The 11 Best Mini Split Ductless AC | The Ultimate Guide

Ductless mini split air conditioners consist of small-sized compressor outdoor units, air handlers, and indoor evaporators that combine to form a wall-mounted unit. Their lack of ducts makes them easier to install and handle. They can be installed on the wall, ceiling, or floor units; and can be paired with existing air conditioning systems to save on energy bills.

On that note, here are the best energy-efficient ductless mini split AC I found on the market.

Best Mini Split Ductless AC

Here's the list of the 11 best mini split ductless AC, offering energy-efficient cooling without the need for ducts for easy installation and energy savings.

1. Best For Wi-Fi Enabled Control - DELLA Wi-Fi Enabled Mini Split Air Conditioner

The Della brand has manufactured this mini split air conditioner with an 18000 BTU/hour cooling and heating capacity for efficient energy use. It has a pre-charged air conditioning outdoor unit with proper certifications that has a ductless inverter, including heat pumps and dehumidifiers to help in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. I have tested this AC to find that it has a cooling and hearing coverage of up to 650 square footage. 

Moreover, these mini splits can be fully functional in cooling or heating multiple rooms, even on low temperatures such as 5 degrees Fahrenheit. While set to the cooling mode, this mini split AC unit will adjust the room temperature and show the updates in the remote control instead of the indoor unit. You can use the Wi-Fi-enabled control to adjust the temperature and airflow to your preference for improved efficiency and comfort.

What’s more, the DELLA 18000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner works at 40 decibels only, making it incredibly silent in quiet mode. Providing equal airflow to the entire space, its air handler can adjust itself from 60 to 90 degrees quickly. It also comes with an installation kit that can help you undertake a Do-It-Yourself installation easily.

2. Best For Compressor Warranty - Cooper & Hunter Ductless Mini Split AC

AHRI-certified and ETL Intertek-approved, this ductless mini split system from Cooper & Hunter evenly cools and heats the room with its WiFi-friendly mechanism. It has a 12,000 BTU/hour capacity, and its whisper technology ensures noise reduction, making it ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, and even commercial spaces. 

Running on a massive cooling power, Cooper & Hunter’s ductless mini split air conditioner evenly heats and cools down the rooms in the entire house, thus increasing its energy efficiency. It comes with pre-charged refrigerant, which easily circulates through the indoor air handlers in less time while reducing energy costs. 

Moreover, the indoor and outdoor units are ready to install with their 16 feet copper line set, drainage extension, and communication wires. However, I highly recommend going for a professional installation instead of a DIY one for this product.

Lastly, Cooper & Hunter’s ductless mini splits have a 7-year warranty on the compressor and a 5-year warranty on the other parts. So, you can count on using this ductless air conditioner for a long time!

3. Best For Single Zone Ductless System - Pioneer Diamante Series Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner

Pioneer’s mini split air conditioners from its Diamante Series are specifically designed for single-zone use and bring individualized comfort to the targeted areas. Ideal for residential and light commercial cooling experience and home automation, Pioneer’s ductless mini split air conditioner has a remote control operation for a wireless temperature adjustment. Its 12,000 BTU/hour capacity and automatic double-directional air handlers can control variable airflow and reduce energy costs. 

These mini-split ACs deliver cooling, dehumidification, heating, and ventilation at just the touch of a button. With its large LED dimmable display, flat panel, automatic dual swing cooling system, and air louvers, the unit aims for energy efficiency and high performance. What’s more, its washable air filters make it easy to maintain while the multi-speed fan operates quietly. 

Pioneer’s mini split system has a DC power inverter outdoor compressor with high efficiency in maintaining variable speed. Moreover, its galvanized metal construction coupled with electrostatic epoxy paint helps it withstand extreme climates and protect the thermostat. This unit from Pioneer also comes with different modes, including turbo mode, follow-me, ECO, sleep mode, and Freeze Protection.

Lastly, this mini split AC comes with a 16 feet line set, installation kit, free vibration absorber, and other accessories for easy professional or DIY installation.

4. Best For Digital Assistance - MRCOOL 20 SEER Ductless Split System

MRCOOL is one of the leading brands in the ductless mini split system industry in the United States and is highly rated by customers on most shopping platforms. Equipped with heat pumps and Wi-Fi-engineered remote control, the MRCOOL DIY Ductless Split System is easy to set up with just a few settings from your smartphone. These mini split air conditioners are a part of the Energy Star series, which can be installed anywhere without expensive installation equipment.

