efficient, quiet, and stylish air conditioning units perfect for homes or small businesses. Mini-splits, also known as ductless air conditioners, provide heating and cooling without requiring any ductwork. Instead, they utilize an outdoor compressor connected to one or more indoor air handling units. Before you buy a new mini split, let's see if we can get your Mitsubishi mini split cleaned up.

How to Clean a Mitsubishi Mini Split

The indoor units come in a variety of styles to suit your needs, and with the help of a mini split sizing calculator, you can ensure optimal performance. Wall units are space-efficient, ceiling cassettes are discreet, and floor units can provide airflow to multiple rooms. With options like Wi-Fi control, air filtration, and multiple temperature zone control, Mitsubishi mini splits offer high-tech comfort and convenience.

 

To keep your mini split running at peak efficiency, it's important to perform regular maintenance. Here are the key things you'll need to do:

 

  1. Clean the filters. Clogged filters reduce airflow and efficiency. Check your filters monthly and replace them every 2-3 months.

  2. Vacuum the vents and intakes. Dust buildup on vents and intakes also hurts performance. Use a vacuum with an extension hose to clean them out seasonally or as needed.

  3. Clean the outdoor unit. The outdoor condenser coil needs to be cleaned of debris once a year or more often if it's in a dusty area. Shut off the power and use a hose to spray out the coil from the inside out.

  4. Tighten electrical connections. Over time, vibrations can loosen the connections between the indoor and outdoor units. Check connections annually and tighten them as needed.

  5. Schedule professional service. Have a technician perform comprehensive maintenance on your mini split once every 1-2 years. They can check refrigerant levels, test components, clean hard-to-reach areas, and ensure optimal, efficient operation.

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When to Clean Your Mitsubishi Mini Split

It’s a good idea to perform regular maintenance on your Mitsubishi mini split to keep it running efficiently and prevent issues. As a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to clean your mini split twice during the cooling and heating seasons.

 

Cleaning involves wiping down the indoor wall unit to remove dust buildup, as well as cleaning the air filter. A clogged, dirty filter reduces airflow and efficiency. It’s recommended to clean or replace your mini split filter every 1 to 2 months. Check your filter at least once a month to see if it needs replacement.

 

You should also inspect the outdoor condenser unit a couple of times each season. Clear away any debris like leaves, twigs, or dirt from around the unit. Hose down the condenser coils to remove built-up grime and dust. Make sure the condenser fan is spinning freely. If the condenser gets too dirty, it has to work harder to release heat, and that reduces its efficiency.

 

In the spring, do a deep clean of your Mitsubishi mini split system after the heating season ends. This includes:

 

  • Vacuuming the air vents and intakes on the indoor unit.

  • Wiping down the exterior of the indoor wall unit with a damp cloth to remove dust.

  • Cleaning or replacing the air filter.

  • Cleaning the condenser coils and fan on the outdoor unit.

  • Checking all connections and tubing for signs of damage or leaks.

  • Testing to ensure all functions like heating, cooling, fan speeds, and thermostat are working properly before the cooling season starts.

 

Technician checking the ac filter of Mitsubishi Mini Split to Clean It

 

Supplies Needed to Clean a Mitsubishi Mini Split

To thoroughly clean your Mitsubishi mini split, you'll need to gather a few basic supplies. Having everything on hand before you start will make the process quick and efficient.

Vacuum

  • Use a vacuum with an extension hose and brush attachment to remove any dust and debris built up on the indoor unit and vents. Pay extra attention to vents, filters, and corners where dust tends to collect.

Microfiber cloths

  • Soft, lint-free microfiber cloths are great for wiping down indoor and outdoor units. Dampen the clothes slightly with water or a mild detergent solution. Ensure not to soak the clothes, as too much water could damage the electrical components.

Commercial coil cleaner (optional)

  • For stuck-on messes or stubborn dirt on the condenser coils, you may want to invest in a commercial coil cleaner product, also known as a condenser coil degreaser. Follow the directions to properly dilute the solution before applying with a spray bottle. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean with damp microfiber cloths.

Screwdrivers and wrenches (optional)

  • If your filters are not easily accessible or you need to remove panels to access the condenser coils, have a set of screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers on hand. Be very careful when removing any panels, as there are refrigerant lines and electrical parts behind them.

Replacement filters (optional)

  • While cleaning the unit, check your filters to see if replacement is needed. Clogged, dirty filters reduce efficiency and airflow, so replacing them once a season or every 3-6 months is recommended. Have new pleated filters sized for your specific Mitsubishi mini split unit ready to install once cleaning is complete.

Following a regular maintenance schedule and using the proper supplies will keep your Mitsubishi mini split running efficiently all season long. Performing an annual deep clean in the spring or fall, in addition to regular filter changes, is the best way to maximize performance and extend the lifespan of your unit.

 

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Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Mitsubishi Mini Split

To keep your Mitsubishi mini split air conditioner running efficiently, it’s important to perform regular maintenance like cleaning. Every few months, set aside some time to thoroughly clean your unit. Here’s how:

Turn off the power

  • The first thing you’ll want to do is switch off the power to your mini-split at the breaker. Make sure the unit is completely disconnected to avoid any electrical hazards before you start cleaning.

Clean the filters

  • The filters in your mini-split remove dust, debris, and allergens from the air. Over time, they can get clogged up and reduce airflow and efficiency. Remove the filters from your indoor units and either vacuum them or rinse them in warm, soapy water. Let the filters air dry completely before reinstalling them. For the best performance, change or clean your filters every 1-3 months.

Wipe down the indoor units

  • Use a vacuum with an extension hose or soft brush to remove dust from the vents and grills of your indoor units. Then wipe down the exterior casing, vents, and display panel with a damp, soapy cloth or multi-surface cleaner. Pay extra attention to any built-up grime in corners and crevices. Make sure all surfaces are dry before turning the power back on.

Clear the drain line

  • The drain line removes condensation from your system. Over time, dust and mold can build up in the drain line and clog it. To prevent water overflow, clear your drain line regularly. Use a commercial drain line cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Pour about a cup down each drain outlet and the main drain pipe. Flush with hot water after 30 minutes.

Consider professional maintenance

  • For the best performance, consider scheduling annual professional maintenance for your Mitsubishi mini split. A technician can thoroughly clean all components, check refrigerant levels, test for any leaks or damage, and perform any necessary repairs or tune-ups to keep your unit running like new. Professional maintenance will help maximize efficiency, reduce energy costs, and prolong the lifespan of your mini-split.

With regular DIY cleaning and annual professional servicing, your Mitsubishi mini split can provide comfortable heating and cooling for many years to come. Keeping your unit well-maintained is the best way to ensure peak performance, efficiency, and reliability.

 

 

Technician doing the Step-by-Step Cleaning of a Mitsubishi Mini Split

 

Capping Off: How to Clean Your Mitsubishi Mini Split

So there you have it - cleaning your Mitsubishi mini split doesn't need to be a scary or frustrating task. Following the steps outlined and having the right cleaning tools on hand, you can keep your unit looking new and running at peak efficiency. Just be sure to always refer to the manufacturer's recommendations before using any cleaning products, and take the proper safety precautions. With a little time and elbow grease, you'll keep your mini split humming along and providing comfortable indoor temperatures for years to come. Now get cleaning! You got this.

 

Technician Opening the Mitsubishi Mini Split Cover

 

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