Mitsubishi Mini Split Reviews: Air Conditioner Price Guide

So you have decided on a ductless mini-split AC system for your home. It is a good choice. Now you only need to pick the model, size, and capacity of the system. This can be an overwhelming choice with more options, features, and settings than you will know what to do with.

Enter the Mitsubishi mini-split ACs. With some of the most advanced features, simple operations, and quick installs, Mitsubishi makes that overwhelming choice you have to make, a little bit easier. This article will explain why Mitsubishi is a great option for your next mini-split system.

Mitsubishi MZ-FH15NA

If you are looking at purchasing a Mitsubishi mini-split AC system for your home, you have a number of models to choose from. One of the most reviewed, installed, and used models is the MZ-FH15NA.

This model is a single-zone system that comes with a single condenser unit, one interior fan unit, and a remote control. The one downside to this model is that it must be professionally installed to take advantage of the full 10-year warranty. While this may put off some of the avid DIYers, the cost savings and professional installation are well worth the advantages of the warranty.

Once installed, you will take advantage of the energy-efficient operation (SEER rating of 22), and the installation costs will usually pay for themselves in the first year. On top of that, all of the comfort controls are included, including I-See, zone monitoring, and Hyper Heat.

The system can run in AC mode, on high and still only produces about 22dB of noise. You won’t know it is running except for the perfect temperature and light breeze that is running through your room. The condenser fan comes with the Inverter technology to boost your energy savings up to 40% compared to other models of the same size.

This 15,000 BTU (cooling, 18,000 BTU heating) unit will cool or heat up to 550 square feet and gives you optimal control with three different air settings (left, center, and right) depending on where and how it is mounted.

When all is said and done, it will cost you more not to install this unit than it is to go without it. While it isn’t the cheapest model on the market, it is one of the most durable, reliable, and long-lasting mini-split systems around.

With three filters, in-home allergens are removed (up to 99%), including bacteria and viruses. The average filter replacement is annually, saving you even more money in the long run. You can’t lose.

Why Choose Mitsubishi?

If you want a company that knows quality, reliability, and dedication to their craft, Mitsubishi is that company. No matter which model or system you go with, the Mitsubishi name on the machine will give you high-quality, long-lasting comfort in your home.

Considerations for Buying a Mitsubishi Mini Split System

Before you click the buy button on any of the models, there are several factors you need to consider. Below is a brief Mitsubishi mini-split AC buyer’s guide. Read through it and make sure you have planned for everything.

Energy Efficiency/SEER Rating

Most electrical systems will have a rating that tells you how efficient it is. The Energy Efficiency Rating will determine the power consumption of the unit over a particular period of time and give you an estimate of how much (annually) it should cost to operate that equipment.

Energy Star systems, like those built by Mitsubishi, have higher SEER numbers than a lot of the competition. The higher the SEER number, the less you need to pay on your monthly energy bills to run the mini-split AC.

However, all systems have slightly different ratings based on size, power needs, and amount of use. The key is not to look for the highest SEER rating, but to find the model with the power to cool your home the most efficiently. Remember, a system running longer will cost you more, regardless of the SEER rating.

Compressor Options

There are a few different types of compressors to choose from as well. The standard compressor is reliable, does its job, and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. However, they aren’t the most efficient types available.

Mitsubishi also uses inverter-driven compressors that help reduce power consumption by drawing only the required amount needed to cool or heat the space.

The initial cost for these compressors, though, is a bit higher. While the energy savings over time may offset this cost, your budget will help determine which type is best for you to start with.

Condenser Fan Options

The condenser fans aren’t often thought about. However, they can be more efficient. Mitsubishi uses features that allow the fan to run only when needed and to help prepare the system to blow hot air immediately or cold air upon startup without drafts.

Other features, like zone control, allow the fans to run less frequently and more efficiently. These additional fan features will enable you to run the system for more extended periods or more often and not have such a drastic draw on the power consumption.

Heating Options

A lot of mini-split systems will offer heating as well as air conditioning. However, it is important to understand the types of heating offered. Some mini-split AC systems use heat pumps instead of heating elements. This allows you better control of the heat and where it is pushed to but can be less efficient.

Heating elements in the evaporator portion will be more efficient and heat quicker, but cost more in the beginning. The choice is yours, though, and both options will heat your room to temperature, regardless.

Noise Levels

Quiet running systems are almost a must, but it is a feature we often overlook. Perhaps we expect the air conditioner or heater to be quiet, but this isn’t always the case.

Noise levels when running are affected by the operation mode, fan speed, and where the vents are located. In most cases, the Mitsubishi systems are quiet enough not to disturb daily life. You won’t need to adjust the volume on your TV or your conversation when the system is running.