Furthermore, its 12000 BTU/hour capacity can easily heat or cool a room up to 750 square footage in dimensions. I observed that MRCOOL’s ductless mini splits are their own SmartHVAC App, compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can control them from any Android or iOS smartphone. Its leakage detection alarm is another smart feature that makes it stand out among other mini-split systems.

This ductless mini split air conditioner can be an ideal energy-efficient solution for greenhouses, server rooms, and other spaces that require cooling all year round. It can improve air conditioning with low ambient cooling even in low temperatures such as 5 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Lastly, it has a 25-inch pre-charged line set that allows DIY installation without special tools or professional help. And MRCOOL’s shipping, which divides the outdoor and indoor units into two packages for reduced chances of damage, is quite innovative.

5. Best For High System Efficiency - Klimaire Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner

Klimaire promises an energy-efficient solution to modern problems of indoor air quality with their ductless mini split air conditioner with a high SEER rating of 20.8. Another unique technology I have been looking for in mini split ACs is the self-cleaning function which can be activated through the remote control. Here, it cleans and carefully dries the evaporator, preventing mold, mildew, and bad odor while operating. 

Similar to the best mini split ACs, this product also has a specialized design for its outdoor compressor, which allows defrosting the unit even in very low temperatures. Moreover, the outdoor unit is pre-charged and includes a base pan and space heaters to improve the performance of the capacitor. It also has a built-in anti-corrosive Golden Fin, which helps the indoor units perform with noise as low as 25 decibels. 

What’s more, the mini split system series from Kilmaire has low ambient heating and cooling, which can be operated via a remote. And unlike window air conditioners, this ductless mini split AC has multiple modes, including customizable infrared settings, auto-restart, sleep mode, turbocharger, follow-me, etc.

Kilmaire’s single-zone ductless mini splits are ideal for detached or small rooms with minimal floor space or where the ceiling or attic is not suitable for ductwork. It also comes with a 15 feet installation kit with cables, mounting brackets, and other accessories to minimize installation costs. And finally, Kilmaire provides a 5-year manufacturing warranty on their mini splits. 

6. Best For Compact Spaces - OLMO Alpic Ductless Mini Split AC/Heating System

This is a small-sized mini split AC with a ducted system suitable for bedrooms and living rooms that require energy-efficient heating and cooling all year round. I find this mini split AC reliable due to its built-in sturdy internal compressor from the trustworthy brand Toshiba. Moreover, its heat pump and indoor air handler can maintain both hot and cold temperatures for a long time, even during cold weather. 

Its outdoor unit is designed to improve comfort and decrease labor costs during cleaning and maintenance. The OLMO Alpic Ductless Mini Split AC has a programmable smart remote for precise temperature control and mode navigation. You can choose the sleep mode for overnight air conditioning or the Turbo mode for fast conditioning. 

Besides these, there are other modes, including intelligent defrosting, 24-hour timing, etc. Its leak detection alarm is also helpful in resolving internal damage or installation issues before it severely affects the living comfort. This mini split system comes with a pre-flared line set with accessories such as nuts and communication wires for a speedy installation. However, the company OLMO recommends professional installation over DIY. 

Lastly, the Toshiba internal compressor has a 5-year limited warranty, while the rest of the air conditioner has a two-year limited manufacturer warranty. 

7. Best For Four-Way Swing Function - ROVSUN Mini Split AC/Heating System

With its 9,000 BTU capacity, the ROVSUN Mini Split air conditioner can quickly circulate the cold air in bedrooms, living rooms, offices, or apartments up to 450 square feet. Its high-quality compressor unit and multiple air handlers are AHRI certified and, therefore, have higher efficiency. With its efficient 19 SEER rating, ROVSUN’s mini splits can help you save more money and energy, making it an eco-friendly option. 

I found this ductless mini split air conditioner from ROVSUN quite easy-to-use since it comes with clear instructions and an easily programmable remote. You can enjoy a cooling experience ranging from 61-88 °F along with various modes, including mute mode, 24-hour timer, turbo, sleep mode, and fan speed selection. Besides, it can add an elegant touch to your space due to its minimalist, sleek design while working with noise as low as 32 dB.

