Are you looking for a high-performing mini split air conditioner?
You’ve come to the right place.
Mini-splits require less energy and are simpler to install than central air conditioners.
A mini-split unit is also quieter than a portable AC or a window AC.
This product roundup will review and compare five of the best mini-split ACs & heat pumps made by industry leader Pioneer.
If you’d prefer a through-the-wall AC, take a look at our top 10 picks for through-the-wall ACs.
About Pioneer
Parker Davis HVAC International’s brand Pioneer is Parker Davis HVAC International. Since 1995, the company has been manufacturing high-quality air conditioners.
The majority of listings on Amazon for Pioneer mini-split systems have positive reviews from customers.
Pioneer air conditioners are highly efficient, so you have to spend as little energy on them.
Every Pioneer mini split comes with a warranty, which is usually between one to five years. For any issues that may arise, the manufacturer offers ongoing support.
A Pioneer mini-split is a trusted brand that you can trust when you purchase it.
Pioneer Mini Split Heat Pump
- 1. Our Top Overall Pick: Pioneer WYS012GMFI19RL-16 Ductless Mini-Split AC
- 2. Best Pioneer Mini Split for Large Rooms: Pioneer WYS018GMFI19RL-16 Ductless
- 3. Best Ceiling Cassette Mini Split: Pioneer CYB012GMFILCAD-10
- 4. Best Floor Mounted Mini Split: Pioneer FYB012GMFILCAD-10
- 5. Most Affordable Pioneer Mini Split: Pioneer WYT009GLFI19RL Diamante Series
Pioneer® WYS012GMFI19RL-16
Our top pick
12,000 BTU
SEER:
19.5Installation:
WallCoverage:
350-450 sq. ft.Sound level:
38dBWarranty:
2yrs on parts, 5yrs on compressor
Pioneer® WYS018GMFI19RL-16
Our top pick
12,000 BTU
SEER:
19.5Installation:
WallCoverage:
350-450 sq. ft.Sound level:
38dBWarranty:
2yrs on parts, 5yrs on compressor
Pioneer® CYB012GMFILCAD-10
Best ceiling cassette mini split
12,000 BTU
SEER:
21.5Installation:
CeilingCoverage:
350-450 sq. ft.Sound level:
43dBWarranty:
2yrs on parts, 5yrs on compressor
Pioneer® FYB012GMFILCAD-10
Best floor mini split
12,000 BTU
SEER:
20.5Installation:
FloorCoverage:
350-450 sq. ft.Sound level:
48dBWarranty:
2yrs on parts, 5yrs on compressor
Pioneer® WYT009GLFI19RL
Most affordable Pioneer mini split
9,000 BTU
SEER:
19Installation:
WallCoverage:
250-350 sq. ft.Sound level:
38dBWarranty:
5yrs on parts, 5yrs on compressor
For most people, the Pioneer WYS012GMFI19RL-16 mini-split will be their best choice.
The high SEER rating on this unit means you will save on energy costs and the high 12,00 BTU of power can cool large rooms.
PROS
- Affordable price
- Energy-efficient
- Heating and cooling power - great for large and mid-sized rooms
- WiFi-ready
- Whisper quiet
CONS
- Instructions are not always clear.
Our Review
The WYS012GMFI19RL-16 is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a powerful, energy-efficient Pioneer mini split at a reasonable price.
This wall-mounted mini split AC of 12,000 BTU has a SEER rating higher than the average at 19.5.
Variable speed compressors driven by DC inverters are the key to AC’s high efficiency. Variable speed technology lets the AC adjust cooling and heating output based on demand in an analog fashion, instead of constantly starting and stopping the motor.
The Pioneer mini-split offers some other notable features, including:
Follow me
The AC can automatically adjust the temperature using a temperature sensor on the remote control.
Anti-cold air function
This ensures that the fan does not blow cold air during heating. The fan starts at the lowest speed and then spins faster when the air is heated up.
Leakage detection
The AC can detect refrigerant leakage automatically and stop the system immediately to prevent any damage.
WiFi-ready
A WiFi module, available separately, allows you to control your AC remotely from your smartphone.
The Pioneer WYS012GMFI19RL-16 mini-split comes in a complete set that includes both indoor and outdoor units, as well as an installation kit.
We recommend the Pioneer WYS018GMFI19RL-16 18,000 BTU mini split air conditioner for the largest rooms in your home or office.
PROS
- Heating and cooling power
- High energy efficiency
- Includes a complete installation kit
- Quiet operation
- Excellent value for money
CONS
- It could be easier to understand the installation manual
Our Review
The WYS018GMFI19RL-16 model produces more heating and cooling power than the base 12,000 and 9,000 BTU systems.
As a result, this model is ideal for large rooms of up to 650 square feet.
The Pioneer 18,000 BTU mini split is extremely energy-efficient despite its higher output. It boasts an excellent SEER rating of 19.
It runs on a variable speed compressor, which matches the output to heating or cooling demand.
The 18,000 BTU model has an anti-cold-air function, a follow-me feature, and a refrigerant leak detector.
The unit is also WiFi-ready. However, the smartphone/WiFi control requires purchasing a separate Wi-Fi module.
The WYS018GMFI19RL-16 mini split is slightly louder than lower BTU models.
But on its lowest setting, you’ll have trouble hearing it run with a 43 decibel level.
Just one complaint: the installation instructions are not clear and the installation can be challenging if handled by a nonprofessional.
Do you prefer the discreet design of mini-splits that are ceiling-mounted? We recommend the Pioneer(r), CYB012GMFILCAD-10 12,000 BTU ceiling cassette.
