12 Best Mini Split Air Conditioners Reviews and Buying Guide
Table of Contents
Why You Need a Mini Split Air Conditioner?
Air conditioners come in different shapes, sizes, and capacities, and a mini-split air conditioner is one of the most sought-after cooling systems in the globe today. The air conditioner has come a very long way, hacking back to the days of big, bulky systems that cooled the air but consumed so much power. But over the years, and in light of technological innovations, the split air conditioner was born.
Today, we have systems that are portable, energy-efficient, and provide maximum cooling in less time regardless of the prevailing natural temperature. If your living space is often hot during the summer months, what you need is a mini air conditioner that will dehumidify your interior spaces for maximum comfort.
Below, we review some of the best split air conditioners money can buy. There are several options from different brands, and they are all priced differently, so take your time to make your choice.
Quick Summary
Best mini split air conditioner for garages: Senville SENL-18CD Heat Pump Mini Split Air Conditioner
Best Inverter mini split ait conditioner for small spaces: Della Mini Split Ductless Mini Split Inverter Air Conditioner
Best low voltage mini split air conditioner: Cooper & Hunter 230V 18,000 Ductless Mini Split Heating System
Best mini split air conditioner for commercial use: Pioneer Diamante Ductless Inverter Mini Split Air conditioner
Best mini split air conditioner for ventilation: Pioneer WYS012G-19 Wall Mount Inverter+ Mini Split Air conditioner
Best dual zone mini split air conditioner: Senville SENA 18,000 BTU Dual Zone Mini Split Air conditioner
Best Inverter technology mini split air conditioner: Senville Aura 36000 BTU Series Mini Split Air Conditioner
Best full packaged mini split air conditioner: Dalkin 18,000 BTU Sear Wall-mounted Mini Split AC
Best Mini Split air conditioner for libraries: Klimaire SEER 24,000 BTU Mini Split System
MrCool 24K DIY Ductless System
Best 4 operational mode air conditioner: Pioneer WYS009AMFI22RL Wall mounted AC
Editor Picks Mini Split Air Conditioners
1. Senville SENL-18CD Heat Pump Mini Split Air Conditioner
First on our list of the best split air conditioner is this Senville heat pump air conditioner. Installing this split system in your home is a great way to cool it all year round. The inverter technology ensures that it works effectively but only consumes minimal power, while the jest pump offers you maximum temperature control. This unit is part of Senville’s LETO series, which offers homeowners and entrepreneurs affordable cooling units.
Senville had a heat pump that could provide heat of up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit with a relatively high SEER rating of up to 19. With an 18,000 BTU capacity, you can’t go wrong with this system. Should you go for Sencio, bear in mind that you will be buying a unit that offers you triple value of cooling, dehumidification, and cooling functions, all in one. When you add the turbo and fan functions, you get an extra value.
Senville is great for garages, living rooms, bedrooms, and offices. You can install it in virtually any enclosed space of your choosing, and it will work just as well. For what it is worth, investing in this unit is money well spent.
Pros
Senville offers you the maximum value of cooling, heat, and dehumidification, so you can use it all year round. It is energy-efficient and makes a very low noise of 38dB
Cons
Its complex engineering requires expert help to install it.
2. Della Mini Split Ductless Mini Split Inverter Air Conditioner
This is another ductless air conditioner by Della with a 12,000 and 115V capacity. This system is precharged before it is shipped to you and the heater unit has a ductless system for dehumidification and heat. Designed with several settings like a 24-hour timer, I feel mode, sleep mode, energy saver, and multiple fan speeds, to mention a few, this system has all that q modern mini split air conditioner should have. There is also an intelligent pre-heat compressor for heating up your interior should the need arise.
Della also has a smart sensor that senses the current temperature in the room, and it adjusts temperature outflow accordingly. This model offers more value than the Della model reviewed above, and all it takes is a few minutes for your entire living space to cool up. We rate this unit very highly because it is ideal for large and extra-large rooms. With a cooling range of 750ft, you get what you pay for with this system.
There is a full installation kit included and a user manual that shows how to get the best value from the system.
Pros
Quiet operation and airflow generation to suit the current needs of the room.
Cons
Quite expensive, and you may require technical support to have it installed.