Noise levels, measured in decibels (DB), tell you how loud something is at a certain distance. A hairdryer, for example, will produce about 65dB at 15 feet. Your Mitsubishi mini-split system will be quieter than this. Often in the low- to mid-30 dB range, these systems are quiet enough to run consistently without being noticed.

Price & Warranty

The final thing to consider will be your budget. While most mini-split systems are affordable for most budgets, the additional features and options can raise the price significantly.

Staying within your budget will help your peace of mind and allow you to enjoy your investment even more.

You should also pay attention to the warranty. While the period of the warranty and its coverage are important to understand, you need to read through the warranty items to make sure you qualify.

Some systems will require professional installation for the warranty to take effect. If you install the mini-split system as a DIY in these cases, you may not be covered.

Mitsubishi Filtration

Mitsubishi mini-split systems use up to three different types of filters. The company has shortened them to “D,” “E,” and “N.” The D filter is the deodorizing filter that is a washable filter designed to trap and eliminate odors and odor-causing bacteria from the air.

The E filter is an electrostatic filter made specifically to trap and collect in-home allergens. Allergy-causing enzymes and particles like mold, mildew, spores, pet dander, and pollen are all captured in this washable filter.

The N filter is a non-replaceable semi-permanent Nano platinum filter. You can wash it, of course, and it is designed as the first layer of defense against bacteria and viruses. Instead of the common catechin (green tea bioflavonoid), nano platinum is a superior antibacterial material.

Hyper Heat

Hyper heating is a new technology introduced by Mitsubishi (known as H2i technology) that provides warm air and heat to the home in extreme outdoor temperatures. While heat pumps are efficient, once the temperature drops below 23 degrees (F), most heat pumps require a supplemental heat source to continue to operate.

At 23 degrees, the Mitsubishi units are still operating at 100% efficiency. The systems continue to run without the need for supplemental heating to temperatures as low as -13 degree (F) while maintaining over 75% efficiency. Couple that with instant heat, a technology that provides no draft and warm air the moment you turn it on, and you have a highly capable winter solution.

I-See Sensors

Another newer technology built-in to most Mitsubishi mini-split AC systems is the 3-D I-See sensor. This is an active sensor that has three settings (Active, away, and off). In essence, the sensor is a motion detector that scans the room looking for movement through heat signatures.

The sensor will tell if a room is occupied or not and will adjust the desired temperature accordingly. This means if you are in a room more often, the temperature in that room will maintain the set temperature on the thermostat.

You can also set this to away mode, where it will reduce the number of times the AC or heater comes on when no one is home, reducing usage and power consumption to improve energy savings. The I-See option can also be disabled entirely if you wish.

SEER Ratings

When it comes to energy savings, there are few better than the Mitsubishi models. With an average SEER rating of 22, these units cost less to operate than the amount of electricity used by some portable AC units and even more affordable to operate year-round than even the most efficient window units.

Comfort Control Options

Along with the I-See sensors, there are other comfort control options available, too. Zoned monitoring is one of the most advanced methods of temperature control there is without there being a smart-app feature.

Zoned monitoring takes the temperatures from the sensors at the units in various rooms to determine the overall temperature of the home. You can alter the zones with the I-See to only read temperatures in occupied rooms if you wish.

Instead of a central location to read a single temp, the zone control maintains the set temperature in the rooms that are occupied, saving you time, effort, and money.

You will also find compressor inverter technology. Not only does an inverter save wear and tear on the compressor, but it also allows for even heat and cold distribution. Inverters prevent the compressor from doing massive power draws on startup and provides you with hot or cold air the moment the system turns on.

Noise Levels

The Mitsubishi ductless mini split systems are some of the quietest operating systems on the market. With few exceptions, the average decibel rating of the system running on high mode is around 22dB.

At 22dB, the system is quieter than a whispering conversation in a quiet room. There won’t be any interference of noise when you are watching television, have friends and family over, and are talking. You can even listen to your music without the need for headphones, too.

How Does a Mitsubishi Mini Split Work?

The short description is that ductless mini split ACs work in the same manner as central ACs. Through the use of a compressor and an evaporator, they pull in warm and humid air from your home, remove the moisture and chill the air and returning the colder air to the room.

The main difference, obviously, is that mini-split systems don’t use ducting. Heat is captured through the refrigerant lines and suctioned in and removed by the external heat pump. When you switch to heat mode, the entire system works backward, pulling heat from outside and pushing it into the home.

The Mitsubishi models use advanced heat pumps that don’t require supplemental heat sources even in sub-freezing temperatures. They also use inverter compressors (see below) along with other sensors and technologies to run smoother, longer, and more efficient than most other brands.

The Mitsubishi Inverter Technology

The inverter technology Mitsubishi uses with their compressors is state of the art. Instead of a single-speed compressor that is either on or off, the inverter compressor uses variable speeds to control airflow. When more air is needed, the compressor kicks up a speed or two and slows down when less air is needed.

