12 Best Mini Split Air Conditioners (Review) In 2022
- The Best Mini Split Air Conditioner
- 1. Pioneer WYS036G-17 Air Conditioner
- 2. MRCOOL Mini Split Air Conditioner
- 3. Senville SENL-12CD Mini Split Air Conditioner
- 4. DAIKIN 18,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Ductless Mini-Split A/C
- 5. Klimaire Ductless Mini-Split Inverter Air Conditioner
- 6. Innovair Air Mini Split Conditioner Inverter
- 7. Cooper and Hunter Dual 2 Zone Mini Split Air Conditioner
- 8. Air-Con Ductless Air Conditioner
- 9. Bosch Ultra-Quiet Mini Split Air Conditioner
- 10. YMGI Ductless Mini Split DC Inverter Air Conditioner
- 11. Della Mini Split Air Conditioner
- 12. DAIKIN 9,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Ductless Mini-Split A/C
Whether it is the height of summer and temperatures are soaring, or you’re in the plight of winter, mini split air conditioners are multi-purpose units that not only have cooling features but can also provide heating. Mini split air conditioning units are also known as ductless mini split air conditioners, are much more ideal as they take up far less space in your home as some of their components are housed outside, whereas some are inside. These units do not feature ducts to provide cool or hot air but rather links to the compressor that is outdoors. A ductless split system allows for better regulation of temperature between rooms while remaining highly efficient, unlike duct systems. When looking for an energy-efficient ductless mini split system, the higher the BTUs, the more powerful the unit; and, the higher the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), the more efficient it is. You tend to always hear about BTUs, but SEER is less commonly known; SEER looks at the BTUs produced divided by the amount of electricity consumed. So both BTUs and SEER ratings are important considerations when it comes to efficiency.
If you live in areas that experience a range of seasons, you will definitely want to consider a mini split air conditioner for your home. But, which is the best ductless mini split for your needs? This guide will review our top picks, highlighting their key features, while also helping to answer frequently asked questions and point out some considerations you need to make prior to purchasing.
The Best Mini Split Air Conditioner
1. Pioneer WYS036G-17 Air Conditioner





Key Features
4 modes include dehumidifying and ventilation
Auto switchover mode
Night mode
9,000 – 36,000 BTU
High efficiency
230 voltage
The Pioneer WYS036G-17 Air Conditioner is the best mini split system that cools, heats, dehumidifies, and provides ventilation! This efficient unit uses 36,000 BTU with a SEER rating of 16. Recommend for single-zone residential or light commercial uses ideal for spaces between 300-450 sq. ft. Perfect for your bedroom, this unit runs quietly, whether cooling or heating. The indoor unit features a sleek front panel with LED display that can be dimmed with a multi-speed motor, both of which can be controlled with the easy to use, LCD display remote controller. With a convenient permanent washable filter, as well as other filter options, moisture can also be removed from the air. For those that experience power outages will know the trouble they can cause for appliances; luckily, this model uses an auto-restart function so that it will resume the mode set prior to the outage without you needing to worry!
The variable-speed compressor is housed in the outdoor unit, made of double galvanized metal with electrostatic epoxy paint. The included installation kit provides you with insulated copper tubing with flare connections, putty, wrapping tape, interconnecting signal wiring, wall sleeve liner and cap, and a drain line extension. The attractive indoor unit measures 31.5 x 7.5 x 11.5 inches and the outdoor housing measures 31.5 x 13 x 22 inches. You will also receive a two-year parts warranty and a five-year warranty on the compressor.
Pros
Easy to use remote controller
Timer functions
Auto-restart function
Cloud-based remote access also available
Complete installation kit
Permanent washable filter
Cons
Requires specialized tools to install
Installation is tricky
Needs elevation for the outdoor housing
Vacuum pump not included
Wireless module not included
2. MRCOOL Mini Split Air Conditioner




Key Features
Several modes
24,000 BTU total
Energy Star certified
Low ambient cooling function
Wi-Fi connectivity
Easy installation
This Energy Star certified MRCOOL Mini Split Air Conditioner combines efficient heating and cooling with smart features that allow for Wi-Fi connectivity and app control. Suitable for rooms up to 1,00 sq. ft., this 20 SEER rated ductless unit operates at 12,000 BTU both when cooling and heating; running at 120v. The simplistic yet sophisticated indoor smart air conditioner uses either a wireless remote control with a large LCD display or you can download the SmartHVAC app to control your mini split air conditioner no matter where you are, whether you need to adjust the settings or view current temperature. The app is also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home Assistant which allows for use of voice commands.
