These systems have a mini split system and a small outdoor unit with compressor. They let you adjust the temperature of the rooms as per individual user requirements. Most of them also come with heating technology as well. So, you can use them in winters as well without investing in any additional appliances. If you want to invest in the best ductless air conditioner for your home, we recommend considering the below factors.
Cooling Area
Before purchasing a ductless AC, you have to understand whether you want to install in a single room or multiple rooms. Ductless ACs come with a single outdoor unit and single/multiple indoor units. Based on that, you can make the decision.
Capacity
It determines the efficiency of the unit and measured in BTUs. You have to consider the capacity based on the room size or area. For example, to cool a room of 400 square feet, you will need to invest in a ductless air conditioner has capacity of 10,000 BTUs of output. So, make the necessary calculations to choose the appropriate capacity.
Energy Rating
The energy efficiency of a ductless air conditioner is represented in terms of SEER and HSPF. When it comes to energy-efficient ductless ACs, we recommend to look for SEER (20 or higher) and HSPF (8 or higher). For a detail explanation of these factors, we recommend checking out the “BUYING GUIDE” provided below. Using the same information and several hours of research, we have also picked out the best ductless air conditioners for your reference.
Best Ductless Air Conditioners 2023
Best Ductless Air Conditioners Reviews
1. Senville Ductless Air Conditioner
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Senville is one of the leading HVAC brands in the world popular for its energy-efficient and sustainable air conditioning solutions. Senville’s 09CD series of AC is liked by customers thanks to its super easy installation and noise-free operation. You can use it as a cooling unit in summers and as a heat pump for heating in winters. It can heat your room upto 5°F in winters. Senville provides you with inverter technology in this AC, which provides longer life to your compressor. This technology also makes your AC work efficiently. It has a fan and turbo function that gives you even distribution of air in your room. It also has dehumidifier nature which reduces the sweating you experience in humid summers. Its other features include built-in washable filters that provide you clean air and can be replaced easily once deteriorated. You must go through the following table to find the specifications for this AC. Pros
produces less noise during operation. very easy to install. energy efficient.
Cons
Does not have wired thermostat. (but contains remote thermostat)
2. MRCOOL Ductless Air Conditioner
MRCOOL brand is trusted for making advanced design AC’s for you using state-of-the-art manufacturing technology. Their 3rd Generation DIY Split AC is very popular because you can install it of your own without learning any skill or using special tools hence named “DO IT YOURSELF (DIY)”. It has wi-fi control technology that allows you to operate your AC from anywhere in your house by installing Smart-Hvac APP in your smartphone. It is also compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant. It comes with Follow Me feature that sets the temperature of AC according to the location of remote in your room and ensures you receive maximum comfort. It has low ambient cooling that cools down upto 5°F and hence used for places that require cooling all year eg: greenhouses, server rooms etc. You can use it as cooling unit in summers and as a heat pump for heating in winters This AC too has inverter technology that reduces your electricity bill and provides long life to the compressor. Sleep mode feature of this AC adjusts temperature itself in the night to provide you comfortable sleep. However, the unit automatically gets switch off after 7hrs running in sleep mode. Its leakage detection technology detects the low refrigerant in your AC and sounds the alarm for you telling about leakage of refrigerant. This prevents the damage of your compressor. You must go through the following table to find the specifications for this AC. Pros
22 Seer Rating Makes it Highly Energy Efficient Very easy to Operate and user Friendly Provides Effective Cooling Attractive Warranty and Customer Support
Cons
Expensive in cost
3. Pioneer Ductless Air Conditioner
PIONEER has no other brand as a competitor to them when it comes to buying AC at lowest rates in superior quality. They provide you best AC’s at factory level direct wholesale price saving your money instantly. Pioneer AC’s have LED display that allows you to control settings of your AC easily. It also has a remote control feature that allows you to operate your AC from the comforts of your sofa. You can use it as a cooling unit in summers and as a heat pump for heating in winters. It has automatic swing air discharge louvres that provide even distribution of air in your room. Its whisper-quiet operation takes care of your sleep and makes you put extra focus on your work. It also has permanent washable air filters that provide you clean air and can be replaced easily once deteriorated. It comes with inverter technology that saves the running cost of your AC and increases the overall life of your compressor also. You must go through the following table to find the specifications for this AC: Pros:
it has an affordable price. low noise while running. easy to read temp. and other values due to led panel.
Cons:
Cooling performance drops in long term, as experienced by some users.
4. Innovair Ductless Air Conditioner
INNOVAIR is the world leader in producing customer satisfying and highly efficient air conditioning systems. This AC has the latest quantum inverter technology that reduces your electricity bill significantly. It works in multiple modes these are turbo mode provides even distribution of air in your room, sleep mode adjusts the temperature of AC itself to provide you comfortable sleep and Dehumidifier mode reduces the moisture in the air and makes you feel cool air. INNOVAIR provides you 4-in-1 filters in your AC these are CATECHIN FILTER eliminates bacteria and bad odour from the air, HEPA FILTER reduces dust, dander and other allergic substances from air, VITAMIN C FILTER adds vitamin c into the air that softens your skin and reduces your stress, AROMA FILTER adds fragrance in air to provide you pleasant air cooling experience. It comes with an optional wi-fi ready feature that allows you to connect it with ALEXA or GOOGLE ASSISTANT and you can then operate it from any part of your home. It provides you cooling in high temperature of 115F and works as heat pump in low temperature of 5F. It also has anti-freeze protection that allows you to operate it in the lowest of temperatures. You must go through the following table to find the specifications for this AC: Pros
whisper quite operation provides you comfortable feel. easy to install and consumes less time of yours. high voltage protection saves ac from of voltage fluctuations.
Cons
doesn’t blow a large volume of air.
5. Della Ductless Split Air Conditioner
Della is gaining a good reputation because of its high-performing air conditioners with premium quality. The ductless split AC unit from Della we have here provides functionalities such as dehumidification, ventilation, and heating along with cooling your indoor atmosphere. The air conditioner comes with a sophisticated remote control that gives you absolute power over temperature control. Its backlit LCD lets you set the features effortlessly with its display. The remote is designed with a built-in proximity sensor that adjusts the cooling/heating functionality by studying your distance from the unit. As the unit comes without any ducts, there is no possibility of air leakage which means there is no loss of energy. Thus this unit is ideal for a reduced negative impact on the environment and decreased energy costs. Furthermore, the air conditioner is equipped with an inverter compressor that uses only the required power and reduces unnecessary consumption. Check out the following table to learn Air Conditioner Specifications: Pros:
High energy efficiency Smart automatic system Silent operation Large coverage area
Cons:
Too heavy for one person to install Customer support can be better
6. Klimaire Ductless Air Conditioner
With unmatched design and quality in the industry, KLIMAIRE has sold more than million units of their products in over 70countries from last 25years. Klimaire’s KSIV AC has new “Quick-Hook Design,” that makes your unit hang on wall easier and faster. KSIV series has DC Inverter technology that runs your compressor in different speeds thereby increasing its life and reduces your electricity bill. Its auto defrost technology saves your compressor from getting freeze and damage during condensation. This AC can cool and heat areas upto 350sq.ft. Your AC is equipped with Auto cleaning function that prevents the mildew growth in the evaporator and protects your health. The most interesting thing about your KSIV AC is its home Away freeze protection feature that maintains your room at 46º F when you are away for long period from home. Presence of various modes such as turbo mode provides quick cooling, sleeping mode sets temperature itself to provide you sleeping comfort. It comes with Follow Me feature that sets the temperature of AC according to the location of remote in your room and ensures even cooling. Its High-Density Filter captures pollutants from the air and releases vitamin C to clean and refresh the air. This also has an auto-restart feature that starts your AC from the last setting it got power off during power cut. KLIMAIRE provides wi-fi feature in your AC using which you can control your AC from anywhere, but it is optional and adds extra cost to your AC. KLIMAIRES KSIV SERIES AC is ideal for small spaces calling for spot cooling or heating. You must go through the following table to find the specifications for this AC: Pros
Provides clean and fresh air. Home away prevents over cooling of room. Compressor has longer life. Low noise operation
Cons
Installation is costly.
7. Daikin Ductless Air Conditioner
Founded in 1924 DAIKIN’S AC is very popular among buyers as it is sold over in 150 countries of the world. Daikin’s compact split AC’s are installed very easily in residences where space is limited. Daikin AC has advanced inverter technology that saves your electricity bill and provides you with efficient cooling. You can use it in extremely hot and cold weathers for cooling and heating functions respectively. This AC comes with advanced filtration that provides you clean air to breath. It works in different modes that gives you the comforts you need. Daikin also has auto swing wide-angle louvres which provide even distribution of air in your room. Daikin promises you the free technical support that looks all of your needs and helps you want for your AC. You must go through the following table to find the specifications for this AC: Pros
Very easy to install in small homes. Quite operation does not create disturbance.
Cons
Optional wi-fi module costs expensive.
Different Factors to Consider While Purchasing a Ductless AC
There are so many aspects to consider while analyzing the models present in the market. If you are not aware of these factors, we recommend checking out the detailed buying guide provided below.
1. Space Size and Zones
This is the foremost factor to consider while analyzing ductless AC models. When it comes to zone designs, ductless air conditioners come in two variants – single zone and multi-zone units.
Single zone – As the name implies, they come with a single unit suitable for cooling one room. They can provide cool air for areas between 500 to 1,400 square feet. Multi-zone – They come with multiple (up to 4) indoor air handles that can be placed in different rooms and an outside compressor. They are the perfect solution for cooling a small house or an apartment. Some of them can handle up to 2,600 square feet.
2. Capacity
Similar to space heaters or window-mount ACs, the capacity of a ductless air conditioner is also measured in terms of BTUs. Higher the BTU number, the cooler will the air generated by the air conditioner. This also includes insulation quality, square footage of the area, and the outside climatic conditions. To explain in standard terms, for cooling a room of 400 square feet, you will need to invest in a ductless air conditioner has capacity of 10,000 BTUs of output. For cooling a room of 1,200 square feet, you may need a ductless AC of 21,000 BTU capacity. When it comes to ductless mini-split ACs, the energy efficiency of the house and climatic conditions of the locality also has an impact. For example, a house that is present in hot environment will require AC that has higher BTU capacity than a house present in milder summers. Similarly, a ductless AC can easily and quicky cool newly constructed home with energy-efficient insulation and windows compared to older homes lacking these features. Below are some of the recommendations for ductless AC capacities based on an average household.
3. Energy Efficiency
While analyzing mini-split ductless air conditioner, you have to consider two energy-efficiency metrics that are SEER and HSPF. SEER – Seasonal energy efficiency ratio determines how much energy-efficient cooling is provided by the AC. The rule here is pretty simple – higher the SEER, better the energy efficiency. HSPF – Heating seasonal performance factor is similar to SEER; the only difference is – it determines heating efficiency instead of cooling. And the analysis rule is also similar – higher the better. Minimum value for SEER is considered as 15 and for HSPF it is 7. When it comes to energy-efficient ductless ACs, we recommend to look for SEER (20 or higher) and HSPF (8 or higher) Most of the energy-efficient ductless air conditioners have higher upfront cost. However, they save you money over the long term which actually offsets the initial investment.
4. Inverter Technology
Ductless air conditioners come in either inverter or non-inverter options. Now-a-days, inverter ACs have become a popular choice as it consumes 30% to 40% less power compared to regular AC models. Major difference between these two variants is the ‘compressor’. Inverter ACs are equipped with multi-speed compressor while non-inverter (regular) AC comes with single-speed compressor. When you look at the working mechanism, inverter technology is based on variable speed which means – the speed is adjusted according to the temperature and room cooling requirements. Once the required cooling level is achieved, it will reduce the speed and save the energy. Now if you look at the regular non-inverter compressor, it runs at high speed until the room temperature is hot. Once the room cools down, it will stop working. This on and off mechanism keeps repeating and the reason for consuming more energy. This actually results in higher electricity bill.
5. Aluminum Vs Copper Coil
The main purpose of coils is to cool down the air that released into the room. Apart from that, it also controls power consumption and improves efficiency. Ductless air conditioners usually have either copper or aluminum coils.
Copper coils are durable, easy to maintain and last long. But they are a bit costly. Aluminum coils are affordable option. However, they are not easy to maintain and don’t last long as well.
6. Filter Requirements
To prevent the motor and other mechanical parts from getting clogged or dirty, ductless ACs come with filters. They remove the contaminants and pollutants present in the air. Contrary to HVAC system that uses disposable filters, most of the ductless air conditioners come with washable filters. For washing these filters, you simply have to remove it, rinse under running water and place it back into the unit. Having replaceable filters decrease the maintenance cost and the need for investing in new filters in every few months.
7. Heating Function
As AC units double as heat pumps as well, especially for central HVAC systems, ductless ACs come with additional heating functionality. This option lets you use the same electrical appliance around the year. This also eliminates the need for multiple appliances for cooling and heating requirements. Ductless ACs come with heat-pump technology that produces warm air. This technology is similar to BTU output. However, remember that the heat produced by it may not be sufficient for regions with sub-zero temperatures outside.
8. Noise Level
Similar to any other air conditioner type, ductless air conditioner comes with a condenser for cooling down the warm air. These condensers are actually noisy at around 50 decibels. This is actually same as the sound made during a normal conversation with friends. As the compressor is installed outside of the home, noise may not be an issue. But ductless mini-split and central system use fans or air handles for distributing the air cooled down by the compressor. Most of the central AC systems have fans present in the attic for eliminating the noise. When it comes to mini-split systems, they have a smaller fan which is actually whisper silent. Some of these models come with settings that lets the appliance operate at 35 decibels time. Models from some brands like Mitsubishi and Gree come with quiet ductless systems which make noise as low as 19 decibels.
9. Aesthetic
Though some people may not think about this factor, but it is important as the looks matter to blend with the interiors. There may not be a huge variation from one brand to another in terms of looks, but you do have some good visual variations. Some models have sleek and modern look while some have a contemporary look. Remember while analyzing this feature that models with good aesthetic sense are bit costly. So, compare the models available in the models in your price range and choose according to your budget. Most of the ductless air conditioners measure around 30 to 40 inches in width and 6 to 8 inches in depth and 10 to 12 inches high.
10. Installation Type
Most of the latest ductless ACs are wall-mounted but some brands are coming up with advanced installation techniques. Well, most of us want an AC that is permanently fixed onto the wall. Some other options include ceiling units where a recessed cassette is fixed onto the ceiling. The floor units of them are installed at baseboard for an inconspicuous look. Labor costs for installing a ductless air conditioner range between $300 to $1000 based on the installation.
11. Programmability
When you are focused on cooling a room or home even before arriving home, then we recommend checking out for ACs that have the latest smart technology which can be controlled through the mobile application in your smart phone. Also make sure the remote control provided with the AC is easy to operate.
12. Additional Features
Ductless ACs come with different models which makes them customize the cool air circulation and temperature as per your requirements. Some of them are mentioned below for your reference.
Follow Me – This mode utilizes the remote control for detecting the room temperature and adjust the coolness according to it. 24-hour timer – It lets the user set particular time for automatically turning off at that time. Sleep Mode – It adjusts the temperature slowly throughout the night for providing optimal comfort. Turbo Mode – It cools or warms up the place rapidly. It is suitable for rooms that need climate control during use like garage. WiFi connectivity – It helps to control the unit through the mobile app and from anywhere. Whisper-silent mode – It reduces the noise generated by the AC unit to lower range like up to 30 decibels.
13. Warranty and After Sales Support
You should always choose the brand which provides you with good after-sales support. It will help you clear your usual queries regarding your AC. You should choose a brand which provides you with a convincing warranty on your AC. It will cost a little extra but we recommend you to buy an extra warranty on your AC. It will help you in saving your money spent on breakdowns or defects if any in long term.
Important Steps To Take While Purchasing a Ductless AC
One of the right ways to analyze whether you have chosen the correct ductless air conditioner or not is to consult a professional and get an in-depth analysis of the space and options. If you are confused where to start this analysis journey, we recommend checking out the below step-by-step guide.
1. Consult a HVAC Professional
We recommend consulting a HVAC professional and request for a home visit. They consider all the complexities involved in cooling or heating space, insulation performance, type of windows, home’s orientation and other factors. Based on that they calculate and provide a report on the required BTU for every room or zone. This can be used for picking up the right appliance.
2. Measuring the Rooms
When a HVAC professional visits, their report includes all the detail information and measurements that helps if you have the area measurement for every room. However, this is not completely enough to pick the right ductless AC. It provides enough information to analyze the efficiency you need and how much its is going to cost.
3. Measuring the location of installation
The next important thing to consider is – inside unit is installed permanently onto the wall in the rooms where you need cooling. Some of them can be installed in the floor or in the ceiling like a cassette. If you have any specific area that you want to install the air conditioner like near the doorway or corner, then it is better to measure out the space to check the unit. We recommend having two ideal installation places per room for feasibility.
4. Budget Considerations
Before beginning your hunt for the best ductless air conditioner, you have to set a budget you would like to invest. And based on the areas you have to install the AC like bedroom, living or others, you have to analyze the total cost.
5. Write down your queries
While going through the analyzing process, you may get confused and stumped at the options available. These complex systems need a lot of HVAC knowledge. So, write them down in a paper of laptop. Ask a professional HVAC or installer for answers and decide based on it.
Advantages of A Ductless Air Conditioner
Below, we have provided some of the best benefits of investing in a ductless air conditioner for your reference.
1. No Ducts
As the name implies, these units don’t have any ducts. In traditional systems, the heat or cool air is passed through the ducts. While in ductless ACs, the cool or hot air is passed directly from the unit installed inside the room.
2. Individual Temperature Controls
One of the main benefits of ductless AC is the ability to control the temperature individually in every room. This makes it suitable for large homes with different room sizes and individual requirements. It also makes it easy to live with people who have conflicting temperature preferences.
3. Zone Cooling
Actually, with this air conditioner, you can pick particular room you want to cool down and install the unit in it. This is the perfect air conditioning option for basement. But remember that for installation you have to drill a hole in the wall.
4. Noise
In this AC, most of the noise is generated by the outer unit because of the presence of compressor. This unit is placed mostly outside the house do you don’t have to worry about it. Most of the manufacturers comes with a wide array of connecting conduits. To avoid the noise generated by the outdoor unit, we recommend installing it 50 feet or 15 meters away from the indoor evaporator.
5. Energy Efficiency
Most of the premium brand provide ductless ACs with SEER rating of 20 or higher. As it has zone cooling feature, you don’t have to worry about wasting the cooling effect on different parts of the house that don’t need cooling.
6. Heating
Another major advantage of investing in a ductless AC is that they contain high-efficient heater functionality as well. You can use same unit for heating purposes as well.
7. Easy Installation
Ductless system usually requires few hours for installation based on the rooms present in the house. The installation just requires some pipes to be fixed which doesn’t require much hard work. It doesn’t even require to remake the ceilings or clean up the house after the installation. All it needs a small hole for mounting process.
8. Air Quality Control
Most of these systems are built with individual filtration systems which keeps the air fresh and breathable. Moreover, if you have people in your home dealing with allergies or humidification issues, then this air conditioner comes with embedded design that saves up money and valuable space.
Final Words of Wisdom For You:
We have presented you the top-rated brands of AC from which you can select your cooling unit. But before purchasing your unit be aware of your needs and then decide what features suits you best. As your money is valuable and you just can’t waste it on things or features you don’t want. However, our top pick for you is Senville SENL-09CD Mini Split Air Conditioner as it is super easy to install. Further it has turbo fan function that provides even cooling in all the parts of your home. It also has high SEER energy rating of 19 that reduces your electricity bill significantly. The most important aspect is it provides cooling very effectively in average size rooms. It comes with a very reasonable price and it is the best purchase in this price range AC’s. Comment * Name * Email * Website
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