The Ultimate Mini-Split Maintenance Checklist

Maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home year-round can be difficult—not to mention expensive. While traditional HVAC systems need ductwork to carry the heated or cooled air throughout the home, mini-split systems allow you to heat or cool individual rooms more efficiently. Best of all, they can be fitted in any home, regardless of whether it has ductwork.

However, like central HVAC systems, mini-splits require routine maintenance to keep them in good working order for longer. Use this mini-split maintenance checklist to help ensure your unit is working properly and at peak efficiency all year long. 

Mini-Split Maintenance Supplies List

Keep these supplies on hand to help maintain your mini-split system:

• Drop cloths

• Shoe coverings

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) if needed

• Microfiber cloths or dusters

• Vacuum cleaner with attachments

• Spare air filters

• Hose

Monthly Mini-Split Maintenance Checklist

Download Checklist Here

Keeping up with routine maintenance tasks can help your mini-split unit function at its peak. Additionally, it can help you notice potential issues earlier, which can mean easier and cheaper repairs.

Here are the must-do maintenance tasks to complete once a month:

• Dust the indoor unit cabinet to prevent dust and dirt accumulation

• Clean or replace the air filters

• Check and clean the coils

• Inspect the unit for ice or condensation build-up

• Clean the outdoor unit and dust away any debris

• Check for refrigerant leaks

• Listen for unusual noises that could signal loose components, motor issues, or refrigerant leaks

Quarterly Mini-Split Maintenance Checklist

In addition to the monthly maintenance, completing these tasks every three months will keep your mini-split in good working order:

• Clean the internal filters

• Dust the indoor unit and its vents

• Inspect the refrigerant lines

• Inspect the outdoor unit

• Check the thermostat for accuracy

Biannual Mini-Split Maintenance Checklist

As the seasons change, so will your mini-split. Before switching from heating to cooling (or vice versa), perform the following tasks to ensure it will work well throughout the coming season:

• Clean the evaporator coils

• Clean the blower and fan wheel

• Inspect the fan blades

• Check the refrigerant lines and levels

• Inspect any ductwork

Annual Mini-Split Maintenance Checklist

Perform a full inspection of your mini-split once a year. This inspection will ensure the unit is functioning as it should, and if there are any issues, you can catch and fix them early to prevent further issues down the road.

Here are the items to check off during your annual mini-split service, either yourself or through a professional:

• Inspect and clean the condensate drain and pan

• Check the condition of the condensing unit

• Inspect and test the electrical components, including the wiring, capacitors, and connections

• Check the temperature output and fan performance

• Calibrate the thermostat as needed

• Check the unit insulation

• Schedule a professional inspection

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Mini-Split Maintenance Pro?

Hiring a pro to maintain your mini-split ensures a thorough inspection that will identify any potential issues. While general HVAC service costs between $175 and $350 per year, annual mini-split maintenance costs are higher at $300 to $550.

However, it’s important to remember that mini-split systems typically cost less to purchase and install than central AC systems, and they can also be more efficient and save you money on your utilities. When you consider that, the maintenance costs don’t seem as high.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Several mini-split maintenance tasks are well-suited for a DIYer, including replacing filters, cleaning evaporator coils, cleaning debris from the outside unit, and testing the thermostat. However, other tasks are not suited to someone without the proper training. If you have a refrigerant leak or need to replace the circuit board, hang up your DIY hat and call a local mini-split installation pro to perform the maintenance or repair.