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Symptoms And Warning Signs Of Mold Toxicity Or Poisoning

Common Symptoms And Early Warning Signs Of Mold Toxicity Or Poisoning

Symptoms And Warning Signs Of Mold Toxicity Or PoisoningMold toxicity is challenging to identify and diagnose. You wouldn’t immediately equate the common symptoms with mold exposure. The differences between one-time exposure or an allergy are tough to distinguish. And, there are some myths about mold that confuse the issue.

In this article, we’re examining the difference between mold allergies and mold toxicity. Then, we’ll dig deeper into the causes and symptoms of mold toxicity. We’ll also cover how to address and prevent problems due to mold exposure.

And, that process starts at home. Even the most minor toxic mold infestations get more invasive and harmful over time. Mild health problems also worsen with constant exposure.

And unfortunately, your heating and cooling system is an ideal breeding ground for mold and other toxins. Mini splits, in particular, are vulnerable to massive infestations. That’s why we’re involved.

Related: How Mold In Ductless Mini Splits Causes Biotoxin Illness

Our parent company, HydroKleen Global, recognized the problem with mold buildup in mini splits more than a decade ago. They also realized how it affected people’s indoor air quality and overall health. 

Since then, the founders have continuously developed and improved the equipment, cleaning solutions, and processes they’ve used to eradicate microbial contaminants in more than 1.5 million mini splits in 36 countries. 

Now, as ductless systems become more popular here in the U.S., HydroKleen208 offers this service to Boise Metro and Valley County homes and businesses.

But, we’ll talk more about that later. For now, let’s focus on identifying mold toxicity symptoms and what to do if you suspect a problem in your home.

Mold Allergy Vs. Mold Toxicity

A mold allergy results from an immune system overreacting to mold spores. Symptoms include a runny nose, watery eyes, and restricted breathing, and it’s a common asthma trigger. Mold toxicity is when exposure to toxic vapors causes chronic physical and mental health problems. 

Related: Excellent Indoor Air Quality At Home Is Crucial For People With Asthma

The two are related but different. Allergy symptoms go away on their own once you’re no longer around mold spores. They don’t necessarily lead to toxicity syndrome. 

By contrast, mold toxicity also affects people who aren’t allergic. And, the symptoms stay with you even when you’re not around those contaminants anymore.

Is Black Mold Always Bad?

Black mold being poisonous is a common myth that’s not entirely accurate. People with mold allergies will experience reactions to a variety of mold strains. And, ingesting or breathing in any mold in large quantities and over a long time can cause problems. Worrying about only black mold means overlooking other issues.

As a result, you should address any type of mold buildup in your home. That’s especially so if you’re experiencing allergy symptoms, notice indoor air quality problems, or generally feel sick in your house.

How Do You Know If Mold Is Making You Sick?

A Ductless System Can Get Moldy If Not Taken Care OfSome mold toxicity symptoms resemble seasonal allergies. People also report chronic fatigue, headaches, light sensitivity, abdominal pain, diarrhea, blurred vision, and joint pain or morning stiffness, among other problems. Long-term and psychological effects include mood swings, memory, word recollection, concentration issues, tremors, and vertigo. 

With such a wide variety of symptoms, mold toxicity can often go undiagnosed. In fact, it’s a somewhat controversial diagnosis

Since we’re not medical experts, we’re not wading too deep into those waters. But, the fact remains that mold exposure can trigger allergic reactions and other issues. And, exposure often happens in the home. 

<h3>Mold And “Sick Building Syndrome”</h3>

Mold contributes to “Sick Building Syndrome,” which covers a variety of physical symptoms due to poor indoor air quality. It’s recognized by OSHA and the EPA and among other health organizations. And while the term usually refers to commercial buildings and businesses, it also applies to homes and dwellings

Related: Mold Toxicity And Physical Symptoms

Where Does Mold Grow In Your Home?

Mold grows in dark, moist, and warm places. At home, that’s a cellar or behind appliances. Plumbing leaks can result in buildup behind walls and under flooring. HVAC systems, particularly mini splits, are prone to mold infestations as they generate or remove heat and address humidity.

The problem with mini splits is that mold spores and other microbial contaminants enter as the air handlers draw them in. It’s dark inside there, and heat from the electrical and mechanical components keeps it warm.