For rooms that are highly sensitive to temperatures like server rooms or greenhouses, the low ambient cooling feature cools these areas down to as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit. When the refrigerant begins to run low, it will alert you so that no damage can occur to the variable speed compressor. Unlike other models that can be difficult to install, this mini split AC is an easy DIY project, as it does not require any training, special tools or equipment; complete with a 25′ lineset. The indoor ductless unit measures 31.57 x 7.44 x 11.69 inches and the outdoor unit is 31.50 x 13.11 x 21.81 inches. Includes a five-year parts warranty and a seven-year compressor warranty.
Pros
Includes remote and wireless smart kit
Can be used with Alexa and Google Home
Runs quietly
Low refrigerant alert
DIY installation
Includes 25′ lineset
Cons
Instructions aren’t detailed
Low-quality expansion bolts
Requires two people to install
App doesn’t always work well
3. Senville SENL-12CD Mini Split Air Conditioner




Key Features
For rooms 400-750 sq. ft.
Whisper quiet technology
Built-in heat pump
Dehumidifies
Low ambient functions
12,000 BTU and 110/120 voltage
Perfect for rooms between 400-750 sq. ft., the Senville SENL-12CD Mini Split Air Conditioner is the perfect choice if you are wanting a ductless mini split unit for your bedroom or living area that uses whisper-quiet technology. Its 4-in-1 design allows for air conditioning, heating, ventilating and dehumidifying, using 12,000 BTU and has a SEER rating of 19. The large wireless remote control is easy to use and displays the room’s current temperature on the LCD display so you can easily switch between modes as required. The turbo function, which can be selected by using the remote, guarantees an even distribution of hot or cold air; the built-in heat pump lets you easily switch between heating and cooling.
Maintenance of your mini split unit is made much easier due to the washable and replaceable filters. Installation does require a professional, but an installation kit that includes a 16′ lineset and wiring harness is provided. The sleek, indoor unit measures 31.69 x 11.22 x 7.64 inches and the outdoor compressor housing measures 30.31 x 11.81 x 21.85 inches. You will also receive a two-year guarantee on the parts and a five-year guarantee on the compressor.
Pros
Wireless remote control
Turbo mode
Self-clean mode
Washable and replaceable filters
Easy maintenance
Includes 16′ installation kit
Cons
Requires professional installation
Instructions are not very clear
Warranty not valid if self-installed
No Wi-Fi connectivity
Fittings on tubing can leak
4. DAIKIN 18,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Ductless Mini-Split A/C





Key Features
Ideal for large rooms up to 1,000 sq. ft.
18,000 BTU
Built-in heat pump
Quiet units
Wireless control
Includes a 15′ installation kit
Perfect for room coverage up to 1,000 sq. ft., the DAIKIN 18,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Ductless Mini-Split A/C is our large room pick as it highly effective in heating and cooling with its variable-speed compressor and built-in heat pump; running at 18,000 BTU with a SEER rating of 17. The wide-angle louver vent helps evenly distribute hot or cold air throughout the room; the auto-swing and comfortable mode also contribute to this. The indoor unit runs quietly at 37 dB, but can be reduced by 2-3 dB when the quiet mode is selected; the outdoor unit does run a little louder at 51 dB, but when you consider that normal conversation is about 60 dB, it does put into perspective the quiet efficiency of both the indoor and outdoor units.
The wireless control allows you to easily switch between modes, adjust the temperature, and set a timer. Complete with a 15′ installation kit that helps with easy installation. You will also receive a 10-year limited manufacturer warranty.
Pros
Includes wall bracket for outdoor unit
Uses advanced filtration
Easy to use remote control
Energy efficient
208-230 voltage
Cons
No Wi-Fi connectivity
Doesn’t dehumidify
Not programmable, but has a timer
Must be installed professionally
Fittings on tubing can leak
5. Klimaire Ductless Mini-Split Inverter Air Conditioner





Key Features
Best for rooms up to 550 sq. ft.
