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Quick Guide - Senville
My Opinion
Senville mini-splits provide great performance and efficiency for their price. They're a fantastic option for those looking for reliable and cost-effective cooling solutions.
4.6
Overall Score
Reliability
4.5
Performance
4.7
Energy Efficiency
4.8
Warranty
4.5
Value for Money
4.7
Benefits
Drawbacks
As an HVAC installer, I am amazed at how fast mini-splits are catching on. In the last few years, I've gone from recommending the systems to having customers inquire about them.
I am often asked about Senville mini splits, so I put together this guide with my honest opinion on the systems.
Senville mini split – quick guide!
Senville Aura Series
The Aura series are your top-of-the-line energy efficient Senville mini-splits. They have WiFi connectivity for easy maintenance and diagnostics and a SEER of up to 25 based on model.
Senville SENA Series
The SENA Series is a good alternative to the Aura Series. They are more affordable than the Aura Series but have fewer features and a less comprehensive warranty.
Senville LETO Series - 1st Generation Models
The Senville LETO Series is the budget line of mini-split from the company. They are the most affordable of the lineup, but there are several first generation models I've seen for sale even though they've been discontinued. I recommend avoiding discontinued models, as replacement parts will be harder to find, and the warranty will likely be void.
My review of the Senville mini split air conditioner range
There is no shortage of HVAC mini splits available, but I’ve found myself installing a lot of Senville systems lately.
The main reason that I go with Senville is that they offer a few different options that other brands do not.
The most notable addition to the Senville lineup is the baseboard indoor unit. I find that in most cases, these are easier to install than wall-mounted units and fit in tight spaces.
There is also a ducted cassette option that works well if a customer doesn't want to see the indoor unit. I'll go into all that and more below.
ACLAB note:
I highly encourage mini-split buyers to research the actual manufacturers of the systems they are considering. Senville mini splits are made by Gree, which makes most of the cheaper mini split brands available today. Therefore, I don't put too much emphasis on the actual brand and instead consider the cost, size, and energy efficiency.
Pros & cons – quick guide!
The good
The bad
How much do they cost?
Air conditioner costs vary significantly throughout the country, and Senville mini splits are no exception.
The good news is that these are available online, so consumers can see exactly how much the units cost.
Obviously, installation will come at an added cost, so it's a good idea to find an installer before purchasing the system.
I put this chart together to make it easier to compare all of Senville’s offerings.
The prices listed below are based on those from Senvile’s website and do not include taxes, shipping, or installation.
Pricing by model
Model | BTU | SEER | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
LETO Series | 9,000 | 20.5 | $749.99 |
LETO Series | 12,000 | 20.5 | $799.99 |
LETO Series | 18,000 | 19 | $999.99 |
LETO Series | 24,000 | 18 | $1,199.99 |
AURA Series | 9,000 | 28 | $1,299.99 |
AURA Series | 12,000 | 25 | $1,499.99 |
AURA Series | 18,000 | 22 | $1,699.99 |
AURA Series | 24,000 | 21.5 | $1,799.99 |
AURA Series | 33,000 | 19.5 | $2,099.99 |
Floor Console | 12,000 | 23 | $1,399.99 |
Floor Console | 18,000 | 20 | $1,499.99 |
Floor Console | 24,000 | 20 | $1,599.99 |
SENA | 9,000 | 20.5 | $1,099.99 |
SENA | 12,000 | 21.5 | $1,399.99 |
SENA | 18,000 | 20 | $1,499.99 |
SENA | 24,000 | 20.2 | $1,599.99 |
Ducted | 9,000 | 23 | $999.99 |
Ducted | 12,000 | 21.5 | $1,099.99 |
Ducted | 18,000 | 19.6 | $1,499.99 |
Ducted | 24,000 | 20.6 | $1,599.99 |
*The cost of installation generally starts around $1,000, but it can go over $4,000 in more complex scenarios. I will discuss installation costs in more detail later, so this chart only includes the cost of the unit.
Series Name | BTU | Area | SEER | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
LETO | 9000 | 450 sq ft | 25 | |
LETO | 12000 | 750 sq ft | 22.5 | |
LETO | 18000 | 1100 sq ft | 20 | |
AURA | 24000 | 1500 sq ft | 20.5 | |
SENA | 36000 | 2400 sq ft | 16 | |
SENA Quad Zone | 4 x 9000 | 4 x 450 sq ft | 22.5 |
Some features I like from Senville mini splits
Senville may not be the most well-known brand of ductless mini split, but I started using them for a few reasons.
They are very reliable and have a range of features that several major brands do not. I have also had very positive experiences with tech support.
Here are a few reasons that I put Senville units above other brands.
