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10 Best Cheap Mini Split Air Conditioner 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

DELLA Vario Series 24000 BTU Mini Split AC, 2 Ton 21 SEER2, Work with Alexa and Wifi, Ductless Inverter System, Cools Up to 1500 Sq.Ft, Heat Pump Pre-Charged and 16.4ft Installation Kits

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,384
BTU (British Thermal Units)
Noise Level
Installation and Maintenance

Most important from
1032 reviews

BTU (British Thermal Units)
Air is cold in cool mode and quite warm in heat mode.
Noise Level
It's really quiet and it heats and cools the small house really well.
Installation and Maintenance
The installation went exactly as it should have and the unit is working flawlessly so far.

The DELLA 24000 BTU Mini Split AC offers a good balance between power and efficiency, making it a solid option in the category of cheap mini-split air conditioners. With a cooling capacity of 24000 BTU, it effectively covers spaces up to 1500 square feet, accommodating medium to large rooms or open-plan areas. The 19 SEER2 rating is quite impressive for its price range, providing energy efficiency that can help reduce your electricity bills significantly.

One of its standout features is the quiet operation, with a noise level as low as 35 dB, which is ideal for maintaining a peaceful environment at home. Its smart functionalities, including compatibility with Alexa, WiFi control, and various operational modes like eco energy-saving, sleep, and turbo, enhance user convenience and comfort.

The system's design also supports versatile usage with options for both cooling and heating, which adds year-round utility. However, installation can be challenging. It is not a DIY project, requiring professional installation due to the need for line-set vacuuming and possible adjustments to freon levels. This adds to the initial cost, although the included installation kit may help reduce additional expenses.

For those needing an affordable and efficient air conditioning unit with smart features and quiet operation, and who are comfortable with professional installation, this DELLA model presents a compelling option. While the unit's efficient energy usage and quiet operation are appealing, its performance in extreme temperatures might be a limitation, as it operates down to 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, the requirement for professional setup might deter some users seeking a completely budget-friendly solution.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,384
BTU (British Thermal Units)
Noise Level
Installation and Maintenance

Most important from
1032 reviews

BTU (British Thermal Units)
Air is cold in cool mode and quite warm in heat mode.
Noise Level
It's really quiet and it heats and cools the small house really well.
Installation and Maintenance
The installation went exactly as it should have and the unit is working flawlessly so far.
#2

Senville LETO Series Mini Split Air Conditioner Heat Pump, 9000 BTU 110/120V, Inverter, Works with Alexa, SEER2 21.5, White

Rating
10.0
BTU (British Thermal Units)
Noise Level
Installation and Maintenance

Most important from
7377 reviews

BTU (British Thermal Units)
This mini split delivers excellent heating and cooling performance, maintaining comfort in temperatures ranging from 7° to 97° with minimal impact on power bills.
Noise Level
The unit operates incredibly quietly—so much so that you might have to check if it's even running.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation requires careful attention to detail, especially when handling flare nuts and pressure testing the refrigerant lines to avoid leaks.

The Senville LETO Series Mini Split Air Conditioner is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable and efficient cooling and heating system. With a cooling capacity of about 10,300 BTU, it is suitable for rooms up to 400 square feet, making it ideal for bedrooms, small living spaces, and small commercial areas. Its energy efficiency rating (SEER 19) means it uses electricity fairly efficiently, which can help keep your utility bills reasonable compared to lower-efficiency units, though it is not Energy Star certified. One standout feature is its quiet operation at just 25 decibels, so it won’t disturb your peace while running. This model supports Alexa voice control, allowing convenient remote adjustments through your smart devices—a nice bonus for modern homes. It is a 4-in-1 system, offering cooling, heating (effective down to about 5°F), dehumidifying, and fan functions, making it useful across different seasons. The package includes everything needed for installation except the labor, which must be done by a professional, as DIY installation isn't recommended. The 16-foot line set works well for most typical setups but longer distances might require extra refrigerant.

Warranty coverage is reassuring with 5 years on the compressor and 2 years on parts, although labor costs aren't covered. One limitation is that it isn’t optimized for the newest SEER2 standards, and it’s not Energy Star rated, which might matter if maximum energy savings are a priority. Also, this is a single-zone unit, so it’s best if you only need to cool or heat one room or area. This mini split balances good power, quietness, and smart features at a budget-friendly price, making it a practical pick for small spaces needing reliable year-round comfort.

Rating
10.0
BTU (British Thermal Units)
Noise Level
Installation and Maintenance

Most important from
7377 reviews

BTU (British Thermal Units)
This mini split delivers excellent heating and cooling performance, maintaining comfort in temperatures ranging from 7° to 97° with minimal impact on power bills.
Noise Level
The unit operates incredibly quietly—so much so that you might have to check if it's even running.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation requires careful attention to detail, especially when handling flare nuts and pressure testing the refrigerant lines to avoid leaks.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Mini Split Air Conditioner

Choosing the right mini-split air conditioner can make a significant difference in your comfort and energy bills. Mini-split air conditioners are a great option for cooling individual rooms or small spaces without the need for extensive ductwork. When selecting a mini-split air conditioner, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main specs to focus on and how to navigate them.
BTU (British Thermal Units)BTU measures the cooling capacity of the air conditioner. The higher the BTU, the more powerful the unit is at cooling a larger space. For small rooms (up to 150 square feet), a unit with 5,000-6,000 BTU is sufficient. Medium-sized rooms (150-300 square feet) typically require 7,000-8,000 BTU, while larger rooms (300-450 square feet) may need 10,000-12,000 BTU. To pick the right BTU for you, consider the size of the room you want to cool. An undersized unit will struggle to cool the space, while an oversized unit may cool too quickly without properly dehumidifying.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)SEER measures the energy efficiency of the air conditioner over a typical cooling season. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the unit is. SEER ratings typically range from 13 to 25. For those looking to save on energy bills and reduce environmental impact, a higher SEER rating is preferable. However, if you only need the unit for occasional use or in a mild climate, a lower SEER rating may be sufficient. Consider your usage patterns and energy costs when choosing the SEER rating.
Noise LevelNoise level is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates how loud the unit will be during operation. Lower dB levels mean quieter operation. Mini-split air conditioners typically range from 19 dB (very quiet) to 60 dB (comparable to normal conversation). If you plan to install the unit in a bedroom or a quiet space, look for a model with a noise level below 30 dB. For living rooms or areas where noise is less of a concern, higher noise levels may be acceptable.
Number of ZonesThe number of zones refers to how many separate areas or rooms the mini-split system can cool. Single-zone systems are designed for one room, while multi-zone systems can cool multiple rooms with separate indoor units connected to one outdoor unit. If you need to cool just one room, a single-zone system is sufficient. For multiple rooms or larger spaces, consider a multi-zone system to ensure even cooling throughout your home.
Installation and MaintenanceInstallation and maintenance are important factors to consider. Mini-split systems generally require professional installation, which can add to the initial cost. Look for units with easy-to-clean filters and accessible components for simpler maintenance. If you are comfortable with DIY projects, some models offer easier installation options. Consider your ability to maintain the unit and whether you prefer professional installation or a more hands-on approach.

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