Note: This article mainly discusses Daikin mini split installed by contractors. If you want buy a single-zone mini split for DIY installation, we highly recommend another post: Best DIY mini splits on the market in 2023.
In addition, we’ve prepared guides for other mini-splits useful for comparing brands. They include:
Mitsubishi, Fujistu, LG, Gree, Samsung and Pioneer.
Daikin is a famous Japanese brand in U.S. for both ductless and ducted heating and cooling system. According to ConsumerReport, Daikin has grown to the top 50 central cooling brand and top 5 ductless heat pump brand. In this review, we will analyze the features of Daikin and popular models. Then you’ll see feedback from both experts and customers which can give you a comprehensive suggestion for this brand. At last, we will show you the estimated prices, negotiating tactics with your contractor and tax credit information. Ok, let’s get started!
Daikin’s Features
1. Daikin Inverter technology:
The Daikin ductless heat pump features inverter heat pump technology which allows the heat pump to increase or decrease compressor speed based on the capacity required to heat up or cool down a room.
This technology minimizes indoor temperature fluctuations which in turn reduces energy consumption and offers unmatched room-by-room climate control. The technology ensures there is no variance in the temperature of different rooms as is the case when using a single unit for cooling and heating multiple rooms.
You May Also Like: Air Conditioner Inverter: the Secret to Skyrocket Your Efficiency
2. Daikin Intelligent Eye infrared sensor:
The Daikin mini split heat pump also has an infrared sensor capable of sensing movement in a room. When a person leaves a room for more than 20 minutes, the heat pump will automatically activate it’s energy saving mode using intelligent eye saving approximately 20% and 30% of the energy that would have otherwise been used to continuously cool or heat respectively. The heat pump resumes normal operation when a person enters a room. The intelligent eye sensor is also capable of detecting where a person is in a room and directing airflow power and direction according to the current setting.
3. Usability features (easy to use/quiet operation/comfort):
This heat pump is easier to use than most HVAC systems you can think off thanks to features like wireless control and easy-to-read display features which allow you to control the heat pump remotely from anywhere in the room. The heat pump also has a weekly timer (exclusive feature) that allows users to program operation to match their needs perfectly.
The ductless nature of the heat pump makes it easy to install almost anywhere since it doesn’t require a lot of installation space. In regards to quiet operation, Daikin utilizes the unique heat pump designs i.e. natural convention heat distribution and advance inverter heat pump technology to ensure quiet operation. Sound levels average 19dB ensuring a good night’s sleep. The heat pump also has multi-zone capability for unmatched comfort.
4. Reduced energy and installation costs:
Daikin boasts of an A++ rating according to European legislation on the seasonal efficiency of HVAC units. The Daikin mini split heat pump uses 25% to 40% less energy than electric baseboards. Daikin utilizes inverter technology to match power and load requirements accordingly during heating and cooling. This results in better energy consumption as well as operating costs. This ductless heat pump also eliminates duct-work which accounts for a huge percentage of the total installation cost of HVAC systems.
5. Application and selection variety:
The Daikin ductless heat pump is perfect for a variety of temperature control applications in residential and commercial settings. Daikin also has a wide selection of both residential and commercial heat pump systems capable of meeting a wide range of user tastes and preferences. Daikin has units matching all interiors resulting in an unmatched unobtrusive presence.
You May Also Like: Single Zone Mini Split: Daikin Vs Fujitsu Vs Mitsubishi Vs LG
Model Recommendation
| Series | SEER | HSPF | Heating From | Duct | Relative Humid Control |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skyair | 19.3 | 13.5 | N/A | duct & ductless | No |
| Quaternity | 26.1 | 11 | -4˚F | ductless | Yes |
| 20 Series | 20 | 12.5 | 5˚F | ductless | No |
| 15 Series | 15 | 8.2 | 5˚F | ductless | No |
| 19 Series | 19 | 9 | -4˚F | ductless | No |
Skyair is a new mid-end series which is very popular in Southern US. 19.3 SEER (cooling efficiency rating) is enough for saving your power bill in the long run. The only disadvantage is that it can not work efficiently when the temperature drops down to 5˚F. If you live in the northern area, Quaternity or 19 Series will be your first choice. Quaternity is the high-end series with higher efficiency and better humid control.
