10Best.Guide

Mini Split Ac/heating System

Top Picks

Last Updated: September, 2023
Pros
  • Easy DIY installation
  • Works well for supplemental cooling/heating
  • Can be controlled via Bluetooth/phone
  • Good for older homes without HVAC
  • Effective for large spaces
Cons
  • Poor customer support/warranty service
  • Units may be faulty/break easily
Bottom Line
The Mr. Cool DIY Mini-Split AC can be a good investment for those looking for supplemental cooling/heating in large spaces or older homes without HVAC. However, buyers should be aware of potential issues with customer support/warranty service and faulty units. The installation process may also be difficult for some, and the system may not perform consistently in extreme temperatures.
Pros
  • Effective cooling and heating function
  • Easy to install and use
  • Portable and can be moved from room to room
  • Good for small and large spaces
  • Great customer service and support
Cons
  • Noisy operation
  • Hose connectors and plastic circle are flimsy and may break easily
Bottom Line
The portable air conditioner is an effective and easy-to-use solution for cooling and heating small and large spaces. However, buyers should be aware of potential issues with noise, flimsy hose connectors, and possible damage during shipping. Overall, the product is a good investment with great customer service and support.
Pros
  • Sturdy and well-constructed
  • Easy to install
  • Strong and solid
  • Holds the condenser in place
  • No sound is transferred into the structure
Cons
  • Missing nuts
  • Rubber isolators are hard plastic
Bottom Line
This set of brackets is a strong and sturdy option for mounting a condenser, but buyers may need to purchase additional vibration pads and nuts.
Pros
  • Lightweight and easy to install.
  • Durable and strong for mini split units.
  • Perfect size for mini split outdoor unit.
  • Rigid and well reinforced for secure mounting.
  • Easy to drill mounting holes.
Cons
  • Flimsy and hollow underneath.
  • Poor packing job, arrived with a big chunk missing.
Bottom Line
The Mr. Cool mini split pad is a lightweight, durable, and easy-to-install platform for mini split units. However, it is flimsy and hollow underneath, and the packing job is poor. It is also almost twice the price it should cost and not sound-absorbing.
Pros
  • Decent price
  • Sturdy
  • Easy to install
  • Provides lots of options for odd twists and turns
  • Looks professional
Cons
  • Inside 90-degree fitting (elbow) easily pops open
  • Missing hardware and parts
Bottom Line
The LyPrem 4" kit is a decently priced, sturdy, and easy to install option for covering mini split line sets, but be aware of some potential issues with missing parts, yellowing, and the inside 90-degree fitting.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Mini Split AC/Heating Systems: Types, Features, Prices, and More

Overview

Mini split AC/heating systems are a popular choice for homeowners who want to cool and heat their homes without ductwork. These systems are also known as ductless mini splits, and they consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that are mounted on the wall or ceiling. In this buying guide, we'll cover the different types of mini split systems, key considerations when choosing one, important features to look for, prices, tips, and FAQs.

Types

1. Single zone mini split: This type of system is designed to cool and heat a single room or area. It's ideal for small apartments, bedrooms, or home offices.

2. Multi zone mini split: This type of system can cool and heat multiple rooms or areas with different temperature settings. It's perfect for larger homes or commercial spaces.

3. Wall mounted mini split: This type of system is mounted on the wall and is the most common type of mini split. It's easy to install and maintain.

4. Ceiling cassette mini split: This type of system is mounted on the ceiling and is ideal for rooms with limited wall space. It's also discreet and doesn't take up any floor space.

Key Considerations

1. BTU: The British Thermal Unit (BTU) measures the cooling and heating capacity of the system. You'll need to choose a system with the right BTU for your room or area.

2. SEER: The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) measures the energy efficiency of the system. Look for a system with a high SEER rating to save on energy costs.

3. Brand: Choose a reputable brand with a good warranty and customer service.

4. Installation: Make sure you hire a professional to install the system. Improper installation can lead to performance issues and safety hazards.

Features

1. Wi-Fi control: Some mini split systems come with Wi-Fi control, which allows you to control the temperature and settings from your smartphone or tablet.

2. Air purifier: Some systems have built-in air purifiers that can remove allergens and pollutants from the air.

3. Dehumidifier: Some systems have built-in dehumidifiers that can remove excess moisture from the air.

Prices

Mini split systems can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the type, brand, and features. Single zone systems are generally less expensive than multi zone systems.

Tips

1. Choose a system with a high SEER rating to save on energy costs.

2. Consider the location of the indoor unit when choosing a system. Wall mounted units are the most common, but ceiling cassette units may be better for certain rooms.

3. Hire a professional to install the system to ensure proper installation and performance.

FAQs

Q: Are mini split systems energy efficient?

A: Yes, mini split systems are generally more energy efficient than central air conditioning systems.

Q: Can I install a mini split system myself?

A: It's not recommended to install a mini split system yourself. Improper installation can lead to performance issues and safety hazards.

Q: How long do mini split systems last?

A: Mini split systems can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance.

Q: Are mini split systems noisy?

A: No, mini split systems are generally quieter than window or portable air conditioning units.

Q: Can mini split systems be used for heating?

A: Yes, mini split systems can be used for both cooling and heating.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Reasonable price
  • Sturdy and good-looking
  • Nice stainless construction
  • Well-made and easy to install
  • Comes with decent expansion anchors
Cons
  • No instructions included
  • Bolts offered with the bracket aren't as good as preferred
Bottom Line
This stainless bracket is a good option for mini split units up to 18k size, but may require additional modifications for larger units. It is reasonably priced, sturdy, and easy to install, but lacks instructions and may rust over time.
Pros
  • Sturdy and made of stainless steel
  • All hardware included
  • Good quality
  • Secure mount
  • No rust
Cons
  • Thin material
  • No English instructions
Bottom Line
This stainless steel bracket is a sturdy and secure mount for mini-split units, but may not be suitable for larger units and may transmit noise into the house. It comes with all hardware included, but the material is thin and there are no English instructions.
Pros
  • Easy to install
  • Quiet operation
  • Effective temperature control
  • Good customer support
  • Quick delivery
Cons
  • Defective units reported
  • Poor customer service experience for some
Bottom Line
The MrCool mini split DIY unit is a great option for those looking for an easy-to-install, quiet, and effective temperature control system. However, there have been reports of defective units and poor customer service experiences, so buyers should be aware of these potential issues.
Pros
  • Very quiet
  • Dual inverter technology
  • Cools well
  • Easy to install
  • Uses less energy
Cons
  • Takes a long time to arrive
  • Makes a horrible racket when it kicks into high
Bottom Line
The LG dual inverter 9,500 BTU Window AC is a great option for those looking for a quiet and energy-efficient air conditioning unit. However, some customers have experienced flaws such as mold buildup and a flawed control system.
Pros
  • Easy to install.
  • Durable.
  • Stiff tracks and snap action cover.
  • Good price.
  • Can fit multiple lines.
Cons
  • No option to buy straight pieces separately.
  • Missing parts and damaged product.
Bottom Line
This line set cover is a good option for those looking for an affordable and easy-to-install solution to hide their mini split line set. However, buyers should be aware of the potential issues with missing parts, color matching, and lack of instructions.
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