12,000 BTU
208/230 voltage
Self-cleaning function
Home Away function
Low ambient heating and cooling
Searching for a multi-functional ductless mini split AC unit? The Klimaire Ductless Mini-Split Inverter Air Conditioner heats the air with the built-in heat pump, cools the air, has an option for dedicated dehumidification, and a choice of fan speeds. Ideal for smaller rooms up to about 550 sq. ft., this model is the best ductless mini unit for functionality and maintenance while being highly efficient, using 12,000 BTU and offering a 19 SEER rating! The incredible self-cleaning function cleans and dries out the evaporator within the unit, which prevents the growth of mildew that can typically occur, giving you a cleaner, healthier air quality.
If you have a vacation planned, don’t come back to sweltering or frigid temperatures or to find your unit has frozen up, instead come home to the comfortable temperature of 46 degrees Fahrenheit when you select the Home Away function which prevents freezing. The indoor unit runs at ultra-quiet levels as low as 25 dB. The low ambient heating and cooling run in conditions as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for server rooms or greenhouses that require heat even in the height of the bitter winter. The wireless remote control is easy to use and includes a wall-mounted holder, so no more misplacing the remote! The convenient quick-hook design of the indoor unit makes installation even easier; there is a 15′ installation kit included as well an indoor wall bracket. This unit includes a five-year manufacturer warranty.
Pros
Pre-charged outdoor unit
Quiet indoor unit
Sleep mode
Wall-mounted remote holder
Automatic defrost on outdoor unit
Cons
No Wi-Fi connectivity
Hard to understand instructions
Limited electrical wiring instructions
Heavy units
6. Innovair Air Mini Split Conditioner Inverter




Key Features
Suitable for rooms 450-600 sq. ft.
12,000 BTU
Dehumidifying mode
Sleep mode
Pre-charged outdoor unit
115 voltage
If you are looking for the best value without compromising on features, the Innovair Air Mini Split Conditioner Inverter will not disappoint! While running at high energy efficiency, 12,000 BTU and SEER rating of 16, you have a choice of multiple modes that include turbo cooling and dehumidifying. Ideal for smaller rooms between 450-600 sq. ft., its quiet operation makes it ideal in bedrooms and offices. The HD air purifying filter helps provide you with cleaner, better air quality.
The hidden LED display panel on the sleek indoor unit is controlled with the easy to use wireless remote; the indoor unit measures 31.5 x 7.5 x 11.75 inches. There is also the option to control the unit with your smartphone or smart home systems as this model is Wi-Fi ready. The outdoor unit is pre-charged up to 25ft and measures 30.25 x 11.75 x 21.75 inches. Both the indoor and outdoor units are ready to install and are provided with a 10′ installation kit.
Pros
Wi-Fi ready
Washable, HD air purifying filter
High ambient cooling
Eco-conscious refrigerant
‘Gold-fin’ protected condensers
Cons
No heat-pump
Hard to install
Small installation kit
Several specialist tools needed for installation
7. Cooper and Hunter Dual 2 Zone Mini Split Air Conditioner





Key Features
2 indoor units, 12,000 BTU each
230 voltage
Whisper-quiet technology
Heats and cools
Ambient cooling option
Pre-charged outdoor unit
Our premium pick, the Cooper and Hunter Dual 2 Zone Mini Split Air Conditioner, provides dual coverage for a total of 24 000 BTU. This Energy Star certified ductless mini split has an excellent SEER rating of 21.3. With a built-in heat pump, you have the option for cooling in and heating in two zones in your home or office. Featuring whisper-quiet technology, you can be sure of a peaceful night’s sleep. There is the ambient cooling option up to 13 degrees Fahrenheit, which allows you to heat rooms with ease.
Each indoor unit has its own wireless remote, which allows you to easily adjust the temperature and choose your preferred mode. These units are Wi-Fi ready, so they can connect your smartphone to make for easy control whether you are near the unit or not; an additional adapter is required for this feature. The outdoor unit is pre-charged with 50ft. You will also be provided with a copper lineset and communication wires. With your purchase, you will receive a five-year warranty on parts and a seven-year warranty on the compressor.