3. Cooper & Hunter 230V 18,000 Ductless Mini Split Heating System
For those looking for a High impact mini air conditioner that can provide cooling during summer and heat during winter and the cold season, Cooper and Hunter is what they need. This 18000 BTU Mia Series system uses a ductless system and an ETL-approved heat pump. There is also an AHRI certified wifi system for smooth control.
Cooper and Hunter is precharged with a refrigerant and heat up under a 5 degrees Fahrenheit temperature. It is delivered ready for installation with a 16ft line made of copper durable copper wires, communication wires, but there is a special drainage extension you can use to pass out water, but this has to be ordered separately.
You will also like its whisper technology which keeps noise operation at a bare minimum, making it a great unit for both home and commercial applications. Every unit of Cooper and Hunter sold has a 7-year warranty cover for the compressor and a 5-year warranty for the parts. So overall, you get maximum warranty cover for your purchase.
Pros
It has an extended copper wireline, so you can install it far away from your power source. This split air conditioner is easy to operate and will work well for homes and offices.
Cons
The USB adapter and drainage extension are not included but have to be ordered separately.
4. Pioneer Diamante Ductless Inverter Mini Split Air conditioner
Fifth on our list of the best Mini Split Air conditioner is Pioneer Diamante high wall mini-split heat pump system. This fantastic unit was developed to provide homeowners with affordable interior cooling benefits. It offers a variable inverter technology and a 19 SEER high-efficiency rating that ensures that the released airflow blows across the room vertically and horizontally, so no part of the room is left untouched. This unit is also Energy-efficient, so you can enjoy premium cooling without raising your energy bills in the first place.
Pioneer Diamante has an auxiliary strip installed in the condenser for hyper heating even if the temperature drops to -13 degrees Fahrenheit. So no matter how cold the temperature may be, heat output will remain consistent and active. Furthermore, the noise level is remarkably low at 32dB, making it one of the best for rooms and libraries.
Pioneer Diamante is an excellent cooling and heating unit for home and commercial use. You get the value you pay for with this system.
Pros
Enjoy premium heating and cooling regardless of the current natural temperature. It has all the kits you need to use, including an anti-vibration absorber.
Cons
Very expensive unit
5. Pioneer WYS012G-19 Wall Mount Inverter+ Mini Split Air conditioner
Pioneer WYS012G is another model by Pioneer with ductless inverter conditioning and a heat pump system. Suffice it to say that this unit is a complete model with a dual capacity range of 9000 BTU per hour and 36000 BTU per hour capacity. These ranges enable the system to provide cooling effectively. The Inverter system has a variable speed compressor for high efficiency and a digital wireless controller that makes it easy to choose the setting or function of your choice.
Beyond that, Pioneer has 4 operation modes, namely cooling, heating, ventilation, and dehumidification. All four combine to deliver premium satisfaction to the user. This means that at every point in time and in light of the prevailing temperature, there is a setting for the moment. Furthermore, there is a switch-over mode suitable for automatic operation and a timer function that allows you to regulate the unit in advance.
Pioneers represent value for money because of their excellent features and comes highly recommended for those who desire a compact and efficient system.
Pros
Energy-efficient and compact. This unit will take up very little space in your room.
Cons
It does not have a full warranty
6. Senville SENA 18,000 BTU Dual Zone Mini Split Air conditioner
Here is another Senville air conditioner under the special Aura Series by this manufacturer. Senville offers efficiency, durability, and premium cooling and heating functions that only very few split air conditioners can boast of. This unit has a 2-year warranty coverage and a 7-year warranty compressor coverage. What makes this unit unique is that it can cool or heat up at -22 degrees Fahrenheit. Designed for home use, it can also work in commercial and educational environments too because it makes very little noise.
Senville SENA has an R410A refrigerant, but the cables and electric harness are not included in the package. Regardless, Senville is very easy to install and requires no professional expertise. The user manual contains an installation section that will take you through the easy steps; moreover, the components are pre-charged before they are packed, so all you have to do is follow the manufacturer’s direction when setting it up.
Senville has an attractive look and a reliable engine to deliver premium comfort. It uses whisper low noise technology and is energy efficient.
