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6 Best Ductless Mini Splits of 2024 | U.S. News
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Choosing the best ductless mini split air conditioners for your home or workspace is a big decision. Most mini split air conditioners last around 10 to 15 years on average and up to 20 years with proper maintenance, repairs, and recommended usage. In order to pick the best air conditioning unit, a little research can go a long way.
Mini split air conditioners are good options for both small and large spaces, especially if you’d like a heating and cooling system without the need for ductwork. These units are also easy to install and maintain. We’ve compiled a list of the best ductless mini split air conditioners that are affordable, energy-efficient, and provide a climate-controlled environment for your home or workplace, including our best overall choice, the Senville 9000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner and Heat Pump, which offers great performance at an affordable price.
The Senville 9000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner is a top choice for home heating and cooling systems at an affordable price. At just under $800, this 115-volt air conditioner comes with a built-in heat pump, capable of heating up to minus 15 degrees Celsius/5 degrees Fahrenheit in most climates. This machine is ideal for room sizes between 100 and 450 square feet for optimal efficiency.
Speaking of efficiency, Senville utilizes its inverter technology that combines advanced eco-friendly performance and affordability to reduce overall energy consumption. On average, the Senville 9000 reduces energy use by up to 20% and boasts a 20.5 SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating.
Each air conditioner comes with a 16-foot installation kit, though larger options (25 and 50 feet) are available. One thing to note is that you’ll need to have the Senville 9000 professionally installed, which may require additional fees. Installation aside, the remote control and Wi-Fi capabilities allow ease of use, which includes Alexa compatibility with in-home devices. These reasons, plus a five-year warranty, make the Senville 9000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner a solid choice.
Ductless mini split air conditioners don’t come cheap. In case you’re looking for an air conditioning and heating unit for your home or workplace, Cooper & Hunter offers an affordable option that still comes fully equipped with handy features and power. The Mia NY 9000 BTU Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner is Wi-Fi ready, with self-cleaning and silent functions, plus a comfortable sleep mode for a climate-controlled experience.
The Cooper & Hunter costs $683 for the unit itself, making it the least expensive option on our list. With a 115-volt power source and an application area of up to 200 sq. ft., this air conditioner is a good fit for smaller room sizes for the most effective cooling capacity. The Mia NY also incorporates inverter technology to save energy and reduce electricity consumption.
Unlike other air conditioners, the Mia NY 9000 BTU is only sold as an air conditioner unit, with the option of purchasing an installation kit for an additional cost. Kits come in 16, 25, and 50 feet. Each unit comes with a seven-year limited warranty for the compressor unit and a five-year limited warranty for parts. At just under $750 for the unit, the Cooper & Hunter Mia NY 9000 BTU is an energy-efficient air conditioner that doesn’t break the bank.
Not all air conditioners are made equally, and to effectively cool larger rooms, you’ll need a more robust machine to get the job done. Senville’s Leto 24000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner can cool up to 1,250 square feet, making it a good choice for large spaces. It does require a 230-volt electrical unit to sufficiently power the unit, something to keep in mind when checking your in-home outlets.
The Senville Leto 24000 uses an inverter compressor. This type of compressor drastically reduces energy use. Its energy efficiency garners an 18 SEER ranking, which is not only good for the environment, but also saves you money. Like other similar mini split air conditioners, Senville provides a five-year warranty on both the compressor unit and parts.
Although Senville offers other installation kit sizes, your overall cost will increase the larger the kit size. The Leto 24000 is also Wi-Fi enabled, making it easy to connect to Alexa home devices and operate the system through the Senville app. For larger spaces, the Senville Leto 24000 ensures a climate-controlled environment all year round.
As a provider of ductless mini split units since 1995, Pioneer is a trusted air conditioning and heating pump manufacturer in the U.S. The 12,000 BTU Ductless Mini Split Inverter++ Energy Star Air Conditioner is ideal for small spaces. Its 12,000 BTU cooling capacity efficiently cools rooms around 200 square feet, although you can use this area in rooms up to 450 square feet and still have a pleasantly cooling experience.
