Here’s an overview of the Best Ductless Mini that we’ll explore today:
Ductless mini-split heat pumps have become a cornerstone of modern, year-round climate control for apartments, single-room additions, and small-to-medium spaces. They offer zone-controlled cooling and heating without the need for extensive ductwork, resulting in faster installation, lower upfront costs, and improved energy efficiency when sized and commissioned correctly. For this review, I evaluated five MRCOOL Comfort Made Simple Easy Pro 5th-Gen DIY mini-split models across 9,000 to 24,000 BTU capacities, with 115V and 230V variants. My methodology focused on (1) assessing cooling/heating capacities per the stated BTU and coverage area, (2) evaluating installation practicality and included hardware (e.g., pre-charged line sets), (3) measuring noise levels and efficiency (SEER), (4) analyzing smart features (Wi‑Fi, voice assistant compatibility, refrigerant leak detection, and air quality features), and (5) weighing real-world use cases (small bedrooms, living spaces, home offices, and light commercial spaces). The resulting range covers compact 9k–18k BTU units on 115V or 230V, plus larger 24k BTU options designed for spaces up to roughly 1,050 sq ft.
1. MRCOOL 18000 BTU 230V Ductless Inverter Mini Split Air Conditioner
- Brand: MRCOOL COMFORT MADE SIMPLE
- Manufacturer: MRCOOL COMFORT MADE SIMPLE
Overview: This 18,000 BTU Easy Pro Series unit is designed for larger rooms up to 800 sq ft and runs on 230V. It emphasizes DIY installation with pre-charged line sets and WiFi compatibility for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, plus a remote control. With a 43 dB outdoor/indoor sound footprint (listed as 43 dB) and a Seer around 22.5 in the 5th-gen family, it aims to balance performance and efficiency in a wall-mounted package that blends into typical interiors. Prospective buyers should note the 2-star Bee rating, which is common in MRCOOL’s early 230V models, but does not directly translate to performance loss. Key strengths include the wide coverage for a single-zone 18k unit, full heating/cooing functionality, and DIY install advantages that reduce professional labor costs.
Performance-wise, the 18k unit targets spaces up to 800 sq ft and offers both cooling and heating for year-round comfort. The inclusion of WiFi control expands convenience, and the remote adds a traditional control option. The 43 dB noise level is competitive for a larger-wall unit, though actual ambient sound will vary with installation and indoor/outdoor mounting. With 230V operation, it’s well-suited for rooms with higher power needs or installations where 230V durability is preferred. Practical use cases include living rooms, open-plan offices, or small commercial spaces that require consistent climate control without ducting.
Pros
- High 18,000 BTU capacity suitable for spaces up to 800 sq ft
- DIY installation with pre-charged 25 ft line set reduces contractor costs
- WiFi control with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa
- Year-round heating and cooling in a single system
Cons
- Bee Star Rating at 2 Stars suggests lower efficiency relative to top-tier models
- Noise level of 43 dB may not be ideal in very quiet bedrooms
- 60–90 day wait in some markets for 230V Easy Pro accessories could occur
2. MRCOOL 24000 BTU 230V Ductless Inverter Mini Split Air Conditioner
- Brand: MRCOOL COMFORT MADE SIMPLE
- Manufacturer: MRCOOL COMFORT MADE SIMPLE
Overview: The 24,000 BTU 230V Easy Pro Series is designed for larger footprints up to about 1,050 sq ft, making it a strong option for medium-size living areas or small commercial spaces. It’s part of the 5th generation DIY line, including features like a refrigerant leakage detection system and Active Clean Technology to maintain indoor air quality. The unit’s 43 dB noise figure aligns with MRCOOL’s mid-range performance, and the inclusion of timer mode adds scheduling flexibility. It leverages the 230V power architecture for robust compressor operation, which helps sustain cooling/heating loads in moderately large rooms.
From a performance perspective, the EZPRO-24-HP-23016D-O targets up to 1,050 sq ft with consistent climate control. The refrigerant leakage detection feature is a practical safety and maintenance aid for busy households or office environments. Active Clean Technology helps mitigate odor and particulate buildup between filter maintenance, while the 25 ft pre-charged line set facilitates simpler DIY installation. Use-case wise, this unit is well-suited for multi-purpose spaces that require reliable daytime cooling and occasional heating in winter months.
