How to Prevent Mini Split Icing Up Outside with Facilities Management
Mini splits are a popular choice for heating and cooling residential and commercial buildings. However, when the temperature outside drops below freezing, it can lead to mini splits icing up outside, which can damage the system and reduce its efficiency. Fortunately, there are a few steps that facilities managers can take to prevent this issue.
Keep the Temperature Above Freezing
The most important step that a facilities manager can take to prevent mini splits from icing up outside is to keep the temperature above freezing. This can be done by using heated blankets to keep the outdoor condenser unit warm. If the temperature outside is consistently below freezing, a thermostat can be installed to automatically turn the heating on when the temperature drops too low.
Check the Refrigerant Level
Another important step that a facilities manager can take to prevent mini splits from icing up outside is to check the refrigerant level. If the refrigerant level is too low, the compressor will not be able to produce enough heat to keep the outdoor condenser unit warm. The refrigerant level should be checked regularly and refilled if necessary.
Maintain Regular Service and Cleaning
Lastly, it is important for a facilities manager to ensure that the mini split is serviced and cleaned regularly. This will ensure that the system is running efficiently and that any potential problems are identified and addressed in a timely manner. Regular cleaning will also help to reduce the risk of icing up outside by removing dirt and debris that could interfere with the system’s performance.
The Bottom Line
By taking the proper steps, facilities managers can help to ensure that their mini splits do not ice up outside. Keeping the temperature above freezing, checking the refrigerant level, and maintaining regular service and cleaning are all essential steps that can help to prevent mini splits from icing up outside. With the proper care, a mini split system can continue to provide efficient heating and cooling to a building for many years.
