Daikin Vs. Senville: How Do These Mini Split Brands Compare?

Mini split air conditioning systems are gaining popularity for heating and cooling homes and small commercial spaces. With compact outdoor units and sleek wall-mounted indoor units, mini splits provide quiet, energy-efficient temperature control without the need for ductwork.

Two of the biggest brands in mini splits are Daikin and Senville. But which one is better for your needs? Here’s an in-depth look at how Daikin and Senville mini splits stack up.

A Brief Comparison Table

Feature	Daikin	Senville
Efficiency Ratings	Up to SEER 26, industry leading	Up to SEER 20.5, good but not top tier
Technology	Precision inverter compressors	Fixed-speed compressors
Noise Levels	As low as 19 dB, extremely quiet	Not disclosed, but likely higher minimum decibels
Smart Capability	Many models work with home automation systems	No smart integration
Warranties	6 years on parts, 5 years replacement	5 years on compressor, 2 years on parts
Cost	$600 – $4000+ per indoor head, premium prices	$300 – $1000 per head, budget friendly
Installation	Professional recommended for best results	DIY-friendly systems
Reliability	Proven over nearly 100 years	Good but shorter track record as new brand
Availability	Broad range of single and multi-zone systems	Wide selection of multi-zone configurations

Overview of Daikin Mini Splits

Founded in Japan in 1924, Daikin Industries is one of the world’s largest HVAC manufacturers. The company is known for its innovative technologies like variable refrigerant flow (VRF) and Daikin Inverter compressors.

Daikin offers a wide selection of ductless mini splits in single and multi-zone configurations.

Key features of Daikin mini splits:

• Inverter technology – Daikin mini splits use inverter-driven compressors that efficiently adjust output to match demand. This improves temperature control and energy savings.
• Smart HVAC integration – Many Daikin systems work with smart home platforms and voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for control via smartphone app or voice commands.
• High SEER ratings – Daikin mini splits achieve SEER ratings of up to 26.0 for maximum energy efficiency and cost savings on utility bills.
• Quiet operation – Acoustic engineering minimizes noise levels as low as 19 decibels for indoor units.
• Quality materials – Daikin designs, engineers, and manufactures its own components including the compressors, heat exchangers, fans, and printed circuit boards.
• Robust warranties – Most Daikin mini split systems come with 6-year parts and compressor warranties along with 5-year replacement warranty.

Daikin Mini Split Model Options

Daikin offers an extensive selection of ductless mini splits for residential and light commercial use. Popular models include:

• Daikin Fit – Affordable, compact single-zone systems well-suited for tight spaces like studios and home offices.
• Daikin 17 SEER – Mainstream single-zone systems with premium efficiency and features.
• Daikin 19 SEER – High-end single-zone systems with boosted efficiency and cooling capacity.
• Daikin 2-zone and 3-zone – Multi-zone systems that connect up to 9 indoor units to a single outdoor unit. Ideal for whole-home cooling.
• Daikin VRF – Sophisticated large variable refrigerant flow systems for commercial HVAC needs.

Overview of Senville Mini Splits

Senville is a newer brand, established in 2010, that has quickly become a popular choice for ductless mini splits. The company offers affordably-priced systems touted for easy DIY installation.

Key features of Senville mini splits:

• Lower upfront costs – Senville ductless systems are priced below many competing brands, making them budget-friendly options.
• DIY-friendly – Designed for straightforward homeowner installation without professional help. Instructional videos provide guidance.
• Good efficiency – While not industry-leading, Senville units do achieve respectable SEER ratings of up to 20.5 for cost savings.
• Extensive multi-zone options – Senville has one of the widest ranges of multi-zone systems accommodating up to 9 indoor units.
• Leak-free refrigerant piping – Senville utilizes an improved refrigerant piping design to eliminate leaks that sometimes occur during DIY installations.
• Helpful warranty – Systems include 5-year warranty on the compressor and 2-year warranty on parts.

