A larger mini split will remove more humidity to make the air comfortable and hinder mold growth. If the garage lacks full insulation, then you should consider an 18,000 BTU mini split system in mild climates and a 24,000 BTU mini split AC or heat pump where temperature gets extreme in summer or winter. They arent as high-quality as the top mini-split brands. They make more mini-splits than anyone else, and theyve been doing it longer. A true ducted mini split includes an indoor unit installed in the attic with up to 3 ducts running off it but only a short distance. There are links to the top mini split AC models and sizes below, so if youre ready to purchase a unit, weve selected the highest rated mini split systems for you to consider. And they are best for heating, since heat naturally rises. Look no further than the Daikin 17 SEER wall-mounted ductless system. And in AC mode, they dont remove as much clammy humidity as an inverter-driven AC. If you compare the 18,000 BTU ACs below, it is 20 SEER for MrCool vs Klimaire at 18 SEER, a difference of about 10%. With 33 SEER, it is one of the most efficient mini split heat pumps too. Youll be happier in the end and for years to come when you get the buying decision right. Quality:Consumer ratings are slightly higher for MrCool, and we agree that this brand is a little better. Before you can decide which brand is best for you, you should know what your options are and what different brands specialize in. Their SEER ratings are at the top of the list, with ratings as high as 30+ for single units and 20 for multi-zone units. Sure, the indoor unit might be rated for that size, but it also might not get treated air to the furthest reaches. Most of their models cease working when the temperatures drop below zero. And the efficiency ratings of central air conditioners is rising, so you have energy efficient options. To do that, several mini split system types are compared with one another. Its mini split air conditioners and heat pumps boast good quality, lots of features, many configuration options and SEER ratings up to around 30. While not exact, you can subtract 20% for the 20 SEER AC from 58% for the high SEER unit to get 38%. PickHVAC is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. LG is a huge appliance manufacturer, but it doesnt overlook its mini split products. In terms of efficiency, most LG mini-splits have a SEER rating between 17 and 28, which puts them in the middle of the pack for efficiency. This system is designed for easy installation and comes with a 10-year parts warranty. With an inverter mini split, set your thermostat where you want the temperature to remain. Cool produces one of the only DIY mini-split units globally that anyone and everyone can easily install. This article will look at the top names in ductless mini-split heat pumps. Should you choose the highest SEER AC even if it costs more? With the new Smarthvac app, you can control your DIY from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. You can find a few 6,000 BTU mini split ACs from Mitsubishi and others. Our calculator is precise and highly useful. Theyre also relatively easy to install and maintain, which boosts them in the eyes of HVAC installers. One of the downsides of mini-split systems is that youll always have an indoor unit mounted high on your interior wall to ensure proper air dispersal. Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Advertise. Within the coils inside them, refrigerant evaporates and collects heat in the process. Additionally, Fujitsu has a partnership with Rheem, one of the top brands in the HVAC industry. Theyre the company credited with inventing inverter compressor technology, revolutionizing the heating and cooling world. And inverter compressors use energy more efficiently, so SEER ratings are generally higher. MrCool and Klimaire are the top brands for DIY mini split systems. Rheem, Trane, Ruud, and many other notable HVAC companies produce quality mini-splits. The number of DIY mini split brands is sure to grow based on the success especially of MrCool. Anything larger than 24,000 BTU often involves a multi-zone system with multiple indoor units. If the garage is fully insulated, then a 15,000 BTU system might be sufficient. It is pre-charged with refrigerant, including the lines. Most of their mini-splits top out inefficiency at around 24 or 25 SEER. A good SEER rating for a mini split in these climates is 17 to 22. LG is well-known for its refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and other kitchen appliances. They offer single-zone and multi-zone systems that can handle up to eight indoor units on a single outdoor unit. Their companys sheer size and resources give them a competitive advantage over smaller manufacturers despite not having been in the mini-split game for as long. All mini split systems employ inverter compressors. All in all, LG is one of the top mini-split brands globally, and they even produce two models designed specifically for cold weather, the Multi F and the Multi F Max. Youll find it on Carrier, Bryant and Payne, which are all Carrier brands. The Difficulty of Installation and Maintenance. It can produce heat in temperatures as low as -15 degrees Fahrenheit and with decent efficiency. I'm a licensed Home Inspector, Certified Master Inspector (CMI), and FHA 203k Consultant. This brand has a proven track record of high quality. SEER ratings from about 17 to 28 for its various models give you options. It will slow down when not as much AC is needed to keep the air cool. Mr. As with all things in life, your budget will likely play a significant role in your final decision. ft., the Daikin mini-split is perfect for primary living areas, hot or cold rooms, and more. Mini split systems:Youve got lots of model and indoor unit options with LG mini split AC heat pumps. Systems for most Mitsubishi mini splits range from single-zone 9,000 BTU to multizone (up to 8 zones) systems and 48,000 to 60,000 BTU. Mitsubishi often gets heralded as the best overall mini-split company in the world. Yes, there are a few AC-only mini split systems, but if you shop for AC-only models to the exclusion of heat pumps, youre limiting your choice and possibly the quality of your options. Gree makes efficient mini split AC heat pumps known to work in extreme weather conditions. Its models are heat pumps too, so you get heating and cooling. Lennox is perhaps the top overall American brand for mini-splits and HVAC equipment in terms of popularity. About Us | Contact Us | Privacy Policy| Cookie Policy| Terms of Use| Do Not Sell My Info. PICKHVAC Terms of Use: Some of the products seen on our site are delivered through a relationship with outside suppliers like Networx.com, Google, and others. He holds an HVAC associate degree from Lone Star College and EPA & R-410A Certifications. Mini-splits have a broad cost differential, ranging from $750 to $1,500 to between $4,000 and $6,000 for a single unit. If your annual energy bill for air conditioning is $800, youll save about $160 with the high SEER unit. Annual electricity cost and savings by seer. I started HomeInspectionInsider.com to help people better understand the home inspection process and answer questions about homeownership and home maintenance. Daikin is credited with developing inverter compressor technology decades ago. Here are features for the Klimaire mini split AC heat pump models. MrCool 12,000 BTU 3rd Generation DIY 22 SEER AC Heat Pump, MrCool 18,000 BTU 3rd Generation DIY 20 SEER AC Heat Pump, MrCool 36,000 BTU 3rd Generation DIY 16 SEER AC Heat Pump. The DIY pre-charged mini split vs installed by a professional system is an intriguing difference for handy homeowners. However, like most others, Bosch got caught up in the mini-split craze and started producing their line in recent years. The harder your system is to install and maintain, the more likely it is that something will go wrong during the installation. The advantagesare that wall mounted indoor units cost less than the other choices both for the unit and for installation. A single-zone mini-split system is when you have a single outdoor unit powering one indoor unit. 42 SEER is the highest SEER rating. However, the low price tag attached to Mr. Those sites are mistaken or worse. Single Vs Multi-Zone Systems. It certainly has a great name for an HVAC brand! You answered every question I had! We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. You should look for a system with a rating of 20 or higher. Using the table, youll see that you can save around 60% on your energy costs using the highest SEER ACs. Before you decide which mini-split system to choose, you need to know what to look for. There is no obligation to hire them just get answers to your questions. The difference, obviously, is about the voltage needed to run the system and the type of plug used. Carrier is another brand better-known for their traditional air conditioners and furnaces than their mini-splits. The brands that make the best mini split AC systems are Fujitsu, Mitsubishi, Daikin, Greer, Carrier/Toshiba, and if you want to DIY, MrCool and Klimaire. Theyre an American brand made by the Parker Davis Company, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. Quick Clarification:We get asked to explain a mini split AC vs mini split heat pump system. The best SEER rating is one that is right for your climate. Also, see our Daikin Mini Split Error Codes (Troubleshooting Guide). In addition to their high-efficiency models, Carrier also produces a multi-zone unit capable of powering up to five indoor head units. Their multi-zone units operate as high as 60,000 BTU, which is enough power to operate between two and eight indoor units depending on their size. If, for example, you need 60,000 BTU, consider a 36,000 BTU system for the living areas or the first floor and a 24,000 BTU system for the living areas or upper floor. We know you can find lists of the Best DIY Mini Split ACs other places that have brands like Pioneer, Daikin, Senville and others. Klimaire is a slightly more affordable alternative to MrCool mini split ACs. We may or may not be compensated for purchased you make as a result of our recommendation. This difference was covered above. You might see the term ducted mini split, but this means that the inside unit is concealed inside ductwork that is already there. Keep in mind that they go as high as the low to