The Best Ductless Air Conditioner

The Best Ductless Air Conditioner

Hot summer seasons do not have to be a dreary period in your home when you can get the best ductless air conditioners that keep you cool. Why ductless conditioners and not any other type? The ductless air conditioners are easily customizable, user friendly and environmentally efficient compared to central conditioners. They give you full control to cool different zones of your house at the specific temperature you desire. However, the market is full of many ductless conditioners with every manufacturer claiming there’s as the best. According to consumers’ experiences, the best conditioners are those that are affordable, easy to install, durable, conserve energy and are less noisy. These six conditioners have provided consumers with exactly what they needed.

Top 6 ductless air conditioners

Pioneer Mini Split, 9000 BTU-110/120V – Best rated by satisfied consumers

Features

Energy efficiency: 21.5 SEER

Weight: 18 pounds

Warranty: 2 years on parts, 5 years on compressor

Wi-Fi enabled: Optional

Coverage area: 250-350 Sq. Ft

Manufacturers describe it as the right choice for those who want the best. The pioneer mini split has an enrichment filter and an active charcoal filter, both which supply healthy air, and deodorize a room. It is one of the best rated conditioners by satisfied customers.

With a Season Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 21.5, the mini-split provides efficient energy for cooling that will cost you only $50/year and $100/year for heating according to the manufacturers. This makes it more economical for most users.

Another advantage of Pioneer mini-split is that it is an all in one heating and air conditioning system. You get perfect comfort in your room without much hassle.

It also has a remote control, LED display with desired front panel temperature, and an automatic louver which supplies the conditioned air more evenly.

You can easily install the mini split by following through their simple manual for instructions. If installed correctly, it will save you from spending more coins on an HVAC installer.

Pros:

Voice free and quiet as it is ductless

Washable filters

Easy installation

Does not need much amp

Cons:

High cost of maintenance

Senville 9000 BTU SENA-09HF/Z- Best price in the market

Features

Energy efficiency: 25 SEER

Weight: 73.8 pounds

Warranty: 2 years on parts, 7 years on compressor

Wi-Fi enabled: Yes

Coverage area: 350-400 Sq. Ft

If you want an air conditioner with a beautiful ambient fit and finish, then go for Senville 9000 BTU. It’s not only attractive, but also cheaper compared to other models. This mini split is highly efficient and you cannot tell when it’s running due to the amazingly quiet heat pump.

It has been designed in such a manner that the indoor unit displays the temperature. The outdoor unit is also very simple and easy to operate. Moreover, the device comes with a USB cable that can be used to connect to a smart phone.

Consumers love Senville’s whisper technology that ensure silent operation and the remote control which is so easy to use. When it comes to energy conservation, the mini split is greatly efficient with 25 SEER and fast cooling.

Manufactures praise this mini split for its attractive appearance, powerful performance and durability as they say it’s made of the highest quality materials.

Pros:

Whisper technology that is efficient for bedrooms and other rooms that need silence

Auto-switch mode

One of the cheapest in the market

Con:

Ha no pre-charge

MRCOOL 12000 BTU- Do It Yourself

Features

Energy efficiency: 17.5 SEER

Weight: 65

Warranty: 1 year on compressor, 2 years on parts

Wi-Fi enabled: Yes

Coverage area: 500 Sq. Ft

MRCOOL ductless mini-split comes with simple, unique DIY features which makes it the easiest for consumers to install without any professional assistance. The air conditioner has WIFI installed in it and can be operated anywhere through a smart phone device and internet connection. It’s auto swing and sleep mode functionality also make it desirable to most consumers.

The sleep mode regulates the temperature and automatically switches off the device after 7 hours during heating. In cool mode, the temperature increases by 2°F after an hour and reduces at the same rate after another hour.

The DIY mini-split can be installed in rooms whose ceilings are high and it will still cool effectively compared to other models which may not work well with high ceilings. The mini-split also detects leakages hence is more energy efficient.