Confused by the above dazzling models? Actually, it is easier to choose the right model than you imagine. All you have to do it choose the most cost-effective “Size” and “Efficiency”. We already had an in-depth guide teaching you how to choose the right size and efficiency ratings. There’s no best model for everyone. The best model changes according to your own condition. We strongly recommend you to read this guide before choosing any Mitsubishi mini-split model.
Daikin Mini Split Air Conditioner Prices By Size
Unit Include: 1 AC Outdoor Unit, 1 Wall-Mounted Indoor Unit, 10 Year Warranty
The average price to install one Daikin mini-split (ductless) air conditioner system is $1,870
|
Models
|
Home Size
|
One Unit
|
One Unit Installed
|
| Daikin 9K BTU 25 SEER | 350-400 sf | $1,040 |
$3,000
|
| Daikin 12K BTU 23 SEER | 450-550 sf | $1,230 |
$3,250
|
| Daikin 15K BTU 21 SEER | 600-700 sf | $1,550 |
$3,590
|
| Daikin 18K BTU 20 SEER | 700-900 sf | $1,800 |
$3,810
|
| Daikin 24K BTU 20 SEER | 800-1200 sf | $2,480 | $4,520 |
Daikin Mini Split Heat Pump Prices By Size
Unit Include: 1 Heat Pump Outdoor Unit, 1 Wall-Mounted Indoor Unit, 10 Year Warranty
The average price to install one Daikin mini-split (ductless) heat pump is $1,850
|
Models
|
Home Size
|
One Unit
|
One Unit Installed
|
| Daikin 9K BTU 25 SEER | 350-400 sf | $1,240 |
$3,200
|
| Daikin 12K BTU 23 SEER | 450-550 sf | $1,430 |
$3,590
|
| Daikin 15K BTU 21 SEER | 600-700 sf | $1,760 |
$3,760
|
| Daikin 18K BTU 20 SEER | 700-900 sf | $1,950 |
$4,000
|
| Daikin 24K BTU 19 SEER | 800-1200 sf | $2,690 | $4,720 |
Submitted Mini-split Prices and Reviews
Here are the homeowner-submitted prices and feedback for new installation and replacement. We will update this table every 3-6 months.
|
Price
|
Brand & Model & Size
|
Home Location
|
Capacity
|
| $3,700 | N/A | Topeka, KS | 18,000 BTU |
| I received this gadget from Amazon 13 month ago and my heart has been swelling with pride every time I step into the house. Silent air-conditioning and a massive 18,000 BTU power was more that I had bargained for. No disturbance in my sleep as I can simply program the device, thanks to its wireless LCD remote control. Daikin should know they have one satisfied customer. | |||
| $3,750 | 20 Series | Washington, DC | 11,200 BTU |
| Last summer, I realized that my old heat pump was no longer up to the task and quickly went out to get a new device. A friend had pointed me in the direction of Daikin and had promised I would never regret the decision. Well, I haven’t. 5 months down the line and the machine doesn’t show any signs of fatigue. It is a true reflection of Japanese technology, famed to be among the best in the world. | |||
| $6,400 | Quaternity | N/A | 24,000 BTU |
| This device is a total disappointment. Not only is it noisy but it is also a source of constant minor earthquakes in the house, thanks to its substantial vibrations. Its massive BTU power of 24,000 is nothing to write home about if we can’t have peace to enjoy our sleep. I would rather dump it for a less powerful but silent machine that does the job just as well. I wouldn’t advise any sane person out there to go for it, and – don’t be fooled by the massive BTU. | |||
| $7,700 | N/A | Little Rock, AR | 18,000 BTUx2 |
| The Daikin 12,000 BTU 24.5 Seer heat pump carries out its duties diligently and silently but I have a problem with the much-touted energy saving feature it is supposed to have. My power bills have shot through the stratosphere since I started using it 10 months ago. I would love to know if anything can be done about its power consumption so that I wouldn’t have to worry about energy costs. Generally, it is a nice gadget. | |||
| $2,700 | Skyair | N/A | N/A |
| I wouldn’t mind the hum of the powerful Daikin 24,000 BTU AC so long as it does its job well. I don’t see any sense in going for a quiet but hopelessly ineffective device. The slight vibrations are great for soothing me into a deep slumber! I think Daikin made a big balance between power and noise levels – huge power means you have to sacrifice certain niceties like a quiet device. At less than $3,000, it is the best bargain one can ever out there. I have been using it since 18 months ago, and so far, nothing to complain about. | |||
| $2,965.00 | RXS18DVJU | Hartford, CT | N/A |
| My heater obsoleted over a year ago, prompting another visit to Daikin. The replacement wasn’t long in coming and I was able to continue with my life as usual. Though this is not your normal air conditioner as it is designed to save lots of energy, pushing down your energy bills, you will love its efficiency. The machine senses the inactivity in the house and automatically shifts to standby mode, further saving on electricity bills. I have been using it for the last 15 months. | |||
How to Get the Best Daikin Mini-Split Prices?