mid-40s. Here are common mini split installation costs for the labor. The refrigerant can then carry it outside to disperse it. Their mini-splits come with all the components necessary for total installation, from electrical materials to refrigerant lines and everything in between. When you live in a warm climate and want to keep energy costs under control. Regardless of how many zones or how large you want your mini-split to be, Daikin has an option. However, certain mini-split brands specialize in multi-zone systems where a single outdoor unit powers multiple indoor units. Very affordable mini-split systems ranging in price from $1,000 to $10,000, It offers a silent mode feature where the indoor unit is extremely quiet, Dont have as wide a variety of products that other brands do, Not as long-lasting or efficient as other top brands, One of the best cold-weather mini-split brands in the world, Renowned for their reliability and durability, Offer a wide variety of single and multi-zone systems, Theyre at the low end of the spectrum in terms of efficiency, Carry a fairly steep price tag despite their inefficiencies, Affordable pricing compared to other top mini-split brands, Tend to focus on efficiency above all else, Offer several outdoor and indoor installation options, Dont do as well in cold temperatures as other top brands, While efficient, they arent as reliable or long-lasting as other makers, Make one of the best and only DIY mini-splits in the world, Very affordable regardless of which product you choose, Offer several products outside of their popular DIY options, They tend to be on the lower end of the efficiency scale, with SEER ratings no higher than 23, Not as reliable or durable as top mini-split brands. They also produce the smallest indoor unit on the market, which measures just 16 x 16 x 8. The HVAC pro can help you choose the system with the right configuration, size and efficiency for your purposes. When you choose a good brand and follow suggested maintenance, it will last 15-20 years and possibly longer. They remove heat for AC, and they bring in heat from outside for heating. Not all mini-split brands offer this option, so choose your brand wisely. While their mini-splits arent as flashy, fancy, or innovative as Mitsubishi or LG, Pioneer is a brand valued for its affordability and reliability. One of the biggest differences between various mini-split heat pump brands is their mechanical construction. Daikin Mini Split Error Codes (Troubleshooting Guide), Mitsubishi Mini-Split Error Codes (Troubleshooting Guide), 10 Best Ductless Mini Split Brands & Buying Guide (2022), How Many Mini-Splits Do You Need? A mini-split heat pump is an HVAC system capable of producing heat during the winter and cooling during the summer. Cool is revolutionizing the world of mini-splits. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the mini-split system is. Thats not what other sites say! Mini split systems do not require ductwork, so they are also known as ductless systems. Known as single-stage or 1-stage and two-stage or 2-stage, they have limited ability to adjust. Mobile Rooms and RVs: Compared with traditional RV air conditioner, mini split is a more efficient and quieter option. If youre thinking about choosing a mini-split system for your home, you must know which brand is the best of the best. Yes, it will cost more. Glad you like it and let me know if you have any other questions. It heats in outdoor temperature as low as -15F. For convenience, feel free to use the Free Local Quote tab or toll-free number on this page. In fact, most systems make it your onlyoption. Daikin 24,000 BTU 17 SEER Wall-Mounted Ductless Mini-Split A/C Heat Pump System 15-ft Installation Kit and Wall Mounting Bracket 220V, PIONEER Air Conditioner WYS009AMFI22RL Wall Mount Ductless Inverter+ Mini Split Heat Pump, 9000 BTU-110/120V, Gree MULTI30CVIR400-30,000 BTU Multi21+ Quad-Zone Wall Mount Mini Split Air Conditioner Heat Pump 208-230V (9-9-9-9), MRCOOL DIY 22 SEER Ductless Heat Pump Split System, A company with a long history of high-quality mini-splits, Offer various kinds of mini-splits with multiple installation options, Extremely high-efficiency with SEER ratings of 20+, One of the most expensive options with a price range of $3,000 to $15,000, Extremely high-efficiency ratings ranging from 20 for multi-zone systems to 35 for singles, One of the most dependable names in the business, Offer a limited five-year warranty on their products, Partnership with Rheem gives them an advantage, Slightly less expensive than Mitsubishi but still very pricy, ranging between $3,500 and $15,000, Slightly more affordable than Mitsubishi and Fujitsu, Select models do excellent in cold weather, More aesthetically-pleasing designs than many competitors. If youre looking for something more complicated with higher efficiency ratings and works better in cold temperatures, they offer several non-DIY mini-split options. While the overall operation is much more complicated, this gives you a general idea of how mini-split heat pumps operate. With a coverage area of up to 1,500 sq. The number of square feet your mini-split will heat or cool depends on the size of the mini-split. Quick