Meanwhile, the heat transfer process affects water vapor in the air, leading to moisture inside the system. In particular, the condenser coil, where condensation occurs, gets clogged due to mold buildup.

At the same time, even the best HVAC technicians can’t really get inside to clean them. They’d have to take it apart and clean each piece and every crevice individually. It’s labor-intensive and expensive, so most contractors just include a basic surface clean with a tune-up.

Signs Of Mold In Your Ductless Mini Split

A ductless mini split in service for a year or longer likely has mold on the coil and behind the barrel fans. Common signs include:

  • Poor Indoor Air Quality
  • Year-Round Seasonal Allergy Symptoms
  • Hot And Cold Spots In Your Home
  • Electric Bill Keeps Going Up

Essentially, you’re looking for indoor air quality problems at the same time you’re noticing poor performance from your ductless system. That combination of issues indicates that the buildup inside your system is causing it to malfunction.

At the same time, it’s also spreading mold spores and other toxins as it recirculates the air running through it.

How To Clean Mold Out Of A Mini Split

A HydroKleen Appointment Is Thorough And RefreshingThe best, and really only, way to clean mold out of a mini split is with a deep cleaning. A professional needs the right equipment and cleaners to flush out all organic and nonorganic buildup in the air handlers and heat pump.

Yes, a tune-up or professional maintenance is essential to keep your system running smoothly. But, as we mentioned, it doesn’t include a comprehensive cleaning.

HydroKleen208 specializes in deep cleanings that eradicate all buildup inside your system. We do it using non-toxic and environmentally-safe cleaning solutions.

And, we use custom-built pressure washers that reach in and around all the components. We calibrate them carefully to use just enough force without damaging anything.

Related: What To Expect With Your HydroKleen Appointment

More Benefits Of Mini Split Deep Cleaning

A mini split deep cleaning doesn’t just get rid of mold and improve your indoor air quality. It also improves performance, which means better year-round comfort. And, it increases efficiency: Your system will use less electricity to do the job, which means lower utility bills. 

Related: How Often Should A Mini Split Be Cleaned?

Mini Split Cleaning in Cascade, ID

HydroKleen208 is the world-recognized leader for mini split cleaning in Cascade, ID and anywhere in Valley County or Boise Metro. Our process is guaranteed to eliminate mold spores, bacteria, and more from your home’s ductless heating and cooling system. To learn more or schedule your cleaning, click below or call (208) 779-5596.

How Long Do Mini Splits Last? (Maintenance, Cleaning & More)

How Long Do Mini Splits Last? (And How To Keep Them Running Great)

How Long Do Mini Splits Last? (Maintenance, Cleaning & More)Mini splits usually last for 15 to 20 years. But, as they get older, they won’t perform as well. You may also notice higher electric bills and more frequent repair needs. Proper care helps you get the most from your system.

A ductless system is an excellent investment, but it’s also a big one. You’ll save a lot of money on your electric bill over time. But, the upfront cost is more than a conventional furnace or central air system.

Related: The Signs (And Risks) Of A Mini Split That’s Not Installed Properly

So, you want to do everything you can to keep your system running great for as long as possible! And, HydroKleen208 can help.

We specialize in mini split deep cleanings that can make your system run as well as when you first got it. It’s fast, easy, and inexpensive. But, it’s just one part of a great maintenance strategy.

So we’ll talk more about our services a little later. For now, we’ll outline everything you need to do so your mini split brings your great comfort, excellent indoor air quality, and low electric bills for years to come.

How To Care For A Mini Split

A mini split requires proper care to make sure air circulates through it. And that all the components are in good working order and not suffering from excess wear and tear. The three most important ways to care for your system are:
  1. Cleaning The Filter
  2. Getting Annual Tune-Ups
  3. Getting Regular Cleanings

Cleaning The Filter

A clean air filter in every handler in your home ensures that air from each room passes through the system, gets warmed or cooled, and then recirculates. The filter prevents dust and dirt from getting into the air handler and causing problems. But, eventually, there’s so much buildup on it that air can’t pass through. So, it’s essential to keep the filter clean.

Related: Why Won’t My Mini Split Turn On? How Can I Fix It?

When To Do It

Clean your filter every month when your mini split is running. You can do it every three months during the off-season. If you have pets that shed fur or otherwise notice a lot of dirt on the filter, do it every three weeks instead.

