Buying guide for best split-system air conditioners
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Comfort is crucial. If you want the greatest control over how cold (or hot) each room of your house is, you might decide to forgo central air and consider a mini-split air-conditioning system instead. To get the best mini-split air conditioner for your situation, there are a few things you need to know.
That's where BestReviews comes in. We did the research and learned the important things, such as the difference between a single-zone system and a multi-zone system and how much power a mini-split unit needs. We evaluated the importance of mini-split bells and whistles and considered over 30 air conditioners when compiling our list of top choices.
Our favorite is the Senville LETO Series Mini-Split Air Conditioner. This 24,000-Btu unit serves as a fan, dehumidifier, air conditioner and heater. It’s a single unit that will keep you cozy all year long, regardless of the temperature outside.
Which split-system air conditioner is best?
Senville LETO Series Mini-Split Air Conditioner
Best of the Best
Product specifications
Indoor noise level: 34 to 46 dB | Dimensions: 33.27" W x 12.6" D x 27.56" H | Cooling capacity: 24,000 Btu | Heating capacity: 24,000 Btu | Wi-Fi/Smart connectivity: Yes
Whatever you hope to get out of a mini-split air-conditioning system, Senville is the answer. This four-in-one model is suitable for year-round use. It offers heating, cooling, air circulation and dehumidification. It has an energy-efficient design and a turbofan for accelerated performance.
As far as convenience, this model can be controlled in any way you prefer. It comes with a handy remote, functions with an app and is compatible with Alexa. You can automate it to match your daily routine, saving energy and money. For the environmentally conscious, it arrives preloaded with ozone-kind R-410A refrigerant.
We think this is an excellent option for people looking to cool or heat large spaces. While it comes with everything you need, the system requires professional installation — it’s not a DIY project. The five-year warranty offers peace of mind.
Della 12,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner
Best Bang for the Buck
Product specifications
Indoor noise level: 34 to 52 dB | Dimensions: 31.92" W x 11.49" D x 8.07" H | Cooling capacity: 12,000 Btu | Heating capacity: 12,000 Btu | Wi-Fi/Smart connectivity: Yes
Della’s 12,000-Btu mini-split air conditioner packs a lot of features for a reasonable price, making it a good value. It has a 24-hour timer, energy-saving mode, sleep mode, intelligent compressor and auto defrost. The self-diagnosing and self-cleaning features make it a worry-free device that requires minimal maintenance.
If you are a fan of saving money, this energy-efficient machine senses temperature at the remote control to get an accurate reading of the room. It uses that information to adjust airflow and temperature, delivering comfort in the most efficient way possible.
This model can cool or heat up to 750 square feet, making it suitable for large rooms. With its superior performance and comfortable price, we think it’s one of the best values on the market. It’s our pick for the best mini-split for the money.
Pioneer Diamante Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner
Simple Yet Solid
Product specifications
Indoor noise level: 21.5 to 37.5 dB | Dimensions: 22" W x 33" D x 13" H | Cooling capacity: 12,000 Btu | Heating capacity: 12,000 Btu | Wi-Fi/Smart connectivity: No
This ultra-quiet machine features the best energy-efficiency ratio of all the mini-split air conditioners in our top five. The Pioneer cools, heats, dehumidifies and ventilates with 3D airflow that directs air up and down and side to side, providing complete room coverage.
The installation kit helps you get this model up and running in as little as one afternoon. It doesn’t feature Wi-Fi connectivity, but it does have a remote with a large LCD and intuitive controls. It also has a timer, eco setting, turbo cooling and heating and sleep mode so you can rest easily at night.
We love that maintenance only involves cleaning the reusable filters as directed, and the company has amassed a knowledge base of articles and videos to help make sure you have a positive experience. This simple-yet-solid air conditioner would serve you well.
Senville LETO Series 9,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner
Mid-range Option
Product specifications
Indoor noise level: 22.0 to 36.5 dB | Dimensions: 37" W x 9" D x 12" H | Cooling capacity: 9,000 Btu | Heating capacity: 10,000 Btu | Wi-Fi/Smart connectivity: Yes
If you have a mid-sized room that requires precise climate control, check out the Senville LETO Series 9,000-Btu mini-split air conditioner. It may have a lower Btu rating than its big brother, but it certainly does not lack great features.
