Making the decision to get a mini split for your home or business is a big step. One of the next steps of the process is choosing the right brand of mini split for you. There are so many brands of mini splits out there to choose from; how can you know which one is best for you? Today we will look at 2 single zone options that have differing features, installation options, and price points to help narrow down your options. The two systems we’ll compare for this example are the Mitsubishi GS 9,000 BTU Single Zone and the Mr. Cool DIY EasyPro 9,000 BTU single zone. These two systems are comparing apples and oranges: sometimes it is beneficial to compare different product lines to know the differences between them. This can help you make an educated decision based on your priorities, abilities, and needs.
We do have to preface before making any conclusions that today’s conclusions should not be used to make blanket statements over either brand. Each model number has its own specifications, requirements, features, benefits, and drawbacks and should be considered in the lens of your project needs.
Comparison Categories:
Let’s start by briefly explaining the two systems. Both systems are 2 component heat pumps: wall mounted unit inside and a heat pump outside. Connected together both systems can provide heating and cooling.
We can compare these two systems by looking at a variety of categories:
- Performance - How well will this system work?
- Features/Technology - What additional value would I receive?
- Warranty/Longevity - How long will this system last?
- Rebates & Incentives - What monetary assistance can I receive?
- Installation Process - How difficult is it to install?
- Price - How much will it cost?
Without further ado, let’s dig into the details of these important categories.
Performance:
Looking at system performance is incredibly important because it has short term and long term implications. Some of the factors to consider are energy efficiency, heating capability, and noise levels.
Let’s first take a deeper look at the Mitsubishi GS09 single zone.
Mitsubishi
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency can be measured in SEER2, EER2, and HSPF. To simplify the meaning of these metrics, they are simply used to determine how efficiently the system uses electricity in both heating and cooling.
Let’s look at Mitsubishi’s GS09 Single Zone energy efficiency ratings.
- 28.4 SEER2,
- 15.4 EER2,
- 10.9 HSPF
This is average to the higher end of the efficiency spectrum when compared to other brands on the market.
Cooling & Heating Output
Another factor to consider is cooling and heating output. This system can condition up to 350 sq. ft depending on the conditions of the room (number of windows and doors, insulation level, number of people that will be using the room). It can produce up to 12,200 BTU of cooling when it’s 95F and 15,500 BTU of heating when it’s 47 F outside. It begins to lose capacity the colder it gets like most non-low temperature systems. It outputs 7,900 BTUs at 5 F, which is still relatively good.
Noise Levels
Mitsubishi is known for how quiet their systems are. The indoor units only emit 19-43 decibels of noise while the outdoor units only emit 48-50 decibels. Mitsubishi is the clear winner in the market for noise levels.
Mr. Cool
Now let’s take a look at Mr. Cool’s EasyPro performance metrics.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency can be measured in SEER2, EER2, and HSPF. To simplify the meaning of these metrics, they are simply used to determine how efficiently the system uses electricity in both heating and cooling.
Let’s look at Mr. Cool’s EasyPro Single Zone energy efficiency ratings.
- 20 SEER2,
- 11.5 EER2,
- 10.3 HSPF
This is average to the lower end of the efficiency spectrum when compared to other brands on the market.
Cooling & Heating Output
This system can condition up to 350 sq. ft depending on the conditions of the room (number of windows and doors, insulation level, number of people that will be using the room). It can produce up to 9,000 BTU of cooling when it’s 95F and 10,500 BTU of heating when it’s 47 F outside. It begins to lose capacity the colder it gets like most non-low temperature systems.
Noise Levels
Mitsubishi is known for how quiet their systems are. The indoor units only emit 22-38.5 decibels of noise while the outdoor units only emit 55 decibels. Mr. Cool indoor units are quiet compared to other brands on the market, but louder when compared to Mitsubishi.
Features/Technology:
Mini splits have come a long way since their inception. Now most mini splits come with different benefits and features along with being able to heat and cool efficiently. Some brands like Mr. Cool are packed with cool gadgets while others like Mitsubishi are mainly built for mechanical excellence. Same as with Performance, we’ll look at both brands individually.
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi's GS 9,000 BTU Single Zone air conditioning unit offers several noteworthy features. Firstly, it incorporates the Blue Fin Anti-Corrosion Treatment, designed to enhance its durability and protect against corrosion, thereby prolonging the lifespan of the unit.
Additionally, the Whisper Quiet Mode ensures a noiseless operation, making it suitable for environments where minimal noise is preferred. These features highlight Mitsubishi's commitment to both longevity and user comfort, making the GS 9,000 BTU Single Zone an appealing choice for those seeking reliability and a peaceful cooling experience.
