Best Ductless Mini Split Heat Pump System For DIY 2025

DIY mini split heat pumps provide an efficient, cost-saving way to heat and cool your home without professional installation.

Below we review the best DIY-installable mini split heat pump systems available on Amazon, comparing inverter technology, energy efficiency (SEER ratings), BTU capacity, smart features, and climate zone suitability.

Use the comparison table for a quick overview of key specs like BTU, SEER, lowest operating temperature, and whether a unit includes pre-charged lines for easy DIY setup.

DIY Mini Split Heat Pump	Capacity (BTU)	Efficiency & Climate	Notable Features
MrCool DIY 4th Gen 12,000 BTU	12,000 BTU (≈500 sq ft)	22 SEER (heats to -13°F)	Wi-Fi Smart Control, Pre-charged 25ft line, Energy Star
Klimaire DIY 12,000 BTU	12,000 BTU (≈550 sq ft)	19 SEER2 (heats to -13°F)	Alexa/Google Control, Pre-charged 25ft line, Wall Bracket Incl.
Pioneer Diamante 12,000 BTU	12,000 BTU (≈500 sq ft)	19 SEER (heats to -13°F)	Optional Wi-Fi Kit, Durable Build, Requires Vacuum Install
Senville LETO 12,000 BTU	12,000 BTU (≈550 sq ft)	21 SEER (heats to 5°F)	Alexa Enabled, 4-in-1 Mode, Requires Vacuum Install
Cooper & Hunter MIA 12,000 BTU	12,000 BTU (≈500 sq ft)	20.8 SEER2 (heats to 5°F)	Wi-Fi Ready, Whisper Quiet, Requires Pro Install
DuctlessAire 12,000 BTU	12,000 BTU (≈400 sq ft)	17.6 SEER2 (heats to ~5°F)	Quiet Operation, Complete 16ft Kit, Requires Vacuum Install
DELLA 12,000 BTU	12,000 BTU (≈550 sq ft)	19 SEER2 (heats to -4°F)	Wi-Fi/Alexa, 4D Airflow, Requires Vacuum Install

Why Choose a DIY Mini Split Heat Pump?

Installing a mini split heat pump yourself can save thousands of dollars in professional HVAC installation costs. DIY mini splits are designed for ease of setup, often featuring pre-charged refrigerant lines that let homeowners connect components without specialized tools or vacuum pumps. These ductless systems provide efficient heating and cooling with inverter technology, and are ideal for spaces where running ductwork is impractical. American homeowners from hot Southern climates to cold Northern regions are turning to DIY mini splits for their energy efficiency, zoned comfort control, and year-round performance.

Opting for a DIY-friendly unit means you get a complete kit with everything needed for installation: indoor air handler, outdoor condenser, line set, control wires, and mounting hardware. Many units support Wi-Fi or smart thermostats, allowing remote control and easy scheduling. By choosing a model suitable for your climate zone (some can operate in subzero winters), you ensure reliable heat in winter and cooling in summer without hiring a contractor.

