7 Best Mini Split Heat Pumps For Cold Weather (2024)

Written By

Josh Mitchell

Expert Reviewed By

Holly Curell

Last Updated On

May 30, 2024

At the core of central air conditioning, its high-spec air handler is robust enough to function effectively as an outdoor unit.[3]

The Pioneer WYS012-19 boasts an impressive 17.5 SEER rating, indicating significant energy efficiency.

Pioneer mini splits excel as single-room additions, with a cooling capacity comparable to Daikin heat pumps.

This split heat pump seamlessly transitions from heating in cold weather to cooling in the summer, operating quietly like a Silent Guardian. Now, let's delve into its power.

With a cooling power of 12,000 BTU and heating power of also12,000 BTU, this caped crusader conquers rooms up to 500 sq. ft.

As a light sleeper, I can attest that this Batman of air conditioners operates quietly, registering just 23 decibels—quieter than a whisper.

Other convenient features include an easy-to-use remote controller and washable air filters, which makes this model low maintenance.

The heat pump's automatic switchover mode takes care of the decision-making, seamlessly switching among the four operating modes: cooling, heating, dehumidification, and ventilation.

In the event of a temporary failure, I was amazed that the model's auto-restart function remembers all my settings, and the night mode adjusts settings to match my body's natural temperature.

This model comes with DIY installation accessories, much like the MRCOOL mini split heat pump, providing all the necessary tools from indoor and outdoor units to a 16ft copper piping kit.

I experienced optimal energy savings and efficiency levels thanks to its variable-speed compressor. To add the final touch, a 3-year compressor warranty was included.

After a hands-on showdown with the Senville AURA Series, I dubbed it the LeBron James of temperature control.

The cold climate heat pump features smart functions, eliminating the need to lift a finger.

I reside in a colder climate and its ability to heat or cool down to -22°F was an asset.

The model's 24,000 BTUs engulfed my living space like a heatwave on steroids. During a gathering of guests, the Senville AURA efficiently cooled the room in no time.

Adjusting the volume on the TV wasn't necessary, as the mini split works diligently in silence.

The Senville AURA Series boasts rapid cooling, cozy heating, and precise humidity control.

Additionally, its SEER rating and ultra-inverter technology potentially enable homeowners to save up to 40% on energy costs.[4]

"Alexa, Make it Breezy."I can command the Senville AURA Series like my personal butler. Controlling it with my voice means I don't have to lift a finger.

The model comes with a 16ft. line set and communication, eliminating the need to scramble for parts during setup.

I was sure Senville kept the quality at par with industry standards since the mini split is Energy Star Certified, UL Listed, and AHRI Certified.

It’s also backed by a 10-year warranty on parts and a 5-year warranty on the compressor.

This warranty surpasses that of its counterpart, the Pioneer WYS012-19. Given that this wasn't my typical weekend DIY project,

I recommend leaving the installation to the experts.

"A Mini Split for All."

I attempted to cool down various rooms in my home, and the Senville AURA Series rose to the occasion.

The mini split is as cool as a cucumber, as reliable as a Swiss watch, and as user-friendly as a toaster.

With a capacity of 12,000 BTUs, I labeled it the powerhouse of energy efficiency compared to other models in this review.

In addition to cooling and heating, I utilized the Friedrich Air Premier to eliminate excess moisture.

I was also impressed that the mini-split heat pump was optimal in temperatures as low as -13 degrees Fahrenheit.

In contrast to the Pioneer WYS012-19, I found this model suitable for medium-sized spaces of up to 550 sq. ft.

Like the Senville AURA, it offers multiple operating modes, including cool, heat, dry, and fan-only modes.

Its Dry Mode, for instance, effectively eliminated excess moisture in my living space at 2.5 pints per hour.[5] My home no longer felt like a tropical rainforest.

The Fan-Only Mode is the ally of comfort as it circulates air like a gentle breeze on a summer day.

Using the FriedrichGo App, I managed this mini-genius with my smartphone. The app integrates seamlessly with Alexa and Google Home.

The Cooper & Hunter Hyper Heat Pump performed its job without much fuss.

Its features read like a cheat code for comfort: 9,000 BTUs, 25 SEER, and a -22°F Heat Pump.

The subtle heating capacity enhances its energy efficiency. The Whisper Technology was a delight, as the Hyper Heat series ensures library-level quiet operation.

Similar to most other advanced heat pumps, this one comes equipped with an infrared sensor and a thermostat.

Both features automatically warm the air when there's human movement in a room, which I love.