Pros:

Can easily be installed with minimum specialized skills

Detect leakages

Auto-restarts

Cons:

Some consumers claim the Wi-Fi controller does not work or crash every time

Short battery life span

DAIKIN 17 SEER 9,000 BTU- Made of the best technology

Features

Dimensions:

Energy efficiency: 17 SEER

Weight: 73 pounds

Warranty: 10 years on compressor, 10 years on parts

Wi-Fi enabled: Yes

Coverage area: 350 Sq. Ft.

Daikin air conditioners are designed using the latest modern technologies that ensure it provides the most suitable room temperature. The mini split is ideal for single rooms and has over the years provided great service to commercial, industrial and residential houses.

The mini split has a simple wireless control remote and consumes a minimum energy of 17 SEER. It also operates on an almost quiet sound level of 37 decibels making it desirable for rooms.

Daikin’s advanced technology such as a wide louver, auto-swing, plus a simple remote controller help you achieve the comfort you desire. The remote controller effectively lowers temperature variations and enhances cooling.

10 year warranty on both parts and compressor depicts how much the manufacturers believe in the conditioners’ durability.

Pro:

Best price for a number of consumers

High quality and durable air conditioner

Cons:

Does not heat well in freezing temperatures according to consumers

Mitsubishi MZ-FH12NA 12,000 BTU- Multiple sensors

Features

Energy efficiency: 26.1 SEER

Weight: 83 pounds

Warranty: 7 years on compressor, 5 years on parts

Wi-Fi enabled: Yes

Coverage area: 400-650 Sq. Ft

Mitsubishi mini-split manufacturers claim multiple sensors of the unit which scan a room and regulate the temperature flow for the desired comfort. The indoor unit is composed of an infiltration layer which ensures the system is clean to improve the air quality in the conditioned rooms. The washable filter traps dust and also eliminates odors.

The mini split has adjustable vents that direct the flowing air from the unit to all the intended areas. With a high SEER of 26.1, the unit is highly energy efficient and eco-friendly. The low-ambient feature allows the unit to efficiently heat or cool when the temperature outside drops to 14°F.

The air conditioner’s low volume operation that goes as low as 32 decibels; a level considered lower than a human whisper makes it suitable for many consumers. It is also easy to install on any wall due to its mountain plate feature. For a unit that control different zones of your house independently, Mitsubishi can make a great fit.

Pro:

Auto fan feature

Outdoor unit delivery

Zone control

Wireless remote controller

Energy efficient of 26.1 SEER

Cons:

Unit must be installed by a professional HVAC installer hence you’ll be required to spend more on installation

Air-con 9000 Btu 22.5 SEER- Best energy saver

Features

Energy efficiency: 22.5 SEER

Weight: 211 pounds

Warranty: 5 years on compressor, 2 years on parts

Wi-Fi enabled: Yes

Coverage area: 400 Sq. Ft

With a high voltage of 208-231 volts and 22.5 SEER, this ductless mini-split unit is highly efficient for your room. The heat pump has smart settings and invert technology which saves energy of up to 49% compared to other air conditioners. It is also less noisy, easy to install and resistant to corrosion.

The mini-split has the ability to control proper air circulation and effectively manage your room temperature with minimum power consumption.

Air con mini-split’s condenser operates with eco-friendly refrigerant R-410A which is energy efficient and greatly protects the environment.

The ductless air conditioner’s advanced control technology also allows power to adjust in wide ranges. The unit begins by supplying air from low speed to high speed hence rapidly producing the desired temperature under low speed energy.

The systems’ low ambient heating provides efficient outdoor cooling even when the temperature drops to -4°F.

Pros:

Sleep mode

Washable filters

Wireless remote control

Adjustable louvers

Auto protection

Cons:

Consumers have raised concerns about the remote control which has to be directly pointed to the indoor unit to work appropriately.