recommendation, MrCool vs Klimaire:If you plan to live forever where you are going to install the mini split AC, then the advantage goes to MrCool. The faster it runs, the more heat is removed and the cooler the air that is produced. They are all AC heat pumps, so you get heating with them too. And they do a decent job distributing air to the zone. Some have specific electrical requirements of 208 or 230 volts. The downside is taking up space that might be valuable within the room. Very high efficiency with SEER ratings between 20 and 30, Right up there with Mitsubishi in terms of technology and innovation, Dont do as well in cold weather climates, Very affordable purchase and installation cost, Easy brand to install, and you can potentially DIY, While theyre affordable, theyre very dependable and long-lasting, Not the most efficient systems with average SEER ratings between 16 and 25, While theyre in the middle of the pack in terms of efficiency, the Gree Saphire has a SEER rating of 38, Offer a wide variety of products ranging from single zone to multi-zone. This will NEVER affect our opinion of a product or service! Cool might be the best and most popular mini-split brand youve ever heard of. (BTU to Sq Ft), Pros of Ductless Heating and Cooling Systems, Most are more efficient than standard split systems, Each indoor unit has its own thermostat, so you can independently control the climate in each zone, They dont require ductwork and its cost, so are ideal for additions and new construction, A mini split is an excellent source of supplemental AC and heating in parts of a home or building not adequately served by a central system, Cold climate heat pumps like those that can bring heat into your home in sub-freezing temperatures make a mini split a good choice in almost any climate, Installation cost and total system cost will exceed the cost of conventional split system installation when you install 3, 4 or more indoor units, While a few mini split systems are designed for sub-zero weather, most cant effectively heat in extreme cold, Wall mounted and floor mounted indoor units are visible and take up space. Thats 576 square feet. There are dozens of different brands, makers, and hundreds of products. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thank you so much for writing such a detailed guide to minisplit systems!!!! Wall mounted and floor mounted indoor units are the easiest to install, so labor costs for them are lower than for ceiling mounted and duct concealed units. See the Pros and Cons of Mini Split Systems above for more reasons to consider a mini split. Which ductless mini-split system is best? The cost savings for high SEER ACs are based on average annual AC use of 1320 hours and the US average cost of electricity. Carrier produces several great mini-splits, but their 9,000 BTU single-zone system with a SEER rating of 42 might be their best. Some use 120 volts, but the same circuit and plug can be used. Youll pay more for the labor too and currently there are no DIY ceiling units. The indoor unit is installed inside existing ductwork, so they are ideal for existing homes. It is followed by our exclusive BTU calculator and a chart showing recommended BTU needed for each common room type bedroom, living room, kitchen, etc. Theyre also one of the only western-European producers of mini-splits. They also have a variety of installation types for their indoor units, ranging from wall-mounted to ceiling-mounted to floor-mounted. For example, the Gree Sapphire has a 38 SEER rating, and it is 90% effective heating in outside temperatures below zero / 0-degrees F. Mini split systems:Greemakes a nice range of systems in basic, better and best options. Gree mini-splits also have a split reputation when operating in cold climates. These facts mean that you can install a mini split AC or heat pump without hiring a pro and you can save the installation labor cost of $750 to $2,000 or more. This section defines the common ductless system types for a better understanding of the type that will best serve your purposes. While Gree isnt as well-known as other mini-split brands, its the top air conditioner manufacturer in the world. But in a mild or cool climate, where you dont use AC every day, it doesnt make sense to pay to get the highest SEER possible. Bathroom and basement:The main reason for more BTUs in these locations is humidity. Heat pumps have a reversing function that changes the flow of refrigerant, so that heat is gathered outside and dispersed indoors for heating. LG Multi F and Multi F Max are excellent systems for extreme weather. Daikin offers perhaps the widest range of inventory and options for mini-splits. Gree is based in China and is known for producing solid products at an affordable price. The compressor will run faster to catch up or when the outside temperature rises. This is especially true for DIY mini split systems. OK here are common mini split types and differences to consider. Theyre similar in style and price point to Pioneer and target the same type of people. Get FREE quotes from licensed HVAC contractors in your area today. Depending on which LG mini-split you purchase, your warranty ranges from five to twelve years, slightly longer