Mini-split systems are durable heating and cooling units that operate year-round, providing efficient and effective heating and cooling solutions.
In winter, they move heat into your home. In summer, they reverse the process to pull heat out and keep you cool. This two-in-one function makes them highly versatile and energy-efficient.
At Snook & Aderton HVAC Supply, we’ve sold thousands of mini-split units and gathered a wealth of customer feedback, especially from clients in colder climates. Based on that hands-on experience, here are four of the best mini-splits for cold weather.
What are the Best Mini Splits for Cold Climates?
Ductless mini-splits offer room-by-room control, letting you heat or cool only the spaces you use. That’s a significant benefit in cold climates, where you might want to warm your living area during the day and your bedroom at night.
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Cooper & Hunter Astoria Series (18,000 BTU): Best Pick Overall
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Dial Manufacturing 80500 (23,000BTU): Heavy-Duty Pick for Large Spaces
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Cooper & Hunter Olivia Series (12,000 BTU): Best for Garages & Small Cabins
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Dial Manufacturing 80400 (18,000BTU): Best for Affordability
BTU (British Thermal Unit) indicates the amount of heat a unit can add (in heating mode) or remove (in cooling mode) per hour. A higher BTU rating means a system can handle larger spaces, but you also need to consider SEER, compressor type, and voltage for optimal performance in extreme cold conditions.
Later in this post, we provide a more in-depth explanation on how to pick the right unit for your situation.
1. Cooper & Hunter Astoria Series: Best Pick Overall
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Heating capacity |
18,000 BTU |
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Price |
$2,150 |
The Cooper & Hunter Astoria Series consistently delivers intense heating, even in deep cold.
You’ll get an indoor and outdoor unit, remote, manual, SmartKit (Wi-Fi), and a 25’ lineset. Its SEER rating of 23.5 and cold-weather design make it ideal for harsh winters.
WHO SHOULD BUY IT:
Perfect for small homes, cabins, or large living areas in areas where winter routinely dips below freezing.
2. Dial Manufacturing 80500: Heavy-Duty Pick for Large Spaces
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Heating capacity |
23,000 BTU |
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Max. Airflow (CFM) |
706 CFM |
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Coverage |
1500 sq. ft. |
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Unit Weight (indoor, outdoor) |
32.19 lb. and 134.48 lb. |
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Price |
$1,500 |
The 80500 from Dial Manufacturing is a two-ton mini split system designed to move serious air and maintain consistent heat, even when temperatures crash below zero. With a 20.5 SEER2 efficiency and low-ambient performance, it’s the kind of system you want in a big, draft-prone space.
WHO SHOULD BUY THIS MINI SPLIT SYSTEM?
Ideal for open floor plans, split-level homes, or those with poor insulation where older heating methods fall short.
3. Cooper & Hunter Olivia Series: Best for Garages & Small Cabins
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Heating capacity |
12,000 BTU |
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Coverage |
550 sq. ft. |
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Price |
$1,315 |
The Cooper & Hunter Olivia Series is suitable for heating with ambient temperatures as low as -13°F.
It comes with a smart port adapter that allows you to easily turn your units on and off, set the temperature, switch between °C and °F, switch modes, and adjust the fan speed using your smartphone and the C&H Remote mobile app.
WHO SHOULD BUY THIS MINI SPLIT SYSTEM?
Best for workshops, detached garages, or office spaces that need consistent winter comfort.
4. Dial Manufacturing 80400: Best for Affordability
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Heating capacity |
18,000BTU |
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Max. Airflow (CFM) |
647 |
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Coverage |
700 to 1000 sq. ft. |
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Weight (indoor, outdoor) |
32.19 lb. and 99.21 lb. |
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Price |
$1,200 |
The range of working temperature for the Dial Manufacturing 80400 is -4 Degrees F to -75 Degrees F for heating and 5 degrees F to 155 degrees F for cooling. It’s a 1.5-ton system with a solid SEER2 efficiency of 22.5 and reliable inverter performance.
WHO SHOULD BUY THIS MINI SPLIT SYSTEM?
If you're upgrading from space heaters or baseboards and don’t want to overspend, this is your entry-level solution for reliable cold-weather heating.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Cold-Climate Mini Split
Not every mini-split is built to battle winter. If you're shopping for one that won’t quit when snow hits the windows and the temps drop below zero, here’s what to focus on:
1. Low Ambient Heating Performance
Look for models rated to operate down to -5°F or 13°F. Anything that only works “above freezing” won’t cut it in true winter states. All the models in this review performed well in sub-zero temperatures without stalling.
2. Inverter Compressor
Inverter technology enables your mini-split to adjust its output in real-time based on demand. That saves energy, keeps indoor temps stable, and reduces the risk of system freeze-ups. It's also what enables many of these systems to operate effectively in cold climates.
3. SEER2 Efficiency
Newer SEER2 ratings more accurately reflect real-world conditions, especially under high-pressure situations. We recommend sticking to units with SEER2 ratings of 20 or higher if you care about long-term savings and performance.
Note: While high SEER2 ratings are beneficial, HSPF2 (heating seasonal performance factor) ratings and cold-weather capacity retention are more critical for cold climate performance than cooling efficiency ratings.
4. Voltage Compatibility
Most high-capacity, cold-climate systems require 230V power. Make sure your panel can support it. If not, you’ll need an electrician or a smaller system.
5. Warranty & Brand Reputation
Harsh winters are not friendly to HVAC systems. Choose brands with solid warranty coverage and a track record of supporting their products. That’s one reason we stock units manufactured by trusted names like Cooper & Hunter, MRCOOL, and Dial Manufacturing.
Wrapping Up
Mini-split heat pumps are a reliable and efficient solution for cold climates, provided you select the right model.
The four systems above were selected for their ability to withstand freezing temperatures, maintain comfort, and minimize high utility bills. Whether you’re heating a garage, basement, or your whole home, there’s a fit here.
FAQs
What is the coldest temperature that a mini-split can withstand?
It depends on the model. Standard mini splits stop working below 20°F, but modern cold-climate units (like those listed here) work down to -13°F or lower. Always check the low-ambient rating in the specs.
Do HVAC mini-splits work in cold weather?
Yes, if designed for it. Cold-climate-rated mini splits include features like inverter compressors, base pan heaters, and advanced defrost cycles that allow them to perform well below freezing.
Can a mini-split freeze in cold weather?
Yes, if not designed or installed properly. Without cold-weather protections, mini splits can ice over or fail. Always choose a unit rated for sub-zero use and ensure proper slope for drainage during installation.