It is hard to imagine a time when people would live without air conditioning. Imagine living in Florida in the middle of summer without electricity and the comfort of air conditioning. It is unthinkable. Since in the past few years, the intensity of heat and cold seems to be increasing, having a good HVAC system is very important.
But with the fluctuations in the global climate, it is more important than ever to select equipment for your home that helps reduce your carbon footprint. It might be impossible to live without air conditioning, but we can help by choosing equipment that is more efficient. Fujitsu Mini Splits all have high-efficiency ratings, so here we will look at the best ones currently trending.
How Does Fujitsu Compare to the Competition?
Fujitsu is a relatively old brand when it comes to HVAC systems and hence has a lot of experience in the field. Let’s look at some of the ways its products outshine the competition.
Efficiency
The efficiency of a cooler or heater is measured in SEER and HSPF, respectively. They are universally accepted terms that are used to determine how effective an HVAC unit will be.
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and it is simply the cost of producing heat or cooling. High SEER rating means the unit can produce more heat or cool more while consuming less energy.
The acceptable SEER value starts at 13 for cooling units, and Fujitsu Mini Splits have much higher values, which means they are more cost-effective. As for HSPF or Heating Seasonal Performance Factor, it is basically the same thing but applies only to heaters. The normal HSPF value starts at 9, and in this case, again, Fujitsu succeeds.
Warranty
The warranty for systems like mini-splits is very important. They are an expensive purchase, and the buyer should get the full benefit of their money. There is a lot that can go wrong with HVAC systems as they are electric and are complicated to install properly.
They aren’t just a simple unit but an indoor and an outdoor unit along with pipes and refrigerant. The general warranty for these units lies between 5 and 10 years. The great thing about Fujitsu is that its warranty covers labor as well. Since these are complex to install, having a labor warranty helps.
Out of the Way
The indoor unit of the mini-split system is designed to be quieter, but the outdoor unit or compressor can be very noisy.
Another thing is that you might install more than one indoor unit to the outdoor one. For these reasons, you need long pipes and connections so that you can place the compressor anywhere and not worry about the length of the pipes. You can place the unit out of sight somewhere where it will not produce a lot of noise or affect the aesthetic of your home. Fujitsu gives installation kits with pipes as long as 50 feet.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Fujitsu Mini Splits
- OUR TOP PICK: Fujitsu 15,000 Btu 25.3 Seer Ductless
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Fujitsu 15,000 Btu/h 21 Seer Single Zone
- BEST FUJITSU 12000 BTU MINI SPLIT: Fujitsu 12,000 Btu 16 Seer Ductless
Comparison of the Best Fujitsu Mini Splits
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick  |
| View Latest Price → |
Best Budget Option  |
| View Latest Price → |
|
| View Latest Price → |
|
| View Latest Price → |
|
| View Latest Price → |
|
| View Latest Price → |
To get an overview of our top picks and how they compare to each other, we assembled a table of their main technical features. So if you don’t have time to go over the full review, you can just take a quick overview:
| Model Name | Energy Efficiency (SEER) | Home Sq. Ft. | Condenser Fan Motor | Cost of Unit Only | Installation Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15RLS3 | 25.3 | 600 | Single | $1,511 | $4,460 |
| 9RLS3Y | 33 | 360 | Single | $1,588.95 | N/A |
| 15RLS2 | 21 | 600 | Single | N/A | N/A |
| 12RL2 | 16 | 480 | Single | $1,165 | $1,970 |
| 36RLXB | 15.5 | 1440 | Single | $3,373.90 | N/A |
| 42RLXFW | 18 | 960 | Single | $2,426.90 | N/A |
| 18RLB | 19 | 720 | Single | $1,783.95 | N/A |
Review of the Best Fujitsu Mini Split
Having understood the basic aspects of an HVAC unit that are the most important, let’s have a full review of the best Fujitsu mini-splits. Have a look at our in-depth reviews to find the unit that best fulfills your needs.
Best Overall
Fujitsu 15000 BTU 25.3 SEER Ductless
Specifications
Cooling Efficiency (Max SEER): 25.3
Heating Efficiency (max HSPF): 13.4
Decibel Level: N/A
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
Why it Stands Out to Us
The unit is energy star qualified and has a high-efficiency rating that effectively reduces energy bills. It is from the Halcyon line and is applicable for 12 years extended warranty. The unit has both a wired and wireless control system. It follows an energy-saving program of Fujitsu that automatically detects the presence of any human in the room.
In case of absence, it powers down after 20 minutes to save energy. It also has a dry mode for moisture removal and several timer options. You can set either one on and off-cycle during the day or two cycles. If you need quick heating or cooling, you can change to power mode. This lets you cool or heat the room within 20 minutes at the highest capacity.
Bottom Line
A 15000 BTU/h unit is fairly strong, and combined with the efficiency of 25.3 SEER; you cannot go wrong. It will easily handle spaces of 500 square feet without feeling too much load and still save you money on electric bills.
It makes use of several different techniques to improve efficiency and cost reduction, including variable temperature and fan speed determined by the room temperature. Another great thing about it is the warranty. If installed properly, it can have either a 10 or 12 years extended warranty. If you want to find licensed retailers, you can visit the Fujitsu general website.