Pros
Energy Star certified
Built-in heat pump
Turbo cooling
Wi-Fi ready
Installation kit included
Cons
Warranty only valid if installed by HVAC technician
Tech support not always helpful
Remote control doesn’t have a wide range from unit
Heavy
8. Air-Con Ductless Air Conditioner





Key Features
Best for rooms up to 1,500 sq. ft.
24,000 BTU
Provides heating and dehumidifying
Auto-clean option
Auto-restart
208-230 voltage
If you are looking for a mini split AC for medium to large rooms, the Air-Con Ductless Air Conditioner is perfect for rooms up to 1,500 sq. ft. The powerful 24,000 BTU split system has an impressive 20.5 SEER rating, providing you with efficient heating, cooling, and dehumidifying modes. With smart functions like auto-restart after a power outage and last-setting memory, this ductless mini split is hassle-free! There is also an auto-clean option if you truly want to make this unit hassle-free; this option will help prevent the occurrence of mildew that is generally associated with the fans and filters on air conditioning units. The louver motion operates in both a horizontal and vertical manner, providing evenly distributed air to your room and offers seven fan speeds to suit your needs.
This system is Wi-Fi ready for easy control from your smartphone; the wireless remote provided with the unit is easy to use and comes with a wall-mount. The indoor and outdoor units come ready to install with a pre-charged compressor and 12′ copper lineset and electrical wiring. Your purchase gives you a 5-year warranty on parts and a 7-year warranty on the compressor.
Pros
Last-setting memory
Sleep mode
Wi-Fi ready
Horizontal and vertical louver motion
Pre-charged compressor
Includes 12′ installation kit
Cons
HVAC technician needed for final installation
Not ideal in rooms with low ceilings
More copper wiring is usually needed
Heavy compressor
9. Bosch Ultra-Quiet Mini Split Air Conditioner




Key Features
Best for small rooms up to 400 sq. ft.
Includes inverter heat pump
Silent mode – 20 dB
Includes 16′ lineset
230 voltage
For small rooms up to 400 sq. ft., the Bosch Ultra-Quiet Mini Split Air Conditioner provides heating and cooling at 12,000 BTU, with a SEER rating of 20.7. Perfect for areas that experience extreme heat or cold, the ambient cooling and heating make sure you keep comfortable despite the weather outside of your home. The indoor ductless air conditioning unit has a sophisticated yet simple design, perfect for the modern home. With features like silent mode, which operates at an ultra-quiet level of 20 dB, and a 24-hour timer, this system provides versatility, which is exactly what you want when searching for a ductless mini split air system; all modes can be selected from the easy to use, back-lit wireless remote.
The filtration system used in this unit is made up of several parts, which makes it easy to remove and clean. Installation is easy with the provided 16′ lineset and pre-charged outdoor unit. The indoor mini split AC measures 11.81 x 31.65 x 7.60 inches, and the outdoor compressor housing measures 21.81 x 31.5 x 13.11 inches. There is a 5-year, limited residential warranty on parts and 7-year on the compressor included with your purchase.
Pros
24-hour timer
Easy to clean filtration system
Ambient heating and cooling
Energy Star certified
Pre-charged outdoor unit
Cons
Fan runs constantly
Does not include refrigerant lines
Low-quality instructions
Requires specialized tools
10. YMGI Ductless Mini Split DC Inverter Air Conditioner




Key Features
Best for rooms up 350-400 square feet
9000 BTU
110-120 voltage
Dehumidifying and air purification options
Variable speed compressor
Built-in heat pump
The YMGI Ductless Mini Split DC Inverter Air Conditioner, featuring 9000 BTU is suitable for areas between 350-400 sq. ft. With a variable speed compressor and heat system, you can heat and cool your room with three fan speeds. The wide-angled louver motion and auto-swing allows for an even distribution of air. With a dedicated dehumidifying and air purification option, you can trust that your air quality will be improved. With a whisper-quiet sleep mode, you can enjoy the comfort of heated or cool air as you sleep. Other great functions, all of which can be selected from the wireless remote control, including turbo mode, auto restart and allows for you to set a timer, up to 24 hours.