Each unit includes an installation kit, though sizes vary from 10 feet to 50 feet of drain hose so you can choose which length accommodates your home. Easily pair your smartphone to the unit’s system and wirelessly connect and operate the unit from anywhere in the home. The Pioneer 12,000 BTU also features an optional high-density filter that cleans up to 80% of dust and pollen.
Other features include a sleep mode, which adjusts the temperature over a five-hour period before automatically shutting off, and a temperature sensor to automatically adjust the temperature. Pioneer offers a generous warranty policy on this device, which includes five-year limited warranties for both the compressor and other unit parts. An extended parts warranty is a bonus for buyers who need that extra peace of mind.
Some air conditioner units are loud and noticeable. Others, like the Bosch Gen 2 Climate 5000 Energy Star 12,000 BTU Air Conditioner, offer a much quieter experience. With a 24-decibel rating, its silent mode creates a quiet atmosphere without the typical buzz and humming noise from larger air conditioner units. Additionally, the unit comes equipped with a silent mode for further noise reduction. When enabled, the unit will run at 1% fan speed, producing just a faint breeze.
The Bosch Gen 2 Climate 5000 is ideal for medium-sized rooms, with a maximum recommendation of up to 600 square feet. Features like automatic cool and shut-off settings plus a sleep setting allow homeowners to enjoy the creature comforts of a climate-controlled living space. This unit is also Energy Star-certified with a SEER rating of 22.7, meaning lower costs for more efficient functionality.
The Bosch Gen 2 Climate 5000 also features a multi-part air filter system to help reduce airborne allergens, such as dust, pollen, and other odors. This comes with an easy-to-clean filter. One of the highlights of this air conditioner unit is the 10-year warranty policy for its compressor unit along with a five-year parts warranty.
If easy installation is an important deciding factor for you, Mrcool’s DIY 4th Gen 24,000 BTU Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner is a top contender. It includes all the features of its predecessor, the DIY 3rd Gen, such as impressive heating and cooling ranges and Energy Star certification, but with an improved DIY feature that makes installation even simpler.
The 4th Gen 24,000 BTU incorporates the new DIYPro MC cable, which helps to securely connect the condenser (the outside compressor unit) to the air handler (the system that helps circulate air). This cable is part of Mrcool’s Pre-Charged Quick-Connect Line Set and delivers outstanding performance and features like automatic heating and cooling, dehumidification, and sleep mode. Another system feature is the unit’s gold fin condenser, which is corrosion-resistant and ideal for homeowners who live near the coast.
Homeowners can connect via Wi-Fi to the SmartHVAC app, Alexa devices, and Google Assistant for wireless remote control. The DIY 4th Gen unit is also Energy Star certified with a 20.5 SEER rating. These notable features and easy DIY design don’t come cheap, though. At just over $2,500, this is one of the most expensive air conditioners on our list. Although you’ll save on professional installation fees, the upfront cost of the air conditioning unit may require some budgeting before making the purchase.
Ductless mini split air conditioners are units ideal for residential homes and workspaces, providing a climate-controlled cooling and heating system. We found that the Senville 9000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner offered enough coverage for up to 450 square feet and reduced energy consumption by 20% for a reasonable price. At just under $800, this Wi-Fi-enabled air conditioner includes a built-in dehumidifier, turbo functionality, and easily connects with Alexa devices. Throw in the five-year compressor and parts warranty and Senville’s 9000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner provides an affordable and powerful option for homeowners.
a Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner
Price: For many, purchasing and installing an air conditioning system in your home is an investment. Depending on the brand of the unit, features, and size of the air conditioner, you can expect to pay several hundred dollars to upwards of several thousand, with units in this rating starting under $750 and ranging upwards. Keep in mind that air conditioner installation will cost extra. On average, homeowners can pay around $4,000 after parts and labor.
It’s important to research and speak to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) specialists for more information on the best unit for your home. The good thing about ductless mini split air conditioners is that many units incorporate energy-saving technologies, which means they use less power and help you save on electricity costs. A low usage cost may balance out the expensive installation fees.
