Top Mini Split Inverters for 2022

Ductless mini splits are a great way to heat and cool indoor spaces without the mess and complications of traditional HVAC systems. For most mini splits, installation only requires a small hole to pass the power, refrigerant, and condensation line between the indoor and outdoor unit.

However, mini splits can also cost a pretty penny in utilities, particularly multi-zone units that heat and cool multiple rooms. Thankfully, homeowners can cut down those dreaded monthly bills with mini split inverters.

What is a mini split?

A mini split AC unit has the same function as other air conditioners: cooling your home. The main difference is that mini split air conditioners do not rely on ducts, which is why they are also referred to as “ductless air conditioners.”

The cooling (or heating) process happens via two components: an indoor and an outdoor unit. The indoor unit blows the warm air over cold evaporator coils containing refrigerant, which absorbs that heat from the air, and runs it to the outside unit. Through the compressor, the refrigerant dumps the heat pulled from your home’s air.

What is a mini split inverter?

Within the mini split systems, there are two types of compressors: rotary and inverter. 

A rotary compressor runs on a fixed capacity, while a mini split inverter uses only enough power to reach and maintain your set temperature, and then idles at that setting until more power is needed. This results in more efficient operation.

For a more detailed explanation, see our entry What is a Mini Split Inverter?

Advantages of Mini Split Inverters

Reduced power consumption

• Inverters have a variable electrical consumption based on their workload.

Longer operational lifespan

• Since the compressors are more efficient and don’t have to work as hard, mini split inverters tend to have a longer lifespan than conventional rotary units.

Faster cooling

• Mini split inverters start off strong, then gradually decrease the power level as the room temperature goes down. This means faster and more consistent cooling.

Long-term savings

• Depending on the appliance, inverter-equipped units can be up to 27% more efficient than traditional appliances, which translates to lower utility bills in the long run.

Our Recommended Mini Split Inverters for 2022

Single-zone mini-split inverter:  

Panasonic XE9WKUA 9000 BTU ClimaPure XE Series Single Zone 28.1 SEER Heat Pump System with Built-In WiFi

One of the main features of Panasonic’s ClimaPure XE series is the company’s Nanoe X Technology, a patented system designed specifically in the age of Covid. It uses nano-sized electrostatic atomized water particles rich in hydroxyl (OH) radicals to reduce pollutants and odors, including airborne viruses. It was found 8 hours of operation resulted in 91.4% effectiveness at eliminating the Novel Coronavirus, while 24 hours of operation recorded a 99.7% effectiveness rate.

The NanoEx technology boasts no less than seven purifying effects, which include deodorizing, the ability to inhibit 5 pollutants for a more comfortable environment, and the ability to help keep your hair and skin moisturized. The five pollutants filtered by NanoEx include bacteria and viruses, mold, allergens, pollen and hazardous substances. Not only are you and your family protected from these pollutants and odors, but your clothing and other stored items may also be protected. 

The ClimaPure series also offers a host of other features, including low ambient operation down to -0°F, heating capabilities down to -15°F, and built-in WiFi that allows users to control the unit from from anywhere with an internet connection.

Dual-zone mini-split inverter system:

GE ASH220NCDWA 20,000 BTU Configurable 2 Zone Mini-Split Air Conditioner with Heat Pump – Energy Star

This dual-zone mini split is an 18,000 BTU AC with heat pump that supports two zones, meaning it can support two indoor units in separate areas of your home. The unit offers a combined connectivity capacity of up to 24,000 BTUs – with a cooling capacity that ranges from 7,000 – 20,000 BTUs. Its cooling mode can handle outside temperatures as low as 0°F and as high as 115°F.

Standard features include a quiet, energy efficient variable speed inverter compressor; blue fin technology to ensure the condensate does not sit in the condenser for improved rust prevention and longer operating life; and a warm start function that delays the fan until the air is warm enough, to stop cool drafts. 

This outdoor unit can be paired with three choices of GE Standard Wall Units (ASYW07URDWA, ASYW09URDWA, ASYW12URDWA), or two choices of Ceiling Cassette Units (AB09SC2VHA, AB12SC2VHA).

Multi-zone mini-split inverter:

Daikin 5MXS48WVJU9 48000 BTU Configurable Five-Zone Heat & Cool Split System – Inverter Compressor

Concealed duct mini split inverter:

Daikin FBQ24PVJU / RZQ24TAVJUA 24000 BTU Class SkyAir Commercial DC Ducted Concealed Ceiling Single Zone Heat Pump 16.5 SEER System

The Daikin FBQ24PVJU-RZQ24TAVJUA 24,000 BTU Class SkyAir Commercial DC Ducted Concealed Ceiling Single Zone Heat Pump offers high efficiency and discreet integration into commercial spaces. This system, with a 16.5 SEER rating, is designed to be installed above the ceiling, making it invisible while providing consistent, energy-efficient heating and cooling. The unit features advanced DC technology that enhances its performance and reliability. Ideal for maintaining a comfortable climate in offices, shops, or other business environments, this Daikin heat pump system also includes user-friendly controls for streamlined operation.

Ceiling cassette mini split inverter:

Friedrich FPHC093B 9000 BTU, 20.5 SEER2 Floating Air Pro Series Single Zone Ceiling Cassette Mini Split System with Built-In WiFi – Heat and Cool

The Friedrich FPHC093B is a 9,000 BTU mini-split system designed for single-zone cooling and heating. This system features inverter technology for energy efficiency and built-in Wi-Fi for remote control via the FriedrichGo app, Google Assistant, and Alexa voice commands. It offers low ambient cooling capabilities, a heat pump, and a range of advanced features like customizable schedules, auto-restart, and a 24-hour on/off timer. Ideal for cooling rooms around 450 sq. ft., it comes with a 7-year parts and 10-year compressor warranty

For more recommended AC units, see our Top Air Conditioners for 2022 list.