Key Features to Compare in DIY Mini Splits

• BTU Capacity & Room Size: Match the BTU rating to your room size. For example, a 12,000 BTU (1 ton) mini split typically covers about 400–600 sq ft. An undersized unit will struggle to heat/cool, while an oversized one may short-cycle.
• Energy Efficiency (SEER/HSPF): Higher SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) mean lower running costs. Many of the best DIY mini split heat pumps offer SEER 19–22 (some up to ~20 SEER2 under new ratings), indicating very efficient performance. Efficient heat pumps also have high HSPF for heating.
• Climate Capability: If you live in a cold climate, look for models rated to heat down to -13°F or similar. Cold-climate mini split heat pumps use enhanced compressors and sometimes crankcase heaters to function in freezing temperatures. Units like MrCool and Pioneer can maintain heating capacity in subzero weather, whereas some budget models are only rated to 5°F or -4°F.
• DIY Installation Features: The easiest systems for DIYers include pre-charged, quick-connect refrigerant line sets. These systems (e.g. MrCool DIY and Klimaire DIY) come with refrigerant already sealed in the lines and condenser, so you can install without vacuum pumps or special tools. Other models include full installation kits (pre-flared copper lines, wiring, etc.) but still require a vacuum pump to remove air before releasing refrigerant. Consider your comfort level and whether you want truly tool-free installation or don’t mind doing some HVAC vacuum work.
• Smart Connectivity: Many modern mini splits offer Wi-Fi connectivity for control via smartphone apps or voice assistants. If you want to integrate your AC/heat pump with smart home systems (Alexa, Google Assistant), choose a model with built-in Wi-Fi or “Wi-Fi ready” support. For instance, Senville’s units come Alexa-enabled out of the box, while Pioneer and Cooper & Hunter have optional Wi-Fi dongles.
• Noise Level: Mini split heat pumps are known for quiet operation. Indoor air handlers operate as low as 23–40 dB on the lowest fan settings (quieter than a refrigerator). If installing in a bedroom or study, look for models marketed as “whisper-quiet” or check dB ratings. Cooper & Hunter’s MIA series, for example, uses Whisper Technology for ultra-quiet operation, making it ideal for bedrooms.
• Included Accessories: Check what’s included in the kit. Quality DIY kits often come with mounting brackets for the outdoor unit, decorative line set covers, remote controls, and even touch-up paint for line holes. A complete kit can save money versus buying accessories separately. Klimaire’s DIY bundle even includes the wall mounting bracket and necessary electric cables, which is a bonus for DIY installers.

MrCool DIY 4th Gen 12,000 BTU Mini Split Heat Pump

The MrCool DIY 12,000 BTU is widely regarded as the easiest mini split heat pump for DIY installation. It’s a 4th-generation model with Energy Star certification and a high efficiency rating (~22 SEER), suitable for cooling or heating spaces up to about 500 sq ft (like a large room or studio).

• Pre-Charged DIY Installation: MrCool’s patented quick-connect line set comes pre-charged with R-410A refrigerant. The 25-ft line set has screw-on connectors that let you install the system without vacuuming or special tools. Simply run the lines, tighten connections with wrenches, and the system is ready — truly a DIY-friendly setup.
• Performance: This 1-ton heat pump provides reliable cooling and heating. It’s rated to deliver full heat output down to -13°F, making it suitable even for cold climates. It can also cool efficiently in outdoor temperatures up to 115°F. The inverter compressor modulates to save energy and maintain steady temperatures.
• Energy Efficiency: With an approx 22 SEER (up to 22.5 SEER2) rating, the MrCool DIY is extremely efficient. It’s one of the few DIY minisplits that qualify for Energy Star. Users report significantly lower energy bills compared to old electric heaters or window AC units.
• Smart Features: Built-in Wi-Fi allows control via the MrCool app. You can adjust temperature, modes, and schedules from your phone, or integrate with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. This provides convenient remote management and monitoring of the system.
• Quiet Operation: The indoor air handler operates as low as ~23 dB on low fan speed (nearly silent). Even at higher fan settings, it’s quiet enough for a bedroom. The outdoor condenser is around 50 dB, quieter than a typical conversation, so it won’t disturb neighbors.
• Warranty: MrCool offers a standard 7-year compressor and 5-year parts warranty. Notably, if you register the unit, you get a limited lifetime compressor warranty, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in DIY installations. This is a big plus for long-term peace of mind.

Highlight: The MrCool DIY series is the gold standard for do-it-yourself mini splits, combining simple installation (no HVAC technician needed) with high efficiency and smart technology. It’s an ideal choice for homeowners looking for a proven, hassle-free solution to add heating and cooling.

