Note: This article mainly discusses Samsung 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.
Samsung is a technology company with global reach. It’s HVAC department was an early adopter of mini split technology, but in the last few decades, the brand hasn’t quite kept pace with industry leaders like Mitsubishi Electric, LG, Fujitsu and Friedrich when it comes to efficiency. It has embraced WiFi and Smart Home connectivity though. There are many Samsung mini split models being sold that are no longer in production. This guide covers the current lineup of Samsung mini split outdoor and indoor units.
How Samsung Mini Splits Compare with Other Brands
Comparing Samsung mini splits to other leading brands in the U.S. market, there are several important aspects that should be mentioned:
The SEER ratings of Samsung mini splits are usually competitive, with a range of 20-27.5, which places them at the same level as such industry leaders as Mitsubishi and Daikin. The systems of Samsung are especially good in the cold weather conditions, and they are able to operate efficiently even at -13F (-25C), which is equal to or higher than the majority of competitors.
Samsung is in the mid to upper-mid price segment, which is usually cheaper than the high-end brands such as Mitsubishi and Fujitsu, but a little expensive than low-end brands such as Pioneer and Mr. Cool. The price to feature ratio usually works in favor of Samsung particularly in their high level of technology integration.
The warranty provided by Samsung is standard 10 years on compressors and 5 years on parts, similar to other large manufacturers. Nevertheless, their service network is not as broad in the country as that of some of their rivals such as Carrier or Trane, which could influence the availability of services in some areas.
Samsung units have installation requirements similar to other brands, with some HVAC professionals indicating that Samsung documentation and support material is more thorough than many competitors. The parts may be less available than those of such brands as Daikin or Mitsubishi, which have a longer history in the American market.
Although all the leading brands provide energy efficient solutions, Samsung units tend to perform very well in real life efficiency, especially in moderate climates. Their wind-free technology that reduces direct air flow is what makes them stand out among the competitors and can lead to more even comfort and even reduced energy consumption.
All these factors make Samsung mini splits a good candidate in the U.S. market especially to homeowners who value integration of smart homes and energy efficiency at an affordable cost.
When considering these factors collectively, Samsung mini splits emerge as a strong contender in the U.S. market, particularly for homeowners prioritizing smart home integration and energy efficiency at a reasonable price point.
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Top Samsung Mini Split Features
Samsung’s FJM Max Heat outdoor unit provides 100% heating in outdoor temperatures as low as 5F. It continues to provide sufficient heat for the space it serves to -13F. It is an Energy Star certified cold climate air source heat pump. It has a base pan heater to prevent condensate from freezing.
Standard FJM and Max Heat models are equipped with dual BLDC compressors that provide evener, more consistent heating and air conditioning than single-compressor condensing units. These outdoor units support up to 5 indoor units.
FJM systems are WiFi-enabled for remote monitoring and control using the Samsung app and a smart device. The Whisper Wi-Fi indoor units are too. WiFi technology makes it easy to turn the system down to save energy while you’re away and have the home comfortable when you arrive. Wind-Free and Smart Pearl units are WiFi-enabled and work with Samsung’s Smart Home system.
Samsung Quantum and Wind-Free heat pumps are packaged units, called Room Air Conditioners (RAC), much like you find in hotel rooms. They’re not technically mini split systems. The compressor and air handler are packaged in a single indoor unit. This cuts down on installation cost.
Warranties are slightly above averages, ranging from 7 to 10 years depending on the product line.
Samsung Mini Split HVAC Cons
Samsung efficiency ranges from standard to mid-range. The brand has lagged other top manufacturers in making super high-efficiency (30+) equipment, though the technology is available. Samsung has focused on smart home technology, and for many, that’s considered a plus.
The largest Samsung outdoor units are 30,000 BTU, or 2.5 tons. That’s enough capacity for up to about 1,500 square feet. Most top brands make units at least up to 48,000 BTU and there are 60,000 BTU units available too.