Pros
It has warranty coverage and an attractive look
Cons
The cable and wiring harness are sold separately
7. Senville Aura 36000 BTU Series Mini Split Air Conditioner
Eight on our list of the best mini split air conditioner is Senville Aura mini-split system. This durable and functional system is both a cooling and heating unit designed with fantastic Aura series technology. Senville works well for rooms, living rooms, diners, garages, and commercial applications. It will serve you regardless of the prevailing weather. While some other systems are only useful for one season, Senville will function as planned during winter and summer or when there is a heatwave.
Senville has a maximum heating capacity of -5 degrees Fahrenheit and a DC inverter technology that keeps energy consumption at a bare minimum. While many will find its attractive appearance of immense aesthetic value, it is excellent functionality that sets it apart from other brands.
Senville Aura offers long-term value and is sold with the installation kit and a 16ft copper line. But note that the cables and electric wire harness are not included in the package and will have to be bought separately.
Pros
ETL approved, ultra-efficient and attractive
Cons
It requires professional expertise to install.
8. Dalkin 18,000 BTU Sear Wall-mounted Mini Split AC
When we were compiling this review, we wanted to bring you nothing but the best units money can buy, and we are on track to fulfill our mission with this model by Dalkin. This is an 18000 BTU SEER wall-mounted unit for homes, offices, libraries, and dorm rooms. Any enclosed area where cooling or heating is required, you can trust this system to deliver just the right temperature. It is energy efficient with just 230 volts, and it has a series of parts for seamless operation.
Dalkin has a remote control, outdoor condensing unit, a Maxwell wall bracket, and an indoor fan coil. The condensing unit ensures that your indoor areas are not flooded when the unit is working. Furthermore, Dalkin has a 1500 temperature range, so even for bigger spaces, users will still feel its impact. To aid the user, free tech support is provided to help them get the best out of the system, which is a great after-sale service.
If you are looking for a wide range cooling systems, Dalkin is one brand you should consider. Since it is a wall unit, nothing stays in the ground.
Pros
Its outdoor condenser keeps your walls and floors dry all through
Cons
It lacks smart features
9. Klimaire SEER 24,000 BTU Mini Split System
Another brand worthy of mention on our list is Klimaire’s 24,000 BTU Split system for large indoor spaces. This amazing appliance has an outdoor and indoor unit and a 15ft installation kit containing a wall mounting bracket, interconnect cables, and of course, a remote control. The outdoor unit is fully charged before it is delivered pre-charged and also has a 25ft refrigerant line and a built-in base. There is also a compressor heater installed in the engine to improve output efficiency.
Klimaire is ultra-quiet when it is working. In fact, it has one of the lowest noise output in our list, with an output of 25dB. We also like other functions like the Sleep mode, auto restart, self-cleaning, and turbo recharge function, to mention a few of them.
If you want a system that can cool a large space, Klimaire is the one we recommend.
Pros
This unit has customizable functions making it a very good system for all occasions. It is built with durable parts, and it comes with all the accessories required for installation.
Cons
Not ideal for medium or small rooms.
10. MrCool 24K DIY Ductless System
Have you heard of MrCool? This ductless mini-split system is a third-generation DIY unit with an enhanced Wifi engine that allows you to set it up quickly. That is why it is called a DIY system because you don’t need professional help to do so. MrCool is also easy to operate with its SmartHVAC app that is Google Assistant and Alexa compatible, so you can operate wherever you may be, even when you are outdoors.
The 24000 BTU system uses SER 20 for maximum cooling and a cooling range of more than 1000ft. This capacity is the reason why it cools or heats rooms in a matter of minutes. MrCool is sold already pre-charged, so you can start using it immediately.
The way it is designed also allows you to install it in any part of your room, especially since you can operate it with your Smartphone.
Pros
Smart Wifi control and easy installation
Cons
It is bulky, and you only enjoy the smart features if your internet connection is active.
11. Innovair Air Conditioner Ductless Wall Mount Mini System
Innovair is a ductless inverter unit, a quantum heat pump for cooling and heating any area. With this unit, your room does not need a central cooling system. The pre-charged set includes the indoor unit, installation kit, wireless remote, and installation kit.
This ETL-certified unit has several functions such as dehumidification, sleep mode, turbo cooling, and Hyper Heat.