The controls let you set energy-saving routines that can knock up to 40% off your energy bills. It works with Alexa, allowing you to make on-demand changes to the unit's performance by simply speaking. Alternatively, you can use the included remote or an app to take control of your environment.
The Senville is a high-performance, energy-efficient mini-split air conditioner that runs at the volume of a whisper. It comes with environmentally friendly R-410A refrigerant. We think it’s the best mini-split air conditioner for medium rooms.
Rovsun 9,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner
Budget-friendly
Product specifications
Indoor noise level: 26 to 41 dB | Dimensions: 31.92" W x 8.07" D x 11.49" H | Cooling capacity: 9,000 Btu | Heating capacity: 10,000 Btu | Wi-Fi/Smart connectivity: Yes
The Rovsun is a mini-split air conditioner for people on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice quality or features. As expected, it offers the same four basic functions as other models: cooling, heating, venting and dehumidifying. What’s more, its operating volume is lower than pricier options.
When you buy this money-saving model, you get auto defrost, an eco mode, multiple fan speeds, an intelligent compressor and a 24-hour timer. You also get advanced features such as Wi-Fi connectivity and Alexa compatibility. And, like other top models, you get a temperature sensor that guides the unit’s performance to give you optimal control with minimal effort.
Because this model offers so much at an entry-level price, we think it’s an excellent option for anyone with a mid-sized room that requires a little help with year-round climate comfort.
Cooper & Hunter Mia Series Mini-Split Air Conditioner
Best for Smaller Spaces
Product specifications
Indoor noise level: 50 dB | Dimensions: 28.4" W x 7.3" D x 11.4" H | Cooling capacity: 6,000 Btu | Heating capacity: 6,000 Btu | Wi-Fi/Smart connectivity: Yes
If you crave quality, the Cooper & Hunter Mia Series is a solid choice. This 6,000-Btu model is the best mini-split machine for small rooms. It comes with a seven-year warranty on the compressor and a five-year warranty on parts.
This air conditioner has a high-efficiency energy ratio and can be controlled via an app, which can help you save even more on your energy bill. The installation kit includes a 16-foot pre-flared and insulated copper line set, 16-foot communication wires and a 16-foot drainage extension.
The sizing and low operating volume make this system best for bedrooms and other small spaces, such as an office or guest room. Cooper & Hunter’s offering is an excellent choice if you have the budget.
Della 18,000-Btu Dual-Zone Mini-Split Air Conditioner
Dual-Zone Air Conditioner
Product specifications
Indoor noise level: 41 dB | Dimensions: 31.92" W x 11.49" D x 8.07" H | Cooling capacity: 18,000 Btu | Heating capacity: 18,000 Btu | Wi-Fi/Smart connectivity: Yes
This model stands out as the only multi-zone unit on our favorites list. It has one outdoor condenser and two indoor air handlers. Each air handler has a 9,000-Btu rating. This means you can have individually controlled cooling or heating in two different spaces of up to 400 square feet.
This remarkably flexible system works in temperatures as low as 5 degrees, and the indoor temperature can be adjusted anywhere from 60 to 90 degrees. Installation is difficult and requires a pro, but once it is up and running, you can reach an ideal room temperature in minutes.
If you have a house with two floors or multiple spaces that need individual temperature settings, this model is the way to go. Initially, the cost may seem high. Over the years, however, the money you save will make it worth the investment.
Costway 12,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner
Easy to Install
Product specifications
Indoor noise level: 42 to 51 dB | Dimensions: 34.5" W x 7.5" D x 11.5" H | Cooling capacity: 12,000 Btu | Heating capacity: 12,000 Btu | Wi-Fi/Smart connectivity: No
Unlike other models on our list, the Costway has five operating modes. Besides cool, heat, dry and fan, this mini-split air conditioner has an auto mode for ultimate temperature-control convenience. It also has four fan speeds: low, medium, high and auto.
