The outdoor and indoor units are connected by lines that circulate refrigerant. Inside, wall- or floor-mounted units blow cool air directly into the room.
Ductless systems are super efficient and let you control the temperature in different rooms.
Get a professional inspection every year. In between, clean the indoor units’ air filters every 1-3 months. While you’re at it, check the drain lines for leaks. Remove debris from the outdoor unit twice a year.
Annually
15 – 20 years
Step 1: Clean debris and plant growth from the outdoor units. If the coil fins are bent, straighten them. Repair any cracked, bent, or corroded supply or electrical lines.
Step 2: Check the filters inside the indoor units. If they’re dusty, clean or replace them. Clean debris from the fins behind the filter. If the fins are bent, carefully straighten them.
Step 3: Inspect the drain lines that run along the bottom of each indoor unit. Make sure they aren’t kinked or blocked. If the line is clear and your unit still drips, contact an HVAC pro.
Step 4: Start your AC units. If they don’t start, look for a service switch, reset button, or tripped breaker. Call an HVAC pro if you hear banging, squeaking, scraping, or other unusual sounds.
Step 5: After 15 minutes, you should feel cool air flowing from the vents. If it isn’t, you may have to repair or replace the unit. If none of the indoor units work, the entire system may need to be fixed.