Klimaire DIY 12,000 BTU Mini Split Heat Pump

Klimaire 12,000 BTU DIY Mini Split is another top pick for handy homeowners. Klimaire’s DIY series is designed so you can install it yourself without voiding the warranty. This 1-ton (12k BTU) system is 230V and can comfortably handle about 450–550 sq ft of space. It delivers efficient cooling and heating with a SEER2 rating of 19 (approximately 20 SEER old rating).

• No-Vac Installation: The Klimaire comes with a 25-ft pre-charged quick-connect line set and pre-wired interconnecting cable, very similar to MrCool’s concept. Everything is plug-and-play: mount the indoor air handler, set the outdoor condenser, connect the refrigerant lines and wiring harness, and you’re nearly done. There is no vacuuming required and no need for specialty HVAC tools.
• Efficient Inverter Performance: This heat pump uses a variable-speed DC inverter compressor to modulate energy use. It’s rated 19 SEER2, ensuring solid energy savings. Klimaire designed it for “all climate” performance – it can provide heat even when outdoor temps drop to -13°F and cooling when it’s as low as 5°F outside. That means it’s suitable for a wide range of U.S. climate zones, from chilly northern winters to hot southern summers.
• Smart Control: The unit includes built-in smart connectivity. Using the Smart Life app (or TuyaSmart), you can control settings from anywhere on your smartphone. It also works with Amazon Alexa and Google Home for voice control. This allows instant adjustments to temperature or mode and integration into smart home routines.
• Included Kit & Accessories: Klimaire provides a very complete installation kit. In the box you get the indoor unit, outdoor unit (pre-charged with refrigerant), the 25-ft insulated refrigerant line set with quick connectors, a 25-ft electrical communication cable, and even a wall-mount bracket for the condenser. Having the wall mounting bracket included saves an extra purchase and makes DIY install even easier (you can wall-mount or ground-mount the outside unit).
• Quiet & Reliable: The indoor unit operates down to around 34 dB on low fan – very quiet, thanks to its “Whisper Quiet” fan design. Users find it unobtrusive in bedrooms or living rooms. The outdoor unit is built with a Goldish Fin coating on the coil to resist corrosion, important for durability in salty or humid environments. Klimaire backs the system with a 5-year parts and 7-year compressor warranty, showing confidence in DIY installations when their guidelines are followed.

Highlight: Klimaire’s DIY mini split offers a truly all-inclusive package for the do-it-yourself installer. It stands out for its cold-weather performance and the inclusion of extras like the mounting bracket. This is a great choice if you want a DIY heat pump that’s robust in any season and comes with everything needed for installation.

Pioneer Diamante 12,000 BTU Mini Split Heat Pump

The Pioneer Diamante 12,000 BTU is a favorite among homeowners and one of Amazon’s best-selling mini split systems. Pioneer (by Parker Davis HVAC) is a well-established brand offering affordable yet reliable ductless heat pumps. The Diamante series 12k BTU (1 ton) unit is rated around 19 SEER for cooling efficiency and can heat in outdoor temperatures as low as -13°F. It’s a 230V system suitable for roughly 400–500 sq ft spaces.