Inverter technology
The inverter compressors in Senville mini splits aren't unique, but that is what I like about them.
The compressors are super quiet, so I can place them outside a window, and the homeowner will never be bothered by them.
Of course, inverter compressors are also extremely efficient since they can operate at various speeds.
Still, what I like most is that a Senville ductless mini split uses the same exact compressor and components as several other brands, ensuring part availability for years to come.
WiFi enabled (iOS and Android)
The next reason I choose Senville is because they include a dongle for WiFi connectivity.
Most mini splits do not use a conventional thermostat and instead come with a remote control. However, I am often asked about wireless connectivity.
Some manufacturers charge extra for the wireless dongle, which is a real pain for both me and the customer.
By providing everything needed for wireless connectivity, I can show the homeowner how to use the mini split on their phone and program it as desired.
The coolest part of the wireless connectivity is that the air conditioner can pair up with Google and Amazon smart devices.
This lets the homeowner give verbal commands or even set it to come on.
Self cleaning mode
One of the most useful but also misunderstood functions of Senville mini splits is self-cleaning mode.
Mini-splits do an excellent job of removing humidity, but they don't do a great job of removing the excess water from the indoor unit.
The self-cleaning mode does not actually clean the unit; instead, it forces the fan to run for an extra two hours after powering off to help remove condensation.
I highly recommend pressing this button if you seldom use the unit in a location such as a garage.
Drying out the air conditioner will help prevent mold and mildew from building up and, therefore, reduce the amount of cleaning required by the homeowner.
Variety of indoor units
The next thing I like about Senville isn't a feature but the range of systems available.
Many customers do not like the look of a conventional mini split indoor unit. Fortunately, Senville has a few different options to fit even the pickiest customers.
Cold climate heat pumps
Senville Aura units offer heating in even the coldest temperatures. Heat pumps become increasingly inefficient as the temperature drops below freezing.
The Aura model, in particular, works down to -22 degrees Fahrenheit.
While that is fantastic for people living in frigid regions, I still recommend keeping a backup heating method such as a space heater.
Energy efficiency & how it compares to other brands
I always discuss energy efficiency when a customer wants a new air conditioner because it is a considerable investment.
I explain the need to weigh the upfront cost of a more efficient system against its long-term costs.
The most important thing to keep in mind here is that the Aura lineup is more efficient than the Leto line.
Senville mini splits range from 18 SEER on the least efficient model all the way up to 28 SEER on the most efficient Aura model.
The smallest Senville mini split is the 9,000 BTU, which is available in the LETO lineup as a 20.5 SEER or in the AURA lineup at 28 SEER.
Spending about $550 more upfront means a potential 40% savings in operating costs. Depending on usage, that could reduce the yearly cost to run the system from over $200 to less than $150.
Plus, potential tax credits and utility rebates may lower the cost even further.
Can you get any tax benefits from a high energy efficiency model?
The federal government currently has a program that offers tax credits for installing a high-efficiency heat pump.
However, I recommend homeowners research system eligibility and contact their tax professional to determine if they qualify.
Additionally, many utility companies across the US offer rebates for installing a new heat pump.
I must emphasize that a licensed HVAC company must install the mini split to receive a tax credit or utility rebate.
How does it stack up against the competition in terms of energy efficiency?
Senville mini splits offer competitive energy efficiency as competitors like Blueridge and Mr Cool because they use the same inverter technology.
The variable-speed compressor is extremely efficient and allows the unit to operate quietly and affordably.
Taking a closer look at the competition, Mr Cool's most efficient Olympus unit tops out at 23 SEER.
Meanwhile, Senville's Aura line goes up to 28 SEER. I used to think this was one of the best models available, but I recently came across a 38 SEER Gree mini split.
Understanding initial investment vs long term payoff
It is common for my customers to ask whether they should spend more upfront to lower energy costs or get the cheapest unit possible.
Whether or not a higher SEER unit is worth it in the long run often depends on how much use the system gets and how expensive energy costs are in the area.
Where I live, electricity is pretty cheap, so going from an 18 to 22 SEER system would only make a small difference, especially in locations such as a garage that sees little use.
However, I would consider the higher SEER if using it in a living room or bedroom where it will be running frequently.
To put the operating costs into perspective, a 12,000 BTU Senville costs about 13 cents per hour to operate (*varies based on utility rates).
So running it for an average of 8 hours per day equals about $31 per month.
Whether the more efficient system is worth the cost ultimately depends on how long it will operate.
If the savings is only $50 per year, then it likely isn't worth the added cost. Still, if the potential savings is greater than $100, it is possible to break even or come out ahead.
The last factor people often forget is that air conditioners do not last forever. I recommend basing calculations on a seven-year lifespan.
