What's the most effective way to cool homes in summer? It must be mini split air conditioners. Compared to traditional HVAC systems, mini split AC come with individual room climate control, easy installation, easy clean, higher efficiency, and quiet. With these benefits in mind, Della is here to recommend a selection of top-quality mini split air conditioners to help you find the perfect cooling solution.

Here's the brief recommendation list for preview:

• Della JA Series

• Daikin FTXF18RX

• Gree Vireo+ 12,000 BTU Mini Split System

• Mitsubishi MSZ-GL12NA

• The Mr Cool DIY 12,000 BTU Ductless Mini Split

• Mitsubishi MSZ-GL12NA

Best Overall: Della JA Series Mini Splits

The Della JA Series Mini Splits offer a reliable and energy-efficient solution for both cooling and heating your home. With a cooling capacity of 24,000 BTU, the 2 ton ductless mini split air conditioner is well-suited for larger rooms like living rooms and master bedrooms. The system includes a smart remote control that makes adjusting settings a breeze, ensuring you can easily maintain your desired comfort level. At a price of around $700, this unit is a great choice for those who prioritize both functionality and style in their home appliances.

Pros:

• SEER2 rating of 20 for energy efficiency

• Ultra-quiet operation at 30 decibels

• Compact, sleek design fits seamlessly into most interiors

• User-friendly smart remote control

Cons:

• Installation may require professional help

Most Efficient: Daikin FTXF18RX Mini-Split Heat Pump

If you're concerned about rising energy bills, the Daikin FTXF18RX Mini-Split Heat Pump offers a highly efficient solution for your home’s heating and cooling needs. This unit delivers a solid cooling capacity of 18,000 BTU, making it suitable for larger rooms or spaces that require consistent climate control. Operating at a whisper-quiet 32 decibels, it ensures that your comfort won’t be interrupted by noise. Priced at around $1,200, this mini split might require professional installation, but it promises long-term savings that make it an ideal choice for eco-conscious homeowners.

Pros:

• SEER2 rating of 21 for exceptional energy efficiency

• Advanced inverter technology

• Uses environmentally friendly R-410A refrigerant

Cons:

• Higher initial cost compared to other models

• Installation must be done by a professional

Queitest Mini Split: Gree Vireo+ 12,000 BTU Mini Split System

If peace and quiet are your top priorities, the Gree Vireo+ 12,000 BTU Mini Split System is an excellent choice. This unit is renowned for its whisper-quiet operation, running at just 19 decibels, making it ideal for spaces where silence is golden. Its cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU is perfect for medium-sized rooms, ensuring comfort even on the hottest days. With a SEER2 rating of 20, this system is not only efficient but also eco-friendly, helping you save on energy bills. Priced around $950, it’s a solid value, though some users might find the remote control interface could use a bit more refinement.

Pros:

• Exceptionally quiet at 19 decibels

• High energy efficiency with a SEER2 rating of 20

• Offers flexible installation options

Cons:

• May struggle to cool larger spaces effectively

• The remote control interface could be more user-friendly

Easiest Maintenance: Mitsubishi MSZ-GL12NA Mini Split AC

If you're looking for a mini split that's easy to maintain, the Mitsubishi MSZ-GL12NA Mini Split AC is a standout choice. This unit is designed with convenience in mind, featuring easy-to-clean filters that simplify regular upkeep and help extend the lifespan of the system. It provides powerful cooling with a capacity of 12,000 BTU, making it ideal for various room sizes. Operating quietly at 34 decibels, it's perfect for environments where noise control is important. Though it comes with a price tag of around $1,100, its low-maintenance design and reliable performance make it a great investment for hassle-free comfort throughout the year.

Pros:

• Easy-to-clean filters reduce maintenance time and effort

• Quiet operation at 34 decibels

• Consistent performance with minimal maintenance, offering long-term reliability

Cons:

• Higher initial cost compared to other models

• Professional installation might be necessary

Easiest Installation: The Mr Cool DIY 12,000 BTU Ductless Mini Split

Dealing with complicated installations during the summer can be a hassle, not to mention the added expense of hiring a professional. The Mr Cool DIY 12,000 BTU Ductless Mini Split is designed to eliminate these concerns, offering a straightforward setup that most homeowners can handle on their own. With a SEER2 rating of 17, this unit provides solid energy efficiency and delivers 12,000 BTU of cooling power, perfect for medium-sized rooms. Operating quietly at 36 decibels, it won’t disrupt your home’s tranquility. Priced at around $800, the Mr Cool DIY includes a comprehensive installation kit, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a cost-effective and easy installation process.