- Firstly, keep in mind that installation quality is always the most important thing for residential HVAC project. So never sacrifice contractor quality for lower price.
- Secondly, remember to look up the latest tax credit and rebates.
- Thirdly, ask for at least 3 bids before you make the decision. You can click here to get 3 free estimates for your local contractor, and this estimate already takes rebates and tax credit into consideration and filter unqualified contractors automatically.
At last, once you chose the right contractor, remember to use the tactics from this guide: Homeowners Tactics When Negotiating with HVAC Dealer to get the final best price.
CSI-HVAC quoted me 4400.00 for Daikin ductless model RX 18 NMVJU and install.
I can’t find it. What can you tell me about it?
Bob Bailie
Thanks Rene, but I was also interested in the unit. What are the compressor features?
We are building a bedroom over our single car garage, (12×24 = 288’ sq.) with lots of high efficiency window but very little direct sun, due to shade and orientation. (Most windows face north). Would like to have a floor mounted unit in middle of the 24’ exterior wall. Our contractor recommends a wall mounted unit for better cooling, but is would be centered on 12’ wall at one end of our long room. We are in zone 4. The room will have a ceiling fan. Do you think there would be much difference in the cooling ability between those two choices?
Look at the Daikin ceiling Vista series.
All ceiling mount, 4 wayvair flow, photo eye, smart technology, watch the video from Daikin on the Daikin website.
Got a quote for the below installation, I’m in the nyc area. It seems a bit high. Am I wrong.
Please advise.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Have a Blessed day.
Re 2 Zone System Installation 4 ton Daikin System, for $23,280.00.
1.Furnish and install one 1) new Daikin48,000 BTU condenser
2.Furnish and install one (2) new Daikin24,000 BTU wall hung
3.Furnish and install one (1) new Daikin 60,000 BTU Condenser and one (2) 30,000 BTU Surface Mounted Air Handler
4.Furnish and install refrigerant and drain line piping
Drain line to be insulated
$23,280
We want to have a ceiling mount 24,000 BTU air conditioning system for our enclosed and winterized porch. We are considering the FCQ24PAVJU indoor mount with the RZR24PVJU outdoor compressor. How much for this set up , how much power required; how much will it be recessed into the ceiling framing?
I was quoted $5100 for a Daiken Aurora 15k BTU Heat Pump/AC unit Model #’s FVXS15NVJU for the low wall inside unit and RXL15QMVJU for the outside compressor. I live in the northeast and am looking to use this to supplement my heating and cooling on my second floor. I think the quote is a bit high. Any thoughts?
your quote is fair.
$2400 for equipment
$200 permit
$200 materials
add the man hours of installing the unit. insurance costs for the contractor. you don’t want a cheap quote because that contractor will probably not answer the phone if there’s an issue because it won’t be worth his time.
Can the infrared sensor be turned off , the room houses birds.
My name is James Carter and I would like to order some Mini split air conditioner. Below is the information for a quote:
Daikin Wall Mounted 4-Zone System – 36,000 BTU Outdoor – 7k + 7k + 12k + 12k Indoor – 22.0 SEER
Quantity: 2
I will be picking up the units as soon as you have them ready for pick up (No Installation). Kindly email back the pricing so we can proceed. Please advice the brands you can get if you dont have Daikin brand. I will look forward to your reply.
Best Regards
James Carter
Ascension Table