Why Your Mitsubishi Electric Mini-Split May Be Running But Not Cooling: Causes and Solutions

Mitsubishi Electric mini-split air conditioners are known for their efficiency and reliability. 

However, like any other cooling system, they can encounter issues that affect performance. One common problem is when the unit runs but does not cool the space effectively. If you're experiencing this issue at the moment and are scratching your head as to what the reasons could be, you’ve come to the right article. 

Below, we explore the potential reasons for this issue and offer practical solutions to restore your Mitsubishi Electric mini-split to optimal functionality. 

Why Mitsubishi Electric mini-splits Are a Smart Choice

Why Mitsubishi Electric mini-splits Are a Smart Choice

Don't knock Mitsubishi Electric mini-split’s just yet -  with over 50 years of experience in this industry, they are actually a really smart purchase and one of the best mini-split models in the market. 

Mitsubishi Electric mini-split air conditioners are highly regarded for their quality, efficiency, and reliability, making them a top choice for homeowners. 

Here’s why:

1. Quality and Durability

Mitsubishi units are meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, their compressors, coils, insulation and wiring is one of the best in the market. 

2. Eco-Friendly

Mitsubishi air conditioners are engineered to minimize energy waste, making them an environmentally friendly option.

3. Quiet Operation

Mitsubishi Electric mini-split units are known for their quiet performance, ensuring a peaceful indoor environment without compromising on cooling efficiency. 

They offer a super quiet operation feature that allows the mini-split to run with minimal noise! 

Okay, enough schmoozing about how good your Mitsubishi Electric mini-split is. 

Causes of why your Mitsubishi Electric mini-split is running and not cooling, as well as solutions to these causes: 

1. Dirty or Blocked Air Filters

One of the most common reasons your Mitsubishi Electric mini-split might be running but not cooling is due to dirty or blocked air filters. 

Over time, air filters can accumulate dust, debris, hair, and other indoor pollutants. When this happens, the airflow through the unit is restricted, making it difficult for cold air to pass through and be distributed throughout the room. 

This not only reduces the cooling efficiency but can also increase noise levels during operation.

Solution

To address this, the air filters should be cleaned regularly. It's recommended to clean the filters every two weeks during periods of normal use. 

You can clean the filters using a vacuum cleaner to remove dust or wash them in a solution of mild detergent and warm water. 

Ensure that the filters are completely dry before reinstalling them to avoid any potential damage to the unit. Regular maintenance of the filters, such as cleaning them every 400 hours of operation, can prevent this issue from recurring.

2. Improper Thermostat Settings

Another potential reason for the lack of cooling could be incorrect thermostat settings. 

If the thermostat is not set properly, the unit may run without effectively cooling the room. 

This can happen if the thermostat is set to a temperature that is too high for cooling, or if it’s in a mode that doesn’t require cooling, such as fan-only mode.

Solution

Check the thermostat settings to ensure they are correct. 

For cooling operation, the thermostat should be set between 64°F and 78°F. If your unit is in AUTO mode, make sure the cooling temperature is within the appropriate range. 

If the thermostat is set correctly but the problem persists, try lowering the temperature setting slightly to see if it triggers better cooling performance.

3. Blocked Intake Grille or Outlet Port

A blocked intake grille or outlet port can also prevent your Mitsubishi Electric mini-split from cooling properly. 

If either of these components is obstructed, the airflow will be compromised, which can lead to inadequate cooling.

Solution

Inspect the intake grille and outlet port for any obstructions. If they appear dirty or blocked, clean them thoroughly. 

To clean the intake grille, lift it forward, past the intermediate catch, until it becomes horizontal. Dust can be removed with a vacuum cleaner, and the grille can be wiped with warm water and a clean, soft cloth. 

Once cleaned, ensure the grille is properly reinstalled.

4. Open Windows or Doors

Sometimes, the issue may not be with the unit itself but with the room’s environment. 

If a window or door is open, especially during cooling operation, the cool air can escape, making it seem like the unit is not effectively cooling the room.

Solution

Ensure that all windows and doors are closed when the air conditioner is running. 

This helps to keep the cool air inside the room and maintain a consistent temperature.

5. External Heat Sources

The presence of external heat sources in the room, such as direct sunlight, heating apparatus, or even a large number of people, can overwhelm the cooling capacity of the air conditioner, making it difficult for the unit to maintain a cool temperature.

Solution

Minimize heat sources in the room during cooling operation. 

Close curtains or blinds to block out direct sunlight, turn off unnecessary heat-producing appliances, and if possible, reduce the number of people in the room when you’ve just turned on your Mitsubishi Electric mini-split.

What is Klima?

Klima is a smart controller for A/C’s that transforms your mini-split, air conditioner, or heat pump into a smart home device.

By integrating Klima, you gain direct control over your home’s climate through your smartphone, significantly enhancing convenience and efficiency.

With Klima, you can reduce energy consumption and optimize climate management with advanced automation features. Create customized schedules that fit your lifestyle, ensuring your home is always at the perfect temperature without wasting energy.

How Klima can extend your Mitsubishi Electric mini-split’s lifespan

Klima is our smart thermostat that transforms your mini-split or heat pump into a smart home device through mobile phone control!

With Klima’s Health Monitoring feature, Klima will keep an eye on your Mitsubishi Electric mini-split and provide insight if something goes wrong. This feature helps protect your Mitsubishi Electric ductless A/C from future failures and extend its lifespan, which means less time sweating at home.

Klima’s Smart Smart Features

1. Remote Access Anywhere

Whether you're at work or out running errands, Klima’s Remote Access feature lets you adjust your home's temperature remotely.

2. Location-Based Automation

Using Geofencing technology, Klima adjusts the functionality of your ductless A/C unit, depending on occupancy.

3. Real-Time Energy Monitoring

Klima tracks your cooling habits, estimates energy costs of your ductless A/C, and gives you tips to cut back. You can save up to 30% on your energy bills.

4. Smart Zoning

With Klima’s Smart Zoning Feature, you can tailor the temperature in specific areas, avoiding overcooling empty spaces.

5. Open Window Detection

With Klima’s Open Window Detection, Klima notices when a window is open—and automatically pauses your mini-split’s operation to prevent energy waste.

6. Health Monitoring

Klima monitors your mini-split’s performance and alerts you when something might be wrong, helping you avoid expensive repairs or breakdowns.

7. Guest Access & Guardian Mode

Easily share climate control access with guests, or limit settings with Klima’s Guardian Mode to save energy and prevent misuse.

Seamless Smart Home Integration

Klima fits right into your existing smart home setup. 

It’s compatible with every ductless AC brand and age, including your Mitsubishi Electric mini-split, and works with leading platforms like Google Assistant, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa. 

Conclusion

A Mitsubishi Electric mini-split that runs but does not cool can be frustrating, especially during hot weather. 

However, the causes of this issue are often straightforward and can be resolved with basic troubleshooting and regular maintenance. 

By ensuring clean air filters, proper thermostat settings, unobstructed airflow, and an optimized room environment, you can keep your Mitsubishi air conditioner operating efficiently and enjoy a consistently cool indoor climate. Mitsubishi’s commitment to quality, efficiency, and sustainability makes their mini-split systems a smart choice for any home.

Additionally, Klima can provide peace of mind by ensuring you get a notification if your Mitsubishi Electric mini-split experiences a failure or malfunctions, allowing you to solve the issue head on and avoiding large costs in the long run.