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A Guide to Troubleshooting Your Ductless Mini-Split: Common Issues and Solutions

Home | Blog | Published on May 5th, 2025
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At Creative Comfort Solutions, we want homeowners throughout Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia, and Chester Counties to feel confident about using and caring for their ductless mini-split systems. This guide covers the most common ductless mini-split problems, what you can do to troubleshoot them, and when it’s time to call in our experts. 

This is an image of an HVAC technician working on a mini split. The headline reads mini split troubles? Here's what to check first.

1. System Won’t Turn On

Possible Causes:

  • Tripped circuit breaker
  • Faulty remote or dead batteries
  • Power supply issues
  • Internal electrical malfunction

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • Check your circuit breaker panel and reset any tripped breakers.
  • Replace the batteries in your remote control.
  • Confirm that the indoor and outdoor units are both receiving power.

If these steps don’t solve the issue, the problem may be electrical or component-related and should be inspected by a licensed HVAC technician.

2. Poor Cooling or Heating Performance

Possible Causes:

  • Dirty air filters
  • Blocked airflow from furniture or curtains
  • Low refrigerant levels
  • Malfunctioning compressor or fan

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • Clean or replace the air filters in the indoor unit.
  • Ensure the unit is not blocked by obstructions that could impede airflow.
  • Verify that the system isn’t set to “fan only” mode.

If the unit still isn’t delivering enough cooling or heating, you may have a refrigerant leak or mechanical issue that requires professional repair.

3. Unusual Noises

Ductless mini-splits are designed to be quiet. If yours starts making strange noises—such as grinding, buzzing, or rattling—it’s time to pay attention.

Possible Causes:

  • Loose mounting hardware or components
  • Obstruction in the fan
  • Failing motor or worn bearings

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • Gently inspect the unit (with the power off) for any loose panels or debris.
  • If you hear a grinding or squealing sound, turn the system off and call for service immediately.
  • Delaying repairs can lead to more extensive damage—and costlier fixes down the road.

4. Water Leaks or Dripping

Mini-split systems remove humidity from the air during the cooling process. That moisture typically drains through a condensate line. If you see water dripping from the unit, something’s likely wrong.

Possible Causes:

  • Clogged condensate drain line
  • Disconnected or damaged drain hose
  • Ice buildup from refrigerant issues

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • Turn off the system and inspect the condensate drain for blockages.
  • Make sure the drain line is properly connected and routed.
  • Water damage can occur quickly, so don’t wait to call Creative Comfort Solutions if the issue persists.

5. Bad Odors Coming From the Unit

If your mini-split starts to smell musty or foul, it could be due to mold growth inside the unit or a buildup of dust and debris.

Possible Causes:

  • Clogged filters
  • Moisture trapped in the system
  • Bacteria growth on evaporator coils

Troubleshooting Tips:

  • Clean or replace filters regularly (every 1–2 months is ideal).
  • Schedule professional cleaning if the odor doesn’t go away.

We offer comprehensive ductless system maintenance services to keep your air clean and your unit running at peak performance.

When to Call Creative Comfort Solutions

While some minor issues can be resolved with a bit of DIY troubleshooting, others require trained professionals. If you’re experiencing:

  • Persistent performance problems
  • Frequent shutdowns
  • Strange sounds or smells
  • Error codes on your unit’s display
  • Leaks or electrical issues

…it’s time to reach out. Our certified HVAC technicians have extensive experience working with ductless systems from all major brands. We’ll diagnose the issue quickly and provide the right solution to restore your home’s comfort.

Save Big on Ductless Mini-Split Installation

Thinking about upgrading or replacing your current mini-split system? Now is the perfect time. Creative Comfort Solutions is offering $500 off a new ductless mini-split system, plus low monthly payment options to make your upgrade affordable and stress-free.

Call or contact us today to schedule your ductless mini-split service. We’re proud to be the trusted name for heating and cooling throughout the Greater Philadelphia region.

Contact Creative Comfort Solutions today! All Your Home Comfort Needs, Taken Care Of. 

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