Most indoor units can be quite heavy, but this ductless mini split air AC is relatively lightweight, weighing 25.4 pounds, aiding with easy installation. The indoor and outdoor units measure 30.3 x 11.1 x 7.9 inches and 33.4 x 12.6 x 21.3 inches respectively. Included with your purchase are a 15′ installation kit and a one-year warranty on parts and a five-year warranty on the compressor.
Pros
Wide angled louver
Whisper quiet sleep mode
Auto-restart
Washable air filter
Anti-mold coil
Includes 15′ lineset
Cons
Not Wi-Fi ready
Requires professional installation
No ambient cooling/heating
Compressor is not pre-charged
Must have EPA Refrigerant Certification to qualify for warranty
11. Della Mini Split Air Conditioner





Key Features
Best in rooms up to 750 sq. ft.
12,000 BTU
Built-in heat pump
Dehumidifies and ventilates
Multiple speed fan
208-230 voltage
With 12,000 BTU and for use in rooms up to 750 sq. ft., the Della Mini Split Air Conditioner is highly efficient, operating at a SEER rating of 17. This ductless mini split AC includes a built-in heat pump and offers cooling, heating, dehumidification, and ventilation. You have a choice of multiple fan speeds, I FEEL function, and a range of automated features like auto-defrost, auto-clean, eco-energy saving mode, and a 24-hour timer, you can enjoy the comforts of this ductless air conditioning system without complicated programming, making it so easy to use with the remote control. Keep the controller by your side and set the follow me an option for the controller to determine the temperature based on where it is at and adjust accordingly!
The ductless mini split AC indoor unit measures in at 35 x 8 x 12 inches and the outdoor compressor unit measures 29 x 12 x 22 inches. A full installation kit is included.
Pros
Auto-defrost
Auto-clean
Quiet operation, 30-41 dB
Ambient cooling and heating
Follow me mode
Intelligent compressor pre-heating
Cons
Not Wi-Fi ready
Requires professional installation
Outdoor unit isn’t pre-charged
Not programmable
12. DAIKIN 9,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Ductless Mini-Split A/C





Key Features
Suitable for rooms in 350 sq. ft.
9,000 BTU
12-year warranty
Built-in heat pump
Indoor unit runs quietly
Self-diagnostics and digital display
208-230 voltage
With a lengthy 12 year warranty, the DAIKIN 9,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Ductless Mini-Split A/C is the best ductless air conditioner for its competitive warranty. Heat and cool rooms up to 350 sq. ft., using 9,000 BTU with a SEER rating of 19. With handy features like auto-fan speed control, auto-defrost, auto-restart, and anti-changeover, this mini split air conditioning unit runs like a breeze and is all controlled with the touch of a few buttons on your remote control; the compact remote has an extending section that reveals a range of functions you can select.
Running at super quiet levels as low as 19 dB, your daily activities or sleep won’t be interrupted unlike with clunky, noisy central air systems. Should your mini split system face any issues, it has a self-diagnostics feature with a digital display, so you can deal with issues as they arise, preventing damage to the mini split system. There is a 15′ installation kit included.
Pros
Auto-cleaning
Washable filter
Air purifying filter
Ambient cooling
Eco-mode
Heats and cools
Cons
No Wi-Fi connectivity
Heavy outdoor unit
Outdoor unit is a little loud
Smaller area coverage
Features To Consider With Mini Split Air Conditioners
Energy Efficiency
A ductless air conditioner system like a mini split is one of the most energy-efficient ways to cool and heat the rooms in your home. If you look for Energy Star certified mini split AC units, you can save up to 30% on your energy bills. What makes mini split AC systems more energy efficient? The fact that they are ductless! Central air conditioning systems use ducts, but this is one of the biggest ways to lose energy as they tend to leak, thereby making them far from efficient. Ductless mini split air conditioners can cool and heat a larger area, but at the same BTU level as a window unit, which is another reason they are so much more energy-efficient.
If you are also looking for a ductless mini split air conditioner, it is great to look for one that has a built-in heat pump, as it is an energy-efficient way to heat your home. When you use the heating function on your mini split AC unit, instead of burning an energy source or drawing large amounts of electrical energy, the heat pump draws warm air from outdoors and transfers that into your home, using very little electricity in the process.