Pros
Multiple functionality and protective condenser
Cons
The LED display is hidden and not boldly set
12. Pioneer WYS009AMFI22RL Wall Mounted AC
This Pioneer unit is a full set with an indoor and outdoor section as well as a set of installation accessories and a remote controller for effective temperature regulation. With this device, you can cool or heat any enclosed area without noise or delays. The WYS model has four different operating modes, namely heating, cooling, ventilation, and dehumidification.
Pioneer also has a switchover mode that allows you to operate the system with the board buttons. On the sides are connection pipe outlays for installing drainage pipes that you can link outdoors to keep your floor and walls dry.
Let us also add that the fan speed works according to the current setting. Also, the fan can be regulated to stop it from blowing direct air, which is one of the leading causes of discomfort for users.
Pros
Minimal noise and easy operation
Cons
The airflow output has to be changed using the remote control, but it doesn’t self-regulate.
What is a Mini Split Air Conditioner?
A mini split air conditioner is the perfect cooling system for homes and offices needing premium cooling. This unit is also called a ductless mini split unit, and it has a cooling and heating system with a design capability of drawing temperature into your room space.
Due to the limitations of traditional air conditioners, engineers had to look for a better way of cooling interior areas without putting the environment at risk or consuming too much energy. Different innovations were introduced, and a mini split happens to be one of them. Mini split air conditioner offers climate control advantages for single or multiple rooms depending on the capacity of the unit, and they work with thermostats.
This advanced cooling unit works with a compressor, condenser, and an indoor evaporative coil, similar to how other cooling units work. The unit draws in hot air from the room, which is cooled once it passes through a thick pad, and the cold air is pushed back into the room. Overall, there are four types of mini split air conditioners, namely
- Single zone
- Hyper heat single zone
- Pre charged single zone
- Multi zone
These units can work in any interior space, and they are very effective in regulating temperature. The single zone mini split air conditioner works in single rooms, while the multi zone unit has a much higher British Thermal Units rating that can cool as many as five different zones using one condenser.
How Do Mini Split Air Conditioners Work?
Mini split air conditioners are designed to provide premium cooling to homes, offices, and any other interior space you can think of. As long as the space is confined with the door and windows shut, the unit will do its work effectively. A mini split unit is an effective combination of a cooling and heating system. This means it can heat or cool your room, depending on the setting you activate.
Also called a ductless unit, it is the best system for regions with three of four different seasons because it will continue to remain useful no matter the weather. For the heat function, a mini split air conditioner does not draw air from inside the room. Rather it draws air from outside, which is quite fascinating. Even when the weather is cold outside, there is still heat in the atmosphere, and the unit draws this warm air.
For cooling, it draws air from inside the room, which it then converts into cold air using the evaporator and condenser coils. Another thing you should know is that this system uses several heads that function apart, so rather than use all heads at once, you can activate only the head you need. This allows you to increase the output of one vent and reduce the output of the other.
There are also larger systems that can serve as a central cooling system for the entire house. This type has a higher BTU rate ranging from 24000 BTU and above, but they don’t have similar granular control as a much smaller unit. All the same, they work quite well and are suitable choices for those who don’t want to spend money in separate units.
What Are the Benefits of a Mini Split Air Conditioner?
Modern cooling units have several advantages, and so does a mini split system. Below are some of the benefits and what you should expect if you install one in your home.
1. Zone cooling
The biggest advantage of a mini split air conditioner is that it offers you zone cooling. What this means is that you can afford to cook a section of your home called zones. While this is impossible with other ACs, a mini split unit allows you to do so. Rather than waste energy on areas you don’t need cool, you can activate more output for the right areas. If you install a Central system, you can control the temperature of each room by either reducing the output for some rooms or turning off the unit for that room completely.
2. Aesthetic value
If you place a premium on aesthetics, you might just want to buy a mini split air conditioner due to the aesthetic value it offers. These systems come in different shapes and designs, so you have an abundance of options to pick a design that blends with your internal décor. Some are wall mounted, and there are freestanding versions and even ceiling units. You have the luxury of choice to pick whichever one suits your interior fixtures.
