Why is my mini-split leaking water inside?
Usually the condensate drain line is clogged, or the drain pump has stopped. The indoor unit pulls water out of the air, and when that water can’t drain, it drips down the wall. Turn the unit off to limit the damage and call us. Clearing a clogged drain line typically costs $75–$325.
Why is my mini-split running but not cooling or heating?
Check that the remote is set to Cool or Heat, not Fan or Dry, and that the indoor filters are clean. If the air still isn’t right, check that the outdoor unit is running. Low refrigerant from a leak and a dirty coil are the most common causes we find. Turn it off and call us rather than letting it run that way.
Does my mini-split need refrigerant added?
It shouldn’t need regular top-offs. Refrigerant circulates in a sealed loop and isn’t used up, so if your system is low, there’s a leak. A recharge gets you comfortable again, and we find and repair the leak. A typical recharge costs $100–$775.
Can a mini-split heat as well as cool?
Yes. The outdoor unit is a small heat pump, so the same system cools in the summer and heats in the winter.
Can a mini-split serve more than one room?
Yes. A multi-zone system connects several indoor units to one outdoor unit, and each room gets its own controls. Whether that fits your home depends on the layout and the rooms involved, so we plan it on site rather than from a room count.
What homes are a good fit for a ductless system?
Homes without room for ductwork, additions and garage conversions, condos, and any room the central system doesn’t reach. A mini-split is also a better long-term option than window units, space heaters or electric baseboard heaters, and it works alongside an existing central system.
Is a mini-split the same as HVAC zoning?
No. A mini-split heats and cools a room through its own indoor unit. HVAC zoning manages separate areas through the controls and ductwork of a central system. If you’re comparing the two, start with whether the space already has usable ductwork. See
home automation and zoning.
Can I install a mini-split myself?
We don’t recommend it. Installation means running and connecting refrigerant lines and making electrical connections, and handling refrigerant requires EPA certification. A botched install can damage your walls and the equipment, and it can void the warranty.
How often should my mini-split be serviced?
Once a year for a professional cleaning and inspection. Rinse the indoor filters between visits, as the manufacturer’s instructions describe. West Coast Club members get maintenance visits included.
What should I tell West Coast when I call about my mini-split?
Tell us which indoor unit is affected, what the remote or wall control shows, whether it’s heating or cooling, and what changed. Mention water, weak airflow, new sounds or an error code. If other indoor units still work normally, say so. For a new install, tell us which rooms you want to heat or cool and how you use them.
