Comprehensive One-Year Review of the Mr Cool 18,000 BTU Mini Split System
Electronic appliances and climate control systems have evolved dramatically in recent years, offering unparalleled comfort and efficiency. The Mr Cool 18,000 BTU mini split system is one of many such products designed to offer these benefits. This review will provide an in-depth analysis of the Mr Cool 18,000 BTU Mini Split System after one year of use, highlighting its pros and cons, performance, maintenance, and overall value.
Installation Experience
If you have seen my installation video, you are aware that I installed this unit in my garage. The installation process was relatively straightforward and ensured that the unit was mounted flush against the wall. The unit was set up to blend seamlessly into the environment, with no visible wires or pipes, creating a clean and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
One major positive of the Mr Cool 18,000 BTU Mini Split System is the provision for a DIY installation. Despite the complexity that HVAC installations usually present, Mr Cool aims to simplify this process for the average user. A DIY installation can save significant costs typically associated with professional HVAC installations. However, some prior technical knowledge or willingness to meticulously follow installation instructions is crucial.
Performance & Efficiency
Airflow and Temperature Regulation
After one year, the unit’s performance remains robust. As monitored, the unit can blow a consistent 700 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air. During extreme weather conditions, such as the peaks of summer and winter, the unit maintained its efficiency. For instance, in winter conditions, the temperature of the air blown can reach up to 130° Fahrenheit, providing ample warmth.
However, location matters. As I installed my unit in the garage, a partially insulated area, temperature variations are more pronounced. In a well-insulated home, such instability wouldn’t be as noticeable, proving more effective for typical residential use.
Wi-Fi and Digital Controls
A standout feature of the Mr Cool Mini Split System is its Wi-Fi capability. Through a straightforward USB plugin and accompanying app, controlling the unit remotely becomes a breeze. This functionality allows on-the-go users to modify settings from any location, offering unprecedented convenience. Additionally, the app supports scheduling, adding to the overall user experience.
However, there is a minor drawback with the remote control’s tactile feedback. Adjusting the temperature using the remote sometimes doesn’t result in an audible beep, leading to uncertainty if the setting was correctly registered. Ensuring the remote is pointed directly at the unit and listening for the beep is crucial for verifying setting changes.
Quiet Operation
Quiet operations are another hallmark of the unit. Even when running at full capacity, the Mr Cool Mini Split is remarkably silent. This quiet operation makes it an ideal option for areas where minimal noise is preferred, such as home offices, bedrooms, or relaxation spaces.
External Unit Considerations
The outdoor unit of the Mr Cool 18,000 BTU Mini Split System has also performed admirably throughout the seasons. Positioned outside, you’ll often find it unobtrusive and quiet. The fan typically runs 24/7, ensuring constant air circulation.
One notable point is the unit’s performance and durability under snow. Despite being partially covered in snow at times, the unit continued to function without any hiccups. However, for better durability and to avoid minor inefficiencies, placing the external unit on an elevated pad, away from direct snow build-up, is advisable.
Maintenance
Compact in design, the maintenance of the Mr Cool Mini Split System is relatively low-effort. Over the past year, I only needed to clean the filters once. This could vary based on specific user environments, such as homes with pets or higher particulate pollution, resulting in a need for more frequent cleaning. Regular filter maintenance ensures that the system runs efficiently and prolongs the unit’s life.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- DIY Installation: Significant saving of installation costs, making it an affordable option.
- Energy Efficient: The unit operates all year round efficiently, offering both cooling in summer and heating in winter.
- Quiet Operations: Ideal for noise-sensitive areas.
- Wi-Fi Capabilities: Convenient control from anywhere using a smartphone app.
- Effective Air Distribution: Even air distribution and efficient temperature regulation.
- Minimal Maintenance: Low-effort required for cleaning and maintaining the filters.
Cons:
- Tactile Feedback on Remote: Issues with the remote not always registering changes audibly.
- Air Circulation Dynamics: Potential temperature imbalance in poorly insulated or larger areas when mounted in specific spots.
- Outdoor Unit Elevation: Better placement on pads to prevent snow obstruction would enhance efficiency and durability.
- Constant Fan Operation: The fan runs constantly which, while designed this way, may be disconcerting to some users initially.
Additional Insights: Comparative Performance
Comparing the Mr Cool 18,000 BTU Mini Split System with other similar units in the market, such as the 12,000 BTU version installed at my uncle’s place, the larger unit remains extremely efficient. Its capacity to handle varied weather conditions without compromising indoor comfort levels sets it apart from many competitors. Even within my uncle’s mother-in-law suite, the smaller 12,000 BTU unit operated flawlessly without interruptions or issues, ensured by regular maintenance.
Defrost Mode: What to Expect
An aspect worth highlighting is the unit’s operation during the defrost cycle. The noise associated with this cycle – gurgling and sloshing sounds – is perfectly normal. This is a minor inconvenience and quickly becomes a non-issue as users adapt to the unit’s operations.
In Summary
After a year of consistent use, the Mr Cool 18,000 BTU Mini Split System remains a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective climate control solution. Its DIY installation makes it accessible to more people, and its robust performance caters to diverse weather conditions, ensuring indoor comfort year-round. Minor quirks like the constant fan operation or the need for better remote feedback do little to mar its overall effectiveness and user satisfaction.
The system’s blend of functionality, ease of use, low maintenance, Wi-Fi control, and quiet operation underscores its value proposition. Whether for a home, office, or less insulated spaces like a garage, the Mr Cool 18,000 BTU Mini Split System stands out as an excellent investment in modern HVAC solutions.
Recommendations
Maintenance Tips:
- Regularly inspect and clean the filters and outdoor unit.
- Ensure the external unit is free from obstructions such as accumulated snow.
- Utilize the scheduling feature on the Wi-Fi app for optimal performance and energy efficiency.
Usage Suggestions:
- For areas with poor insulation, consider complementary heating solutions during peak winter for consistent comfort.
- Ensure the remote is pointed directly at the unit and listen for the beep to confirm setting changes.
- Use the Wi-Fi feature for remote control and diagnostics to save time and effort.
For those contemplating a purchase, reliable resources such as HVAC Direct provide excellent sizing guides and competitive pricing. Using discount codes can further reduce the cost, making the investment even more worthwhile.
To explore the installation process, refer to my detailed installation video which walks you through step-by-step guidance, further simplifying the DIY approach.
Final Note:
The Mr Cool 18,000 BTU Mini Split System is indeed a modern marvel that brings comfort, technology, and efficiency into one cohesive package. It stands the test of time with commendable performance and provides a scalable solution adaptable to various settings, ensuring it remains a favorite among users looking for reliable climate control solutions.