Pros
High SEER rating of 25.3
High HSPF rating of 13.4
Has very quiet operation
Variable speed compressor adjusts for room requirements
Low ambient heating with minimum temperature requirement of -5 F
Cons
Accessories to install are not sold with the unit
Best for the Money
Fujitsu 15000 BTU/h 21 SEER Single Zone
Specifications
Cooling Efficiency (Max SEER): 21
Heating Efficiency (max HSPF): N/A
Decibel Level: N/A
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
Why it Stands Out to Us
The unit has a cooling capacity of 15000 BTU/h and a heating capacity of 18000 BTU/h. Given its size, it has an acceptable efficiency rating of 21, and it is also energy star qualified. It has an auto-restart feature that stores the settings of the unit in case of accidental power loss.
It also has the 24-hour timer feature that lets you set one on/off cycle in the day so the unit doesn’t keep running all the time, which can waste a lot of electricity. This is a cheaper model, and it does not have all the fancy features Fujitsu is known for, but it is very effective in its job and has a simpler design.
Bottom Line
These air conditioning systems can be very expensive, so if you are looking for high quality and high-efficiency unit that is also budget-friendly, then this 15000 BTU/h unit is the way to go. It is big enough to cool or heat a 500 square feet room and has a SEER rating to get its energy star certification. You don’t need much more form an air conditioning system than to save you money and keep you comfortable and warm/cool.
Pros
Has a low noise mode
Dry mode for moisture removal
Blue fin heat exchanger reduces corrosion
10-year warranty for both parts and compressor
High ceiling mode for keeping ceiling temperature similar to the rest of the room
Cons
Not suitable for extremely cold weather
Best Fujitsu 12000 BTU Mini Split
Fujitsu 12000 BTU 16 SEER Ductless
Specifications
Cooling Efficiency (Max SEER): 16
Heating Efficiency (max HSPF): N/A
Decibel Level: N/A
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
Why it Stands Out to Us
The unit comes with a 12000 BTU/h cooling capacity and a heating capacity of 14000 BTU/h. It makes use of a micro-computer to adjust the airflow according to the changing room temperature automatically. This reduces the load on the compressor significantly.
It has 7 position louvers that optimize airflow to the room. They can be set to automatic swing to determine airflow as needed by the room temperature. To save money and energy, it can be set to sleep mode in which it adjusts temperature while you sleep to make sure you are comfortable while also making sure no extra energy is wasted.
Bottom Line
A 12000 BTU/hour unit is a very common size for a normal room. This particular model has many advanced features to maintain efficiency. It makes use of inverter technology and a variable speed DC motor to adjust fan speed according to the need.
The refrigerant it uses is the newer R410A, which many believe has a lesser environmental impact. Its warranty is 7 years for the compressor and 5 years for the parts, which is the average range of any HVAC system.
While comparing the SEER rating to other Fujitsu units on our list, its rating might seem less, but you have to keep in mind that the minimum required SEER rating is 13.
Pros
Micro-computer to adjust airflow in the room
Sleep timer adjusts temperature while sleeping
Automatic temperature adjustment to save energy
Seven positions up and down motion or better airflow
Indoor coil to prevent cold air blowing while in heating mode
Cons
Lower SEER rating compared to others
Best Fujitsu 36000 BTU Mini Split
Fujitsu 36000 BTU 15.5 SEER Ductless
Specifications
Cooling Efficiency (Max SEER): 15.5
Heating Efficiency (max HSPF): N/A
Decibel Level: N/A
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
Why it Stands Out to Us
For many, 36000 BTU/h is a heavy unit, which is why its SEER rating seems a little low. But the combination is acceptable for this model.
Its heating capacity is 34000 BTU/h. It has a minimum heat mode with the default temperature of 50°F. This mode is used to keep the home from freezing in extreme conditions when no one is home.
It is set at the minimum to keep from over-consuming electricity while still maintaining a warm environment. If it is switched to the economy mode, it automatically adjusts the thermostat settings to account for the changing temperature and keep from overcooling or overheating.
Bottom Line
With 36000 BTU/h, this is a powerful unit designed for huge spaces of up to 1200 square feet.
While this may not be the right option for a small bedroom, if you want to install the unit in the main and open living room, then it is a good option. It will keep the space cool or warm, and according to its size, it has a good SEER rating.
This is from the entry-level series, and the package includes one outdoor unit, one indoor unit, and remote control. The installation kit has to be bought separately, though.
Pros
Auto changeover to heating or cooling as required
Automatic temperature adjustment while sleeping
Minimum heat mode of 50°F to keep the room from freezing
Thermostat adjustment according to temperature for energy saving
Automatic restart keeps temperature settings safe after power failure
Cons
Not energy star certified
Best Fujitsu 24000 BTU Mini Split
Fujitsu 24000 BTU/h 18 SEER Single Zone
Specifications
Cooling Efficiency (Max SEER): 18
Heating Efficiency (max HSPF): N/A
Decibel Level: N/A
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a Halcyon hybrid flex inverter model with energy star certification. It has a low ambient cooling feature that lets the unit run in cool mode even when the temperature outside is as low as 0°F.