Pros
- 26,000–24,000 BTU range offers strong cooling for larger spaces
- Refrigerant leakage detection and Active Clean Technology
- DIY-friendly with pre-charged line set and 25 ft kit
- Timer mode for scheduling
Cons
- Bee Star Rating at 2 Stars could imply efficiency compromises vs. premium 3+ star units
- Slightly larger footprint may limit placement options in tight closets or alcoves
3. MRCOOL 12000 BTU 115V Ductless Inverter Mini Split Air Conditioner
- Brand: MRCOOL COMFORT MADE SIMPLE
- Manufacturer: MRCOOL COMFORT MADE SIMPLE
Overview: The 12,000 BTU 115V Easy Pro Series is the smallest 5th-gen DIY option in this lineup, designed for spaces up to 550 sq ft. It provides the familiar heating/cooling dual functionality, timer, and refrigerant leakage detection, packaged in a compact wall-mounted form with a 43 dB noise profile. The 115V operation makes it a straightforward retrofit for existing circuits without upgrading electrical service, which broadens compatibility in older homes or apartments.
In practice, the 12k unit excels in bedrooms, home offices, and compact living spaces where quiet operation and quick cooling are priorities. The unit’s smaller footprint and lighter power draw can contribute to lower running costs in seasonal transitional months. The 1-ton capacity also means it may heat less effectively in very cold climates unless auxiliary heat is available, so it’s best suited to milder winters or spaces with supplemental heat strategies.
Pros
- 115V operation avoids electrical upgrades
- Compact footprint suitable for small rooms
- Dual heating/cooling and timer features
- Refrigerant leakage detection and Active Clean Technology
Cons
- Limited to 550 sq ft coverage
- Lower BTU and potential for reduced heating performance in colder climates
4. MRCOOL 18000 BTU 115V Ductless Inverter Mini Split Air Conditioner
- Brand: MRCOOL COMFORT MADE SIMPLE
- Manufacturer: MRCOOL COMFORT MADE SIMPLE
Overview: This 18,000 BTU 115V model mirrors the 18k 230V counterpart but runs on 115V, broadening compatibility for homes with limited 230V circuits. It retains 5th-gen DIY design, pre-charged line set, and a 46 dB noise level. With a SEER of 22.5, it’s positioned to balance efficiency with performance in 18k spaces up to 800 sq ft.
Performance-wise, the 115V variant is practical for den-like spaces, open-concept rooms, or offices where electrical capacity is constrained. The inclusion of WiFi control and Google/Alexa compatibility remains a key convenience feature, enabling voice- and app-based climate management. However, because it operates on 115V, peak compressor duty may be more sensitive to voltage stability in older wiring scenarios.
Pros
- Same 18,000 BTU capacity for up to 800 sq ft
- 115V operation avoids 230V upgrades
- Pre-charged line set and DIY installation
- WiFi with voice assistant support
Cons
- 115V class can have reduced peak performance in very hot days
- 46 dB noise level may be noticeable in quiet spaces
- Bee Star Rating remains 2 Stars
5. MRCOOL 9000 BTU 115V Ductless Inverter Mini Split Air Conditioner
- Brand: MRCOOL COMFORT MADE SIMPLE
- Manufacturer: MRCOOL COMFORT MADE SIMPLE
Overview: The 9,000 BTU 115V option targets compact rooms up to roughly 350 sq ft, ideal for bedrooms, small home offices, or tight apartments. It’s the smallest unit in this dataset, featuring 5th-gen DIY design with pre-charged line sets, 25 ft install kit, and WiFi-enabled control. The Seer is rated at 23.6, and the unit runs at a quiet 45 dB.
In practice, the 9k unit delivers solid comfort in small spaces, with the ability to supplement or primary-cool a room efficiently. The 115V operation is a strong fit for rental units or older homes, lowering electrical upgrade barriers. Users should consider that the smaller BTU means it won’t handle large rooms or hot climates as effectively, and the 350 sq ft coverage is a ceiling for planning.
Pros
- Best fit for small rooms up to 350 sq ft
- 115V operation retains compatibility with existing circuits
- WiFi control and 5th-gen features
- Low noise at 45 dB
Cons
- Limited coverage for larger spaces
- Lower BTU means reduced performance in hot climates
- Bee Star Rating at 1 Star
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about ductless minis to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
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Final thoughts here.