Small mini split air conditioners have revolutionized home climate control by offering efficient heating and cooling solutions for compact spaces. These ductless systems provide year-round comfort while maintaining energy efficiency and quiet operation. Unlike traditional HVAC systems, mini splits require no ductwork, making them ideal for apartments, small homes, additions, and rooms where installing ducts isn’t practical.
The following review examines five top-performing small mini split units, each offering unique features and capabilities. These systems range from 9,000 to 12,000 BTU capacity, suitable for spaces between 400 to 750 square feet. Each unit features modern conveniences like WiFi connectivity, smart home integration, and advanced inverter technology for optimal energy savings.
| Product | BTU Rating | Coverage Area | SEER Rating | Smart Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COSTWAY Blast Series | 12,000 | 750 sq ft | 20 SEER2 | Remote Control |
| YITAHOME WiFi Enabled | 12,000 | 750 sq ft | 20 SEER2 | WiFi, Alexa Compatible |
| ROVSUN Inverter Unit | 9,000 | 400 sq ft | 19 SEER2 | WiFi Enabled |
| Senville LETO Series | 12,000 | 550 sq ft | 20.8 SEER2 | Alexa Integration |
| DELLA Vario System | 12,000 | 550 sq ft | 19 SEER2 | Alexa Compatible |
COSTWAY 12000BTU Blast Series Mini Split
The COSTWAY Blast Series delivers reliable year-round climate control with its 12,000 BTU capacity and advanced inverter technology. This AHRI certified unit efficiently cools and heats spaces up to 750 square feet, making it perfect for master bedrooms, living areas, or small apartments. The innovative inverter technology reduces power consumption by adjusting compressor frequency rather than cycling on and off.
This mini split features five operational modes including auto, cool, dry, heat, and fan settings. Four fan speeds (low, medium, high, auto) provide customizable airflow, while specialized functions like sleep mode, ECO mode, iFEEL, and turbo function enhance user comfort. The iFEEL function monitors temperature at the remote control location rather than the indoor unit, ensuring optimal comfort where you spend time.
The system operates whisper-quiet for undisturbed sleep and relaxation. The handy remote control includes a smart timer function (0.5-24 hours) and automatically dims the display after 10 seconds of inactivity. Installation includes pre-charged refrigerant lines, simplifying the setup process for homeowners and HVAC professionals.
YITAHOME WiFi-Enabled Smart Mini Split
The YITAHOME mini split combines smart home integration with powerful climate control performance. This 12,000 BTU unit offers WiFi connectivity and Alexa compatibility, allowing voice commands and smartphone app control from anywhere. The system achieves 25% energy savings through advanced inverter technology while maintaining ETL and AHRI certifications for reliability.
Five operational modes (auto, cool, dry, heat, fan) provide versatile climate control options. The unit includes advanced air purification features with “HEALTH” mode, incorporating negative ion generation, electrostatic dust removal, and PM2.5 filtration. Automatic defrosting, self-diagnosis, and self-cleaning functions reduce maintenance requirements while ensuring consistent performance.
Operating at noise levels below 41 decibels, this system maintains peaceful indoor environments. The remote control allows temperature settings between 60°F and 90°F with precise control options. Additional convenience features include 24-hour timer programming, sleep mode optimization, and energy-saving mode for reduced electricity consumption during extended operation periods.
ROVSUN 9000 BTU Compact Inverter Unit
The ROVSUN 9000 BTU mini split offers exceptional efficiency for smaller spaces up to 400 square feet. With a leading 19 SEER rating, this system delivers superior performance while saving up to 35% energy compared to conventional units. The advanced inverter technology automatically adjusts compressor speed based on indoor temperature changes, optimizing energy consumption.
This compact unit provides rapid cooling and heating across a wide temperature range (61°F-88°F). Heat pump functionality ensures year-round comfort, while the effective dehumidification mode addresses humidity concerns in various climates. The system’s smaller capacity makes it ideal for bedrooms, home offices, garages, and light commercial applications requiring precise climate control.