The air conditioner comes with a remote and has a 24-hour timer. A self-cleaning feature helps keep the unit germ-free. All you have to do is remove and wash the filter as the manufacturer directs.
Suitable for a space of up to 750 square feet, it can remove up to 36 pints of moisture from the air each day. Consider this option if you want a mini-split air conditioner that does just a bit more than the typical model.
How we chose the best mini-split air conditioners
To find the best split-system air conditioner, BestReviews considered 35 models. The review team also evaluated the customer experience of over 100 split-system users. Our research team then created a knowledge base detailing how these air conditioners work and the types of features included most often. We also considered how extra bells and whistles might impact the user experience. When the legwork was complete, we examined our data and created a list of eight top models.
Key considerations
Single-zone vs. multi-zone configurations
Mini-split air-conditioner systems may be classified as one of two types: single-zone or multi-zone. The best choice for you depends on the layout of your home and a few other comfort factors. Let's take a quick look at the differences between the systems.
A single-zone system is comparable to a window air conditioner. It has one outdoor unit and one indoor unit. In other words, cool air and heat come from the same place. This system is best for homes with an addition or room that doesn't get as cold or hot as desired. It’s more economical than upgrading your central air and duct systems. A single-zone system is easier and more affordable to install than a multi-zone system.
A multi-zone system has only one outdoor unit, but there can be several indoor units — as many as eight indoor air handlers. This is best for homes with multiple floors and no central air. It’s also suitable for people who want precise control over the temperature of different zones in their homes. For example, Zone One could be set to 68 degrees, and Zone Two could be set to 72 degrees.
A multi-zone system is similar to central air, but each zone can have its own temperature. This is a cost-effective way to heat and cool a home because you’re not raising or lowering the temperature of the entire building.
Calculating the correct size and capacity
A mini-split air conditioner utilizes the same sizing calculations as any other air conditioner. In short, you must match the British thermal units to the square footage of the space you want to cool.
To determine the square footage of a room, measure its length and width. Then, multiply these figures. If you have a multi-zone system, do this for every zone, and add the totals together. Multiply the total by 25 to get a rough estimate of Btu requirements.
For example, if your total area is 400 square feet, you would need at least 10,000 Btu because 400 x 25 = 10,000. Note, however, that 10,000 Btu is only an estimate. Why? Warmer climates, open doors, poorly insulated rooms, rooms with ceilings higher than 8 feet and south-facing rooms require more energy to cool or heat. Add 10% more for each factor to get your final results.
Here is a general guide on the amount of Btu required to cover a particular space:
- 5,000 to 6,000 Btu: 150 to 250 square feet
- 6,000 to 8,000 Btu: 250 to 350 square feet
- 8,000 to 10,000 Btu: 350 to 450 square feet
- 10,000 to 12,000 Btu: 450 to 550 square feet
- 12,000 to 14,000 Btu: 550 to 700 square feet
- 14,000 to 18,000 Btu: 700 to 1,000 square feet
Energy efficiency and environmental impact
Since a mini-split air conditioner can cool and heat, it has two ratings that express how efficiently it uses energy: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF).
Both ratios are obtained by dividing the Btu rating by the input wattage over a broad range of temperatures throughout the season. The higher the number, the more energy-efficient the unit.
A high-efficiency air conditioner has at least a 16 SEER. A heater needs a minimum of an 8.2 HSPF to earn an Energy Star certification. Even if you aren't concerned with performance, the higher these numbers are, the more money you can save each month on your energy bill. In some instances, it can be 40% or more.
If you are interested in an environmentally kind appliance, the energy ratio is only one aspect to consider. Some models have an eco-friendly setting that lets you operate the machine in an energy-saving mode, conserving energy and reducing your energy bill. Purchasing a model that uses environmentally friendly refrigerants helps protect the ozone layer for a reduced impact on global warming.
Our top picks: Energy efficiency and environmental impact
- Senville LETO Series Mini-Split Air Conditioner: This model has a good SEER and uses R-410A refrigerant, which is non-ozone depleting, non-toxic, non-flammable and non-corrosive. It also features smart operation that lets you create routines and maintain real-time control, increasing the unit's energy-saving capabilities.