Many brands also offer some kind of financing or payment plans to help consumers pay for their air conditioning units. “The Inflation Reduction Act allows for partial tax credits for these systems being installed,” says Mark Collins, CEO of 1-800-Plumber +Air. Until 2032, you can apply for a tax credit of 30% of your total cost, up to $2,000, with the heat pump tax credit. Taking advantage of The Inflation Reduction Act could provide additional financial assistance to help lower out-of-pocket costs.
Energy Efficiency: One of the biggest advantages of a ductless mini split air conditioner is that it runs more efficiently than a window unit. But not all models are going to provide the same amount of efficiency. These types of cooling units are rated numerically (up to 24) by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The higher the rating, the less electricity the system needs to cool a room. The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), the organization that came up with this number, notes that any unit with a SEER rating of 14 or higher qualifies as energy-efficient and can receive an Energy Star label, the industry standard for energy-efficient products.
Cooling and Heath Capacity: In simple terms, cooling and heating capacity refers to an air conditioning unit’s ability to remove heat from a room or transfer heat into a room. “In HVAC systems, the heating and cooling capacities are measured in terms of BTUs (British thermal units) or KBTU/H (kilo-British thermal units per hour),” says Chris North, program manager of residential product marketing for Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US. BTU measures the amount of energy required to operate the unit.
Where you live can influence the kind of unit you’ll need to properly cool or heat your home. People who live in colder climates may require a different type of unit compared to those who live in hot climate zones. If you live in an area that experiences extreme hot and cold weather, you may need to choose a ductless mini split air conditioner with substantial cooling capabilities that also includes a heat pump feature to warm your home.
Another factor to consider is the size of the room you plan on using your air conditioner. A unit’s BTU is determined by the square footage of the room you intend to use it in. “They start at 9,000 BTU, which will serve about 100 to 200 square feet, up to about 24,000 BTUs, which will serve between 700 and 1,000 square feet.,” says Collins.
Installation Requirements: As HVAC technology continues to develop, more and more units are DIY-friendly, meaning you can easily install them yourself without the need to hire professionals to install them. Many units include installation kits with the equipment needed for installation, including a mounting plate, clip anchor, and a drain hose. Although air conditioner units usually come with a standard size, such as a 16-foot drain hose, you can select a larger size to accommodate your space.
Our overall pick, the Senville 9000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner, is one of the units on our list that recommends professional installation. Although it typically costs more to hire a specialist to install your unit, there are some benefits to leaving the installation to professionals. Collins, who is a fifth-generation home services industry expert, recommends working with professional installers. “These systems require freon and must be charged to manufacturer recommendations as there is an internal component and an external component.” A licensed professional can ensure that all electrical components are connected correctly and that the unit operates properly to prevent voiding the warranty.
Noise Level: Loudness is measured in decibels (dBA). The higher the number, the louder an air conditioner is. Thankfully ductless mini split air conditioners are much quieter. We looked at the averages both from the product literature and from installation companies' websites and found that, on average, the indoor unit of this type of air conditioner emits between 19-25 dBA, which is very quiet, while the outdoor unit only emits noise up to around 32 dBA. For perspective, the average noise level of an outside unit for a central air system is 40 to 60 dBA and a window unit can run as loud as 50-72 decibels, which makes ductless mini split systems some of the quietest around.
Size and Design: As mentioned previously, the size of your air conditioner depends on the space you plan to install it in. The best option is to choose an air conditioner specifically designed for that room size. Similarly, if you choose a unit that’s too large for the area, the air conditioner won’t perform properly compared to a smaller unit more appropriate for the size of that room. Once you know the square footage of your room, check the application area the air conditioner manufacturer recommends.
By definition, a ductless mini split air conditioner is an air conditioning unit that operates without the use of ducts. “Installation of ductless indoor units can be easier than ducted units and requires minimal disruption to existing construction, saving homeowners time and money,” says North. This is also a good option for homes or workplaces with limited space or no existing ductwork.
Warranty and Customer Support: Purchasing and installing a ductless mini split air conditioner unit in your home is a big commitment. Aside from the upfront costs of the unit and installation, upkeep and maintenance are necessary to ensure the unit continues to work properly. Mini split air conditioners typically include some kind of manufacturer warranty, either for the outdoor compressor unit, extra unit parts, or both.
