Summary
When it comes to choosing between a Panasonic AC and a MrCool unit, several factors come into play, including price, SEER rating, warranty, and installation complexity. The Panasonic Exterios XE offers a higher SEER rating of 26.2 compared to the MrCool Oasis Hyper Heat’s 19 SEER, indicating better energy efficiency. However, the Panasonic unit comes at a higher price point of $1,600, while the MrCool unit is priced at $1,356. The Panasonic also boasts a longer 7-year compressor warranty, compared to the MrCool’s 2-year compressor warranty. Both units are designed for DIY installation, but the Panasonic requires a contractor to perform the final pumpdown/signoff for warranty coverage, which could add additional costs.
Price Comparison
Image source: Panasonic Ac by RuinDig
When it comes to the price, the Panasonic Exterios XE, 26.2 SEER, XE12SKUA model is priced at $1,600, while the MrCool Oasis Hyper Heat (with line set) is priced at $1,356. This puts the Panasonic unit at a higher price point, but it also offers a higher SEER rating.
To break down the pricing further:
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Panasonic Exterios XE, 26.2 SEER, XE12SKUA | $1,600 |
| MrCool Oasis Hyper Heat (with line set) | $1,356 |
The higher price of the Panasonic unit can be attributed to its advanced features and energy-efficient performance, which we’ll explore in the next section.
SEER Rating Comparison
The Panasonic Exterios XE unit has a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating of 26.2, while the MrCool Oasis Hyper Heat has a SEER rating of 19.
A higher SEER rating indicates better energy efficiency, which can result in lower energy costs over time. The Panasonic’s 26.2 SEER rating is significantly higher than the MrCool’s 19 SEER, making it a more energy-efficient option.
To understand the SEER rating in more detail:
- SEER measures the cooling output of an air conditioner or heat pump during a typical cooling season, divided by the total electric energy input during the same period.
- The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit is, and the less energy it will consume to cool your home.
- SEER ratings typically range from 14 to 26, with higher numbers indicating greater efficiency.
- The Panasonic Exterios XE’s 26.2 SEER rating places it at the higher end of the efficiency spectrum, making it a highly energy-efficient choice.
Warranty Comparison
When it comes to warranties, the Panasonic Exterios XE and the MrCool Oasis Hyper Heat offer different coverage periods:
Panasonic Exterios XE:
– 5-year parts warranty
– 7-year compressor warranty
MrCool Oasis Hyper Heat:
– 5-year parts warranty
– 2-year compressor warranty
The key difference here is the compressor warranty. The Panasonic unit offers a 7-year compressor warranty, while the MrCool unit has a 2-year compressor warranty. This means that the Panasonic unit provides an additional 5 years of coverage for the compressor, which is a critical component of the air conditioning system.
A longer compressor warranty can give you greater peace of mind and potentially save you money on future repairs or replacements, as the compressor is often one of the most expensive parts to replace.
Installation Complexity
Both the Panasonic Exterios XE and the MrCool Oasis Hyper Heat are designed for DIY installation, making them accessible for homeowners who want to tackle the project themselves.
However, there is a slight difference in the installation process:
Panasonic Exterios XE:
– Requires a contractor to perform the final pumpdown/signoff for warranty coverage.
– This additional step could add some complexity and potentially increase the overall installation cost.
MrCool Oasis Hyper Heat:
– Can be fully installed by the homeowner without the need for a contractor.
– This may make the MrCool unit a more straightforward choice for DIY enthusiasts.
It’s important to note that while the Panasonic unit requires a contractor for the final pumpdown/signoff, this step is crucial to ensure the proper functioning of the system and maintain the warranty. Skipping this step could potentially void the warranty, so it’s essential to factor in the additional cost and effort required for this final step.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Panasonic Exterios XE and the MrCool Oasis Hyper Heat both have their strengths and weaknesses. The Panasonic unit offers a higher SEER rating and a longer compressor warranty, indicating better energy efficiency and potentially lower long-term operating costs. However, it comes at a higher price point and requires a contractor for the final installation step.
The MrCool unit, on the other hand, is more affordable and can be fully installed by the homeowner, making it a more straightforward DIY option. But it has a lower SEER rating and a shorter compressor warranty.
Ultimately, the choice between the Panasonic AC and the MrCool unit will depend on your specific needs, budget, and DIY capabilities. Consider your priorities, such as energy efficiency, warranty coverage, and installation complexity, to determine which unit best fits your requirements.
References:
– Garage Journal Forum Thread on Mini-Splits
– The New York Times Wirecutter Review on the Best Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner
– Panasonic Mini-Split Air Conditioner Information