As is the case with any major appliance in your home, there can be safety issues with your ductless mini-split system. While some of these issues are unlikely, their consequences can be serious. Therefore, it’s helpful to know how to identify the signs of any safety problems. Many signs are not exclusive to a single diagnosis. So, while you should know when there may be danger, it’s best to have a professional check out your unit.
Electrical Issues
At best, electrical issues will affect your mini-split system’s performance, and at worst, they can be a fire hazard. New mini-split systems or ones that haven’t been used for a while may emit a light burning smell for under half an hour because there may be dust on the heating element. This is normal. However, if the smell is strong or persists, you may have an emergency and should turn off the unit. You also have an electrical problem if your circuits trip whenever you try to use your system. Clicking or buzzing noises, high power bills or a system that won’t start at all may also indicate electrical issues, but less serious issues can cause these symptoms as well.
Air Quality Issues
Poor quality air from the HVAC system can be particularly dangerous for people with asthma, allergies or other respiratory issues. However, it can also introduce respiratory symptoms in people who previously didn’t have them. Refrigerant leaks can be particularly dangerous as well. If you are exposed to refrigerant steadily over a long period of time or in an enclosed space, it can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea and more serious symptoms. Hissing sounds or a chemical odor may also indicate a refrigerant leak. In addition, you may have air quality issues if you smell mold or mildew from your unit. The indoor evaporator is particularly vulnerable to mold growth, although it can grow in other areas as well.
Mounting Issues
The indoor handlers of mini-split systems are usually mounted high on a wall near the ceiling. They should be correctly anchored into a bracket. However, if they’re not attached to wall studs or are poorly affixed to the wall in some way, they could fall and cause an injury. If you notice that there’s a separation between the wall and the unit, it may not have been mounted correctly. Another potential sign of this problem is if the unit vibrates noisily.
Some of the above issues may occur over time if your unit or wiring is old. But they can also be the result of a faulty installation. This is one reason that professional installation is important. These problems are also more likely to occur in units that don’t receive regular maintenance. By knowing the signs discussed above and ensuring that your unit is correctly installed and maintained, you can avoid serious safety issues. If you have concerns or require ductless system services, contact C&C Myers in Charleston, SC.