• DIY-Friendly (with Caveats): While not a “quick-connect” model, many experienced DIYers install Pioneer units successfully. The kit includes a 16 ft copper line set (pre-flared), indoor/outdoor units pre-charged with refrigerant for that length, control cable, and drain. To install, one must run the lines, make flare connections, vacuum the lines, and then release the refrigerant. This means a vacuum pump and gauge set are needed, or you can hire an HVAC technician for a quick final hook-up. It’s a bit more involved than MrCool/Klimaire, but countless customers have done it themselves by following the detailed manual and online tutorials.
• Efficiency & Performance: Pioneer’s inverter compressor delivers up to 19 SEER cooling and is capable of providing heat even in very cold weather (rated for -13°F with reduced capacity). It has an automatic defrost for winter and can cool in ambient temperatures up to about 122°F in summer. This wide operating range makes it versatile across climate zones. For most moderate climates, the Pioneer will maintain very comfortable indoor temps year-round while keeping power usage low.
• Controls and Optional Wi-Fi: The system comes with an IR remote control for adjusting mode, temperature, fan speed, and setting timers. Pioneer also offers an optional Wi-Fi smart dongle (sold separately) that plugs into the indoor unit, enabling app control and smart home integration. With the Wi-Fi accessory, you can manage the mini split via your phone or voice assistant. If smart features are a priority, it’s nice to know you can upgrade this unit with that capability.
• Quiet Comfort: Users consistently praise the Pioneer for its quiet operation and strong airflow. The indoor unit has a silent mode that makes it whisper-quiet (low 30s dB range), ideal for bedrooms at night. The outdoor compressor is also relatively quiet and not likely to bother any neighbors. The Diamante series has a sleek, unobtrusive indoor air handler design that blends into most rooms.
• Reliability and Support: Pioneer has a reputation for good customer support and a large user community. The unit is UL certified and AHRI rated. The warranty typically is 5 years on the compressor and 2-3 years on parts (when installed according to their instructions – technically a professional install is recommended for full warranty coverage). Many DIYers still choose Pioneer for its mix of value and performance, accepting the need for some extra installation effort in exchange for a lower price point than specialized DIY kits.

Highlight: Pioneer’s Diamante series offers pro-grade performance at DIY cost. It’s a top pick if you want a proven, efficient mini split and are willing to handle (or outsource) the vacuum step during installation. Its strong cold-weather heating capability and optional smart features make it one of the best all-around mini split heat pumps in its class.

Senville LETO 12,000 BTU Mini Split Heat Pump

Senville LETO 12,000 BTU is a popular budget-friendly mini split heat pump that has won over many DIY enthusiasts with its blend of features and price. Senville’s LETO series 12k BTU unit (model SENL-12CD) is a 115V system rated at a high 20.8 SEER2 efficiency (approximately 22 SEER). It comfortably handles cooling/heating for areas around 450–600 sq ft. Senville markets this model as a 4-in-1 system – it provides air conditioning, heating, dehumidification, and fan-only modes.

• Smart Home Integration: One standout feature is built-in Alexa voice control support. This mini split is Alexa Enabled out-of-the-box, meaning after installation you can connect it to your Wi-Fi and use the Senville app or Alexa to control temperature and settings hands-free. You can set routines (e.g. “Alexa, turn on the AC at 6 PM”) and adjust the climate from anywhere via smartphone. Few competitors in this price range offer integrated smart control like this.
• High Efficiency & Cooling Power: With ~21 SEER efficiency, the Senville LETO keeps running costs low. Its inverter compressor modulates smoothly, and users often comment on how quickly it can cool down a space. It also has a turbo mode for fast cooling or heating when you want to reach the set temperature quickly. The system is AHRI certified and uses the standard R-410A refrigerant, which comes pre-charged in the outdoor unit for lines up to 25 ft.
• Heating Performance: The LETO series is rated to provide heat in ambient temperatures as low as 5°F (-15°C). This covers the needs of most temperate zone users (it will comfortably heat in typical winter conditions in places like the mid-Atlantic, Pacific Northwest, etc.). In extremely cold climates (sub-zero Fahrenheit), its heating capacity will drop off – Senville’s AURA series would be a better fit for those extremes. For moderate climates, this unit offers efficient heating and can reduce the need for other heat sources in winter.
• Installation Kit: Senville includes a 16 ft copper line set, control wire, and drain hose in the box. The system is pre-charged with refrigerant to handle up to 25 ft of lines, but professional installation is recommended (or a skilled DIYer with HVAC gauges) because the lines must be vacuumed and then opened to release the charge. Many people do self-install these by renting or buying a vacuum pump or by using a technician for just the final commissioning. All necessary parts are provided, so there’s no need to source additional installation materials aside from mounting brackets or a pad for the condenser (not included).
• Warranty & Support: Senville provides a 5-year warranty on the compressor and 5 years on parts, which is quite robust for a unit at this price point. They have US-based customer support and offer technical assistance for troubleshooting. It’s important to note that to maintain warranty, they (like most brands) will state the unit should be installed by a HVAC professional. However, in practice Senville is known to be reasonably supportive of DIY installers, often helping customers with any setup issues over the phone.
• Noise and Aesthetics: The indoor unit is slim and modern-looking, with an LED temperature display that can be turned off for nighttime. It operates quietly – on low fan the noise is comparable to a soft whisper, so it’s great for bedrooms or offices. The outdoor unit’s noise is also on par with higher-end models. Senville uses a twin-rotary compressor design that balances performance and low sound output.