Similar to the Friedrich Air Premier, this ductless mini-split AC is suitable for heating and cooling spaces up to 550 square feet.[6]

It's not solely about temperature control—this cold climate heat pump also effectively dehumidified my space.

I tested its low ambient cooling, which scales to 0°F, ensuring year-round comfort.

Buyers get a 7-year compressor warranty and a 5-year parts warranty for peace of mind.

To maintain the validity of the warranty terms, I enlisted a professional for installation.

However, I found the setup documentation could have been improved and the placement of the remote control inconvenient.

The extras for installation include a 16-foot copper line set, drainage extension, and communication.

While it's pricier than some models on this list, it comes with various installation accessories that justify the cost.

The Senville SENA isn't just built for comfort but for the long haul.

From its sleek design to its unbeatable inverted heat pump technology and performance, this cold-climate heat pump truly surpassed my expectations.

As with other notable cold-climate heat pumps, this model also uses DC Inverter Technology. And that justifies its energy efficiency and whisper-quiet operation.

I can choose to install it as a floor or ceiling mount. This model was mounted high but still made my home comfortable.

Whether it's moderate temperatures or extreme heating needs for those chilly winter days, this heat source doesn't pick sides.

The cold-climate heat pump is UL-listed and AHRI Certified, so I wasn't worried about its safety or quality standards.[7]

No-Hassle Setup: Like the Cooper & Hunter series, hiring a professional was necessary. Most cold-climate heat pumps include all accessories for a complete installation.

And that was a plus since I didn't spend more.

The Senville 18,000 BTU Floor Console Mini-Split AC is among the best heat pump brands that are Energy Star certified.

In contrast to traditional heating systems, I saved up to 40% on my energy costs.

It's an excellent choice for a DIYer.

The mini-split had a pre-charged lineset, so I didn't need any special tools or training.

And it packs some smart control wizardry for tweaking indoor temperature fluctuations. I tried MRCOOL’s SmartHVAC app via Wi-Fi and didn't experience a glitch.

This personal climate genie is also compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa. With a SEER of 16, I knew the energy efficiency and cost savings were significant.

Whispering Comfort: The mini-split doesn’t just offer an easier setup.

Its variable-speed DC inverter compressor technology felt like a soothing symphony, ensuring no noisy disruptions.

MRCOOL is a 12,000 BTU unit. Such cooling or heating capacity suits a room of about 150 sq. ft.

It surpasses the Cooper & Hunter series in heating capacity. Plus, its subtle capacity means this could be a tenable backup heat source.

When buying the best heat pump for cold weather, I would pick one whose performance pulls through winter.

And a Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) of 8.90 seems efficient enough.

This ductless mini-split heat pump stunned me with its leakage detection alarm. That’s peace-of-mind protection.

After navigating the nuances of Daikin mini-splits, the Atmosphera series felt like a comfort powerhouse.

The multiple operating modes felt like a symphony of comfort.

Its Comfort mode for even airflow and Powerful mode to boost the output capacity were unique selling points.

The model includes a Daikin Comfort Control App and a remote control for convenience. Daikin heat pumps are ductless, making them best for heating individual rooms.

Heat pumps are also cooling systems, and here’s where Daikin Atmosphera excels the most.

It packs the R32 refrigerant, making the heater eco-friendly and lenient on carbon emissions.[8] Its energy efficiency and 24,000 BTU capacity make it quite dependable.

With an SEER of 22 and an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of 12.5, this model gives the likes of Senville SENA a run for their money.

This model has meager noise levels of up to 51dBat the highest speed, making it one of the quietest systems.

Commonly Asked Questions

1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214157X22005962
2. https://www.daikin.co.nz/blogs/buyers-guide/what-is-an-inverter-heat-pump-and-why-do-i-need-one
3. https://www.csemag.com/articles/back-to-basics-introduction-to-dedicated-outdoor-air-systems/
4. https://williamscomfortair.com/knowledge-center/what-is-a-good-seer-rating/
5. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352710216301449
6. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/ductless-mini-split-heat-pumps
7. https://www.amca.org/assets/resources/public/assets/uploads/FINAL-_AMCA___AHRI-MENA_Webinar-_deck_2__Dec_13__2021.pdf
8. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/284902079_Study_of_R32_refrigerant_for_residential_air_conditioning_applications
9. https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/units-and-calculators/british-thermal-units.php
10. https://www.goettl.com/expert-center/air-conditioning/what-is-a-dual-fuel-ac-system/