Best Mini Split AC To Install In 2023

Let’s take a look at the best mini split AC units on the market, along with their costs, pros and cons, to assist you in selecting the right unit that suits your specific needs.

If you are ready to install a mini split system contact your local HVAC pros for a FREE ESTIMATE!

10 Best Mini-Split Units to Buy

Best Mini Split Brands (Single-Zone Mini Splits)

To give you more options, first, we will have a look at the five best single-zone mini split units, and then the five best multi-zone units.

Pioneer WYS 19 and 22 Series

Pioneer is not the most well-known brand, but it offers single-zone units with really great specs for quite a low price. They achieved this by using Toshiba’s upgraded inverter type compressor, which resulted in reasonably high efficiencies.

The warranty is below the market average, but it definitely gives a good value for the money you pay. Probably, this is why these units have a large number of positive reviews online.

Pioneer WYS series have two product lines. WYS 19 are high-efficiency (17-19 SEER) units, whereas WYS 22 are ultra-high-efficiency (20.5-22.8) units with added electric heater to lessen the frost build up in the base pan and compressor. All units can provide both heating and cooling.

Price Range: $698–$1,998

Efficiencies: 16-22.8 SEER; 9.5–11.2 HSPF4

Type: Heat pump

Warranty: 5-year compressor warranty; 2-year parts warranty

Pros:

• High energy-efficiency at lower cost
• Ability to select between 115V and 208/230V units for 9K and 12K BTU/hr models. This means there is no need to install specialized outlet and wiring if you choose 115V model, which reduces installation costs
• Complete installation kit included suitable for DIY installation
• Whisper quiet operation of indoor units
• Optional WiFi remote access module available which allows to fully control the system from anywhere in the world
• The units can provide heating at the temperatures as low as -13°F

Cons:

• Lower than market average warranty period
• Only WYS 22 series are Energy Star certified

MrCool DIY 3rd Gen E Star

As the name suggests, MrCool DIY is made with an emphasis on quick and easy installation that doesn’t require special tools and training.

On top of that, their units boast high efficiencies, ability to both heat and cool, leakage detection, WiFi smart controls and many other features of a modern, high-quality mini-split unit.

The cost of MrCool DIY mini-splits is on the higher side of the price spectrum, but, for this price, you get the warranty period which matches the market average.

However, if a professional is hired to install the unit instead of a DIY installation, then the total cost of these units will be quite high compared to other brands.

Price Range: $1,429–$2,249

Efficiencies: 16-22 SEER; 8.9–10 HSPF4

Type: Heat pump

Warranty: 7-year compressor warranty; 5-year parts warranty

Pros:

• The units are designed for an easy DIY installation with pre-charged line sets, which does not require specialized equipment or skills
• 12K, 18K and 24K BTU/hr models are Energy Star certified
• 12K BTU/hr model (most commonly sold single-zone unit) comes with a 115 V power supply requirement, which avoids additional costs of upgrading electricity grid. Note that higher capacity units come with 208/230 V
• The Smart HVAC Controller module and app fully support Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
• Units are fitted with the leak detection system which sounds the alarm when the coolant is low. This prevents damage to the compressor

Cons:

•The price may be quite high compared to other brands

Senville Aura (SENA HF) Series

Senville Aura series units offer a cost-effective solution for cooling/heating a single zone in your house. For a not-so-high cost, compared to the other brands on the list, you get elevated cooling efficiency (25 SEER for a 9K BTU/hr unit and 22.5 SEER for a 12K BTU/hr unit) as well as worthy heating efficiency (12 HSPF for a 12K BTU/hr unit). All units are Energy Star certified and qualify for rebates and tax credits.

Price Range: $1,000-$1,600

Efficiencies: 20-25 SEER; 10.3–12 HSPF4

Type: Heat pump

Warranty: 7-year compressor warranty; 3-year parts warranty

Pros:

• Cost-effective solution: low price for efficiencies higher than market average
• All units in the series are Energy Star certified
• Comes with a DIY installation kit, which allows you to save money on installation
• Fitted with refrigerant leakage detection
• Fitted with an anti-microbial silver ion filter and evaporator coil self-cleaning mode

Cons:

• Warranty period for parts is lower than market average: only three years compared to five
• All units require 208/230 V power supply which will add to installation costs due to electricity grid upgrade

Fujitsu Halcyon LZAS/LZAH Series

If you are after the highest efficiencies on the market, then Fujitsu Halcyon LZAS/LZAH series is the right choice for you. Impressive efficiencies for both cooling and heating (29.4 SEER and 14 HSPF for a 12K BTU/hr unit) will make sure that your bills are minimal and will help achieve your environmental goals.

In addition, these units are perfect for heating provision in very cold climates. Extra Low Temperature Heating models (LZAH series) can still deliver up to 123% of the model nominal capacity at the outdoor temperatures of -15°F.

However, all this comes at a fairly high price, considering the warranty period is just matching the market average.