Highlight: The Senville LETO is one of the best value mini split heat pumps available, combining high efficiency and smart connectivity at an attractive price. It’s an excellent choice for DIYers on a budget who want modern features (like Alexa voice control) and are willing to either DIY with proper tools or involve a pro for the final setup. Thousands of positive reviews attest to its performance and value.

Cooper & Hunter MIA 12,000 BTU Mini Split Heat Pump

Cooper & Hunter MIA Series 12,000 BTU is a high-performance ductless mini split favored for its build quality and quiet operation. C&H is a respected brand (often manufacturing components alongside brands like Gree) and the MIA series 1-ton heat pump is a 115V system rated at 20.8 SEER2 (~20 SEER). It’s designed for rooms around 450 sq ft and is capable of both cooling and heating (down to 5°F ambient for heating).

• Quality & Efficiency: Cooper & Hunter units are known for robust construction and reliability. The MIA 12k BTU is UL Listed and AHRI Certified, indicating it meets strict safety and efficiency standards. At 20+ SEER, it’s among the most efficient in its class, ensuring lower electric bills. Many users choose C&H for continuous, heavy-duty operation (e.g. server rooms or workshops) because of their stable performance.
• Wi-Fi Ready Controls: While the MIA series doesn’t have built-in Wi-Fi by default, it is “Wi-Fi ready.” In fact, a smart Wi-Fi adapter is included in the package via a special smart port. By attaching the included C&H USB adapter, you can control the unit through the C&H smartphone app. This lets you power it on/off, change modes, adjust temperature, and fan speeds remotely with ease. It bridges the gap for those who want smart control in a unit that prioritizes traditional reliability.
• Silent Operation: One of C&H’s marketing points is “Whisper Technology.” The indoor air handler is engineered for ultra-quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms, living rooms, or offices where noise is a concern. Customers often comment that even the outdoor compressor is quieter than expected. This low-noise performance is a result of efficient fan design and sound-dampening insulation.
• Installation Notes: The Cooper & Hunter MIA comes with a 16 ft installation kit: pre-flared copper refrigerant lines, control cable, and drain hose. The outdoor unit is pre-charged with refrigerant for that line length. However, like Pioneer and Senville, it is not marketed as a DIY kit – vacuuming of the lines and professional installation are recommended to ensure the warranty. If you have the know-how, you can install it yourself, but be aware that C&H’s warranty (7 years compressor, 5 years parts) formally requires professional installation. Many people still DIY and report no issues with the unit’s operation when properly installed.
• Applications: This mini split heat pump is versatile: suitable for residential applications (bedrooms, dens, additions) and even light commercial use (offices, retail kiosks). It has a wide operating temperature range, with cooling operation possible in chilly weather and heating possible in mild subzero cold. That makes it a solid choice for those needing year-round climate control.

Highlight: Cooper & Hunter’s MIA 12k stands out for its whisper-quiet comfort and high efficiency. It’s a great pick if you prioritize build quality and silence, and don’t mind that it isn’t a plug-and-play DIY model. With the included Wi-Fi adapter, you still get modern smart control convenience alongside the unit’s excellent heating and cooling capabilities.