Many air conditioners include a five-year warranty for the compressor unit, which seems to be the standard warranty policy, as is the case with the Senville Leto 24000 BTU. Other brands may offer extended warranties, like Bosch’s Gen 2 Climate 5000 unit, which provides customers with a 10-year warranty. If you prefer having peace of mind should anything happen to your air conditioner, look for units with a longer period for their warranty.
the Best Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioners
At U.S. News 360 Reviews, our contributor conducted extensive industry research and compared product reviews to compile this list of the best ductless mini split air conditioners. Our contributor also consulted with Mark Collins, CEO of 1-800-Plumber +Air, and Chris North, program manager of residential product marketing for Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US. Our list presents a range of products based on affordability, cooling and heating capacity, energy efficiency, and manufacturer warranties. Overall, we found many user-friendly and energy-efficient air conditioner units at affordable prices.
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Our contributors and editors have years of experience researching, testing, and reviewing products for U.S. News 360 Reviews. Zaida Marston, the author of this piece, has written about in-home health products, mental healthcare, and integrative health for various publications. She has contributed to Healthnews, MindBodyGreen, and Charlie Health. Zaida enjoys providing insight and recommendations for everyday health products and best healthcare practices.
A ductless mini split air conditioner consists of two main parts: the indoor, on-wall unit, and the condenser, which is located outside. These are connected by wires and conduits through your outer wall. The indoor unit pulls in warm air from inside the house, passes it through the system, and sends it back into the home as cold air, thus removing heat from the room and sending it outside.
A ductless mini split air conditioner is a type of air conditioner that does not require a duct system to operate, making it easier to install and maintain. “This is designed for a single room application as the air enters and leaves the unit in the same space,” says Collins. A ductless mini split air conditioner is a good option for those retrofitting their living space or adding onto their home who prefer a climate-controlled space instead of a central air system.
Compared to a traditional central heating system that uses ductwork, ductless units are easier to install and maintain. Without disrupting any existing construction, you can install a new cooling and heating system in just a few days. “Homes with limited space for ductwork, or no existing ductwork, are great candidates,” North adds. This type of air conditioning unit is also energy efficient, meaning most units reduce energy consumption and lower energy costs.
The cost of a ductless mini split air conditioner depends on a few factors. The size of the air conditioner is a key factor, as well as any installation costs if you decide to hire a professional installer. For a single-zone air conditioner, the average unit costs around $600 on the low end, while larger units with additional features can cost more than $20,000 if you plan to install units throughout the whole home.
You should also factor in the installation fees of hiring a specialist. Depending on the location and complexity of the installation, fees can add up to $300 to $6,000, depending on how many zones require installation.
Before you go shopping for a new mini split air conditioner, it’s important to know the measurement of the room or zone the unit is going in. In most cases, smaller rooms don’t require as much energy to efficiently heat or cool the space, so you want to look for size-appropriate units. For example, a 9,000 BTU unit typically serves about 100 to 200 square feet. For larger rooms, anywhere from 700 to 1,000 square feet, larger 24,000 BTU units can properly heat and cool that specific space.
The life of a ductless mini split air conditioner varies. Reputable and trusted brands often manufacture long-lasting high-quality products compared to other brands. How you maintain and take care of your air conditioning unit can also influence how long your air conditioner will last. In most cases, ductless mini split air conditioners last an average of 10 to 15 years. On the high end, some buyers experience a 20-year lifespan. This is achievable if you perform regular cleaning and serving, as well as follow the manufacturer’s recommended usage.
Zaida Marston is a freelance content writer. She writes about business-to-business (B2B) software, healthcare, mental health, marketing, and tech. She has contributed to online publications including Healthnews, Practice, TechTarget, History-Computer, and The Happiness Function.
Rachel Hisle is an editor with experience in academic research and online publication. Hisle currently serves as an associate editor on the 360 Reviews team at U.S. News.
David Dritsas is an Editor with the Home Goods team for U.S. News 360 Reviews, focusing on DIY, tools, outdoor home improvement, and more. He has covered consumer technology, home goods, and retail industries for more than 20 years for trade and consumer news outlets. He is an expert in navigating the online retail space.
U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.