than many competitors. then this chart is the quick answer.. Concealed duct mini splits, where the indoor unit is installed inside existing ductwork to hide it are also often called ducted mini split systems. Mini splits with capacity of 18,000 BTU and larger require a 220v circuit and plug, aka outlet. The two units get connected by a refrigeration line containing refrigerant that either heats or cools the air in the inside unit, which then disperses it through built-in vents. Where the AC season is long and hot, 24 or higher SEER is a good SEER rating. While their units arent as durable or techy as other top brands and dont perform as well in extreme conditions, Mr. While they offer a wide range of products, the 5000 Ductless Mini Split Heat Pump System is one of their best. Reliability is crucial because you also dont want to fix or replace your mini-split every couple of years. However, the level of insulation in the garage is very important. Get advice today from some of the top mini split contractors in your area. All HVAC contractors are screened, licensed, and insured. Almost all mini split systems are heat pumps. Then, their mini-splits are also top-of-the-line. Like Mitsubishi, Fujitsu offers excellent products with a reputation for resilience and dependability. Prices: Installed cost ranges from $3,700 to $17,000, and sometimes a little more. The best DIY mini split brand is MrCool. However, not everyone can afford the best of the best, and youll likely have other projects around your home that require financing. And an experienced pro will help with that. Total cost of installation: The installation cost include the electrical wiring and discounnect/breaker installation. Whether you need a new install, service, or basic repair We Can Help! What is better: mini split or central AC? Take your time with installation for either brand to be sure you get it right. Theres an indoor unit for each zone. Terminology tip:Indoor units are also called evaporator units. Aside from these 10 top brands, there are countless more out there. While mini-splits do great in warm or moderate climates, they have a reputation for struggling to produce heat in extremely cold weather. It combines a decent SEER rating of 22 with the ability to operate in temperatures down to -13 degrees Farhenheit. As theyre a company from the Midwest, it only seems right that they produce some of the best cold weather mini-splits available. Terminology tip:Youll see these easy-to-understand terms when discussing multi zone mini split systems: Buying tip:For spaces needing more than 48,000 BTU of AC power, we recommend, as do most HVAC technicians, that you install more than one outside unit. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2014-2022, PICKHVAC All Rights Reserved. Single-zone systems range from 6,000 to 36,000 BTU. If you dont want a large unit mounted high on your wall or near the floor, a concealed duct mini split is an option. Ductless air conditioners requiring professional installation can also be bought online from a variety of sites. This is the most popular option. The units cost more because they are complex in design. There are a few 2-4 zone DIY mini splits available. Mini split systems:If your climate is super cold, consider a Fujitsu Halcyon with XLTH technology. As a result, indoor temperature fluctuates a little bit. What is the difference between ductless and mini split? Most homeowners pay around $8,500 for a whole-house, multizone system, but top prices are above $14,000. They also have an app for their mini-split systems allowing you to control everything from your phone. Nothing. Mini-split heat pumps also operate without a system of ductwork, reducing the installation difficulty and cost. It really helps other visitors to estimate the cost of a new HVAC unit. 2-The higher cost is worth it in a very warm climate where you will be quickly paid back for the extra spent on the efficient mini split. But whats the good of saving money on your mini split system if it doesnt create the indoor climate you want? And installation is more invasive than if you install a wall or floor unit against an outside wall. When it comes to mini-splits, Mitsubishi is considered by many to be the best brand in the business. Example 2:How much can I save with the highest SEER AC? Greer Crown and Sapphire are among the most efficient and effective single-zone and multizone heat pumps available. Making up your mind in regards to which mini-split brand to choose is a daunting task. While many of them get made by the same parent company, some use better components than others. These units are typical around three feet wide, one foot tall, and stick eight to twelve inches off the wall. Garage and Kitchen:Garages tend to be poorly insulated, so they get very hot or cold depending on the season. While Gree mini-splits certainly isnt as grand as Mitsubishi or Fujitsu products, theyre an excellent option if youre on a budget. This table gives recommendations for what size mini split for basement use or bathroom, kitchen, garage, grow room, sunroom, attic, etc. Most standard split system ACs have non-inverter compressors, though units with inverter technology are becoming more popular.