DuctlessAire 12,000 BTU Mini Split Heat Pump

The DuctlessAire 12,000 BTU mini split is a lesser-known gem that offers solid performance for smaller areas (up to about 400 sq ft). This 1-ton ductless heat pump has a SEER2 rating of 17.6, making it reasonably efficient, and it provides year-round comfort with its cooling and heating functions. DuctlessAire markets the system as a complete installation kit, which appeals to DIY installers, though it doesn’t have the tool-free quick connectors of some specialized DIY brands.

• Complete Installation Kit: The package includes a 16 ft line set (insulated copper, pre-flared), indoor unit, outdoor unit, 16 ft of control wiring, and drain hose – essentially everything needed for a standard install. The outdoor condenser is pre-charged with refrigerant to support the included line length. While you still need to vacuum the lines during installation, having all components on hand is convenient. The included manual provides guidance for setup, and many moderately skilled DIYers have installed DuctlessAire units successfully.
• Heating & Cooling Performance: This unit is designed for “year-round comfort.” It cools up to 400 sq ft efficiently, removing humidity with its dehumidification mode in the summer. For heating, it’s rated for operation down to roughly 5°F outdoor temps (typical for standard heat pumps). In very cold weather, its output will reduce, so it’s best suited for moderate climates or as supplemental heat in colder areas. The inverter compressor technology ensures that it ramps up or down smoothly to maintain the set temperature without big fluctuations.
• Quiet Operation: DuctlessAire emphasizes low noise. The indoor unit has a quiet blower and multiple fan speeds, so you can select a low, quiet setting for gentle airflow. Users mention that it’s very quiet in operation, often only a gentle hum is heard when the room is silent. This makes it a good candidate for small bedrooms or home offices where noise might be a distraction.
• Durability & Design: The outdoor unit is built with a rust-resistant cabinet and is designed to withstand various weather conditions. It has a built-in basepan heater for winter to prevent frost build-up, which is a feature typically found in more premium units – a nice surprise in a value-oriented model. The system uses “3D Air Flow” technology, meaning the louvers can direct air in multiple directions to ensure even cooling/heating throughout the space.
• Smart Features: This model is labeled “WiFi/Alexa ready,” indicating that with an optional add-on (purchased separately), you can enable smart control. Without the add-on, it is operated via the included remote control which offers the usual settings (mode, temperature, fan, swing, timers). If smart home integration is desired, the additional module would plug in to give you app and voice control capabilities.
• Warranty: DuctlessAire provides a warranty (typically around 1 year parts, 5-7 years compressor – one should verify current terms). As with others, they recommend professional installation. However, given the brand’s smaller footprint, many buyers are DIYers who were attracted by the lower cost. It’s wise to pressure test and vacuum the system properly to ensure longevity if you self-install.

Highlight: The DuctlessAire 12k BTU mini split is a quiet and capable heat pump for small spaces, offering a full installation kit and reliable performance. It’s a good option for budget-conscious buyers who want a complete solution and are comfortable with the installation process (or plan to hire a technician for part of it). Its quiet operation and included cold-weather features add to the value for year-round use.

DELLA 12,000 BTU Mini Split Heat Pump

DELLA 12,000 BTU Mini Split is a highly popular choice on Amazon, known for offering a lot of features at a low price point. This 115V ductless mini split is rated around 19 SEER2 for cooling efficiency and can service areas up to 550 sq ft. Della includes many of the bells and whistles you’d find in more expensive units – from smart WiFi connectivity to multiple operating modes – making it a compelling budget pick for DIYers willing to take on the installation.