It can heat and cool most rooms and has a high SEER rating.
PROS
- Higher SEER ratings mean more significant energy savings
- Installation on the ceiling is discrete
- Multiple air outlets provide even cooling/heating
- Quiet operation
CONS
- Mini-splits mounted on walls are more expensive.
Our Review
Ceiling cassettes are less visible than wall-mounted units. In addition, ceiling cassettes can distribute air better and can be used to cool or heat air to any corner of the room because of the multiple air outlets.
Pioneer’s CYB012GMFILCAD-10 has 12,000 BTU of cooling power, making it ideal for rooms up to 450 square feet in size.
The unit has an excellent SEER rating of 21.5 so it should save you money on your utility bills.
This Pioneer ceiling cassette mini-split AC is also extremely quiet. This unit produces an average noise level of 43 decibels.
The Pioneer ceiling cassette features temperature compensation that mixes different air layers to compensate for the air near the ceiling, which is warmer than the air around it. This speeds up the cooling process and maintains a consistent temperature in the room.
Additional features include anti-cold and refrigerant leak detection as well as a remote thermostat w/ follow me capability.
This AC can also be set to a low 46F if the room is not in use for a long time, preventing it from freezing.
Do you prefer a floor mini split to a ceiling- or wall-mounted unit? The Pioneer FYB012GMFILCAD-10 is our top recommendation.
PROS
- Dual air outlet
- High energy efficiency
- Remote thermostat with remote control
- For larger rooms.
CONS
- Instructions could be better.
Our Review
A floor mini-split design does not mean you can install it directly on the floor. Instead, you have to mount it on the wall near the floor. You can have it stand vertically on the floor against the wall if you don’t want to hang it.
Pioneer’s FYB012GMFILCAD-10 boasts 12,000 BTU of heating and cooling power, making it ideal for large and medium-sized rooms measuring 350 to 450 square feet.
The SEER rating of 20.5 is impressive, which means you will save a bit on energy.
This Pioneer floor mini split unit has a dual outlet at the top and bottom that you can use for cooling/heating, or you can choose to use one outlet.
Other features include:
● Anti-cold-air function.
● Follow-me thermostat on the remote control.
● Refrigerant leak detection.
Are you limited by a tight budget?
Pioneer’s Diamante Series offers a variety of budget-friendly options.
The WYT009GLFI19RL is the most affordable at 9,000 BTU which is great for small rooms.
PROS
- Price range
- High SEER rating
- Dual swing louvers spread air evenly
- Very quiet
CONS
- This is not the best choice for large spaces
Our Review
Although Pioneer Diamante models are not as feature-rich as other Pioneer units, they do offer plenty of cooling and heating power for those on a tight budget.
For the price, the 9,000 BTU unit we recommend has a remarkable SEER rating of 19. However, it is surprising to see an energy-saving variable compressor technology used at this price.
The Pioneer Diamante WYT009GLFI19RL is an excellent choice for smaller rooms that would otherwise be too small to use a 12,000 BTU mini-split or higher. It is ideal for spaces of up to 350 square feet.
The mini-split is very quiet, with an average level of 38 decibels.
Pioneer Diamante WYT009GLFI19RL includes both indoor and outdoor units, as well as a complete installation kit.
How To Choose the Correct Pioneer Mini Split AC
Pioneer offers a variety of mini-split models, each with different specs and features.
The following are the features to consider when selecting a Pioneer mini split heat pump for your application:
BTU
The size of the space you wish to heat or cool will determine the right amount of BTUs.
For every square foot you will need about 20 BTUs of cooling power.
Pioneer recommends 9,000 BTU units to cover areas of up to 350 sq.
For rooms larger than 450 sq. ft., purchase a 12,000 BTU unit.
Pioneer’s 18,000 BTU units are best used in spaces up to 625 sq. ft.
Mini-splits that are too small will work harder, consume more energy and wear faster.
Conversely, a mini-split too big for a given room is a waste.
SEER Rating
The SEER, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio, indicates the efficiency of an air conditioner, and a SEER of 14 or more is ideal.
Pioneer mini-splits have SEER ratings between 19 and 23. This makes Pioneer ACs more efficient than most other ACs on the market.
Type of Mini Split
The most common choice is a wall-mounted mini split. It distributes air well, and it is easy to put in.
Ceiling cassettes are more discreet, so they’re a great choice for people who need a small split that isn’t easily visible.
If you need better air distribution around your feet, a floor mini-split can be a great option.
Noise Level
Most mini-splits are very quiet. Even the loudest Pioneer mini-splits are quiet.
Purchase a floor mini split with caution, however.
The noise from the AC can be annoying because it is so close to your ears.
Therefore, you should ensure that the model you choose is low-decibel (no louder than 40-50 dB).
Complete Set
Make sure that you buy a complete set, including both indoor and outdoor units. Pioneer also sells outdoor and indoor units separately. If you don’t intend to buy a separate unit, make sure you do not purchase it accidentally.
The complete Pioneer mini-split ACs come with indoor and outdoor units and a complete installation kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a Pioneer mini-split AC without a professional?
No, we don’t recommend it. You will need to hire a professional to install your AC. Although they are easier to install, ductless mini-splits require careful placement and proper setup. Incorrect installation can result in a mini split’s inability to heat or cool properly.
What is the warranty on mini-split Pioneer heat pumps?
Pioneer offers a 2-year warranty on most models and a 5-year warranty on the compressor.
Who makes Pioneer mini split AC conditioners?
Parker Davis HVAC International is the manufacturer of Pioneer mini split AC units.
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