- Della 12,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner: This energy-efficient machine has a SEER of 19 and an HSPF of 8. Built-in smart sensors provide precision control based on room temperature, adding to this model's desirability.
- Pioneer Diamante Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner: If you’re looking for the model with the highest energy-ratio ratings, this one has an impressive 20 SEER and 10 HSPF. The unit's sleep and eco modes also help you save on your energy bill.
- Senville LETO Series 9,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner: Like our top-rated Senville, this model uses R-410A refrigerant. It can be controlled from any Wi-Fi location and has a 19 SEER rating, making it a solid option.
- Rovsun 9,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner: Rovsun has smart functionality, an energy-saving mode, an intelligent compressor and more. All of these great features make it an energy-efficient machine. A SEER of 19 classifies it as a high-efficiency unit.
Noise considerations for indoor and outdoor units
Unlike other indoor AC methods, mini-split systems are remarkably quiet. This is because the compressor is located outside, and there are no ducts for air to whoosh through.
While a portable air conditioner or window air conditioner may run at close to 60 decibels, most mini-split air conditioners run at less than 50 decibels, with many being closer to 40 — roughly the sound of a light rain. Some models run at 30 decibels in the low-speed setting, which is comparable to a whisper.
When you compare noise levels from one product to the next, remember that these systems can run at different speeds. A 32-decibel rating might sound like a wonderful option, but if that’s only at low speed — and you need to operate at high speed — the actual volume may be closer to 50 decibels.
Our top picks: Noise level
- Senville LETO Series Mini-Split Air Conditioner: On low, this model is very quiet; it’s just a little louder than a whisper. On high, however, it can hit 46 decibels, which is closer to the sound of a refrigerator.
- Della 12,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner: If you are looking for ultra-quiet, this is not for you. It operates at 34 to 52 decibels, making it the loudest air conditioner on our shortlist.
- Pioneer Diamante Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner: Even when running at full tilt, this system emits only 37.5 decibels. It’s one of the best options for people who love quiet.
- Senville LETO Series 9,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner: This is our other top choice for low sound output. Its operating volume ranges from 22 to 36.5 decibels.
- Rovsun 9,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner: The Rovsun sits in the middle. It operates at 26 to 41 decibels, making it an excellent option.
Advanced features and smart technology
A key aspect that makes modern mini-split air conditioners desirable is an abundance of convenience. Even the most basic models are usually programmable, allowing you to control when the unit turns on and off, even if you’re not home.
Wi-Fi connectivity offers real-time control of your unit no matter where you are, as long as you have access to the internet. You can easily adjust the unit’s performance when your schedule changes.
Another feature that provides effortless control is voice command. If your unit responds to voice commands, you don’t need to worry about what the buttons do. Simply tell the air conditioner to turn on and off. You can also adapt settings and parameters with your voice.
Our top picks: Advanced features and smart technology
- Senville LETO Series Mini-Split Air Conditioner: With its remote, app and precision voice control, the Senville delivers an abundance of modern convenience.
- Della 12,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner: Besides the typical convenience features, this model can track your location. Thus, it can “learn” when to turn on in preparation for your arrival.
- Pioneer Diamante Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner: This air conditioner doesn't have all the bells and whistles of other models. For convenience, it only offers remote operation.
- Senville LETO Series 9,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner: Although smaller than our top choice, this Senville comes with all the convenient options, such as app and voice control.
- Rovsun 9,000-Btu Mini-Split Air Conditioner: You can control the Rovsun via app or by using the included remote. Built-in technology senses room temperature and adjusts appropriately for optimum performance.
Our expertise
In 2018, Allen Foster joined Bestreviews as a product writer. Before that, he was a product specialist at one of the country's largest home improvement retailers. As part of his training, Allen attended many seminars and workshops on home products, ranging from outdoor lawn equipment to indoor appliances and tools. He is a knowledgeable DIYer who worked in construction after college to learn how professionals get the job done.