• Energy-Efficient Cooling: With 12,000 BTU capacity and inverter technology, the Della can cool a studio, large bedroom, or small living area effectively. Its 19 SEER2 rating (roughly 20 SEER) means it provides energy-efficient cooling and heating, cutting down electricity usage by up to 30% compared to older AC systems. It’s also ETL Listed and AHRI Certified, meeting safety and performance standards.
• Heating in Cold Weather: This unit is a heat pump with heating capability down to about -4°F ambient. It features an “intelligent compressor pre-heating” function and gold-plated fin coating to aid performance in cold temperatures. While extremely low temps may reduce its heating efficiency, it will still produce heat when it’s below 0 outside, which is impressive for a budget mini split. This makes it viable as a primary heat source in milder winter regions and a supplemental heater in very cold regions.
• Smart & Convenient Features: Della packed a lot into this model:
  • 4D Air Flow: Motorized louvers move both vertically and horizontally, distributing air evenly throughout the room (up/down and left/right air sweep).
  • I-Feel Sensor: The remote control has a built-in temperature sensor. In I-Feel mode, the system adjusts based on the temperature at the remote’s location, ensuring the area around you reaches the desired comfort level (rather than just where the indoor unit is).
  • Multiple Modes: Besides cooling and heating, it has a dry (dehumidification) mode, fan-only mode, sleep mode (for gradual temperature adjustments overnight), and turbo mode for quick conditioning.
  • WiFi App Control: This model works with a mobile app and is advertised to be compatible with Alexa for voice commands. You can turn the system on/off or change settings via your phone or smart speaker, adding convenience especially if you’re away or want to pre-cool a room.
• Installation Considerations: The Della mini split comes with the standard 16.4 ft line set and installation accessories. However, note that this is not a DIY quick-connect unit; line-set vacuuming is required. The manufacturer explicitly states that professional installation is required and that it’s not a DIY product. In practice, many users have self-installed by carefully following instructions, flaring and connecting the lines, vacuuming, and checking for leaks. If you plan to DIY, ensure you have or rent proper HVAC tools to do so. Given the low cost of the unit, some buyers hire a professional for just 1-2 hours to handle the critical refrigerant part, while they do the mounting and drilling themselves.
• Noise Levels: Della’s indoor unit operates at about 42 dB on the lowest setting, which is still fairly quiet – roughly the sound level of a library. On higher fan speeds it will be audible but not intrusive (comparable to white noise). For most home applications, the sound is a non-issue, and many use these in bedrooms with no complaints.
• Value Proposition: The biggest draw of the Della 12k mini split is its value. You get a full-featured heat pump system often for significantly less than premium brands. It’s particularly attractive for garages, workshops, home additions, or offices where you want good climate control without overspending. The trade-off is possibly a bit more effort in installing and the need to ensure everything is calibrated right, but once running, users report it performs on par with more expensive units in terms of cooling and heating the space.

Highlight: The Della 12,000 BTU mini split is an budget-friendly workhorse with smart features. It’s ideal for DIYers confident in their installation skills or willing to get a little professional help. When installed properly, it provides quiet, efficient cooling and heating, and the included Wi-Fi/Alexa capabilities make it a modern upgrade for any space at a fraction of the cost of name-brand systems.

DIY Mini Split Heat Pumps for Multiple Zones

If you’re looking to climate control multiple rooms with one system, there are DIY multi-zone mini split heat pump options available as well. Brands like MrCool offer multi-zone DIY systems (for example, a 36,000 BTU condenser that can connect to 2-4 indoor air handlers). These systems also come with pre-charged quick-connect lines for each indoor unit, making it possible for a homeowner to set up a whole-home solution without HVAC technicians. Multi-zone DIY kits let you individually control the temperature in each room (zone) with separate remotes or smart controls, which can dramatically improve your home’s comfort and efficiency.