Therefore, if it takes seven years to break even on the price of a more efficient system, the payoff isn’t worth the return.
Analyzing their warranty terms and conditions
Senville has pretty solid coverage for mini splits, but there are a few good questions that customers often ask.
What's the warranty coverage?
Senville mini splits are backed by a five-year parts warranty, including indoor and outdoor units.
However, it does not cover labor, so ask your installer if they provide a labor warranty.
Select Senville models, including the Aura, come with a ten-year compressor warranty.
I did notice that Senville is advertising a seven-year warranty on select models, but I am unable to confirm which ones.
What registration requirements did I do to get the full warranty coverage?
Most air conditioners require the installer or homeowner to register them to get full warranty coverage.
Surprisingly, I have never seen Senville state that registration is required.
Nonetheless, I am always certain to register new units just in case there is a problem in the future.
What conditions and restrictions did I have to meet?
There aren’t too many stipulations for the Senville warranty.
The biggest caveat is that a licensed HVAC contractor must install the system to get the warranty.
That means not getting a friend of a friend who does AC work on the side.
You need someone with a licensed business who will provide a receipt acknowledging that they installed the system.
Additionally, as part of the warranty, a mini-split does require annual cleaning.
How does it measure up to the competition?
The five-year warranty is pretty much the industry standard for affordable mini splits.
Big HVAC companies like Trane, Daikin, and Carrier have mini splits with longer warranties, but those cost more than a Senville.
For instance, Trane, Carrier, and Daikin offer a ten-year warranty on their mini-split systems.
What surprises me the most is that systems from these well-known brands are actually less efficient than cheaper alternatives.
A better comparison would be to Mr Cool, who only offers a two-year parts warranty and a one-year compressor warranty on Advantage Series air conditioners.
Senville mini split models compared
I’ve put together this breakdown of each Senville heat pump to make your purchase decision a little easier.
Aura
Main feature:
First up is the Aura line; this is the most discussed model series, and for good reason.
It is the most energy-efficient system, garnering the Energy Star seal, which means it may qualify for rebates and tax credits.
The end result is a lower energy bill and potential savings on installation.
Finally, the outside compressor on the Aura heat pumps has a longer 10-year warranty.
Leto
Main feature:
The Leto series is a cheaper version of the Aura line and is considered their budget series.
The systems are nearly identical from the outside as both feature a wall-mounted indoor unit.
However, the Leto series is a little cheaper and less efficient. It is a good idea to carefully compare the savings of the Aura against Leto's lower price point.
Sena
Main feature:
I find the Sena units to be the most unique offering in the Senville lineup.
There are a few other companies that offer similar models, but these wall-mounted units are still pretty uncommon.
The outdoor unit will be the same one that comes with the Leto.
Just remember that this unit cannot be mounted behind a bookcase or other piece of furniture since it needs room for airflow.
Ceiling Cassette
Main feature:
These Senville mini splits come with ceiling cassettes rather than wall-mounted indoor units. The ceiling cassettes are arguably the most attractive option for a mini-split.
The blower and evaporator coil are concealed in the attic, so you don't have to look at a clunky indoor unit.
Ducted
Main feature:
A rarely discussed option for mini splits is ducted units.
Senville’s ducted option is great for connecting to existing ductwork while still getting the low cost and energy efficiency of a mini split.
They are also easy to install and very compact.
Multizone
Main feature:
Last but not least are the mutli-zone heat pumps.
These allow multiple indoor units to run on a single outdoor unit.
This is an excellent way to add whole-house cooling where ductwork simply won't fit.
I have even paired a mix of indoor systems, such as ceiling and ducted units, with dual-zone mini splits.
Installation explained for homeowners
HVAC installations can seem overwhelming for many people since the process is a little complicated.
Fortunately, qualified HVAC technicians will attach the outdoor unit to a concrete block, mount the indoor air handler to the wall, connect the wiring, and run the drain line.
They should also pressure test the refrigerant lines and check the refrigerant levels with a gauge set.
When finished with the installation, the technician should show you how to control the unit and go over its features.
Guide to installation fees
Every company decides on its own prices, so pinpointing installation costs is nearly impossible.
In addition to the cost of the unit, you can expect to spend at least $1,000 for installation, assuming everything is very easy.
Bear in mind that more difficult installations could cost a few thousand dollars.
Costs will rise if an electrician is needed to run electrical to the new unit. That could be an additional $500 to $1,000 depending on how far away the unit is from the breaker panel.
Although mini splits come with refrigerant, the installer may need to add more to compensate for longer linesets.
Refrigerant has skyrocketed in price recently, so this could be $100 or more.
Other factors that may add to the cost of installation are where you plan to place the indoor and outdoor units.
