MRCOOL Easy Pro vs DIY: Which Mini Split System Should You Buy?

Aaron Dewit
MRCOOL Easy Pro vs DIY: Which Mini Split System Should You Buy?

MRCOOL offers two DIY-friendly mini split lines that look similar but serve different needs. The Easy Pro delivers budget-conscious single-zone climate control with straightforward installation. The DIY Series (4th and 5th Generation) provides premium efficiency, multi-zone capabilities, and advanced features for whole-home comfort.

Both use pre-charge line sets that eliminate the need for professional refrigerant work, but the differences in performance and flexibility matter. And choosing between these systems comes down to your installation comfort level, performance expectations, and long-term goals.

In this article, we'll explore both units, their performance, features, costs, and energy efficiency. After reading, you'll be certain of the model that fits your needs.

Overview of the Two Mini Splits

MRCOOL mini split systems come in two DIY-friendly lines: the Easy Pro and the DIY Series. The Easy Pro is an entry-level, budget-friendly system designed for single-zone applications. It targets homeowners who need reliable climate control for a single space without premium features or premium pricing. These systems deliver 18.9-20.2 SEER2 efficiency ratings across capacities from 9,000 to 24,000 BTU.

You get solid year-round performance with R-454B refrigerant, Wi-Fi connectivity, and voice-control integration. The 16-foot pre-charged line set simplifies installation, though you're limited to that fixed length.

The DIY series, however, offers more features. The recent 4th- and 5th-generation models achieve up to 24 SEER2 for greater energy efficiency. You'll find capacity options ranging from 6,000 to 55,000 BTU across single-zone and multi-zone configurations. Also, the 5th Generation models include advanced smart features, better cold-climate performance, and quieter operation than both the 4th Gen and Easy Pro lines.

Installation Experience

MRCOOL Easy Pro

As the name suggests, Easy is (pretty) easy to install. If you've worked on simple construction projects in your home, you should be able to pull it off. In fact, most homeowners complete installation in 4-6 hours with basic tools. To help you get started, MRCOOL provides detailed video guides that walk through each step.

MrCool DIY Easy Pro 24,000 BTU Gen Ductless Mini Split

MRCOOL DIY Series

The DIY single zone installation is similar to the Easy Pro. It also uses pre-charged quick-connect lines but requires more connections. Because of this, you can easily mix it up, especially if you're installing a multi-zone unit. The installation takes about 1-2 days.

Again, MRCOOL includes detailed instructions and video guides in the package to help you complete the installation, but you'll still need a licensed electrician to complete the electrical work.

Sizing and Capacity Options

MRCOOL Easy Pro

The Easy Pro line ranges from 9,000 to 24,000 BTU. This range covers small bedrooms up to large open-concept living spaces. The configuration you choose depends on your space's square footage, insulation quality, ceiling height, window area, and local climate.

Here's a benchmark you can start with:

  • 9K units cover 350-400 square feet
  • 12K handles 450-550 square feet
  • 18K manages 700-900 square feet
  • 24K works for 1,000-1,200 square feet.

MRCOOL DIY Series

DIY capacity options run from 9,000 BTU to 60,000 BTU in single-zone configurations. You get the same basic capacity range as the Easy Pro, but with fewer model variations within each size class. MRCOOL also offers DIY multi-zone packages, though with less flexibility in head combinations compared to Easy Pro.

Verdict:

If you're cooling or heating a single room, bedroom, office, or open living space, the Easy Pro lineup offers more granular sizing within the 9K–24K range. This makes it easier to match the unit to the room's actual load rather than oversizing or undersizing. But if you are trying to condition multiple rooms, larger floor plans, or workshops, choose the DIY series.

Cost Comparison

MRCOOL Easy Pro

Easy Pro series costs $600 - $2,500 depending on capacity and features. You'll also need to budget for installation and wiring.

MRCOOL DIY Series

DIY series prices range from $800 to $2,000, depending on capacity. You also need to factor in installation costs.

Verdict

Actually, the best choice depends on your preferences. If you're looking for an entry-level but budget-friendly option, the Mr Cool Easy Pro is the way to go. But the DIY 4th/5th gen series offers higher energy efficiency, better performance, and greater warranty coverage.

📌Read more: Mr Cool advantage vs DIY.

Smart Features and Controls

MRCOOL Easy Pro

Easy Pro systems include WiFi connectivity standard on most models. You control the system through MRCOOL's smartphone app to adjust temperature and fan speed, and operate it from anywhere. The app also provides energy usage tracking, maintenance reminders, and troubleshooting support.

The Easy Pro works with most smart home platforms. You can integrate it with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control. This matters if you've already invested in a smart home ecosystem and want your HVAC system to integrate seamlessly.

MRCOOL DIY Series

DIY systems include everything listed in the Easy Pro, along with energy monitoring, scheduling, and zoning control. It also works with IFTTT and Apple HomeKit automations.