The system is considered “always on,” which reduces the energy required to start and stop a compressor multiple times a day. In reality, the compressor isn’t always running, but the amperage and current required to get it going are reduced by up to 40%.

This results in a more efficient airflow, lower cost on your power bill, and a system that can produce hot air or cold air when starting up without the cool air draft most other systems have.

Comparing Mitsubishi to Other Mini Split AC Brands

As we have covered a few times already, you have a lot of options to choose from. One of those choices will be in the brand of ductless air conditioners that you purchase. Mitsubishi isn’t the only game in town, and they have some fierce competition from other brands such as Fujitsu, Daikin, and Senville. You can also choose from Mr. Cool or even Gree. See? A lot of choices.

When it comes to value and efficiency, though, Mr. Cool and Gree are a little lower on the list. Senville has a lot of advantages in its own right and is formidable when it comes to home climate control. However, the biggest competition is in the Fujitsu vs. Mitsubishi arena.

In terms of efficiency, Fujitsu is almost a consistent winner. They create models with a SEER rating of 38. This is incredible efficiency, and Mitsubishi comes as close as producing models that get upwards of 28 to 30. Likewise, though, Fujitsu also delivers models that are sub-20, so it balances out in the end.

Fujitsu also has more wireless control models than Mitsubishi, but Mitsubishi has a much higher average Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). The HSPF is the heating equivalent of the SEER rating. When it comes to cost savings in winter, Mitsubishi wins almost every time.

Where Mitsubishi truly stands out is in its filtration and noise levels. On the average, Mitsubishi models are much quieter (averaging 33dB across their line up) than the Fujitsu models (a company average of 44dB). The triple filtration and bacterial removal are also much better and more effective than Fujitsu.

There are several brands of mini-split air conditioners on the market and we have covered many of them on other pages on our site.

Mitsubishi Mini Split Troubleshooting Guide

There are a lot of factors that can cause issues with your Mitsubishi ductless air conditioner. Each owner’s manual will have a thorough and in-depth troubleshooting guide for you to self-diagnose the problem. You can also contact Mitsubishi Electric for assistance if needed.

Below is a list of common issues and their possible fixes.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Can I access my Mitsubishi mini split manual online?

There are several models with online manuals. Your chosen model is most likely on the list. You can check for your specific model number and download or view the PDF manual by visiting the Mitsubishi operations manual page on their website.

How much will professional installation of a Mitsubishi mini split cost?

Depending on where you live, and if any permits, extra parts, or special installation requirements are needed, your actual cost can vary greatly. On average, across the US, Home Advisor states that a mini split AC install will cost about $3350. Low-end installations can drop to $1500, while multiple stage or zoned installation can top $8000.

What is the Mitsubishi mini split warranty policy?

As long as the system is professionally installed, Mitsubishi will warranty the mini split system for a period of 10-years. This warranty covers craftsmanship, normal wear, and tear and the compressor, heat pump, and refrigerant lines. It does not include maintenance, filters, or damage due to use outside normal operation.

How do I determine the correct AC size for my Mitsubishi ductless mini split?

You will want to match BTU output with the square footage or your space. You can measure the square feet of your room by multiplying the length of the room (in feet) by the width. However, other factors come into play as well. Such things as ceiling height, number of windows, if the room gets direct sunlight during the day, and even how much furniture is in the space can all affect how efficient the AC is. Once you have your square foot measurement, you can compare the size to the BTU using a BTU chart, such as this one.

How can I contact Mitsubishi mini split tech support about problems with my unit?

Mitsubishi does everything in its power to help you get the help and services you need. Their technical support page offers you the chance to select your specific type of help needed, and based on the products and your location, help can be a phone call or email away.

Are Mitsubishi mini split systems energy efficient?

Mitsubishi mini split systems are among the most efficient in the industry. There are only a few that have a higher average rating, such as Fujitsu, but these are for high-end models. Mitsubishi averages a SEER rating between 22-25, which is remarkable for the number and range of products they offer.

Where is the best place to shop for a Mitsubishi mini split?

Currently, the best option for buying a new Mitsubishi mini-split system is through Amazon, Sylvane or your local retailer. When you buy through Amazon or Sylvane, you get the fastest shipping, friendly and simple support as well as the option to purchase professional installation (in most cases) at the same time as your order. You can save time, money, and frustration shopping for everything you need all in one place.

Conclusion

Mitsubishi Electric provides you with a vast line up of mini split air conditioner systems. It can be hard to choose the right model for you. Based on size, reviews, cost, and efficiency, the top rated model right now is the Mitsubishi MZ-FH15NA.

Along with I-See, zone monitoring, hyper heat, and remote operation, this 22 SEER unit will heat your home on the coldest days, chill the air on the hottest days and remove humidity from your home effortlessly. It is the ideal model for small or medium-sized spaces that want year-round operation without a drastic increase in their energy bills.