Pros:

• Comes with a DIY installation kit, making setup simple for most homeowners

• User-friendly design allows for quick and hassle-free installation

• Priced affordably, offering good value for the money

Cons:

• Additional tools may be needed for installation, depending on your setup

• Customer service availability might be limited, which could be an issue if assistance is needed

Best Design: Midea 12000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner

Not all mini splits blend seamlessly into a room's decor, and some units might disrupt the aesthetics of your home. If style is a priority, the Midea 12000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner could be the solution you’re looking for. This unit combines a sleek, modern design with solid performance, offering a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU. It boasts a SEER2 rating of 19, ensuring energy efficiency without compromising on style. Operating quietly at 32 decibels, it helps maintain a peaceful atmosphere in your living space. Priced at around $750, the Midea mini split is not only visually appealing but also features user-friendly controls, making it an excellent choice for those who want both form and function in their home.

Pros:

• Stylish and modern design that complements any interior

• Quiet operation at 32 decibels

• Easy-to-use controls enhance convenience and user experience

Cons:

• Professional installation is recommended, which could add to the overall cost

• Slightly higher price point compared to other similar models

How to Choose a Ductless Mini Split AC?

Based on Della's marketing research, selecting the right ductless mini split for your home involves considering several key factors: price, efficiency, BTU, brands, and installation.

Price

Mini splits prices range from $500 to over $2,000. While cheaper units are tempting, investing in a higher-quality unit can save money long-term due to better energy efficiency and durability and come with better warranties and fewer maintenance issues.

Efficiency

High energy efficiency, indicated by the SEER rating, helps reduce electricity bills and environmental impact. Units with SEER ratings of 14 or above are very efficient and will get energy star certificated. Although high-efficiency units may cost more initially, they save money over time and may qualify for rebates or tax incentives.

BTU

BTU ratings determine a unit's cooling or heating capacity. Choose a unit with the appropriate BTU rating for your space—about 25 BTU per square foot. For example, a 12,000 BTU unit suits a 600 square foot room. Proper sizing ensures optimal performance and efficiency. Here's more information about how to size a mini split system.

Brands

Reputable brands like Della, Daikin, Mitsubishi, Gree, and Midea offer quality, durability, and reliable customer support. Researching reviews can help you choose a brand that meets your expectations, providing peace of mind and better long-term satisfaction.

Installation

Proper installation affects performance and longevity. While some units are designed for DIY installation, many require professional help. Professional installation, though adding to initial costs, ensures correct setup and prevents future issues. If unsure about DIY, hiring a licensed HVAC technician is best.

If you're still undecided, try buying overall choice, Della JA Series Mini Split, which offers excellent energy efficiency, quiet operation, and powerful cooling. Additionally, Della also offers the multi room mini split that can meet the cooling needs of multiple rooms as well as individual climate control. Upgrade to Della and enjoy year-round comfort in every corner of your house.

FAQ

Are single-zone mini splits more efficient?

Yes, single-zone mini splits are often more efficient because they focus on cooling or heating one specific area. This targeted approach minimizes energy waste compared to central systems. For example, a single-zone mini split with a SEER rating of 20 can be 30% more efficient than a traditional central air system with a SEER rating of 14.

Can a single-zone mini-split cool the whole house?

No, a single-zone mini split is designed to cool or heat only one specific room or area. To cool the whole house, you would need a dual zone mini split AC or even multi zone splits system that connects multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit. This setup allows you to control the temperature in different rooms individually.

Can you add a zone to a single-zone mini-split?

No, you cannot add additional zones to a single-zone mini split system. Single-zone units are designed for one specific area and do not support the expansion of additional indoor units. If you need to cool or heat multiple areas, you should consider a multi-zone system from the start. This allows for more flexible and efficient temperature control across different rooms.

Do mini splits use a lot of power?

No, mini splits are generally very energy-efficient and use less power compared to traditional HVAC systems. For instance, a mini split with a SEER rating of 20 can consume up to 40% less energy than a conventional system with a SEER rating of 12. They often have high SEER ratings, which means they convert more energy into cooling or heating power. This efficiency translates to lower energy bills. However, the actual power usage will depend on the unit's size, SEER rating, and how often it is used.