Price Range: $1,665-$1,945

Efficiencies: 25.3-33.1 SEER; 13.4–14.2 HSPF4

Type: Heat pump

Warranty: 7-year compressor warranty; 5-year parts warranty

Pros:

• Highest efficiencies on the market; all units are Energy Star certified
• Indoor units are WiFi connectable and can be controlled via an app. The units can also be voice controlled through Amazon Echo or Google Home
speakers.
• Energy Saving Program (ESP) is fitted which monitors the occupancy and adjusts setting accordingly to gain energy savings. Once the occupants are
detected, the settings are reverted back to user defined to maintain comfort.
• Heating can be delivered at the outdoor temperatures as low as -5°F and even down to -15°F with the Extra Low Temperature Heating models (LZAH)
• Quiet operation with indoor units as low as 21dB and outdoor units as low as 47dB

Cons:

• Installation is complex and will require a professional HVAC technician
• All units require 208/230 V power supply which will add to installation costs due to the need of specialized plug and wiring
• The price is quite high compared to other brands

Mitsubishi MSY-GL Series

For those who live in a hot and humid climate, cooling-only air conditioners might be the preferred choice. Mitsubishi stands out by being one the most popular options available in North American markets, which translates into a larger pool of HVAC installers to choose from.

In addition, Mitsubishi has a reputation for durability as confirmed by many service technicians. The MSY-GL series mini-splits are the most efficient among the cooling-only Mitsubishi models.
However, a durable and efficient unit from a recognized brand results in quite a high price compared to other units on the list.

Price Range: $1,411-$2,487

Efficiencies: 20.5-24.6 SEER

Type: AC-only

Warranty: 7-year compressor warranty; 5-year parts warranty

Pros:

• Indoor units offer a wider angle of airflow (150° from left to right)
• Indoor units are fitted with electrostatic anti-allergy enzyme filter that reduces germs and help trap dust
• All units are Energy Star certified
• WiFi interface is available to provide remote control and management of the system via an app and web service

Cons:

• Can provide only cooling
• All units require 208/230 V power supply which increases installation costs due to required electrical grid update
• The price is above market average

Best Mini Split Units (Multi-Zone)

Daikin Aurora Multi-Zone Systems (CB-AURMZSTH)

Daikin Aurora multi-zone heat pump systems offer outdoor units capable of serving two, three and four indoor units. The price is above average, but it is what you would expect from one of the top air conditioning brands.

In return, you will get market’s best 12-year warranty on parts, smart control features, improved variable-speed inverter technology and a wide range of stylish indoor units to choose from.

Seasonal cooling efficiencies are slightly lower than other brands on the list, but heating efficiencies are great. In addition, high capacity cooling and heating can be delivered at outdoor temperatures of -15°F and 115°F respectively, so it is definitely a wise choice for areas with extreme seasonal temperatures.

Price Range: $2,289- $3,472 for outdoor unit + $379-$567 per each indoor unit (based on FTX wall mounted series)

Number of Zones/Indoor Units: 2 to 4

Efficiencies: 17-21.7 SEER; 10.3-12.5 HSPF4

Type: Heat pump

Warranty: 12-year parts warranty

Pros:

• Comes with the 12-year warranty on parts which cannot be beaten by any other brand
• Wide range of indoor units is available: wall mounted, ceiling cassette, floor mounted, as well as ducted concealed unit including slim version. A combination of different types of units connected to one outdoor unit is supported
• Allows to control the system remotely form the Daikin Comfort Control app
• Units have enhanced capacity for cooling and heating at extreme outdoor temperatures
• All units are Energy Star certified and qualify for tax credits and rebates

Cons:

• The cost of the system is quite high
• Cooling efficiencies are slightly lower compared to other brands

Pioneer Multi-Zone Systems (YN-M22 Series)

If you liked the looks and specs of the Pioneer WYS 19 and 22 single-zone mini-split presented earlier in this article, you will be glad to know that there is a multi-zone version of it.

YN-M22 series offer systems serving two, three, four and even five zones. Different capacities and types of indoor units can be mixed and matched in each system.

The price is much lower than top brands like Daikin or Mitsubishi, but the specs are not worse in any performance parameter.

Apart from lower than market average warranty, these series offer features that all modern mini-split systems have: high cooling and heating efficiencies, quiet and highly efficient compressor (from Toshiba), heating function down to -13°F with a frost protection, and smart control features.

Price Range: $1,098-$3,098 for outdoor unit + $278-$498 per each indoor unit (based on wall mounted unit)

Number of Zones/Indoor Units: 2 to 5

Efficiencies: 21.3-22.5 SEER; 9.8-10.4 HSPF4

Type: Heat pump

Warranty: 5-year compressor warranty; 2-year parts warranty

Pros:

• Low price for enhanced specs
• Offers five indoor unit types to choose from: wall, ducted, cassette, ceiling and floor
• Outdoor unit is fitted with a self-training intelligent defrost logic
• All units are Energy Star certified

Cons:

• Warranty period is shorter than market average

Senville Multi-Zone Systems (SENA HF/D, T & Q)

The price of Senville multi-zone mini-splits is lower than top brands, however, this model does not lose in quality, efficiencies or any modern features, which makes it a very attractive option.