Samsung Mini Split Model Comparisons and Recommendations
This table provides an overview of current Samsung ductless systems.
| Target Efficiency | Model/Series | SEER | HSPF | Compressor Sizes | Indoor Unit Sizes | Room sq. ft. | Indoor Unit Type | Zones |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Pearl/Smart Pearl | 28.1 | 12 | 9K-12K BTU | 9K, 12K | 350-500 | Wall | 1 |
| Mid-range | Smart Whisper/WiFi | 23 | 10.7 | 9K-24K BTU | 9K, 12K, 18K, 24K | 350-875 | Wall | 1 |
| CAC Slim-duct | 21 | 10.5 | 9K-18K BTU | 9K, 12K, 18K | 350-750 | Wall | 1 | |
| Wind-Free RAC | 21 | 10 | 9K-12K BTU | 9K, 12K | 350-500 | Wall | 1 | |
| Novus | 20 | 9.8 | 9K-24K BTU | 9K, 12K, 18K, 24K | 350-875 | Wall | 1 | |
| Max | 19 | 9.5 | 9K-36K BTU | 9K, 12K, 18K, 24K, 36K | 350-1,500 | Wall | 1 | |
| Basic | Quantum RAC | 17 | 8.5 | 9K-24K BTU | 9K, 12K, 18K, 24K | 350-875 | Wall | 1 |
| Mid-range | FJM | 19 | 10 | 20K-30K BTU | 7K, 9K, 12K, 18K, 24K | 300-875 | Wall, ceiling, ducted | 5 |
| FJM Max Heat | 18 | 10 | 20K-30K BTU | 7K, 9K, 12K, 18K, 24K | 300-875 | Wall, ceiling, ducted | 5 | |
The Pearl and Smart Pearl connected system are good choices for very warm climates or whenever the best efficiency available is your priority. These units and the Wind-Free RAC are ideal for small-to-medium rooms like a single bedroom, office or converted attic. Finding a retailer that carries the Wind-Free systems is difficult.
For the most efficient heating of a larger single zone, consider the Whisper WiFi and Smart Whisper. They’re especially attractive if you want to control the zone’s heating and cooling via a smart app or integrate it into a smart home system. For example, with the Smart Whisper and the Samsung Smart Home system, you can set up a series of actions such as turn down the heat, lower the lights and turn on the security system to occur at a set time each day.
For the most affordable heating and air conditioning, consider the Max and Quantum RAC systems. Understand that RAC systems reduce installation, but because the compressor and air handler are combined in an indoor package, the noise level might be too high for a bedroom.
For multiple zones, using a single outdoor unit and 2 to 5 indoor units is a more affordable setup than installing several single-zone systems. The FJM multizone system is best for warm and moderate climates. In cold climates, the FJM Max Heat system is essential. The problem with both systems is the 24,000 BTU maximum capacity.
Samsung Mini Split Prices for Complete Systems and Components
The prices for installed systems in the table below include everything required – Mounting hardware, refrigerant line set, wiring, drain and more.
|
Samsung Outdoor Models
|
Home Size (sf)
|
Indoor & Outdoor Unit Price
|
Total Price with Installed
|
| Pearl/Smart Pearl | 9K-12K BTU | $2,250-$2,700 |
$3,050-$4,200
|
| Smart Whisper/WiFi | 9K-24K BTU | $2,050-$2,695 |
$2,850-$4,195
|
| CAC Slim-duct | 9K-18K BTU | $2,485-$3,550 |
$3,285-$5,050
|
| Wind-Free RAC | 9K-12K BTU | $2,135-$2,495 |
$2,935-$3,995
|
| Novus | 9K-24K BTU | $1,550-$2,465 |
$2350-$3,965
|
| Max | 9K-36K BTU | $1,625-$4,200 | $2,425-$5,700 |
| Quantum RAC | 9K-24K BTU | $1,285-$2,150 | $2,085-$3,650 |
| FJM (Multi Zone) | 20K-30K BTU | $3,400-$7,200 | $4,900-$11,200 |
| FJM Max Heat(Multi Zone) | 20K-30K BTU | $3,635-$7,550 | $5,135-$11,550 |
How to Get the Best Samsung 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.