Ductless Air Conditioner Buying Guide

What to consider when choosing a ductless air conditioner

• Cost

A good mini split will no doubt cost you more bucks. The best ductless air conditioners in Australia will cost you around $600-$54000. If you find a unit that requires professional installation, then be ready to spend more.

The air conditioner prices vary depending on various factors such as the type of unit, the functionalities, the level of efficiency, features of the unit, installation complexity, and quality of input technology among others. Units with higher SEER are generally more expensive compared to other models.

Other costs of maintenance and electricity bills will also come along after purchase, and the amount spent will mostly depend on the model on your usage. There are simple air conditioners such as MRCOOL DIY which consumers can install by themselves. Most models however require the help of a HVAC professional.

Take account of all these costs before purchasing.

• Installation zone

The number and size of the rooms you want to cool is an important factor to consider. There are air conditioners such as Daikin 17 SEER which are suitable for cooling single zones. There are also other models which are designed specifically for multiple zones.

A single zone mini split has one indoor unit and one outdoor unit meaning it can only cool one area at ago. A multiple model has more than one unit and is ideal for different areas depending on the model.

Decide whether you want to cool all the rooms at once or one at a time. You may not need to cool open room spaces, while others may require the unit. For some units that are well connected to each other, you will only install one unit depending on the model.

Before choosing your unit, a qualified dealer will determine the cooling and heating zones of your home through a complete set of load calculations. The outdoor condensing units are matched with the available indoor units for proper sizing of the mini split. Appropriate sizing is essential for high performance, optimal comfort and great control of humidity level.

Height of the ceiling is also an important factor as high unit ceilings will require enough flow of cool air to maintain a comfortable room temperature.

Whichever ductless air conditioner you choose, ensure it saves you money by limiting the energy usage. Multiple-zone unit are the best suitable options for energy conservation.

• Durability

How long should a ductless air conditioner last?

Ductless mini-split units should take up to 20 years, which is a much longer time compared to conventional conditioners that take 12-15 years. The best ductless air conditioners are those that will not require frequent repairs due to worn outs before you maximize their usage. Go for a conditioner with useful additional features such as reusable filters, remote control device and a programmable timer.

Durability of the unit will also depend on your maintenance level and whether you are following the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you leave your unit unattended when it produces strange noises and reduce its performance, you’re likely to experience the system breakdown and shorter life expectancy.

• Energy efficiency

SEER and inverter technology

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and inverter technology are some of the important features to consider when choosing a ductless unit. A unit with higher SEER and inverter technology consumes less power and is highly energy efficient. Most units SEER range from 16-24 with the best models’ SEER reaching 30. To save more energy and money on electricity, purchase a conditioner with high SEER.

Inverters eliminate wide load variations, prolong the life of a unit, and increase its efficiency. The inverter technology in ductless air conditioners works best by manipulating the compressor’s speed. Units with inverters have low maintenance costs and are quieter compared to other models.

Most ductless units are Energy Star Certified. Energy Star is a program that was started by the U.S. Department of Energy to help promote energy-efficient products. Ductless mini splits that qualify for the Energy Star Certification are more efficient than ordinary models. For a manufacturer to qualify for the program, their mini-split units must have a 15 and above SEER.

Since the units transfer energy instead of generating, the certified ductless mini-split heat pumps consume about sixty percent less energy compared to standard heating systems.

Energy Star Certified conditioners also cut cooling costs by 30% and have more efficient compressors and fans which save energy by adjusting the speeds. The larger the space of your cooling unit, the more money you spend on electricity bills.

Voltage

Every unit voltage requires different BTU. Smaller units have a voltage of 110-120 volts which are suitable for supplying 12000 BTU. Larger models which use 200 volts or more supply 24000 BTU.

Note that a smaller unit uses less volts and a larger one takes more volts. When purchasing any ductless conditioner ensure the unit matches the voltage. Using a large voltage on a small unit can easily cause circuit breakage.