Getting Annual Tune-Ups

Professional HVAC maintenance, or tune-ups, are essential for your mini split. A tech insects all the electrical connections and moving parts inside your system. They’ll clean, fix, or replace anything dirty, loose, dirty, not working, or worn out.

This way, your system ensures less stress and wear and tear when it’s running. You’ll enjoy better comfort and lower electric bills, too.

When To Do It

Ideally, you’ll get a tune-up in the fall before the cold weather. Then, get another in the spring before you need cooling. If you’re already into winter or summer, you can still get a tune-up.

Who To Call

Your HVAC contractor installing the system or repairing it also provides routine maintenance. We partner with Snowflake Air in the Treasure Valley and recommend them for all your ductless maintenance and repairs.

Getting Regular Cleanings

What You Need To Know About Microbial Contamination In Mini SplitsDeep cleaning for mini splits isn’t as well-known as tune-ups — at least not here in the U.S. But, this service is already essential in the many countries where ductless systems have been more common for a long time.

Here’s the problem: all sorts of mold, bacteria and other microbial contaminants build up on the coil and behind the barrel fans in your air handler. It reduces airflow, which results in hot and cold spots in your home.

At the same time, the components get worn out from working harder. You’ll also notice higher electric bills from that extra work — and, eventually, repair bills when the system breaks down.

Related: Why Replace Your Mini Split When You Can Clean It?

But, the problem people notice most is poor indoor air quality. All that junk in the system ends up circulating into the air you breathe. Homeowners notice allergy flare-ups, respiratory issues, and even mold toxicity symptoms. 

Because of this, deep cleaning is essential. And, it’s a separate service from routine maintenance. 

When To Do It

If you’ve had your mini split for more than a year, it’s time for an initial cleaning. Even in just that short time, you’d be surprised at how dirty they can get. And, you’ll often notice a difference right away. After that first cleaning, we can tell if you’ll need annual cleanings or if you can go longer in between. 

Related: How Often Should A Mini Split Be Cleaned? 

Who To Call

Of course, we recommend you call HydroKleen208 for your mini split cleanings. But, that’s not just because we like to toot our own horn! 

The truth is that cleanings are a separate service from routine maintenance. Instead, we use customized equipment and environmentally-friendly solutions that flush out virtually everything inside your air handlers and heat pump. 

We’ll also stop midway through the process to show you what we found and how we’re cleaning it. For instance, here’s a typical picture of a coil where we’ve cleaned only one side so far: 

Related: What To Expect With Your HydroKleen Visit

Our process is the culmination of more than a decade of ongoing dedicated research and development by our parent company, HydroKleen Global. As we mentioned before, mini splits are more common in other parts of the world. HydroKleen has spent years perfecting its process and equipment while cleaning more than 1.5 million systems in 36 countries. 

Related: What Does It Cost To Clean A Heat Pump?

Heat Pump Cleaning In McCall, ID

HydroKleen208 specializes in world-class mini split and heat pump cleaning in McCall, ID, along with services in Donnelly, Cascade, and further south in Boise Metro. We guarantee you’ll notice a difference after our visit. Click below or call us at (208) 779-5596 for a free consultation or to book an appointment.

 

Troubleshooting Guide: Why Is My Mini Split Not Getting Cold

Troubleshooting Guide: Why Is My Mini Split Not Getting Cold?

Troubleshooting Guide: Why Is My Mini Split Not Getting ColdThe most common reasons for a mini split to not blow cold air in the summertime are the wrong thermostat settings, a refrigerant leak, or a clogged condenser coil. Each of these problems requires very different solutions — and costs. Proper maintenance prevents most of them.

Your mini split should keep your home at a constant temperature no matter how hot it gets outside. But, if something’s wrong with it, the air coming through the air handlers may not feel cool. Or, there’s no circulation at all.

The good news is that there’s no need to panic. If you follow our troubleshooting guide, you may be able to fix it yourself! Or, you can start with a low-cost solution that often solves the problem.

HydroKleen208 specializes in deep cleanings for mini splits and heat pumps. Our cleanings can make a massive improvement in your mini split’s performance and the overall comfort in your home, But it’s a separate service from what you’ll get from regular HVAC service.

We’ll talk more about these services and how they differ later on. For now, we partner with Snowflake Air in Boise Metro and Valley County and recommend them for any mini split repair or service needs.