Equipped with a four-Way Swing technology, it can evenly distribute hot or cool air according to your preference in just a few minutes. Further, I have noticed that this mini split AC is speedily delivered within two to six business days, while the other central air or single zone ACs take quite a long time. ROVSUN also has responsive customer service that prioritizes accurate and timely assistance.

8. Best For Heating Seasonal Performance Factor - Classic America WiFi Ductless Wall Mount Mini Split

Classic America is a small business brand that manufactures energy-efficient mini splits delivered in simple, eco-friendly packages. Their One-Ton Ductless Wall Mount Mini Split operates with the help of an ETL-approved Toshiba or GMCC compressor, which makes it durable and resilient. Powered by 110-120 VAC electricity and 12 amp minimal current draw and with a 20 SEER rating, these mini split air conditioners can reduce your energy consumption.

This air conditioner also comes with a Wi-Fi, Alexa-enabled remote with easily controllable settings, including auto, heat, dry, cool, and fan speed levels. Besides, the timer function and dimmable display screen are other energy-saving features that can reduce the electric load on the mini split AC. Plus, the built-in air louver sends the airflow evenly throughout the room rather than in a single direction.

With its timer, automatic air swing, switchover, and three-speed fans, you save up to 30% energy with Classic America’s mini split ductless AC. What’s more, you need to worry about damage during low temperatures as the temperature monitor and thermostat protection prevents the air handler and compressor from freezing. Further, the additional PTC strip allows the unit to release hot air even in extremely low temperatures.

Classic America provides 16 ft. insulated refrigeration tubing, pipe wrap, and interconnecting wires for easy installation. 

9. Best For Easy-To-Clean Filter - ApooDr Mini Split Air Conditioner

This all-in-one ductless mini split AC has a high-performance DC fan motor with high-speed levels ranging from grade 2 to grade 10. When set to the heating mode, the high number of groove teeth on the tube increases the heat transfer area and efficiency by 7.3% while keeping the air clean. Moreover, the heat exchangers have a unique anti-corrosive golden coating which prevents damage from rain, air with high salt content, and other corrosive elements. 

I found this mini split AC to be very functional and easy to maintain because of its easily washable air filter, which removes any hassle during maintenance. The ‘golden fin’ also removes any changes of interlopers, such as birds or pests, from breeding in the outdoor unit. Its backlit LCD remote with proximity sensor further allows you to access different AC modes, including auto, heat, dry, and fan modes, and also utilizes the Self Diagnosis function with just the touch of a button. 

ApooDr provides a free installation kit and other accessories, including communication wires and a copper line set. ApooDr also offers a 5-year warranty on the compressor and a 2-year warranty on the other parts. However, the mini split AC unit requires professional installation to avoid system issues and wiring damage.

10. Best For High Energy Savings - TOSOT Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner

TOSOT’s ductless mini split AC has a higher SEER rating than most mini splits on the market and saves up to 62% on energy costs. Besides, its powerful and sturdy compressor can provide even airflow during extreme temperatures such as 115-degree heat or -13 degrees cold. 

Equipped with innovative inverter technology, TOSOT’s mini split has a variable speed feature that automatically adjusts itself to achieve the preferred temperature. Since this is a split system, the indoor and outdoor units are separate, reducing the working noise, unlike window units. You will barely realize the indoor unit is there since it works with noise as low as 24 dB. Moreover, the TOSOT Muse series is AHRI and ETL-certified for high-quality construction, such as anti-corrosive copper pipes that can withstand high pressure. 

Since it targets a single zone without wasting energy in heating the entire house, this ductless mini split can also help the space heat up better in winter. Lastly, if you know how to do electrical work and install refrigerant, the 16.5 ft. copper line set, power cord, and signal cables will equip you to perform a DIY installation. If you’re unsure, I recommend getting professional help for installation.