Wall mounting the outdoor unit will likely add a few hundred dollars to the overall cost since an extra bracket is required, and securely mounting it is time-consuming.
Similarly, putting the indoor unit on an interior wall will also raise the cost and cause further complications.
Multizone systems are the most expensive to install since they require pipes and wiring run to each indoor system.
It could take an installer a day or more to complete the job, so I would expect to pay at least $3,000.
How to find a reliable HVAC professional
Many HVAC companies will not work on customer-purchased equipment, so I advise searching for a contractor before purchasing a mini split.
I would start with smaller companies that may only have one or two technicians, as they are often more willing to work on customer-supplied equipment than a larger business.
Mini split AC installation tips
To prepare for your mini-split installation, keep these few tips in mind.
ACLAB note:
I have often been asked whether someone can install a mini split themselves. Senville units are not DIY-friendly.
However, it is possible, assuming you have a vacuum pump, gauge set, and an EPA 608 certification. Just remember that doing a DIY install voids the warranty.
Homeowner buyer reviews
Sylvain - 4/5 (Rating)
"Awesome unit. My 2 complaints are:
1) The width given was 27in and was actually 30in. Luckily my space was 31in.
2) the delivery was postponed and pushed back twice. It made it 5 days prior to the wedding I was hosting. It works great and ultimately I'm very satisfied but why the unnecessary stress?"
Senville - 5/5 (Rating)
"Works great both heat and cool. The tech that performed the start-up said we got the best mini-split on the market, and we agreed."
*Note: Reviews based on Senville Aura
How does Senville stack up to the competition?
Senville vs Mr Cool
Mr Cool is by far the most recognizable mini split brand. The company does a lot of marketing and even sells the units through major retailers like Lowes and Home Depot.
The problem is that all of that marketing comes at an added cost for buyers.
Surprisingly, I actually found a 9,000 BTU Mr Cool for only $675 at IWAE compared to $750 for a Senville.
Of course, the prices of each model also vary quite a bit, and each company offers regular sales. Otherwise, Senville and Mr Cool mini splits are nearly identical. They each use the same rebranded condenser and evaporator units.
The biggest difference is that Mr Cool makes a DIY model. The refrigerant lines on these systems are precharged, so there is no need to vacuum them.
Senville vs Pioneer
I consider Pioneer a decent brand, but they are nearly identical to Mr Cool and Senville. The systems are all made by Gree and use Midea compressors.
Pioneer is one of the more recognizable mini split brands in the US since they’ve been around much longer than some of the competition.
Pioneer also offers a wide range of indoor units, just like Senville.
I personally wouldn’t hesitate to buy a Pioneer unit, but it is probably best to compare prices between Senville, Pioneer, and Mr Cool.
The cheapest Pioneer mini split I could find was the 9,000 BTU for $700, compared to the Senville’s $750 price tag.
Senville vs Daikin
Daikin stands on its own because it is one of the few mini-split companies that doesn't sell a rebranded unit.
The company is headquartered in Japan rather than China, and the overall quality tends to be better.
HVAC techs in the US are also more likely to work on Daikin systems and source parts for them since they also own major brands such as Amana and Goodman.
Daikin units are very reliable and high-quality, but their downside is their high cost. Expect to pay significantly more money for a Daikin than a Senville.
The upside is that a Daikin mini-split should last significantly longer.
Daikin systems are a little bit more challenging to find, but I did come across one for $865. That is a little over $100 more for a 9,000 BTU than the Senville.
Additionally, it is less efficient at 17 SEER than the Senville, which is 20.5 SEER.
FAQs
Who makes Senville AC units?
Senville AC units are manufactured by Gree and are made in China. A large number of mini splits on the market are identical and sold under various brand names. There may be slight variations, but the core components are the same.
Do Senville mini splits come precharged?
Yes, Senville mini splits come with R410a refrigerant already in the compressor. They have enough refrigerant for the 16-ft line set, but longer lines may require extra refrigerant. Finally, the lines must be vacuumed before the refrigerant is released from the compressor.
What refrigerant does Senville use?
Senville mini splits use R410a refrigerant, which is what the majority of home air conditioners use. Plans are underway to phase out R410a in the coming years, but I wouldn’t be too concerned about that when purchasing a mini split.
Summary | Are Senville mini splits right for you?
[usr 4.6]
Senville mini splits fill a void in the market that was previously only available with window and portable air conditioners.
Although I usually don't recommend mini splits as a replacement for an entire home's existing system, they are a great way to add heating and cooling to a new addition or a garage.
If you're looking at Senville mini splits, let me recommend the Aura Series. Their energy efficient models and WiFi compatibility make them one of the smartest mini splits on the market.