When it comes to cleaning, however, we’ve got you covered.

How Does A Mini Split Transfer Heat?

Your air handlers draw in warm air from your home in the summer. The air passes over a coil, which removes heat from the air and moves it to a refrigerant liquid in the system. That liquid absorbs the heat and runs to the heat pump, which transfers the heat to the air outside. Back inside, the air handler recirculates the now-cooled air.

The system works in reverse in the winter: Your heat pump draws heat from outside. That heat warms the refrigerant, which travels to the air handlers carrying the heat.

Now that you know how it works, let’s see what can go wrong.

Four Reasons Your Mini Split Won’t Blow Cold Air

The three most common reasons your mini split runs but doesn’t blow cold air are:

  1. Wrong Thermostat Settings
  2. Clogged Air Filter
  3. Refrigerant Leak
  4. Clogged Condenser Coil

Wrong Thermostat Settings

Leaving your system on a winter thermostat setting, or using the wrong features, can result in no air coming through the air handlers. Or warm air when you want cooling.

Related: My Mini-Split Won’t Turn On. What’s Wrong? How Do I Fix It?

What To Do

Ensure each air handler’s thermostat is set to “Cool” and “Auto.” If it’s still on “Heat, or if the temperature is set too high, you won’t get any cooling. Meanwhile, “Fan Mode” circulates the air without heating or cooling it.

Clogged Air Filter

The air filter in each air handler catches dust and dirt from the air as it enters your unit. When that filter gets too full, it won’t allow the air to pass through. When warm air doesn’t pass all the way through the system, it doesn’t get cooled.

What To Do

Clean your air filters once a month whenever your mini split is running. And, every three months when it’s not. If the filter is visibly clogged or very dirty, it’s been too long between cleanings.

Refrigerant Leak

If there’s a refrigerant leak, then there’s nothing moving the heat out of your air handler. Warm air enters the system, doesn’t get cooled, and recirculates at the same temperature. Related: The Signs (And Risks) Of A Mini Split That’s Not Installed Properly

What To Do

Call your HVAC company if you notice a hissing sound or chemical smell near your heat pump or air handlers. You won’t see any refrigerant because it will be warm and in gas form.

Clogged Condenser Coil

The condenser coil is the part in the air handler that draws the heat from the air as it passes through the unit. But, the coil can get clogged with tiny particles that make it past the filter. Mold and bacteria buildup are also very common. These contaminants prevent air from passing over the coil, which means there’s no way to remove the heat from it. Once again, the result is the air recirculating without any cooling.

What To Do

If you’ve never had your mini split cleaned before, start there. It’s a different service than a repair, and often cheaper. And, since a dirty system also causes other problems, which we’ll talk about in a moment, the cleaning also addresses those other issues. If you’ve checked the filter and thermostat, and there aren’t any signs of leaks or other problems, start with a cleaning.

Why Mini Split And Heat Pump Cleanings Are Important

How Mold In Ductless Mini Splits Cause Biotoxin IllnessMini splits are more prone to organic buildup than conventional systems. The inside of an air handler is dark and warm. There’s also moisture in there from the air, especially around the coil. That makes the equipment a perfect breeding ground for mold and other contaminants.

As we’ve seen already, this results in a clogged coil that prevents heat transfer. It also leads to higher electric bills: Your system requires more power as it struggles to overcome these impediments.

Eventually, you’ll notice other problems, including breakdowns, due to the excess stress and wear and tear to your system.

Related: How Can I Make My Mini Split Last Longer?

Meanwhile, the air handler spreads those tiny pollutants, including mold spores and bacteria, out into the air you breathe in your home.

Mini Split Cleaning Vs. A Tune-Up

Cleanings are a different service than a mini split tune-up or seasonal maintenance. A tech checks dozens of inspection points during a tune-up. And while they’ll do some cleaning, it’s not nearly as comprehensive as a separate service.

Related: How Often Should A Mini Split Be Cleaned?

Until recently, a tech would have to take apart your heat pump and air handler and then carefully, manually, clean each part. That includes scrubbing in between each tiny, delicate fin on every condenser coil.

It would take hours, meaning you’d get a huge bill. And it may not even be that effective. So, most companies don’t offer this service. That’s where HydroKleen208 comes in.