Best Mini Split Ductless AC Comparison Table

Buying Guide For The Best Mini Split Ductless AC

For most people, technical home appliances and HVAC terms like SEER, HSPF, BTU, or cooling capacity are not common knowledge and are seldom talked about. However, knowing these terms is very important when purchasing ductless mini splits. To help you make an informed and correct decision that will suit your family’s needs, I have carefully curated a buyer’s guide that can be followed. Here are a few parameters to research and consider:

Cooling Capacity

The capacity of ductless mini splits is usually measured in BTU, or British Thermal Unit, which measures the energy it takes to change your home temperature. Unlike central heating and cooling systems, mini splits can fully function with low BTU as they mostly focus on a single zone instead of multiple rooms. Usually, the high BTU in split air conditioners is 24,000; however, mini splits for a single room range an average of 9,000 to 12,000 BTU. 

Smaller rooms, such as the nursery or study, can function with an 8,000 BTU mini split. You can save energy even further by using a 5,000 BTU mini split for smaller, closed spaces or garages.

Energy Savings

The energy efficiency of each HVAC system is measured by the SEER and HSPF ratings; the more the ratings, the higher the energy-saving percentage. So, before purchasing a ductless mini split, check if the product falls below the EnergyStar listing and meets the ratios mentioned above.

Price

Of course, it is important to find products that will fall into your budget and save money in the long run. The price usually depends on the system size or ton; however, the bigger it isn’t always, the better. For a pocket-friendly purchase, consider the amount you’ll be saving in energy and the overall cost of the AC unit.

Installation

Most ductless mini splits come with full installation kits and instructions that enable you to install them yourself. However, some AC units might require professional installation, which will further cost you money. Besides, it is recommended to opt for professional services to ensure it doesn’t lead to damage. 

Ductless Split AC FAQs

What Are The Benefits Of Ductless Mini Splits?

There are various benefits of ductless mini splits but the main advantages are their flexible zoning ability, size, and precise cooling of individual rooms. Moreover, you can find many ductless ACs that allow up to four indoor air handling units for one outdoor heat pumping system. So, you can cool up to four rooms with a single ductless mini split – how cool is that?

And if you have more rooms or zones to cover, you can simply add more mini splits to support more indoor air handlers. We recommend consulting your AC installer to best indoor handler configuration to optimize the temperature of your home.

Are The Ductless Mini Split Components Connected To Each Other?

Regardless of whether you have one or more than one indoor air handlers, they’re all connected to the outdoor unit by components called the ‘line set.’ To form this connection, your AC installer will drill a hole (about two or three inches in diameter) in the exterior wall. This helps the line consisting of copper tubes and electrical wires run between the components.

You can also find tubes and casts in local hardware stores to hide these lines in case you’re worried about messing up the aesthetics of the exterior wall.

Are Ductless Mini Splits More Energy Efficient Than AC Units With Ducts?

Air conditioning systems with ducts are responsible for significant energy loss during the cooling process. Central air conditioners that utilize multiple ducts for circulating cool air often face this issue, and require frequent sealing of the ducts to maintain efficiency. Using ductless splits will eliminate AC ducts altogether, so you won’t need to worry about high energy bills or sealing them every other year.

Ductless units are also constructed with energy efficient components and technology that further help you save money and energy while cooling your home.

How To Control Ductless Mini Splits?

All ductless mini splits come with built-in control panels that allow you to seamlessly adjust the temperature and utilize different settings. They also have remote control technology with each indoor air handler unit, so you set each zone at a different temperature remotely.

These methods of control are much more efficient than the traditional thermostat control found in central air conditioning systems.

Do Ductless Mini Splits Make Noise?

Compared to central HVAC units and portable systems, ductless mini splits are pretty quiet. Air moving through multiple ducts at high speeds can make a loud noise, but since these units are ductless, there’s no chance of that happening. That’s why people who prefer a quieter home environment most often go for ductless splits.

Conclusion

Despite its growing popularity and advanced technology, many people find themselves asking: is a ductless mini split worth it? Why not just install a window AC or normal split units? For one, they are much cheaper than traditional heating and cooling machines, and they also reduce energy bills in the long run. Besides this, there are various benefits of a mini split, and all the products on this list offer some of them.

After testing various options, I’d say the Della mini split tops the list with its massive cooling capacity, area coverage, and ultra-silent mode. Coming to a close second, both the 12,000 BTU models from Cooper & Hunter and Pioneer’s Diamante Series stand out for their targeted performance, warranty, and advanced ambient air conditioning. 

That said, I’ll be signing off now. Stick around for similar product reviews and guides. 

Goodbye!