Mr. Cool
Mr. Cool’s EasyPro 9,000 BTU system offers several beneficial features. The "Follow Me Feature" allows the unit to adjust its settings based on the temperature around the remote control, ensuring personalized comfort wherever the user is located.
Additionally, the inclusion of "Leak Detection Technology" enhances the system's reliability by promptly identifying and alerting users to potential leaks, preventing possible damage and preserving the unit's efficiency.
Furthermore, the "Built-In Wifi" capability enables remote control and monitoring of the air conditioner via a smartphone or other smart devices, offering convenience and flexibility in managing the cooling system from anywhere.
These combined features showcase Mr. Cool's commitment to user comfort, system reliability, and technological convenience, making it an appealing choice for those seeking efficient and easily manageable cooling solutions.
Warranty/Longevity:
Warranties are pivotal considerations when purchasing a mini-split system due to their assurance of long-term protection and peace of mind for consumers. These warranties serve as a safety net, providing coverage against potential defects or malfunctions in the system, typically encompassing parts and sometimes labor. A robust warranty implies confidence from the manufacturer in their product's quality and durability, indicating that they stand behind their system's performance. It offers financial security by potentially saving consumers from hefty out-of-pocket expenses for repairs or replacements within the warranty period. Additionally, warranties often reflect the manufacturer's commitment to customer satisfaction, instilling trust in the reliability of the product. A comprehensive and extended warranty not only safeguards the initial investment but also signifies the manufacturer's dedication to supporting their customers throughout the lifespan of the mini-split system, ensuring a more satisfying and worry-free ownership experience.
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi offers a substantial warranty for its systems, providing 12 years of coverage for compressors and parts when installed by a certified company. If the system is registered within 90 days and installed by a licensed company but not certified with Mitsubishi, the warranty period decreases to 10 years for both compressors and parts. It's important to note that the longevity of the system is contingent upon regular maintenance, emphasizing the crucial role of upkeep in ensuring the system's lasting performance beyond the warranty period.
Mitsubishi is known for being the golden standard of longevity and reliability. It gets an A+ score as all brands aim to reach Mitsubishi’s marks.
Mr. Cool
The warranty provided with Mr. Cool is comparatively shorter, offering a 1-year coverage for compressors and a 2-year coverage for parts. Any issues occurring after installation would require payment for an HVAC technician, indicating that post-installation support isn't included in the warranty. As with many systems, the longevity is reliant upon regular system maintenance, underscoring the significance of consistent upkeep to ensure the system's durability and performance beyond the limited warranty period.
Mr. Cool isn’t particularly known for their longevity but they do last longer than the cheaper Chinese budget alternatives on the market.
Rebates/Incentives:
Rebates and incentives hold significant weight when considering the purchase of a mini-split system due to their potential cost-saving benefits. These financial incentives, often offered by utility companies or governmental agencies, can substantially offset the initial investment cost. Rebates provide consumers with partial refunds on their purchase, effectively reducing the overall price of the mini-split system. Similarly, incentives such as tax credits can lead to substantial savings by allowing consumers to deduct a portion of the system's cost from their tax liability. These financial advantages not only make the initial investment more affordable but also contribute to long-term savings by lowering energy bills and improving the system's return on investment. Ultimately, rebates and incentives serve as compelling factors that influence consumer decisions, making energy-efficient mini-split systems more accessible and economically beneficial for potential buyers.
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi's offering stands out with Energy Star certification, indicating its efficiency in energy consumption. Moreover, the system qualifies for Federal Tax Credits in both North and South regions, potentially offering financial benefits to consumers. Additionally, there are utility rebates available, providing further potential cost savings. These incentives and certifications make Mitsubishi systems an appealing choice, not just for their performance but also for the potential economic advantages they offer to consumers through tax credits and utility rebates.
Mr. Cool
Mr. Cool's incentives and rebates present a mixed offering for potential buyers. The system holds Energy Star certification, signifying its energy efficiency and potential cost savings on utility bills. However, while it qualifies for Federal Tax Credits in the South Region, this benefit isn't applicable in other areas, limiting its financial advantages in regions outside the South. Nonetheless, the availability of utility rebates across regions provides an opportunity for additional savings, making the system more appealing to consumers seeking potential cost reductions. Despite the limited scope of Federal Tax Credits, the combination of Energy Star certification and utility rebates signifies Mr. Cool's commitment to providing energy-efficient solutions with some regional fiscal benefits, albeit varying in their applicability across different areas.
Installation Process:
Purchasing your mini split is only the first step no matter what brand you plan on purchasing. However, each mini split requires its own installation process. You should be familiar with the installation process and the requirements necessary to get it installed before you purchase the system itself. It is best to know all the costs associated with installation so you know what your total investment will be. Let’s take a look at each brand individually.
