Removing Drain Pan From Mitsubishi Mini Split: Step-By-Step Guide

Keeping your AC unit clean is essential for maintenance and to prevent a nasty smell from spreading throughout the room. This is a step-by-step guide on how to remove the drain pan from a Mitsubishi Mini-Split AC unit. First, turn off the unit and remove the air filters. Next, remove the horizontal vanes from the bottom of the mini-split by sliding the tabs to the right. Expose and remove the screws underneath, then remove the unit cover. Ensure the drain pan is dry, then release the drain pan by pushing in the tab and gently lowering it.

Unplug the unit and remove the cover

To begin, locate and turn off the unit's power source. This is important for safety reasons and to prevent any accidental activation of the unit during the cleaning process. It is also recommended to turn off the appropriate circuit breaker if you intend to use water during cleaning, as this will eliminate the risk of electrical shock.

The next step is to unplug the unit from its power source. This will ensure that the unit is completely disconnected from any power supply, providing a safe working environment. After unplugging, proceed to remove the front cover by gently lifting it until you hear a click. This indicates that the cover can be safely pulled off by holding and lifting it from the hinges.

With the cover removed, you'll now have access to the air filters. These filters require regular cleaning, approximately once every two weeks. Remove the filters and set them aside for cleaning. You can give them a thorough scrub in the sink, allowing them to air dry completely before putting them back. Alternatively, for a quicker cleaning option, you can use a vacuum cleaner with the appropriate attachments. Mitsubishi offers a Quick Clean accessory kit that includes attachments specifically designed for their units.

Before proceeding further, it is important to allow the unit to cool down, especially if it has been running for an extended period. This will help prevent any risk of injury and ensure that the internal components are safe to handle.

Remove the air filters

To remove the air filters from a Mitsubishi Mini-Split, follow these steps:

Locate the unit and turn it off. This is an important safety precaution as you will be handling parts that normally move. Confirm that the unit is off using a meter.

The air handler, which is the part of the unit that contains the filters, will need to be taken apart in stages. First, pull out the air filters on both sides of the air handler. Depending on your model, there may be tabs holding the filters in place that you can slide to the right to release them. Place the filters aside in a safe location.

Next, you will need to remove the horizontal vanes from the bottom of the mini-split. These are located below the air filters and can be removed by sliding their tabs to the right and then popping them off. The Mitsubishi Mini-Split typically has two of these vanes. Once removed, set them aside with the air filters.

With the air filters and horizontal vanes removed, you can now access and remove the drain pan for cleaning or replacement.

Dry the drain pan

Drying the drain pan is an important step in the process of cleaning a Mitsubishi Mini-Split. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it effectively:

Before beginning, ensure that you have some drop towels or a similar alternative on hand to absorb any excess water or moisture. It is crucial to keep the surrounding area dry and protect the property from potential water damage.

If there is water in the drain pan, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove it. Pay attention to any debris in the pan and ensure that it is thoroughly sucked out. This step will help prevent the spread of dirt and reduce the risk of unpleasant odours.

After removing the water and debris, use a clean, dry cloth or towel to thoroughly dry the interior and exterior of the drain pan. Ensure that all surfaces are completely dry before proceeding to the next step.

If you are unable to release the drain pan, an alternative method is to use a Mini-Split Bib® Kit. This kit allows you to clean the mini-split without the need for further disassembly. The Mini-Split Bib® catches water and cleaning solutions, preventing spills and protecting the surrounding area.

By following these steps, you can effectively dry the drain pan of a Mitsubishi Mini-Split, ensuring a thorough cleaning process and reducing the risk of water damage to the property. Remember to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for any model-specific variations.

Disinfect the drain pan

To disinfect the drain pan of a Mitsubishi mini split, you must first ensure that the unit is switched off and unplugged. Next, remove the front cover by gently lifting it until you hear a click. Pull the cover off by holding the hinges.

Once the cover is removed, you can access the drain pan. Before disinfecting, it is important to make sure that the drain pan is completely dry. Use a cloth or towel to wipe out any moisture or standing water. If there is mildew or mould present, use a disinfectant or mild detergent to clean the affected areas. You can also use vinegar to clear any remaining residue or odours.

After disinfecting the drain pan, it is important to ensure that the unit is level. If the unit is not level, water can accumulate and cause further mildew or mould issues. If the unit is not level, you may need to consult a professional to adjust it.

Finally, clean the area behind the drain pan to remove any built-up residue or debris. Reassemble the unit by replacing the front cover and securing it in place. Ensure that the unit is switched off while reassembling to avoid any potential hazards.

Clean the area behind the drain pan

To clean the area behind the drain pan of a Mitsubishi mini split, you will first need to remove the drain pan. There may be a tab beneath the drain pan, so push that in and move the drain pan assembly by pulling it towards you and lowering it gently. There may be water in the drain pan, so be sure to dry it off with a towel before releasing the pan.

Once the drain pan is removed, you can begin to clean the area behind it. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any dust, dirt, or debris that has accumulated. Pay close attention to the details and crevices of the area to ensure that all dirt is removed. If there is any mildew or mould present, be sure to disinfect the area with a mild detergent or a bleach solution.

After vacuuming and disinfecting the area, use a soft cloth, such as a microfiber cloth, to wipe down the surfaces. You can also use a mild detergent and water solution to clean the area if needed. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly after cleaning to prevent any standing water or moisture buildup.

Finally, carefully put everything back into place. Ensure that all components are securely fastened and that there are no loose parts. By following these steps, you can effectively clean the area behind the drain pan of your Mitsubishi mini split and maintain the optimal performance of your air conditioning unit.

Frequently asked questions