We use customized equipment that flushes out virtually all the dust, dirt, pollen, mold spores, and other microbial contaminants in your air handlers and heat pump.

Our pressure washers are perfectly calibrated to do the job without damaging anything. And, our cleaning agents are 100-percent environmentally friendly and won’t introduce toxic chemicals to your home.

The result? A mini split that’s just as clean as the day you bought it and works like new as well.

To see what we mean, check out this coil. We started cleaning one side, then took a picture before continuing.

You can see how dirty they can get and how clean they are once we’re done:

You Can See How Dirty A Mini Split System Can Get

And, if you’ve never had a cleaning, your coil almost certainly looks like the untreated part of that photo. Fortunately, our process is fast, easy, and inexpensive. 

Related: What Does It Cost To Clean A Heat Pump?

Heat Pump Cleaning In Donnelley, ID

HydroKleen208 brings more than a decade of international research and development to mini split and heat pump cleaning to Donnelly, ID, as far north as Cascade and as far south as Kuna. To learn more or schedule a visit, click below or call us at (208) 779-5596.

Mini Split Improper Installation: What Could Go Wrong?

The Signs And Risks Of A Mini Split That’s Not Installed Properly

Mini Split Improper Installation: What Could Go Wrong?

It’s tempting to go the DIY route when installing ductless mini splits. The instructions are straightforward, and the online prices are much cheaper than contractor quotes. But, it’s not as easy as it looks, and an improper installation can cause the system to fail and cause damage to your home.

That’s why it’s essential to call a professional. This way, you’re sure you have the right system to address your home’s unique heating and cooling needs. And, you’re backed by manufacturer warranties and the contractor’s guarantees.

Before we go any further, we’ll note that HydroKleen208 does not install ductless units. Nor do we handle most mini split repair calls. Our specialty is mini split deep cleanings in Boise Metro and Valley County in Idaho.

Cleanings go hand-in-hand with proper maintenance — and proper installations. You’d be surprised how often a lousy installation results in clogs, buildup, and other problems that require cleaning even after you’ve gotten the system repaired.

With that in mind, we’re stepping out of our usual maintenance role to help you head off problems down the line. If you’re thinking about putting a mini split in your home or business yourself, please consider these points first.

And, once your mini split is installed by a licensed professional, remember to call us for regular cleanings. Even a single visit from us every year or two makes a huge difference.

What Can Go Wrong With A Bad Mini Split Installation

Installing a mini split is not a DIY operation. Here’s what could go wrong if you don’t use a licensed professional:
  1. Units Fall Off The Wall
  2. Water Leaks Behind The Wall
  3. Noisy, Damaged, Or Malfunctioning Units
  4. Poor Indoor AIr Quality
  5. No Warranty

Indoor Units Fall Off The Wall

The simplest problem also carries the most risk for damage or even injury: An air handler falling off the wall. Sure, each unit comes with a specialized bracket. But, if it’s not fastened correctly or not bolted to the wall as it should be, that heavy unit can come crashing down. It will rip up more of the wall as the piping and wiring behind it get dragged down with it. Now you’re dealing with construction costs along with a broken air handler. That’s not to mention damage to any furniture or an injury to anyone in its path.

Water Leaks Behind The Wall

An improper mini split installation can cause a condensate line clog, which results in water leaking behind your wall. It can take a while to notice, and by then, you’re dealing with a lot of damage — not to mention a possible mold problem. Each air handler has a condensate line, or drain pipe, to get rid of water inside the system. As your system dehumidifies the air in the summer, water vapor condenses into liquid and has to go somewhere. But that line is often flexible to run through the wall. If it kinks or bows, water builds up inside the air handler. The same happens if the line gets clogged with dust, dirt, or other buildup. The water has to go somewhere, and if it doesn’t leak out of the air handler and into the room, it drips behind the wall.

Noisy, Damaged, Or Malfunctioning Units

You have many more options with mini splits than with conventional central air or heating. But, that also means more chances for something to go wrong. A system that’s too big or too small, or not suited for your home’s layout will not work the way it should.

That’s when you end up with noisy or malfunctioning units. It may be working too hard all the time to keep up with the load, and you hear it grinding.

Related: Mini Split Improper Installation: What Could Go Wrong?