Ultra-quiet operation at 28dB in mute mode ensures minimal disturbance during sleep or work. The uniform air distribution system provides consistent comfort throughout the covered area. WiFi connectivity enables remote monitoring and control, while pre-charged condenser lines and included installation kit simplify the setup process for professional installers.
Senville LETO Series Alexa-Enabled System
The Senville LETO Series represents premium smart home integration with its comprehensive Alexa compatibility and smartphone app control. This 12,000 BTU system features an impressive 20.8 SEER2 rating, making it one of the most energy-efficient options available. The DC inverter technology is UL Listed and AHRI Certified, ensuring safety and performance standards.
This versatile 4-in-1 system functions as an air conditioner, heat pump (operational down to 5°F/-15°C), dehumidifier, and fan. The turbo function provides rapid temperature changes when needed, while multiple operational modes accommodate various comfort preferences. Voice control integration allows routine programming for automatic temperature adjustments throughout the day.
The system’s stylish design complements both residential and commercial settings without compromising aesthetics. Suitable applications include bedrooms, living areas, retail stores, restaurants, and warehouses. The robust heat pump functionality maintains heating efficiency even in extremely cold conditions, making it suitable for year-round use in various climates.
DELLA Vario Smart Sensor System
The DELLA Vario system features intelligent sensor technology that monitors room temperature at the remote control location rather than the indoor unit. This smart approach results in more accurate climate control and enhanced energy savings by adjusting airflow and temperature based on your actual location. The 12,000 BTU capacity efficiently serves spaces up to 550 square feet.
This AHRI Certified unit offers comprehensive automatic features including auto defrost, self-diagnosis, self-cleaning, and intelligent compressor pre-heating. The iFEEL mode personalizes comfort control while ECO energy-saving mode reduces operational costs. Multiple fan speeds and a 24-hour timer provide flexible operation scheduling for various lifestyles.
The system includes a complete 16.4-foot installation kit, providing everything needed for professional installation. Heat pump functionality operates effectively down to -4°F/-20°C, ensuring reliable heating performance in cold climates. Alexa compatibility and app control enable convenient remote operation and monitoring from anywhere within WiFi range.
Buying Guide for Small Mini Split Systems
BTU Capacity and Room Size: Proper sizing is crucial for efficient operation. Calculate approximately 20-25 BTU per square foot for standard ceiling heights. Oversized units cycle frequently, reducing efficiency and humidity control. Undersized units struggle to maintain comfortable temperatures and consume excess energy.
SEER Rating and Energy Efficiency: Higher SEER ratings indicate better energy efficiency. Look for units with SEER2 ratings of 19 or higher for optimal energy savings. Inverter technology provides superior efficiency by varying compressor speed rather than cycling on and off, reducing energy consumption by 25-35%.
Installation Requirements: Consider electrical requirements, typically 115V or 230V depending on capacity. Ensure adequate wall space for indoor and outdoor units. Professional installation is recommended for refrigerant connections, electrical work, and warranty compliance. Some units include installation kits with pre-charged lines.
Smart Features and Connectivity: WiFi connectivity enables remote control via smartphone apps. Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility provide voice control convenience. Advanced features like iFEEL sensors, programmable timers, and energy-saving modes enhance comfort and efficiency.
Noise Levels: Compare decibel ratings for quiet operation, especially in bedrooms. Units operating below 40dB provide whisper-quiet performance. Variable fan speeds allow noise control based on comfort requirements and time of day.
Heating Performance: Heat pump functionality provides energy-efficient heating. Check minimum operating temperatures for your climate. Units with low-temperature operation (down to 5°F or lower) ensure reliable heating performance during winter months.
Warranty and Certification: Look for AHRI certification ensuring tested performance ratings. UL listing confirms electrical safety standards. Manufacturer warranties typically cover parts for 5-7 years and compressors for 7-12 years. Professional installation often affects warranty coverage.