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What Size Mini Split For 250 Square Feet

What Size Mini Split For 250 Square Feet

Jon Hubal
6 minute read

You're looking to purchase a mini-split for 250 square feet, but you do not know how large of a mini-split to buy. Fear not; we’ve got your backs. As for heating/cooling, a small space like that needs a unit that is strong but not massive, quick and efficient, not bulky or excessive.

MRCOOL DIY Easy Pro® 9k BTU Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Complete System

MRCOOL DIY Easy Pro® 9k BTU Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Complete System

$1,252.00

MrCool DIY Easy Pro® 9k BTU Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump Complete System The easy-to-install MRCOOL Easy Pro® 9k BTU Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump System can heat or cool a space of up to 350 square feet with a 20 SEER… read more

How to Calculate the Right Mini Split Size for 250 Square Feet

To properly size a mini split for 250 square feet, there are a few things to consider:

First Step

  • First, determine the room conditions. Do you have high ceilings? Lots of windows or exterior walls? These factors can impact the capacity needed. As a rule of thumb, for a typical room with 8-foot ceilings and average insulation, you'll want at least 8,000 to 10,000 BTUs to heat 250 square feet.

Second Step

  • Next, think about how you use the space. Is it an office, bedroom, or living area? Offices and bedrooms typically require less capacity since fewer people occupy the space. Living rooms used frequently or for entertaining will need a higher capacity unit, around 9,000 to 12,000 BTUs.

Third Step

  • Also, consider the climate and how much you want to rely on the mini-split. If it's your primary heat source, size it so it can adequately heat the entire area. If you have central HVAC and want to use the mini split to supplement or for cooling only, you can choose a smaller unit.

Fourth Step

  • Finally, look for a model with multiple fan speeds and a built-in thermostat so you can adjust the temperature and airflow to your needs. Options like sleep mode, auto restart, and timers give you more control over the system.

With some basic calculations and by determining how you'll use the space, you can choose a properly sized mini split for your 250-square-foot area. Focus on your room conditions, how the space is used and your local climate to find a unit in the 8,000 to 12,000 BTU range that will keep you comfortable all year round.

GREE Sapphire 9K BTU 38 SEER Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump - SAP09HP230V1A

GREE Sapphire 9K BTU 38 SEER Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump - SAP09HP230V1A

$2,038.36

GREE Sapphire 9K BTU 38 SEER Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump The Gree Sapphire is an ultra high-efficiency ductless mini split system from Gree. It features a quiet, unobtrusive design with advance performance and an industry leading SEER… read more

Recommended BTU Output for a 250 Square Foot Room

For a 250-square-foot room, you'll want a mini split with around 9,000 to 12,000 BTUs of cooling power. Anything less won't be enough for those hot summer days, while too much more will waste energy and money.

Placement matters

  • Where you install the unit is key. The closer it is to the center of the room, the more efficiently it can cool the whole space. If that's not possible, at least place it on the wall opposite the room's main heat sources like big windows or heating vents.

Consider your insulation

  • How well your room retains temperature also affects what size mini split you need. If you have little insulation, higher ceilings, or lots of windows, go for a unit with 10,000 BTUs or more. For an average, well-insulated space, 9,000 BTUs should work great.

Think about the extras

  • Do you have things like computers, TVs, or exercise equipment that also generate heat? Factor in around 1,000 additional BTUs for every 10,000 BTUs of equipment to make sure your mini-split can keep up.

Be energy efficient

  • Choose an Energy Star-rated mini split for the best efficiency. Variable speed inverter models are a great option - they automatically adjust power to match the temperature needs, so they don't waste energy overcooling the room.

Top Mini Split Models for Small Spaces of 250 Square Feet

When looking for a mini-split system for a small space of around 250 square feet, you have several excellent options to choose from. Here are some of the top models:

Gree Sapphire GWH09DB-D3DNA1A

  • If budget is a concern, consider Gree’s Sapphire mini split. With 9,000 BTU, it works well for spaces around 250 square feet. It offers a decent efficiency of 38 SEER. Gree is a popular, affordable brand, and this model includes useful features like a wireless remote, 24-hour timer, and fan speed options. For small rooms on a budget, the Gree Sapphire hits the sweet spot.

GREE Sapphire 9K BTU 38 SEER Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump - SAP09HP230V1A

GREE Sapphire 9K BTU 38 SEER Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump - SAP09HP230V1A

$2,038.36

GREE Sapphire 9K BTU 38 SEER Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump The Gree Sapphire is an ultra high-efficiency ductless mini split system from Gree. It features a quiet, unobtrusive design with advance performance and an industry leading SEER… read more

Mitsubishi MSZ-FH06NA

  • The Mitsubishi FH06 is an efficient and compact mini split heat pump. It has a 6,000 BTU capacity, perfect for spaces up to 250 square feet. This unit provides both heating and cooling, with an energy efficiency rating of 26 SEER for cooling and 10.2 HSPF for heating. Mitsubishi is one of the most reputable brands for mini splits.

Daikin DX13TC

  • Daikin’s DX13TC is another great choice for small rooms. With a 13,000 BTU capacity, it can handle areas up to 325 square feet. It has an impressive energy efficiency of 19 SEER for cooling and 10.8 HSPF for heating. Daikin is known for very quiet, dependable mini split systems with premium features. This model includes WiFi connectivity so you can control the temperature from your smart device.

In summary, choosing a mini split in the 6,000 to 13,000 BTU range from a reputable brand like Mitsubishi, Daikin or Gree is your best bet for effectively and efficiently heating and cooling a small 250-square-foot space. Compare the options based on efficiency, features, and budget to find one that suits your needs.

GREE Livo Gen4 9K BTU 19.5 SEER2 Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump - 4LIV09HP115V1A

GREE Livo Gen4 9K BTU 19.5 SEER2 Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump - 4LIV09HP115V1A

$1,029.11

GREE Livo Gen4 9K BTU 19.5 SEER2 Wall Mount Mini-Split Single Zone Heat Pump The 4LIV09HP115V1AH / 4LIV09HP115V1AO is a 9,000 BTU single-zone mini-split air conditioner from Gree. It is designed to provide quiet, comfortable, and efficient cooling for small… read more

What Size Mini Split For 250 Square Feet

At the end of the day, finding the right mini-split for a 250-square-foot space comes down to balancing your needs with your budget. For most people, a single zone system in the 9,000 to 12,000 BTU range should do the trick and provide efficient heating and cooling for a small area like an office, bedroom, or den. While more powerful units may seem tempting, too large of a system will short cycle and waste energy. On the other hand, don't go too small or you'll end up with a unit that struggles to keep up on the hottest or coldest days.

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