Eventually, that excess wear and tear causes the components to break down. That means expensive repair calls and a much shorter lifespan for your mini split.

Or, it keeps working but never gets your home as warm or as cool as you want it. That’s common when a room is better suited for a recessed ceiling unit or low-wall air handler, for instance, rather than the more common high-wall unit.

Poor Indoor Air Quality

Poor Indoor Air Quality Could Be A Problem

Along with poor comfort, you’re more likely to notice a drop in your indoor air quality. This happens due to poor circulation. Or, more often, dirt and mold buildup inside your system.

It’s a common problem even for professionally-installed systems. But, DIY jobs pose an even higher risk. You’re more likely to encounter a drain line clog, for instance, among other problems.

In this case, a cleaning will go a long way, and we’ll talk more about that later. But, with a bad installation, it’s just the start of your problems.

Related: My Does My Mini Split Smell Funny? (Common Causes And Fixes)

No Warranty

Read the fine print: If a licensed HVAC technician doesn’t install and maintain your mini split, the manufacturer is not obligated to cover the costs of anything that’s usually covered under warranty.

That means you can do everything right but still end up paying more if something’s wrong with the unit itself. Or if something usually covered comes up.

How To Find A Quality Mini Split Installer

Start by following the usual guidelines for choosing a contractor when you’re looking for a quality mini split installer. That means looking for a company that’s worked in your area for a long time. They should have a physical location you can visit and plenty of five-star reviews. References from friends and family are always a plus.

For mini splits, in particular, look for a company specializing in ductless systems. And check to see if they are certified for the brand you want.

Related: Who should I trust to maintain my air conditioner?

The extra money you’ll pay for a licensed HVAC technician that’s certified to work on your mini split brand is well worth it. You’ll save money in the long run — not to mention head off aggravation and discomfort — with the investment.

How To Keep Your Mini Split Working Great

Along with regular tune-ups, regular deep cleaning keeps your system running great for years to come. A dedicated cleaning eliminates all sorts of buildup that doesn’t get addressed during routine maintenance.

Related: How Often Should A Mini Split Be Cleaned?

The problem is that dirt, dust, and microbial contaminants (read: mold, mildew, and other organic matter) build upon the coil fins and behind the barrel fans of your indoor units. Those parts are tough to reach without taking the unit apart. Or, they’d take forever to clean manually. 

Instead, HydroKleen208 uses customized equipment and powerful yet environmentally-safe cleaners to flush out virtually every pollutant building up inside your system. For example, here’s a photo where we’ve cleaned one side of the coil already but not the other: 

You Can See How Dirty A Mini Split System Can Get

Related: What Does It Cost To Clean A Heat Pump?

With one quick visit, you’ll notice an immediate difference in your system’s performance as well as your indoor air quality. You’ll likely see a drop in your electric bill, too. To learn more about our mini split and heat pump cleaning in Cascade, ID and down through Boise, click below or call us at (208) 779-5596.

How To Spot And Fix Mini Split Condensate Drain Line Clog

How To Spot And Fix A Mini Split Condensate Drain Line Clog

How To Spot And Fix Mini Split Condensate Drain Line ClogThe condensate drain line on your mini split gets rid of water that would otherwise build up in your mini split system. Your air handlers dehumidify a room as part of the cooling process, and when the moisture in the air condenses back into a liquid, it has to go somewhere.

That’s where the condensate line, or drain pipe, comes in. As humid air passes over the evaporator coil in your indoor unit, the water vapor condenses into liquid and flows through the line outside.

But, if that drain line gets clogged, you’ll run into a host of issues. And, it’s easier than you may realize for that line to get blocked up. That’s especially so with a mini split versus a conventional air conditioner.

We’ll walk you through the common signs of a clogged drain line in this article. And, we’ll give you some tips on how to troubleshoot and possibly fix it.

You may need to call a licensed HVAC technician to solve the problem. But in other cases, an excellent deep cleaning gets rid of the problem. That’s where HydroKleen208 comes in.

Our cleanings are often less expensive than a repair. And, they’ll improve your indoor air quality. We’ll get into all that a little later in the article. For now, you can always call us at (208) 779-5596 with any questions about the mini split in your Treasure Valley home or business.

Related: My Mini Split Won’t Turn On: Four Common Causes (And How To Fix Them)

Why Is My Mini Split Leaking Water?