To make sure your mini splitter AC unit is running efficiently, you will find it is best to set it to your preferred temperature and allow it to continue running and only adjust the temperature if you need to; the compressor will only kick in and out as the temperature falls or rises above your preference.
Control
Unlike central air conditioners that cool or heat the air in your entire home, ductless mini split air conditioners allow you to control the temperature in a single room (sometimes two if it is a dual system). Most mini split air conditioners make use of a wireless controller that allows you to set your preferred temperature, adjust the mode, and set a timer. This range of control will vary between units but should include basic functions like adjustment of temperature. The best ductless mini split units use a special feature on the controller, typically referred to as the 'follow-me' feature, that allows the unit to automatically adjust its temperature to wherever the remote is.
Number Of Zones
It is important to consider the number of zones that you would like to benefit from your mini split AC system. Most ductless air conditioners typically have only one indoor unit, covering only one zone in your home like a bedroom or small living area. If you want to cover more areas than one, you need a multi-zone mini split AC unit. Multi-zone mini split air conditioners feature multiple indoor units and one outdoor compressor; you can find multi-zone mini split air conditioners that offer up to four indoor units. When using multi-zone units, each indoor unit will have its own thermostat, so you can adjust the temperature in each zone to suit your preferences, unlike a central AC system which provides the same temperature level throughout your home.
Room Size
Room size is one of the most important considerations you need to make prior to purchasing a mini split air conditioning system. If you purchase one that is too small, you will find it tends to be constantly running, trying to achieve the temperature you want and it just won't cool efficiently. When thinking about room size, you should also bear in mind the level of insulation present as well as the number of zones you want to cool.
BTUs
Any air conditioning unit, whether a central air system, window air conditioner, or ductless mini-split AC, measures its power in British Thermal Unit (BTU); the higher the BTU, the more powerful the system is. Of course, depending on your room size, the more or less powerful you would require it to be. Here is a rough guide of square footage and the corresponding BTU level you will require to efficiently cool a room - just remember, if you live in very hot areas that tend to see temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit, you should add about 30% to the number of BTUs you should be looking for in a mini split unit. You should also add 20% onto the below BTUs if you have poor insulation or ceilings higher than 8ft.
- 150 sq. ft. = 5,000 BTU
- 250 sq. ft. = 6,000 BTU
- 350 sq. ft. = 9,000 BTU
- 500 sq. ft. = 12,000 BTU
- 750 sq. ft. = 18,000 BTU
- 1000 sq. ft. = 24,000 BTU
- 1250 sq. ft. = 30,000 BTU
- 1500 sq. ft. = 36,000 BTU
Noise Level
Luckily, as the compressor in a mini split air conditioning system is located within the outdoor unit, nearly all indoor units can run at very quiet levels that do not interrupt your sleep or any activities you may need to carry out in the peace and quiet. When it comes to noise level, you will want to consider those living around you as they will be the most affected by a noisy outdoor unit. Most outdoor compressor units run at a level of 45 dB or lower, so you can rest assured that most units will not be bothersome to yourself or your neighbors.
Temperature Range
Temperature range is a big consideration depending on where you live. You will first of all want to consider whether you want to heat and cool, or just cool. If you want a mini split system that does both, you should look for those that make use of ambient cooling and heating; this ambient features manage to heat and cool despite frigid or scorching hot temperatures without the risk of the compressor freezing up or breaking down.
Installation
The best mini split air conditioning systems include an installation kit, typically composed of copper wires, electrical wiring, wall sleeves, and draining tubes, although these can vary. Most indoor units are wall-mounted or through wall air conditioners, but you can find some that are hung from the ceiling. If you don't want your AC unit to be fixed, maybe portable air conditioners are a better option for you. As a mini split air conditioning system is ductless, you won't have to worry about any major renovations required for your home. Typically, when installing mini split AC units you will need specialized tools and equipment, and while some units will advertise themselves as being a DIY project, it is generally recommended that you hire an HVAC technician to professionally complete the work for you. You will find that the majority of these kinds of AC units will have their warranty voided if you do not have it professionally installed; the technician installing it may have to have certain certifications, so always check this carefully before purchasing and paying for any services.