The benefit that stands out is, of course, a solid warranty of 7 years on compressor and 3 years on parts, considering that the price is on the lower side.

Another advantage worth mentioning is that there is flexibility in selecting the right capacity and required number of indoor units.

For example, a dual-zone system comes in 18K, 28K, 36K and even 48K BTU/hr models. This is very useful if you have two large rooms to serve which have a high cooling or heating load, but the total number of units required is only two. In contrast, other brands offer a maximum capacity of 22K BTU/hr for dual-zone systems.

Therefore, if you require a higher capacity for two zones, then you would need to purchase a more expensive 3-port or 4-port system with higher capacities, but not if you are looking at Senville multi-zone systems.

Price Range: $1,800-$3,700 total (includes one outdoor unit and up to four indoor wall mounted units)

Number of Zones/Indoor Units: 2 to 4

Efficiencies: 22.4-23 SEER; 10.2-10.3 HSPF4

Type: Heat pump

Warranty: 7-year compressor warranty; 3-year parts warranty

Pros:

• Affordable price for enhanced specs and warranty period above market average
• All units are Energy Star certified
• Indoor units are fitted with anti-microbial silver ion filter
• System is fitted with refrigerant leak detection and evaporator coil self-cleaning mode
• Comes with an easy install kit that will allow your HVAC technician to complete the job quickly
• Flexibility in selection of capacities and number of units to be connected.

Cons:

• The only disadvantage is that it is made by a lesser-known brand, so the pool of service technicians specializing in this brand might be smaller

Mitsubishi Multi-Zone Systems (MXZ-C Series)

Mutsibishi MXZ-C series offer systems with up to 8 indoor unit connections, which makes it a perfect solution for a whole-house cooling and heating, especially for larger houses.

Apart from that, the price you pay is mostly for the brand and the quality of components, which will most likely last beyond the average economic life of 15 years.

The cooling seasonal efficiencies are not as high as cheaper models, although almost all Mitsubishi MXZ-C units are Energy Star certified and will qualify for most tax credits and rebates incentives. The warranty is market average too, and the same warranty period is offered by cheaper brands.

There is a wide range of indoor unit styles – wall mounted, ceiling recessed (cassette), floor mounted and horizontal ducted units. These can be mixed and matched in a variety of combinations of capacities and styles to suit your specific needs.

Price Range: $2,220-$3,720 for outdoor unit + $459-$846 per each indoor unit (based on MSZ-GL wall mounted series)

Number of Zones/Indoor Units: 2 to 8

Efficiencies: 18.9-20 SEER; 9.8-11.4 HSPF4

Type: Heat pump

Warranty: 7-year compressor warranty; 5-year parts warranty

Pros:

• Up to 8 zones can be served from one outdoor unit
• Wide range of selection of indoor unit capacities and styles
• WiFi interface is available via Mitsubishi original app Kumo Cloud, which can monitor, control and schedule multiple indoor units using any mobile
device.
• Indoor units operate quieter than human whisper (19-34 dB)

Cons:

• The price may be quite high for the same specs as lesser-known brands
• Seasonal cooling efficiencies are lower compared to other brands on the list

Cooper & Hunter Multi-Zone Systems (Sophia Series)

Cooper & Hunter Sophia series have the least expensive multi-zone systems on the list. Being the cheapest, they don’t necessarily lack in quality and features.

An impressive 7-year warranty on compressor and 5-year warranty on parts is the same as Mitsubishi has to offer, and the cooling/heating efficiencies are comparable to the other brands on the list too.

The secret is in the inverter compressor which is manufactured by Toshiba, similar to Pioneer mini-splits.

The different styles of indoor units are offered: wall mount, ceiling cassette, mini floor console, slim duct, and universal floor & ceiling unit.

The Sophia Hyper Heat models have the capability to provide heating at ambient temperatures as low as -22°F, making it a great, energy-efficient solution for very cold climates.

Price Range: $1,010-$2,750 for outdoor unit + $303-$431 for each indoor unit (based on Sophia wall mounted series)

Number of Zones/Indoor Units: 2 to 5

Efficiencies: 21.3-22.5 SEER; 9.8-10.4 HSPF4

Type: Heat pump

Warranty: 7-year compressor warranty; 5-year parts warranty

Pros:

• Affordable price for a system with excellent specs and long warranty period
• Up to five zones can be served from one outdoor unit, making it a great solution for the whole house without the need for more outdoor units
• Hyper Heat models can efficiently heat the house at a minimum outdoor temperature of -22°F
• Wide range of indoor units to select from, including universal floor and ceiling unit
• Units have WiFi connectivity for smart control from any device (WiFi adapter should be purchased separately for this function)

Cons:

• Units are not Energy Star certified

Which Mini-Split Unit Should You Buy?

Making a decision on how to heat and cool your house can be a daunting task. A mini-split offers a cost-effective solution in most situations and will provide modern, convenient and smart control options.

There are numerous mini-split brands and models to choose from.

In this article, we discussed the best models with various parameters to suit your specific application.

For your convenience, a comparison table is shown below: