The Best Mini Splits for 2026

Ductless mini splits provide many benefits over other air conditioning systems. For one, they are easier and cheaper to install than traditional HVAC systems. This is especially true for multiple rooms that require heating or cooling. Secondly, they are much more efficient than other air conditioners. 

In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about mini splits, and provide our recommendations of the best mini splits for each category. 

How Do Ductless Mini Splits Work?

Ductless mini-splits are cooling and heating systems composed of two units: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. Their name comes from the fact that the compressor and refrigerant coils are split between the inside and outside of the house. 

Both units are connected by a narrow conduit that circulates the refrigerant and delivers it to the coils housed outside.

To learn more about how mini splits work, check out our guide: What’s a Mini-Split AC System?

The Best Mini Splits for 2026

There are different types of mini splits to accommodate various needs and layouts. To help you choose the best mini split for your home, we’ve gathered a list of the best mini splits for 2023, covering each category of ductless mini split model.

Single-zone mini splits

As the name suggests, single zone mini splits are designed for cooling and heating a single space or room. It consists of one outdoor unit and one indoor unit. Some single zone mini splits offer only cooling, while others include a heat pump to provide supplemental heating.

Best single zone mini split:

Friedrich FPHW121C 12000 BTU Floating Air Pro Series Single Zone Mini Split with Built-In WiFi – Heat and Cool – Energy Star – 115V

This EnergyStar rated single-zone mini-split delivers 12,000 BTUs of cooling and heating, perfect for small to medium-sized spaces up to 600 sq. ft. 

It’s equipped with inverter technology, in which a variable-speed compressor adjusts automatically to match the needs of the space. This allows for exceptional energy efficiency ratings of 22.0 SEER2, 12.25 EER2, and an HSPF2 of 9.5. 

It uses R454B Refrigerant, which has a lower GWP (Global Warming Potential) compared to older HFC-based refrigerants. The outdoor coil is also coated in DiamonBlue Advanced Corrosion Protection, making it an ideal choice for harsher climates such as coastal regions. 

The system meets the rigid requirements for Cold Climate EnergyStar certification, thanks to built-in low-ambient capabilities, with heating down to as low as -13°F. It is also equipped with built-in WiFi, allowing for remote control through the Friedrich ComfortPro App, Google Assistant, and Alexa voice commands.

Dual-zone mini splits

Dual zone mini splits can service two zones or rooms. Both indoor air handlers are connected to a single outdoor unit, and each zone has its own temperature setting.

Best dual zone mini split:

Friedrich FPHMR18A3D 18000 BTU Floating Air Pro-X Two Zone Mini Split Air Conditioner with Heat Pump

This dual-zone mini-split system is rated at 18,000 BTUs for both heating and cooling, with a maximum connected capacity up to 24,000 BTUs. 

The dynamic speed compressor ensures the system adjusts to match real-time demands, resulting in higher efficiency ratings depending on your configuration.

Configuration	EER	SEER	HSPF
Non-Ducted Indoor Units Only	13.0	22.0	10.0
Ducted Indoor Units Only	12.0	17.5	9.4
Mixed Non-Ducted and Ducted Indoor Units	12.65	19.75	9.7

To further bolster efficiency, it uses R454B refrigerant, which has a low GWP (Global Warming Potential) of 467. This, paired with its low ambient capabilities, has earned it its EnergyStar and Cold Climate EnergyStar certifications. 

It will continue to cool efficiently between 5°F and 125°F, with a heating range down to as low as -13°F to 75°F. The outdoor coil is also coated in DiamonBlue anti-corrosion treatment to protect from rust and deterioration, making it a suitable choice for harsher regions, such as coastal climates.

Multi-zone mini splits

Multizone mini splits can service multiple rooms. Depending on the brand and BTU capacity, a multizone mini split compressor can handle up to 8 indoor units. 

Best multizone mini split:

Daikin 2MXTH18AVJU9 36000 BTU Ayrira Serues Configurable Dual-Zone Enhanced Heat and Cool Split System

This EnergyStar certified multi-zone mini split delivers 18,000 BTUs of heating and cooling, with a total connected capacity of up to 24,000 BTUs. 

It uses R32 refrigerant, which has a low GWP (Global Warming Potential), paired with inverter technology, where a variable-speed compressor adjusts to match real-time demand. This allows for high efficiency ratings of 21.0 SEER2, 12.0 EER2, and an HSPF2 of 10.0, depending on the configuration. 

With its enhanced ambient functionality, the system maintains 114% rated heating capacity at 5°F, with an ambient heating range of -13°F – 60°F. Additionally, it maintains 100% cooling capacity at 104°F with a cooling range of 14°F – 115°F. 

Features include a drain pan heater to improve drainage and deter ice build-up in extreme conditions, as well as compatibility with the Daikin Cloud WiFi Adaptor, enabling seamless wireless control.

Mini Split Heat Pump

A mini split heat pump offers a cooling and heating solution in one. The heat pump can provide supplemental heat during the cold season. The heat pump functions by reversing the closed-loop coolant system: instead of the refrigerant getting heat from indoors, it collects heat from the outdoors and delivers it inside the home.

Best mini split with heat pump:

Daikin FTXV12AVJU9 / RXT12AVJU9 12000 BTU Aurora Series Single Zone 20.0 SEER2 Single Zone Mini Split System

This single-zone mini split system delivers 10,600 BTUs of cooling and 13,500 BTUs of heating through its reverse-cycle heat pump, ideal for small to medium-sized spaces. 

It is EnergyStar certified with inverter technology, leading to high energy efficiency ratings of 20.0 SEER, 12.2 EER2, and an HSPF2 of 10.2. Furthermore, thanks to ambient functionality, it’s able to adequately heat your space when outdoor temperatures drop as low as -13°F with the addition of a drain pan heater. 

Features include Econo and Stand-by Modes, auto fan speed, and various functions including Dry, Fan Only, and Night Set Mode. Additionally, the condenser is treated with anti-corrosion protection to ensure longevity while protecting it from the elements.

Inverter Ducted Split System

For homeowners with pre-existing ductwork, this type of system offers efficient alternatives to conventional central air conditioning. It utilizes an indoor air handler with an outdoor compressor that delivers air through your home’s existing ductwork, enabling whole-home heating and cooling from a single system.

Best Inverter Ducted Split System:

AUX AHU48HPV1B 48000 BTU Extreme Heat Inverter Ducted Unitary System – R32

This is an EnergyStar-certified Inverter Ducted System, designed to replace central air systems by utilizing pre-existing ductwork. It delivers 48,000 BTUs of cooling and 49,000 BTUs of heating. 

It uses R32 refrigerant, which is up to 12% more efficient then the replaced R410A refrigerant. It also has inverter technology, where a dynamic speed compressor constantly adjusts the output to match real-time demand. Both these energy-saving features help it achieve energy efficiency ratings of 17.0 SEER2, 10.0 EER2, and an HSPF2(IV) of 9.5. 

With ambient temperature technology, it can adequately cool with ambient temperatures ranging from 5°F to 125°F. The heat pump will continue to operate efficiently between -22°F and 75°F, which can be further improved with either the 15kW (EHK-15-1) or 20kW (EHK-20-1) electric heat kits (sold separately)

Ceiling Cassette Mini Split

Also known as ceiling-mounted mini splits, ceiling cassette models are installed up on the ceiling instead of the wall. Their recessed nature makes them invisible, with only an inch-thick grille protruding from the ceiling. They also greatly maximize the amount of livable space. 

Best ceiling cassette mini split:

MRCOOL DIYCASSETTE18HP-230D25-O 5th Gen 18000 BTU OuttaSight Ceiling Cassette Unit With WiFi

This indoor-only ceiling cassette is rated at 18,000 BTUs for both heating and cooling, ideal for medium to large-sized spaces. It features a low-profile design for standard 16” on-center ceiling joists or pre-manufactured I-Joists and is compatible with any MRCOOL multi-zone outdoor compressor. 

It uses R454B refrigerant, which has a low GWP (Global Warming Potential) compared to legacy refrigerants. Features include four unique fan settings, an auto mode that dynamically adjusts between cool, heat, or fan-only modes, and a sleep mode. Furthermore, the integrated SmartHVAC control module enables wireless control through your smartphone, Amazon Alexa, or Google Assistant. 

MRCOOL Quick Connect Line Sets (sold separately) help simplify the installation, eliminating the need for an HVAC professional.

How to Choose the Best Mini Split for your Needs

Shopping for a mini split involves more than just looking at the capacity and price sticker. These are the five factors you should consider to ensure you get the best possible mini split for your home.

1. Zones

How many rooms or spaces do you need to heat and cool? A single zone unit is designed for one room or space, whereas a multizone unit can accommodate multiple rooms.

2. Sizing

A mini split’s cooling and heating capacity is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). The higher the BTU, the larger the space it can handle. To determine the right size for your home, you need to take into account both the physical size and heat load of the zones.

Refer to our handy Mini Split Sizing Guide to make the process more convenient.

3. Placement

For each room, map out the installation area for the mini split. This will determine what type of mini split you need. Wall and floor mounted units are typically the easiest to install but stand out and take up room, whereas concealed duct and ceiling cassette models are more inconspicuous and maximize the space.

4. Voltage

Most single-zone mini splits typically run on a 110-120 volt plug, the standard wiring for most homes. However, multi zone mini splits may need 220-240V. When choosing a mini split, make sure your home has the right voltage.

Check out our wiring guide for mini splits.

5. Energy efficiency

To get the most efficient mini split for your budget, look for these things that impact energy efficiency:

☑ EnergyStar certification

An EnergyStar certified mini split means it uses up to 60%  less energy than standard heating and cooling systems.

☑ EER and SEER rating
EER stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio and is an objective measurement of how efficiently a unit is engineered to run. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and is a measurement of how efficiently a unit will operate over the course of one cooling season. 

On January 1, 2023, this was changed to SEER2 which more accurately measures the real-world energy consumption of mini splits and heat pumps. Check out our SEER2 guide to determine the minimum rating for your region.

☑ Refrigerant

In 2023, the Environmental Protection Agency started phasing out R410-A, a refrigerant commonly used in AC and heat pumps. This has been replaced by A2L refrigerants that are more efficient and eco-friendly. 

To future-proof your system, look for a mini split that uses A2L refrigerants like R32. 

☑ Inverter technology

Inverters can lower the power consumption of devices based on demand. Instead of running full blast all the time, an inverter mini split is able to adjust its consumption automatically to meet the desired temperature, then dial back its operation. This lowers electrical consumption and greatly extends its lifespan.

Here’s our list of the best inverter mini splits.

Best Mini Split FAQ

How much do mini splits cost?

The mini split system itself can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $9,000, which is a very wide range so there are options for different situations and budgets. 

Factors that affect the price include the BTU capacity, single or multizone capacity, brand, inverter technology, and efficiency such as EnergyStar certification, SEER, and refrigerant.

How much is the mini split installation cost?

The installation of a mini-split typically costs around $800 to $3,000 per zone. To know more about installation costs, check out our Mini Split Cost Guide. 

What are the best mini split brands?

Friedrich

Friedrich Air Conditioning is an American brand that has made a name for itself in the AC industry. Founded in 1883, the San Antonio, TX-based company specializes in mini splits, window ACs, and humidity control products. We carry a comprehensive line of Friedrich mini splits as well as PTAC, VTAC, and through the wall units.

Daikin

Daikin is a Japanese multinational brand that specializes in air conditioning with 98 years of history. Daikin mini splits are trusted the world over, and Total Home Supply carries the best Daikin mini splits for both single and multizone applications. You can find out more in our Daikin Mini Splits guide.

MRCOOL

MRCOOL is a pioneer in the do-it-yourself cooling and heating market. The brand’s DIY ductless mini splits are the only true DIY HVAC on the market to date. We carry the best MRCOOL mini splits, including spare parts, components and accessories.

Are ductless mini splits worth it?

Yes. Ductless mini splits are much more efficient, which translates to utility savings in the long run. They also provide individual zonal control and are quieter during operation.

What are the pros of ductless mini splits?

✔ Installation – Unlike traditional HVAC systems that require extensive ductwork, wiring, and vents, mini-splits usually need only a small hole in the outside wall to run the refrigerant line and drain tube.

✔ Individual zone control – Mini splits provide greater control for heating and cooling each room of the home. Each indoor unit is its own climate zone, and a single outdoor unit can be connected up to five or more indoor units.

✔ Efficiency– Ductless mini splits are renowned for their energy efficiency. Ductwork accounts for 30% of energy losses in traditional AC systems. Since mini splits do not require ducts, they are much more efficient, which translates to greater energy savings in the long run.

✔ Flexibility – The different types of mini splits can be wall-mounted, suspended from the ceiling, mounted flush from a drop ceiling, simply placed on a floor stand.

✔ Quiet operation – Mini splits emit minimal sound, producing as little as 25 dB compared to 50-80 dB for most window ACs.

What are the cons of ductless mini splits?

❌ Price – Mini splits carry a higher price tag, costing roughly between $1,500 – $2,000 per ton (12,000 BTU per hour) of cooling capacity. However, this is offset by the cheaper installation cost, and the long-term utility savings from its energy efficiency.

To know more about the advantages and drawbacks of ductless mini splits, check out The Pros and Cons of Mini Split Systems.

Ductless mini split installation: Is DIY installation possible?

Yes, a DIY mini split installation is feasible. Here’s our guide to Ductless Mini Split Installation for both DIY and professionals. 

How many mini splits do I need?

This is determined by the number of zones, or rooms, you wish to heat or cool. A single-zone mini split can service one room or space, while a multi-zone mini split can handle multiple rooms, all connected to a single outdoor unit.

Which is better: ductless mini split or central air?

Each type of AC system has its own pros and cons. Check out our head-to-head comparison of Mini Splits vs Central Air.

How do I determine which line set I need?

All ductless mini splits require an AC line set. Here’s how to choose the right mini split line set. 

What mini split accessories do I need?

There’s a whole ton of mini split accessories, from wires and line set covers to condenser pads, drain tubes and condensers, and grilles. Thankfully, we have a Mini Split Accessory guide.

What are the essentials for mini split maintenance?

Like any HVAC system, mini splits require regular maintenance for optimal performance. Here’s how to clean and maintain your mini split system.