The cold prevention feature includes a coil in the indoor unit that heats up before operating in heating mode to keep cool air from blowing. This often happens at the start of the operation when the fan just starts moving, and there isn’t enough heat. It also has a 4-way automatic louver motion feature, i.e., up, down, right, and left.
Other than that, it includes Ion deodorizing filter, sleep timer, and apple catechin filter.
Bottom Line
This single zone unit is enough to cool or heat up to 800 square feet of room. Its efficiency is enough to grant it energy star qualification. It has good cooling and heating options that are complimented with advanced filters that improve the effectiveness of the unit by keeping it clean and running at full capacity.
Filters are an important part of the air conditioning unit and are kind of like the nose in a human. They keep extra and harmful stuff out while letting in the life-giving air.
Pros
Has low ambient cooling
Uses ion deodorizing filter
Both wired and wireless control
Cold prevention feature prevents cold air when heating
Apple Catechin filter uses static electricity to filter microorganisms
Cons
Expensive and complex installation
Best Fujitsu 18000 BTU Mini Split
Fujitsu 18000 BTU 19 SEER Ductless
Specifications
Cooling Efficiency (Max SEER): 19
Heating Efficiency (max HSPF): N/A
Decibel Level: N/A
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
Why it Stands Out to Us
This unit has similar heating and cooling capacity, i.e., 18000 BTU/h with 19 SEER rating. It has intelligent automatic changeover technology. What it does is change modes between heating and cooling if the room temperature rises or falls 4°F below and above the set temperature. This keeps the room exactly how you want it. The other features it has include auto reset/restart, economy mode, minimum heat mode, auto up/down louver, and sleep mode.
Bottom Line
Though the SEER rating could be higher considering other Fujitsu mini-split units, this system provides several features to improve efficiency and makes sure no unnecessary energy is consumed. The sleep mode and the economy mode help achieve that. The minimum heat mode helps during winter to keep the bills low. All in all, it is a good option for rooms around 600 square feet in size.
Pros
Automatic 4-way louver
Quiet mode keeps noise levels low
Auto fan adjusts fan speed as required
Economy mode saves energy and money
Auto changeover mode turns to heat and cooling as required
Cons
Not energy star qualified
What Kind of Warranty Does Fujitsu Offer?
The air conditioning models produced for the United States and Canada have a similar warranty. There are four different types of warranties available for mini splits given below.
6-Year/2-Year
This warranty applies to ASU, ABU, AUU, and AOU units. 6 years is for the compressor and 2 for the parts. Extension on the warranty is not available in this case.
7-Year/5-Year
This warranty is for all Halcyon and HFI units. It has 7 years for the compressor and 5 for parts.
10-Year
This is a type of extended warranty, and it applies to any unit installed on and after 1st June 2015. This is for all Halcyon models installed by a licensed contractor.
12-Year
This second type of extended warranty is for Halcyon units installed by an Elite contractor on and after 1st June 2015.
For the extended warranty, you need to apply for online product registration, and to claim the warranty, you need to have proof of purchase through Fujitsu General only. Any unit bought from a third party online retailer will not be applicable for warranty. The warranty also does not apply in case of shipping damage and any fault during installation.
Who is Fujitsu?
Fujitsu global is a Japanese multinational company that specializes in many different areas, including IT. It is the world’s 4th biggest IT provider in the world. Other than IT, another service it provides is Air conditioners. That branch comes under the name of Fujitsu General. They manufacture separate products for both residential and commercial use. They come in different sizes and designs to match the aesthetic of the room, including ceiling mount, floor mount, wall mount, slim duct, and cassette.
Fujitsu started manufacturing air conditioners in 1971, and their mini-split units are their main products to account for efficiency. They originally started in 1936 with the name of Yaou Shoten Ltd. It started off with radio and speakers but eventually moved to electric home appliances. The company had many different names but finally settled on Fujitsu. They started expanding their business to other companies in the 1970s and now have a global presence.
Conclusion
Depending on the size of your room and how many rooms you want to cool, the price and size of the unit varies. All Fujitsu units have exceptional SEER ratings, but if you buy a unit that is too big or too small for your room, then it is a waste of money. So make sure to measure your room and buy accordingly.
People Also Ask
For more information on Fujitsu mini-split units, read the following frequently asked questions. These can help clear the questions you still might have in mind.
Fujitsu mini-split units range from $1500 to around $3000 and more. The price may vary depending on unit size and efficiency.
The size depends on the area you want to cool or heat. For example, a 12000 BTU unit can easily cool or heat around 400 to 500 square feet. On the other hand, a 24000 BTU unit is effective up to 1500 square feet. The recommended size is generally given with the unit.
Mini-split units have an outdoor compressor and an indoor air handler. They are connected via refrigerant pipes and drainage pipes. The compressor cools or heats the air, and the indoor unit disperses it in the room.
Traditional units have ducts that move air through the home, and that results in loss of efficiency. By removing the ducts, mini splits improve efficiency. They also use variable motors that adjust the fan speed to account for the room temperature and keep from using unnecessary energy.
