When I first started shopping for a ductless mini split, I kept running into two names over and over again: MRCOOL Advantage and MRCOOL DIY. Both systems promised energy efficiency, quiet operation, and reliable heating and cooling. But the big question was: which one should I buy?
The answer wasn’t obvious at first. The DIY Series caught my attention with its pre-charged line sets—no vacuum pump required. But the Advantage Series was priced lower, and I had some tools and HVAC know-how.
In the end, I chose the MRCOOL Advantage 12,000 BTU for my living room. But I’ll admit, the decision wasn’t easy. So, let me break down the differences, pros and cons, and real-world savings of both models to help you figure out which one is right for your home.
MRCOOL Mini-Split Advantage Series 12,000 BTU 230V Wall Mounted Heat Pump System
🌀 MRCOOL Advantage: Budget-Friendly Power
The Advantage Series is MRCOOL’s entry-level ductless system.
Key Specs (12k model):
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SEER2: ~18
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EER: ~10.5
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HSPF2: ~8.5
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Voltage: 230V
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Coverage: 450–650 sq. ft.
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Price: $800–$1,100
Why people choose Advantage:
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Lower upfront cost.
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Reliable cooling and heating for small to mid-sized rooms.
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Solid energy efficiency for the price.
The catch:
The Advantage doesn’t come with pre-charged quick-connect line sets. That means you’ll need HVAC-style installation: a vacuum pump, gauges, and possibly professional help.
👉 Mark’s Note: “I had a buddy lend me a vacuum pump, so I saved money. But if I didn’t have that, I might have gone DIY instead.”
🛠️ MRCOOL DIY: The True Do-It-Yourself Option
The DIY Series is designed for homeowners who want to skip the pro installer.
Key Specs (12k model):
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SEER2: ~20–22
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EER: 12+
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HSPF2: 10+
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Voltage: 115V or 230V (varies by model)
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Coverage: 450–650 sq. ft.
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Price: $1,200–$1,500
Why people choose DIY:
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Pre-charged line sets—just connect them, no vacuum pump needed.
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Higher efficiency ratings = lower utility bills.
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Available in multi-zone options (Advantage is usually single-zone).
The catch:
Higher upfront price. And while it’s called DIY, you’ll still need some tools (drill, hole saw, wrench) and a careful hand.
👉 Mark’s Take: “If I were installing a unit for my parents, I’d pick DIY. It’s safer, faster, and designed for homeowners who don’t want to mess with refrigerant.”
📦 Installation: Pro-Style vs. Plug-and-Play
This is the biggest difference between Advantage and DIY.
MRCOOL Advantage Installation:
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Requires vacuum pump + manifold gauges.
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Refrigerant lines must be properly flared and torqued.
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Electrical hookup to 230V breaker.
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Optional: hire an HVAC pro.
Cost if DIY: ~$100–$200 for tools (if borrowed/rented).
Cost if Pro: $500–$1,500 installation fee.
MRCOOL DIY Installation:
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Pre-charged quick-connect line sets.
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No vacuum pump or gauges needed.
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Still requires drilling a wall hole and mounting units.
Cost if DIY: $0 extra (just basic homeowner tools).
Cost if Pro: Not necessary, but possible.
Energy.gov – Mini Split Installation Guide
👉 Mark’s Story: “I debated hard. The Advantage was cheaper, but I knew it meant a more complicated install. Since I had some HVAC experience, I went for it. But for a first-timer? DIY would’ve been easier.”
⚡ Efficiency & Performance
Both systems are efficient, but the DIY usually comes out ahead.
| Metric | MRCOOL Advantage | MRCOOL DIY |
|---|---|---|
| SEER2 | ~18 | ~20–22 |
| EER | ~10.5 | 12+ |
| HSPF2 | ~8.5–9 | 10+ |
| Climate Suitability | Mild to moderate | Mild to cold (better heating at low temps) |
Translation:
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Advantage = efficient, but mid-range.
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DIY = higher efficiency, better long-term energy savings.
Energy Star – Mini Split Efficiency Ratings
💰 Cost Breakdown
Here’s how the numbers play out.
MRCOOL Advantage (12k model):
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Equipment: $800–$1,100
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Tools/rental: $100–$200 (if DIY)
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Pro install: +$500–$1,500 (optional)
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Total range: $900–$2,600
MRCOOL DIY (12k model):
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Equipment: $1,200–$1,500
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Tools: $0 extra (basic homeowner tools)
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Pro install: Not needed
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Total range: $1,200–$1,500
👉 If you’re hiring a pro, the DIY is cheaper overall.
👉 If you’re handy and already have tools, the Advantage saves money.
Consumer Reports – Mini Split Buying Guide
🏠 Best Use Cases
MRCOOL Advantage:
✔️ Budget-conscious buyers.
✔️ Handy homeowners with tools.
✔️ Single rooms, small apartments, or garages.
❌ Not ideal for renters or those uncomfortable with refrigerant tools.
MRCOOL DIY:
✔️ First-time mini split owners.
✔️ Renters or homeowners who can’t hire a pro.
✔️ Colder climates where higher heating efficiency matters.
✔️ Multi-zone setups (DIY has more flexibility).
👉 Mark’s Note: “For my 550 sq. ft. living room, Advantage was perfect. But if I were cooling my whole upstairs, I’d go DIY or multi-zone.”
⚖️ Pros & Cons
MRCOOL Advantage – Pros
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Lower upfront cost
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Solid efficiency
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Reliable heating and cooling
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Great if you’re handy
MRCOOL Advantage – Cons
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Harder installation
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May need pro help (extra cost)
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Slightly lower efficiency
MRCOOL DIY – Pros
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Easiest installation (true DIY)
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Higher efficiency (lower bills)
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Multi-zone options available
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Cold-climate ready
MRCOOL DIY – Cons
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Higher upfront price
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Limited line set flexibility (pre-charged lengths only)
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Still requires careful installation
✅ Mark’s Final Verdict
So, MRCOOL Advantage vs. MRCOOL DIY—which one is right for you?
Here’s my bottom line:
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If you’re budget-conscious, have tools, and don’t mind a little extra work, the Advantage is a fantastic buy.
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If you want simplicity, higher efficiency, and no pro involvement, the DIY is the safer choice.
👉 Personally, the Advantage was right for me—I had the tools and confidence. But if I were helping my parents or recommending a system to a neighbor with no HVAC experience? I’d steer them toward the DIY.
Both systems deliver comfort, efficiency, and solid reliability. The decision really comes down to how much you want to pay upfront vs. how much you want to sweat during installation.