• Installation Requirements

Installation usually takes 24 hours or less depending on the model and complexity. Some ductless air conditioners such as MRCOOL DIY are simple, easy to install and may take you a few hours to set up according to the manufacturers. Although doing it yourself may be less costly, most mini-split systems still require professional HVAC installation.

Consult your model’s manufacturer on the installation requirements for firsthand information before taking any action. If you decide to install the unit yourself, ensure you are careful enough not to cause any breakages that are void of warranty.

• Noise level

Sounds of dog barks, kids, lawn mowers, and grumbling neighbors have probably frustrated your peaceful life more than enough. You may have longed for a quiet environment, and having a noisy air conditioner will not make you feel any better. Ductless mini splits are more popular because of their quiet whisper operation.

The units are so quiet and efficient because they are made of small tubes which connect the outside condenser to wall-mount and distribute conditioned air through the wall units rather than traditional ductwork. This greatly reduces noise levels. In ductless mini splits, even the outside units are composed of sound-dampening technology which reduces noise level.

The conditioners have different level of sound decibels and are generally less noisy compare to normal fans. Purchase a unit that will provide you a peaceful environment depending on your sound sensitivity.

• Filter requirements

Mini-split filters require regular cleaning and maintenance. Dirty air from the filter can cause serious health havoc. A high efficiency filter is recommended rather than an ordinary filter which is cheap but may not keep your unit clean and pollutant free.

Although high efficiency filters are more costly, your unit and home will be safer from unhealthy dirty air. High efficiency filters keep the unit cleaner by trapping more pollutants. This results in better operation of the cooling and heating system hence a healthier and comfortable home environment.

One of the high efficiency filters according to customers experiences is High Efficiency Particle Arresting (HEPA ) filter. The filters have almost 100 percent efficiency and trap very tiny particles of a size as small as 0.3 microns. HEPA is a collective name for filters that have proven their efficiency through a test that ensures they trap extremely tiny particles.

Other high efficiency filters such as MERV have 60 to 95 percent efficiency and are suitable for your home. Most home mini split units have a filter efficiency rating of 11 which is considered adequate for a healthy air quality

Units with washable filter will however save you money that would have been used in purchasing a new one. Filters need to be changed or cleaned at least twice a year.

Heating Option

Most ductless units provide both cooling and heating. The dual functionality is especially beneficial if the mini split also has a heat pump. Heat pumps have become more popular because of their energy efficiency. They use 40 percent less of energy that electrical heating would require to achieve similar temperature.

The heating efficiency of dual mini splits is measured by the heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF). Heat pumps were not suitable for extremely cold climates in the past, but today many of the models operate effectively even in below negative zero Fahrenheit.

Additional Features

• Remote Control

Choose a unit which can be manipulated using hand-held remote or wall monitor. More recent models are Wi-Fi enabled so that you can control the unit using your smartphone or via the Internet. There are highly advanced ductless air conditioners which even monitor the actual room temperature of your home when you are away and adjust to a cooler temperature before you get back. This feature greatly increases the life span of your unit since it doesn’t operate on full speed when you are away.

• Auto Restart:

The best ductless air conditioners have an auto-restart function. The feature enables you to restore the systems’ setting with only a push of the button. It’s one of the most effective options when there’s power outage. The auto-restart feature not only improves the comfort level in your home, but also prevents circuit breakage and protects the unit.

• 24 Hour Timer:

With the 24 hour timer function, you can set your mini-split to run for the specific number of hours you need. The timer gives you full control of the system such that you can turn it on or off whenever you desire. Wouldn’t you love such a feature?

Conclusion

The best ductless air conditioners will no doubt require you to consider a lot of factors before purchasing. With a mini split unit you are assured of great comfort in your home, energy efficiency and easy to use system. While you may feel excited about purchasing a mini-split, ensure you go for a high quality with durable feature and great functionality according to your needs.