Senville Mini Split Model Options

Senville offers budget-priced single, dual, tri, and quad zone mini splits along with more advanced systems. Top models include:

• Aura Series – Entry-level, affordable single-zone units. SEER ratings from 15 to 20.5
• Artika Series – Mainstream single and dual zone systems withwhite casing and auto-swing louvers.
• Leto Series – Higher-end units with SEER up to 20.5 andI-Feel temperature sensing.
• Aurora Series – Top-of-the-line Inverter++ systems with advanced filtration and Aurora Touch controllers.
• Senville VRF – Large capacity 3-phase variable refrigerant flow systems for commercial uses.

Key Differences Between Daikin And Senville Mini Splits

Now let’s take a detailed look at how Daikin and Senville mini splits directly compare across some key factors:

Efficiency and Performance

• Daikin – Offers a wider range of efficiency with single zone SEER ratings from 17 up to 26. Precision inverter compressors help maximize performance.
• Senville – Most models have SEER ratings from 15 to 20.5, lagging Daikin’s top end. But still respectable for the price point.
• Winner: Daikin – You get what you pay for. Daikin wins on maximum efficiency and advanced technology.

Noise Levels

• Daikin – Indoor units are whisper quiet, with sound levels as low as 19 dB. Daikin focuses heavily on acoustic engineering.
• Senville – Units aim for quiet operation but likely have higher minimum decibel levels than Daikin models. Exact noise specs are not readily available.
• Winner: Daikin – Reviewers widely praise the hushed performance of Daikin’s indoor mini split components.

Smart Home Compatibility

• Daikin – Many models integrate with smart home platforms, voice assistants, and mobile apps for control.
• Senville – Currently lacks smart connectivity capabilities. Must use remote control or onboard displays.
• Winner: Daikin – Smart integration gives Daikin the advantage for controlling ductless systems with home automation.

Warranties

• Daikin – Outstanding 6-year parts and compressor coverage along with 5-year replacement policies.
• Senville – Includes 5-year compressor and 2-year parts warranties. Fair for the price tier.
• Winner: Daikin – Daikin stands behind units with some of the longest warranties in the industry.

Cost and Affordability

• Daikin – Units carry higher upfront costs, ranging from $600 up to $2000 or more per indoor head. Higher-end inverter models top $4000.
• Senville – Much more budget-friendly purchase prices, with basic units as low as $300 per head and top models under $1000.
• Winner: Senville – The clear choice for ductless systems on a tight budget. Just expect some performance trade-offs.

Ease of Installation

• Daikin – Professional installation recommended to get the best performance and minimize risks. HVAC technicians have direct training and support from Daikin.
• Senville – Designed for DIY installation. Instructional videos and manuals provide guidance for homeowner self-setup.
• Winner: Tie – DIY vs pro install depends on your skills and needs. Daikin offers quality pro support while Senville caters to solo homeowners.

Reputation and Reliability

• Daikin – Established reputation for innovation, quality, and reliability. Proven track record since 1924.
• Senville – Still a relatively young brand so long-term reputation can’t compare. But customers report reliable performance, especially given lower prices.
• Winner: Daikin – Hard to match Daikin’s nearly 100 years of HVAC engineering experience and expertise.

Availability of Multi-Zone Systems

• Daikin – Offers dual, triple, and larger multi-zone mini splits for whole home and commercial spaces.
• Senville – Has an expansive selection of multi zones systems covering 2, 3, 4, 5, and even 9 zones.
• Winner: Tie – Both brands offer robust options for ductless systems beyond just single rooms.

Best Uses for Each Brand

Based on performance, features, and pricing, Daikin and Senville mini splits are each best suited for certain applications:

Daikin

• Homes and offices where low noise and maximum efficiency are priorities.
• Smart homes with integrated automation systems.
• Locations that need true precision temperature and humidity control.
• Commercial spaces like restaurants and retail stores.
• Budgets that allow for premium HVAC performance and quality.

Senville

• Residences and rooms on tight budgets.
• Homeowners comfortable with DIY installation and setup.
• Applications where advanced inverter features are not essential.
• Locations needing supplemental spot cooling or heating.
• Multi-zone systems for whole-home coverage at lower cost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Bottom Line

For many homeowners, Senville provides an appealing balance of value and capabilities. But buyers who want the highest quality and energy savings from a mini split will appreciate the engineering and technology that Daikin packs into its ductless systems.