When considering a multi-zone DIY mini split, keep in mind:

• Sizing: You’ll need to choose a condenser size (BTU capacity) that can handle the combined load of all target rooms. Common DIY multi-zone sizes are 27k BTU (3-zone) or 36k BTU (4-zone), etc. Ensure each indoor unit’s BTU rating is appropriate for its room size.
• Installation: Installation complexity increases with multi-zone units since you have to mount and connect multiple air handlers and run multiple line sets. However, the principles remain the same – no vacuum needed if using the provided quick-connect lines. Just plan the layout of lines carefully (you may have to drill larger holes to pass multiple lines or use a different wall location for each room’s lines).
• Electrical: Multi-zone condensers usually require a 230V circuit and higher amperage. Ensure your electrical panel can accommodate the needed breaker and that you follow electrical codes for safely wiring the system.

Even with these considerations, many homeowners successfully install multi-zone DIY systems to heat and cool their entire home or a significant portion of it. The upfront kit cost is higher, but compared to installing multiple single-zone units or a central system with ductwork, it can still be cost-effective. Plus, you maintain zoned control, which is a key efficiency benefit of mini splits.

Note: For very large or complex installations, or if you feel unsure about multi-zone setups, you can always consider hiring a professional for part of the job. Some users do a “hybrid DIY” – mounting units and running lines themselves, then hiring a pro to check connections and commissioning. This can still save money while ensuring everything is perfectly tuned.

DIY Ductless AC Heat Pump Kit Buying Guide

Our Ductless System Buying Guide has all the basic information required to understand these impressive systems and make a good choice for your home.

The information here relates specifically to DIY mini split or ductless systems.

Make Sure it is DIY Friendly

To be a DIY ductless AC heat pump, it must have these traits:  

• Pre-charged refrigerant in the unit and line set.
• Not require professional meters or vacuum.
• Not require adding any refrigerant.

What the Kits Don’t Include

You’ll need the following that are not in the kit:

• A dedicated 208/220 circuit in your electrical panel (a few models are 110/120).
• Wiring to a junction box where the wiring will connect.
• An AC shut-off at the junction box.

If you can DIY these steps, then you’ll really save a lot of money

How Much Can You Save?

Total potential cost savings are up to $2,700, maybe a little more. Most homeowners save about $925 with DIY installation when they do a large portion of the labor. Here’s a breakdown of costs and how to save money.

Pro installation will include “what the kits don’t include.”

Some sites or product pages might suggest you can save the whole cost of installation. If you install yourself – if you DIY “what the kits don’t include,” then you can save all of it except the price of wiring, a junction box and the single (110V) or double (220V) circuit. The total cost of the materials is less than $75.

But if you hire an electrician to do the wiring and install or connect to circuits in the electrical panel, the price tag on these items is $850 – $1400 for most homes.

That means your total cost savings will be far less – more in the neighborhood of $450 to $1,100 with an average of $675. All you would be saving in this scenario is the cost of these steps:

• Hanging the outside unit
• Hanging the inside unit
• Cutting a hole in the exterior wall
• Connecting the two units with refrigerant line and electrical wiring
• Running a drain line out of the house
• Testing and fine-tuning the system

Still, with more than $1,000 in potential savings, a DIY ductless AC system is worth considering. This is especially true if you have good mechanical skills.

DIY Ductless AC Installation

One reader suggested this list of “skills” needed to successfully install a do-it-yourself mini split AC or heat pump:

• Patience
• Common sense
• Mechanical aptitude and experience
• Knowledge of electrical codes
• Basic tools and reasonable skill in using them

Videos are also an indispensable help in explaining the negative nuances of certain brands. Here’s a video about a Pioneer DIY mini split system installation.

Pros and Cons of DIY Ductless AC Systems

Here’s a brief rundown of what’s to like and what’s not to dislike so much.

Pros:

Ductless ACs have a long list of benefits including lower energy requirements, sub-zero operation where standard heat pumps would fail.

Lower potential cost with the biggest cost factor being how much of the work you are willing and able to do.

Cons:

It must be installed correctly – or the system won’t do what it is intended to do.

Cost savings aren’t as high as you might expect if an electrician is hired to wire unit.