Mitsubishi
The installation process for a Mitsubishi mini-split system entails specific requirements that necessitate professional handling, particularly concerning the refrigerant and system startup. Mitsubishi mandates that a professional installer undertake the installation process due to the criticality of handling refrigerant and system start-up. Moreover, Mitsubishi's outdoor units come pre-charged with refrigerant sufficient for up to 25 feet of line-set, simplifying the initial setup process and minimizing the need for additional refrigerant. This streamlined approach aims to ensure proper system functioning and efficiency while emphasizing the importance of professional expertise in managing the refrigerant and overall installation process to maintain system integrity and performance.
Mr. Cool
The installation process for a Mr. Cool mini-split system is designed to be user-friendly and accessible for homeowners or handymen without the need for professional HVAC company involvement. The Mr. Cool 9,000 BTU Easy Pro units are equipped with a 16-foot pre-charged line-set, allowing for a straightforward installation process that doesn't necessitate specialized expertise. This feature enables homeowners or individuals with basic handyman skills to complete the entire installation independently. By providing a pre-charged line-set and simplifying the installation steps, Mr. Cool emphasizes user convenience and autonomy, making their systems more accessible and easier to set up without the requirement for professional HVAC assistance.
Price:
Price: where the rubber meets the road. This is what makes the decision for most people. In order to fully understand the price, we have to look at all the costs associated with installing each of these systems. So let’s break it down.
Mitsubishi
As of December 2023, the cost of purchasing a Mitsubishi mini-split unit stands at $1664, with additional expenses for line-set and accessories, approximately totaling around $200. However, the overall cost of installation can vary significantly based on geographic location due to differing labor rates influenced by macroeconomic factors. Typically, the labor cost for installation aligns closely with the price of the equipment itself. Consequently, the total cost, inclusive of equipment, line-set, accessories, and labor, may range between $3,500 to $5,000. It's important to note that this estimation excludes potential charges from an electrician for the installation of high voltage lines to the outdoor unit, which would be an additional expense. Ultimately, the total cost of installing a Mitsubishi mini-split system can vary widely depending on the geographic area and additional electrical work needed.
Mr. Cool
As of December 2023, the cost of purchasing a Mr. Cool mini-split system is $1252, which covers the equipment along with the line-set, but excludes additional components like the disconnect box, whip, and high-voltage line. Importantly, there's no incurred labor cost if the installation is carried out independently. Considering the comparative cost-efficiency, even if a Mr. Cool system were to fail approximately every 4 years, within a 12-year timeframe, the expenditure on three Mr. Cool systems would likely still be less than the cost of a single Mitsubishi system. However, it's essential to factor in the need for multiple installations and the willingness to handle the installation process multiple times. These cost differentials between Mr. Cool and Mitsubishi systems underscore important considerations regarding upfront costs, long-term savings, and the trade-offs associated with self-installation and potential system replacements.
Takeaway Comparison Table
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Category |
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Performance |
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Efficiency |
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Noise Level |
Indoor: 19-43 decibels Outdoor: 48-50 decibels |
Indoor: 22-38.5 decibels Outdoor: 55 decibels |
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Output |
12,200 BTU Cooling in 95F 15,500 BTU Heating in 47F |
9,000 BTU Cooling in 95F 10,000 BTU Heating in 47F |
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Features/Technology |
Blue Fin Anti-Corrosion Whisper Quiet Mode |
Follow Me Function Leak Detection Tech Built-In Wifi |
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Warranty/Longevity |
12 Year Warranty Parts/Compressor w/ Mitsubishi Certified 10 Year Warranty w/ licensed contractor if registered within 60 Days of Installation |
1 Year Compressor, 2 Year Parts Warranty |
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Rebates/Incentives |
Energy Star Certified Federal IRA Tax Credit Qualified (South, North) |
Energy Star Certified Federal IRA Tax Credit Qualified (South) Utility Rebates |
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Installation Process |
Pro Install HVAC Installer Needed for Refrigerant & Start-Up |
DIY No HVAC Company Needed Pre-Charged Outdoor Unit and Line-Set |
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Price |
$1,664 (as of 02/08/2024) | $1,252 (as of 02/08/2024) |
Why Would Someone Go With Mr. Cool?
- Someone who is physically able of installing system themselves
- Someone looking for an affordable option but still receives technological benefits
- Someone who doesn’t want to get an HVAC company involved
- Someone who doesn’t necessarily need a long-lasting option
Why Would Someone Go With Mitsubishi?
- Someone who wants a reliable long-lasting option
- Someone who wants a super quiet system
- Someone who wants support when it comes to part replacements
- Someone who wants to get the IRA tax credit, higher efficiencies
