One of the biggest draws of mini splits are their SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings compared to conventional systems. Mitsubishi systems have some of the highest SEER ratings in the mini split world - with some systems getting over 30. MRCOOL ductless systems range from 18 to 22.5.

Having a higher SEER rating reduces energy consumption and leads to long-term savings on your energy bills. This makes Mitsubishi systems attractive to those aiming to minimize long-term energy costs.

Like all other HVAC systems, the performance of your mini split will vary by climate and time of year. Mitsubishi's Hyper Heat h2i units can operate efficiently at temperatures as low as -13°F and are designed for cold climates. Offering similar versatility, MRCOOL's Olympus units are effective down to -13°F.

MRCOOL closely matches Mitsubishi again in milder and hotter climates. Up to 95°F, both manufacturers make sure their system produces 100% capacity. But from what we've seen, Mitsubishi might be better suited for temperatures higher because they include a little more capacity than the systems are rated for.

MRCOOL promotes user-friendly installation, allowing customers to set up their systems without professional help. Designed for DIY, MRCOOL systems include pre-charged line sets for easy setup.

Mitsubishi, on the other hand, usually requires professional installation due to complex refrigerant management. If you decide to purchase and install a Mitsubishi system yourself, make sure you use a licensed professional to handle refrigerant and start up your system. That will ensure proper installation, optimal performance, and that you get your warranty.

MRCOOL’s key advantage is its support for DIY installations. However, professional installation for Mitsubishi systems will usually ensure higher quality setups.

Cost is often the deciding factor when choosing the mini split that's right for you. Comparing two similar systems, Mitsubishi's GS09 single zone system costs around $1,764, while MRCOOL's Olympus Energy Star 9,000 BTU system costs $1,286. Just based on equipment costs, Mitsubishi is 37% more than a comparable MRCOOL system.

Now add installation labor and additional parts, the total installed cost of Mitsubishi's GS09 can total $3,500 to $5,000. MRCOOL systems avoid installation labor costs you install the system yourself.

Depending on your state, you could qualify for state tax incentives helping you bring down the cost of your Mitsubishi installation. MRCOOL systems won't generally qualify for state or federal tax incentives.

Warranty and support are crucial for long-term reliability. Mitsubishi systems come with longer warranties, reflecting confidence in their reliability and longevity. They offer a 5-year warranty for compressors and parts. You can get the warranty extended up to 12 years when you have your system installed by their network of Diamond Contractors.

MRCOOL offers a 7-year warranty for compressors, extendable to a lifetime under specific conditions, with other parts covered for 5 years. Customers must register their system and follow maintenance conditions to get the best warranty.

People often prefer Mitsubishi for when a part replacement is needed. Mitsubishi has an extensive distributor and contractor network. MRCOOL doesn't have the same benefit, and it might be difficult to get parts if anything happens to the system

Mitsubishi mini splits are renowned for their exceptional longevity and reliability, setting a high industry standard. With an A+ reliability score, they offer trusted performance, durability, and quiet operation, making them a solid long-term investment.

In contrast, MRCOOL units, though economical, might not be ideal for long-term residential use due to potential durability issues. Many Mitsubishi users report high satisfaction due to superior performance in extreme weather conditions.

Overall, Mitsubishi systems’ reliability and longevity make them a more dependable choice compared to MRCOOL, especially for those seeking long-term performance.

Some customers report mixed experiences with MRCOOL’s customer service, mentioning long response times and difficulty reaching support.

Several reviews note that while MRCOOL units perform well initially, warranty and service support can be slow or complicated. This contrasts with Mitsubishi’s generally positive feedback for reliable service and support.

Are you a handy person looking for a low-cost solution to heat and cool your room / home? MRCOOL is probably the way to go. Their systems are designed for DIYers and are some of the most inexpensive mini split air conditioners.

If you're looking for a long-term solution for heating and cooling your home, Mitsubishi is probably the way to go. They're the top of the line ductless systems and have an extensive contractor network.

Consider features, installation options, and price points when making your decision. And if you need more comprehensive help, give us a call and talk to our experts. Walk them through your unique situation and they can help you choose the right system for you.