3. Anti leak features
One complaint many people have with traditional units is that they suffer from leaky ducts. This causes energy waste since the air that should be transferred to the room is lost, and the more leaks, the higher your energy bills. The good news is that mini split air conditioners do not suffer this same problem because they are ductless. Rather, they use tubes to transfer condensed air, and the copper made material prevents leaks from occurring.
4. Quality Air
You stand you enjoy quality air supply with a mini air conditioner. Issues associated with power inefficiency, leaky ducts, and interior dampness caused by excess moisture in the atmosphere is not something you will ever have to deal with again. This unit is designed to suck out excess moisture from your room as well as dust and pollen. Dust and other particles are trapped by the air filter, so what is released is clean dust-free air.
5. Silent operation
A Mini split air conditioner works silently, and you will not know that it is working. This unit has a whisper technology system that makes very little noise when it is working. The humming sound associated with window units is absent with mini split units. The blower is located outside the compartment, and when it is working, you will hardly hear it make a sound. Furthermore, the copper tubes reduce the whoosh and banging sound the unit makes, and there are no mobile parts in the vents or air handlers. This is why they work so quietly, so the peace of the house is not disturbed.
There are many more reasons why you should buy a mini split air conditioner, but the ones listed above are the major ones.
How to Choose a Mini Split Air conditioner?
Are you planning to buy a mini split air conditioner any time soon? Do you desire a system that will serve your household well for many years to come? Are you having a hard time identifying a good system that represents value for money? If you are faced with some or all these challenges, then this buying guide is written especially for you.
Here are important factors to consider when selecting a mini split unit for your home or office.
1. The size of your room
The first thing to consider before you do any other thing is to consider the size of your room for two reasons. Firstly, you want a unit that will fit right into the space, and secondly, you want a unit that will provide premium heating and cooling. Do you want a unit that will cool only one room or one that will work for two or more rooms? The number of rooms and the size of each room should determine the unit you go for. Mini split air conditioners with larger BTUs are suitable for larger rooms or set of rooms.
2. Zones
Now you have to consider the zones in your interior space. Unlike other air conditioners that provide comprehensive cooling, mini split air conditioners provide zonal cooling because they use different heads. A zone refers to the whole area of one cooling unit. Single zone units can only cool one room because they have one outdoor and one indoor unit.
As for multi zone air conditioners, they can cool or heat two or more rooms. But they are still powered by the same condenser, compressor, and evaporative coils. Before buying a mini split air conditioner, be sure of the number of zones you want to cool or heat before.
3. British Thermal Units
Above, we discussed zones and room sizes. Both are heavily influenced by the number of BTUs the air conditioner has. British Thermal Units refer to the amount of energy necessary to increase the temperature by at least one pound of water. So rooms with large spaces require systems with more BTUs to cool. However, identifying the ideal unit on this basis alone may not be so easy if you don’t have experience with air conditioners.
So we recommend you check the maximum cooling reach of the system and compare it to the size of your room and the height of your ceiling. Small rooms require a unit with at least 150-200 square feet of reach and at least 5000-8000 BTU. The larger your room, the more BTU is required.
4. Installation type
Which installation mode will you prefer? So you want a version with caste wheels that you can roll from one room to the next? A window or wall mounted system or a ceiling system? If your room is very tight and you don’t want anything on the ground, you can buy a wall mounted unit. If you don’t want to break your walls, a ceiling system will suffice. But if you don’t have enough ground space and won’t mind installing anything on the ground, you can go for a free standing version.
5. Cooling/Heating
Most mini split units can provide cooling and heating, but not all can. So when doing your search, make sure you only buy a system that offers both. While you may need more of its cooling function than the heating function, you never can tell when you will need to warm your room during the cold season. Rather than go for a separate heating device, you can use the same unit to warm your room. A mini split air conditioner that can cool and heat a room offers double value.
6. Low cooling ambient service
For rooms and locations that require an external temperature of 55 degrees Celsius and below, not all mini split systems will work. What you need is a low ambient unit. Ensure that you check for this feature in the product description before you buy it.
7. Energy efficiency certification
Another important factor to note when shopping for a mini split air conditioner is to check the energy star certification. We are sure you want a unit that will not consume too much power. To this end, ensure that you only buy an energy star rated unit. Systems with this rating consume between 10%-30% less energy than models without this rating.