A mini split leaking water inside your house is a common sign that your condensate drain line is clogged. Instead of draining out as it should, water that’s condensed from vapor to liquid in your system has no way to escape. Eventually, it builds and starts leaking from the indoor unit.

Now, the best-case scenario is that the water seeps into the room. You may not think a damaged wall or furniture is ideal. But it’s a lot better than dripping behind the wall where you can’t see it right away.

In this case, check for bubbling wallpaper or soft or spongy spots. And sniff around for a musty odor behind the wall.

That’s as opposed to the smell coming directly from the indoor unit: A dirty air handler blowing stale air spreads mold or mildew as it circulates the air.

How Does A Condensate Drain Line Clog?

The two main reasons your mini split condensate line or drain pipe clogs is a bad installation or buildup inside the system.

Related: What Is The Cost Of A Cleaning?

In the case of a bad installation, the line kinks, gets disconnected, or bows in such a way that water can’t flow through it. When that happens, it backs up and leaks out.

Or, dust, dirt, and even mold buildup inside your air handler blocks the condensate line. It happens the same way hair clogs your shower drain or too much food in your sink drain causes a backup.

The good news is that the buildup is the more common cause. It’s still inconvenient, but it’s easier to clear out than taking the unit apart or going behind the wall.

In some cases, all you need is a good cleaning, which we’ll talk about a little later.

Other Signs Of Mini Split Drain Problems

While water leaking from the system is a clear sign of a mini split drain problem, you might notice other symptoms first. Another, as we mentioned, is a musty or moldy smell near the unit.

In other cases, your system starts malfunctioning. The excess water prevents it from working correctly, so you end up with weak airflow and hot and cold spots in the house. That’s because your unit can’t heat or cool the air as it should.

Or, it gets bad enough that your indoor unit trips a failsafe and won’t turn on at all. However, there are plenty of other reasons for weak circulation or your mini split not powering on at all. So, you’ll need to do some more troubleshooting when that happens.

Related: Five Reasons You’ll Love A HydroKleen Cleaning

How To Check And Clean A Mini Split Drain Line

Depending on where the blockage occurs, you may be able to spot it and fix it yourself. But, we don’t recommend you take anything apart. You risk damaging the system even more or, at the least, voiding the warranty. 

But, start by powering off the unit and taking off the air handler panel. If you see puddled water, look for the drain line near it.

Remove any dirt or organic matter blocking the line. And shine a light down the drain pipe. If you can see more buildup right near the opening, you can carefully clear it out. 

Next, check outside where the line ends. That’s usually outside near the heat pump or in a slop sink in the basement. Look for signs of mold around the end. And, shine a light to check for a clog at that opening. 

Once again, we don’t recommend taking apart your system or reaching too far into the line. Even if you find the buildup, you should still get a professional cleaning. That service will cover much more than you can, and it will alleviate other problems like weak airflow or even rising electric bills. 

Related: How Often Should A Mini Split Be Cleaned?

When you call, be sure to mention the clogged drain line, even if you cleared it yourself. That way, your tech can inspect for anything else that will cause the pipe to get blocked up again. 

Our HydroKleen208 cleaning process is different from routine maintenance. We don’t check electrical components, moving parts, and things like that. But, our specialized process does a much better job of flushing out all the contaminants inside your system. 

For instance, here’s an air handler coil where we’ve cleaned half so far:

You Can See How Dirty A Mini Split System Can Get

A cleaning compliments regular maintenance and improves your system’s performance all around. And, it’s an excellent first step toward addressing a clog. We’ll let you know if there’s a bigger problem once we start the cleaning.

Mini Split Clogged Condensate Line Repair Cost

The cost to fix a clogged mini split condensate line usually ranges from $200 to $400 when you call a licensed HVAC technician. That’s assuming they don’t need to reinstall the unit to prevent the problem from happening again. 

That’s usually more than you’d pay for a HydroKleen visit. And, as we mentioned, our cleanings improve your system performance and energy efficiency as well.

Related: What Does It Cost To Clean A Heat Pump?

Heat Pump Cleaning In Eagle, ID

HydroKleen208 brings more than a decade of research, development, and experience to our mini split and heat pump cleanings in Eagle, ID and across the Treasure Valley. If you’d like to learn more, or are ready to set an appointment, call us at (208) 779-5596 or click below.