Verdict

Both offer solid remote access, scheduling, and voice control. But the DIY series is better suited if you want a system with advanced automation needs.

Energy Efficiency

MRCOOL Easy Pro

Easy Pro efficiency ratings range from 16 SEER2 to 18 SEER2, depending on the model. Higher-end units also achieve HSPF2 ratings up to 10.5 for heating performance. These ratings indicate that the Easy Pro is not the most efficient but performs moderately in hot summers and mild winters.

MRCOOL DIY Series

DIY efficiency ratings range from 17 SEER2 to 22+ SEER, depending on the model. There are even models with the Energy Star certificate, which means you can obtain tax credits for using them.

Verdict

The Easy Pro falls within the "solid, dependable efficiency" range and is well-suited for typical residential use in hot summers and mild winters. Its SEER2 and HSPF2 ratings are good enough to keep energy bills reasonable without pushing the system into premium pricing territory.

The DIY Series, however, are better suited for users who prioritize long-term energy savings, run their systems for many hours daily, or live in climates where heating and cooling demand is high year-round.

Warranty and Support

MRCOOL Easy Pro

Easy Pro systems include a 1-year parts warranty.

MRCOOL DIY Series

DIY systems include a 5-7-year compressor warranty and a 1-5-year parts warranty, depending on the model.

Verdict

The DIY series offers longer-lasting, stronger protection than the Easy Pro. If you're a buyer who prioritizes long-term coverage, reduced repair risk, and added peace of mind, the DIY warranty structure is clearly more favorable.


Mr Cool Easy Pro vs DIY series Comparison

Feature

Easy Pro

DIY Series (5th Gen)

Efficiency

16-18SEER2

17 - 22+ SEER2

Zones

Single only

Single + multi (up to 6

Capacity

9K-24K BTU

9K-60K BTU

Install Time

4-6 hours

1-2 days

Warranty

1yr comp, 2yr parts

7yr comp, 5yr parts

Noise

At most 54 dB(A)

37dB for indoors and 58dB for outdoors

Best For

Single rooms, budget, simple

Multiple rooms, cold climates, whole-home


Who Should Buy the Easy Pro?

Buy the Easy Pro if:

  • You want to cool or heat one room, bedroom, office, den, or open living area

  • You want a unit that's easy to size correctly within the common 9K–24K BTU range

  • You're working with a modest upfront budget and don't want to pay for features you won't use

Who Should Buy the DIY Series?

  • You need to cool or heat larger spaces.

  • You want the flexibility to build multi-zone systems with multiple indoor heads on a single outdoor unit.

  • You plan to use the system as a primary whole-room HVAC solution rather than a supplemental units.

  • You want a system that can handle higher capacity needs (up to 60,000 BTU in a single zone) without oversizing.

Conclusion

Both MRCOOL lines deliver reliable ductless heating and cooling, but they target different priorities. Overall, choose based on your climate, installation complexity, technical comfort level, and budget.

Ready to upgrade your home's climate control? Commercial Cleaning Depot carries both MRCOOL Easy Pro and DIY series mini splits with expert support to help you choose the right system. Shop now or contact our HVAC specialists to find the perfect match for your space and budget.

Frequently Asked Question

Easy Pro is a a budget-friendly, single-zone unit with 18.9-20.2 SEER2 and fixed 16-foot line sets. DIY Series offers premium efficiency (22-24 SEER2 on 5th Gen), multi-zone up to 6 zones, line sets up to 75 feet, and better warranty. Both are DIY-installable.

Yes. Both use pre-charge line sets with quick-connect fittings—no vacuum pumps or refrigerant handling required. You need basic tools and the ability to drill through walls and mount equipment. However, most areas require licensed electricians for electrical connections, even if you handle the mechanical install.

DIY Series, especially 5th Gen. These maintain strong heating to -5°F outdoor temperature. Easy Pro heating drops significantly below 5°F. If your winters regularly hit below 10°F, the  DIY Series provides more reliable heating without backup heat.

Professional installation costs $500-1,500 for single-zone systems and $1,000-2,500 for multi-zone systems. Handling the mechanical installation yourself and hiring an electrician only ($200-500) can save $300-2,000, depending on system complexity and local rates.

For single-zone systems in moderate climates, Easy Pro delivers adequate performance at a lower cost. For multi-zone, cold-climate, or long-term ownership (10-15 years), the DIY Series often delivers better total value through lower operating costs, a longer warranty, and multi-zone efficiency. Calculate your break-even based on local electricity rates and usage.

About The Author

Aaron Dewit, the author of this content section at Commercial Cleaning Depot, brings over 9 years of hands-on commercial cleaning equipment expertise as the lead content specialist. Working directly with manufacturers and facility managers across diverse industries, Aaron combines practical experience with extensive product testing to provide trustworthy, evidence-based guidance. His commitment to thorough research and real-world equipment evaluation ensures readers receive reliable, actionable advice for their specific cleaning challenges.