Another thing you want to check for is the EER and the SEER rating. The seasonal energy efficiency ratio and the energy efficiency ratio are two major systems that an energy efficient mini split air conditioner should have. Seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) measures the system’s efficiency over an entire season, while Energy efficiency ratio (EER) ratio measures a particular operating condition. If the duo, EER is the most effective, so endeavor to get a system with this ratio function.
8. Voltage
The voltage should be another thing to consider. Make sure the voltage matches that of your home, as incorrect voltage can learn to poor performance, a circuit break, or even a fire outbreak. Smaller systems work with between 110-120 volt plugs, while larger systems require between 220-240 volts.
9. Maintenance
You need to consider the maintenance requirement before making a final decision on which model to go for. Does the system require intensive maintenance by a professional, or is it something you can do on your own? If it requires intensive maintenance, how often is this required? This is an important factor to consider because such maintenance services will cost you money. So we recommend you calculate the running cost of the unit before you buy it.
10. Air filter quality
The air filter is responsible for trapping dust and particles, so the unit release only clean air. We recommend buying the best mini split air conditioner with quality fiberglass filters.
Mini Split Air Conditioner FAQs
1. How to Install Mini Split Air Conditioner?
If you want to install your mini split unit, you will need to follow through with the necessary steps meticulously. Here are the tools you will need.
- Hole Saw
- Adjustable wrench
- Condenser wall bracket
- Plastic condenser pad
- Line set kit
- Drill
- Level
With these materials and tools arranged, here are the tools you should use
Step 1 – Install the wall bracket
The first step is to install the wall bracket. To do this, mount the evaporator inside the room you have picked and make sure it is not exposed to sunlight or any form of external pollution. You should also make sure that the wall is wire free, free of pipes, and any other ducts that will obstruct hole drilling. After picking an ideal spit, mark the spots on the wall.
Step 2 – Drill a hole
Use your driller to drill a hole into the spot you marked. Note that the line set you use has to slope downward so the condenser can drain the evaporator outside. It is advisable to drill the hole from the inside out rather than from the outside in. After drilling the hole, go outside and check the hole from the other end to ensure that the hole is free of obstruction.
Step 3 – Expand the hole
Expand the hole with your hole Saw to make it wide enough. Perform this task from the outside.
Step 4 – Run Line Set
Carefully uncoil the set from behind the evaporator and pass it through the hole. If you have someone else assisting you, this makes your job easier. As you pass it through the hole, the other person will pull the set from the other end. The set should be bent downward to reach the condenser, but the plastic collar surrounding the set should be rigid. Also, make the drain line shorter, and it should go through the hole last below other lines.
Step 5 – Install an Evaporator
At this point, you need to install the evaporator. Wrap the foam around the line set inside the hole. Then hang the evaporator on the bracket. Outside, place two plastic trims inside the hole to stop any rough edges from ruining the line set.
Step 6 – Install Condenser
Place the condenser on a thick pad on the ground if that is what you prefer, or mount it in the wall bracket so you can reach the refrigerant lines. Run the line set in such a way that it stays in place close to the wall exterior. This will make it easy to cover when you are done. Do not place the condenser in an area that is exposed to snow and ice.
Step 7 – Connect refrigerant
How you connect the refrigerant lines will depend on the design of the mini split unit, and there is no single way of doing it. So consult the user manual and follow the directions as provided.
Step 8 – Cover the line
At this point, you should cover the line after connecting the refrigerant. Simply cover the hole with a seal from the outside wall. Also, cover the line with any plastic or metal covering for extra protection. Place the backchannel behind the set and anchor it to the wall.
Note that Mini Split Air conditioners have a different design, so the installation requirements will differ. However, the steps we’ve shown you are general steps that may or may not work for you. So make sure you consult the installation guide in the user manual. Or better still, you may hire a technician to help with the installation exercise.
2. How to Recharge a Mini-Split Air Conditioner?
If you want to recharge your mini split air conditioner, you have to first ensure that the system is running smoothly and, by extension, the compressor before you can do it. While the unit is working, turn on the thermostat to the lowest point and wait for some time to start the recharge.