Voltage
Voltage is extremely important when it comes to purchasing a system that is suitable for your home. The majority of homes are wired for a 110-120 volt plug, so they will run with ease. You will find that most mini split air conditioners require a higher voltage than that, so you should have your home's voltage checked prior to making any purchases. If you do buy a unit that exceeds the voltage level in your home, it can result in them being far less efficient and broken circuits that can lead to fires.
Warranty
You will find that most mini split systems come with a parts warranty and a compressor warranty; typically, the compressor's warranty is longer than the parts. The best mini split air conditioners will come with a lengthy warranty, which will give you peace of mind knowing that your purchase is backed by this. Bear in mind that DIY installations can invalidate warranties, so always check very carefully first!
Extra Features
Other great features that you may want to consider are:
Option For Dehumidification - If you are limited in space, you may not want to have multiple appliances such as humidifiers or dehumidifiers in your home; purchasing a mini split system that offers this as a feature reduces one less appliance you may need!
Washable Filters - This helps reduce the long-term cost associated with maintaining your mini split system.
Wi-Fi Ready - If you want to be able to control your split system from the gym, office, or even overseas, you will want to look for a system that comes Wi-Fi ready. You typically need to purchase an additional adapter.
Timer Option - This is a great feature if you for being able to cycle between temperatures depending on your requirements; if you are out of the home for most of the day, it is possible to set a timer so that it runs at a warmer temperature until you get home, helping keep it more efficient.
Mini Split Air Conditioner FAQ
Q: What is a mini split air conditioner?
A mini split air conditioner is a system that cools the air in your home; some models even have the option to heat! Mini split air conditioning units are ductless, making them much more energy efficient. The system is made up of three core components:
Indoor Units - Normally wall-mounted but occasionally hung from the ceiling, deliver the cool air into the room in which it is placed.
Outdoor Condenser Units - The compressor is housed here and draws the air in, condenses it and passes it through to the indoor unit.
Refrigerant Lines - Connects the indoor and outdoor units through a small hole in the wall.
Q: How much does it cost to install a mini split air conditioner?
The cost of installing a mini split system can vary greatly and will depend on the number of indoor units you have. Sometimes the cost of installation may be even higher than the system itself, but this additional cost will help guarantee your warranty and ensure it is installed correctly into your home. You may be looking at anywhere between $300-$1000 for installation.
Q: Do I need a mini split air conditioner for every room?
As mini split units are ductless, you will need an indoor unit for each room you wish to cool. You can buy multi-zone units with up to four indoor units, ideal for larger homes. You wouldn't likely need to cool your kitchen, bathrooms or hallways, so just consider the main rooms like living areas and bedrooms.
Q: What size breaker do I need for a mini split?
The size of the breaker required will be dependent on the level of voltage the system requires. Most breakers can only handle about 80% of their total amps. To determine the size of your breaker required, multiply the amps by the voltage to give you total wattage; then do the same with all other appliances that are using that breaker to ensure they do not exceed 80%. It's always a good idea to have a technician check your home before making any purchases as they will have all of the knowledge required to determine if your home can handle the system or if you'd require a larger sized breaker. As a general rule of thumb, a 240 (average of many mini splits) volt system would need a 15amp circuit.
Q: Can you install a mini split by yourself?
If you have experience with wiring you may find that you are comfortable installing a mini split by yourself. In most cases, you would require a second pair of hands to help with the lifting of heavy units, especially when it comes to mounting the indoor units. It is rare that a system comes entirely ready to install, you do typically need certain tools and sometimes pumps to get it completely installed; of course, you can purchase these separately and complete the installation. The biggest downside to installing yourself means that you can void the warranty.
Q: Do mini splits remove humidity?
Some definitely can! If you are wanting a unit that removes humidity, look for those that have a dehumidifying option. This is not a standard option of all units.
Q: Can a mini split air conditioner cool a whole house?
A mini split system can provide cooling to the majority of your home, and if you leave doors open and have a powerful unit, you can feel the cooling benefits throughout your whole house. Of course, as the system is ductless you would not be able to cool every room to the same low temperature, but you can notice a difference in the surrounding areas.
Q: Do I need a permit to install a mini split air conditioner?
This is entirely dependent on where you live! You will need to check the requirements based on the state in which you reside. Many large units will require a permit, especially due to the electrical work involved. The building code for the area in which you live will help answer any questions you have in regards to permits.