Connect the gauge hose to the canister to the low pressure hose port. Now, check AC and heat pump installation guide provided by the manufacturer for the exact SAE. Then look at the pressure indicator to see the color. If it is Green, it means the unit is not fully charged. If it displays Blue, that means it is fully charged, and Yellow means it is overcharged. As for a Red signal, it means that the unit has a problem and requires the expertise of a professional.
For the Green sign, press the canister button for five seconds, so Freon will flow through, then check that indicator again. Once you see Blue, disconnect the canister from the system before shutting down.
3. Can a Mini Split Air Conditioner Dehumidify?
Yes and No. Mini split units may suck out some extra moisture from your rooms during the dry season, but they are not built to provide comprehensive dehumidification; that is what a dehumidifier is for. Relying on a Mini split may work during the dry season when there is little moisture in the atmosphere, but during winter, when moisture is in excess, there is very little it can do. You should consider buying a dehumidifier to work concurrently with the unit.
4. How to Size a Mini Split Air Conditioner?
Sizing your room is important; otherwise, you may buy a unit that is either too big or too small for you. When sizing your interior spaces, you should factor in the room’s square footage. Note that mini units are rated in terms of BTU, so the number of BTUs the unit has should be commensurate with the room sizes. Here are the BTU requirements for different room sizes.
BTU/Hour | Square feet |
6000 | 250-350 |
7000 | 350-450 |
8000 | 450-550 |
9000 | 550-650 |
10000 | 650-750 |
12000 | 750-850 |
14000 | 850-950 |
18000 | 950-1000 |
21000 | 1000-1200 |
23000 | 1200-1400 |
24000 | Over 1500ft |
5. How Efficient Are Mini Split Air Conditioners?
Mini split air conditioners are very efficient for many reasons. For starters, they are energy efficient because they are ductless. This means less energy escape compared to other units. So any cooling they are produced is not lost in transit. Secondly, a mini split unit helps save at least 30% energy compared to other units. It provides heating and cooling needs of homes, so you don’t have to buy a separate heater. Another major reason for their efficiency is their ability to provide zonal cooling. With a single unit, you can regulate which part of your home is cooled. This is a feature other types of cooling units don’t have.
6. Mini Split Air Conditioner vs portable air conditioner
Mini split air conditioners have their positives and negatives when compared to portable air conditioners. Let’s start with the positive. A mini-split unit has zonal cooling heads so you can regulate which part of your home stays cool. They offer comprehensive cooling, so a single unit will suffice instead of buying different units. Furthermore, Mini Split units are far more energy-efficient than portable air conditioners.
As for portable air conditioners, their major advantage over a mini split unit is their mobility. You can transport it from one room to another, and it is far more affordable. However, they are not as energy efficient as mini units. Secondly, to enjoy full value, you will have to keep moving from one room to another. While they both have their advantages, a Mini split unit offers far more advantages than a portable unit.
7. Mini Split Air Conditioner vs Portable Air Cooler
A mini split is far more versatile than a portable air cooler. This is because they have heat pumps for heating interior spaces. So during winter and summer, you have a unit that will provide you with all the comfort you want. Also called ductless coolers, they are energy efficient, and some come with advanced features, timers, wireless controller several fan settings. A portable air cooler has its own advantages over a mini split unit, like its lightweight, ease of use, and there is no need for special installation.
If you must go for a unit that offers you all-year-round value, it must be a Mini Split. This cooling system offers so much more than a portable air cooler. It may cost you more to buy and install, but you will enjoy its value for many years. While you are limited to the months of the year your portable air cooler will serve you, a mini split doesn’t go out of action at any time of the year.
8. Mini Split Air Conditioner vs Window Air Conditioner
A Mini Split is far more efficient than a window air conditioner because it offers zonal cooling that a window air conditioner can’t. You can cool different rooms or zones at the same time and regulate which zone gets cold air and which does not. Mini Split air conditioners are also far more energy efficient because they are ductless.
Conclusion
The best Mini split air conditioners offer a maximum temperature range of 550ft-1500ft. If you must buy this system, consider going for the best. Dalkin 24000 BTU and Klimaire 24000 Inverter units are the best for large rooms. For smart features, we recommend MrCool, but if you want a wall-mounted unit, Innovair will serve you well.