MrCool DIY vs EasyPro vs Advantage: Which Is Right?

Three Lines, Three Different Buyers

MrCool makes more than just the DIY line. They have three main product families, and each targets a different use case and buyer. Choosing the wrong one leads to either overpaying for features you don't need or missing capabilities you do.

Here's the breakdown.

MrCool DIY (5th Generation)

Who It's For

Homeowners who want to install a mini split themselves without hiring an HVAC technician.

Key Features

• Quick Connect line sets: Pre-charged, pre-flared connections. No vacuum pump, no gauges, no refrigerant handling.
• Built-in WiFi: Connect to the SmartHVAC app, Google Home, Alexa, and Apple HomeKit out of the box.
• SEER2 up to 24.6: Among the highest efficiency ratings in the residential ductless market.
• Heating down to -13°F: Expanded cold-weather operation for northern climates.
• Available sizes: 9K, 12K, 18K, 24K, and 36K BTU in single-zone; multi-zone configurations available.

Installation

True DIY — no HVAC license, no specialized tools. Most installations take 3-4 hours for a single zone. Zomg the Handyman recommends this line for anyone with basic tool skills.

Price Range

Mid-range. You're paying a premium over the Advantage line for the Quick Connect system and WiFi, but you save thousands on installation labor.

Best For

• Homeowners comfortable with basic tools
• Anyone who wants to avoid paying for professional HVAC installation
• Budget-conscious buyers who want top efficiency without labor costs
• Single-room additions, garages, workshops, bonus rooms

MrCool EasyPro

Who It's For

Professional HVAC contractors who want a high-quality, feature-rich mini split for their customers.

Key Features

• Traditional flare connections: Standard 45-degree SAE flare fittings for professional installation.
• Pre-charged outdoor unit: Refrigerant ships in the condenser, but lines must be vacuumed and the system must be charged by a technician.
• Higher capacity options: Available in larger BTU sizes suitable for commercial or large residential applications.
• Advanced diagnostics: Built-in fault code system for professional troubleshooting.
• Built-in WiFi: Same smart features as the DIY line.
• SEER2 ratings comparable to DIY line: Top-tier efficiency.

Installation

Professional installation required. You'll need vacuum pumps, manifold gauges, a torque wrench for flare connections, and EPA 608 certification to handle refrigerant. Installation typically runs $1,500-$3,000 depending on your market.

Price Range

The unit itself is slightly less expensive than the DIY line (you're not paying for the Quick Connect engineering), but total installed cost is significantly higher once you add labor.

Best For

• Homeowners who want professional installation and aren't interested in DIY
• New construction where HVAC is part of the build contract
• Commercial applications requiring larger capacities
• Situations where code requires licensed HVAC installation

MrCool Advantage

Who It's For

Budget-focused buyers who need basic heating and cooling without premium features.

Key Features

• Traditional flare connections: Like the EasyPro, requires professional installation with standard HVAC tools and techniques.
• No WiFi: The Advantage line does not include built-in WiFi. Smart features require a separate adapter (sold separately for $50-$60).
• Solid but not top-tier efficiency: SEER2 ratings in the 17-20 range — still very good, but below the DIY and EasyPro lines.
• Narrower operating range: May not heat effectively below 5°F, limiting its usefulness in very cold climates.
• Available sizes: 9K, 12K, 18K, 24K BTU.

Installation

Professional installation required — same as EasyPro. All the same tools, skills, and certifications needed.

Price Range

The lowest unit cost of the three lines, but professional installation adds $1,500-$3,000. Total installed cost often ends up similar to or higher than the DIY line installed by the homeowner.

Best For

• Buyers on a strict budget who already have an HVAC technician they trust (or one who's giving them a good deal on labor)
• Secondary spaces where WiFi control isn't needed
• Rental properties where the landlord wants basic climate control at minimum cost
• Moderate climates where extreme cold-weather heating isn't required

Head-to-Head Comparison

The Math: Total Cost of Ownership

This is where the comparison gets interesting. Let's use a 12K BTU system as an example:

Scenario: MrCool DIY 5th Gen 12K

• Unit cost: ~$1,400 (bundle with line set)
• Installation: $0 (DIY)
• Electrical (if needed): $150-$300 (electrician for dedicated circuit)
• Total: $1,400-$1,700
• Annual electricity (estimated): ~$250 (SEER2 24.6)

Scenario: MrCool EasyPro 12K

• Unit cost: ~$1,100 (unit + line set)
• Installation: $1,500-$3,000 (professional)
• Electrical: Often included in install quote
• Total: $2,600-$4,100
• Annual electricity (estimated): ~$260 (SEER2 23.5)

Scenario: MrCool Advantage 12K

• Unit cost: ~$800 (unit + line set)
• Installation: $1,500-$3,000 (professional)
• WiFi adapter: $60
• Electrical: Often included in install quote
• Total: $2,360-$3,860
• Annual electricity (estimated): ~$320 (SEER2 19.0)

The DIY line wins on total cost in virtually every scenario because the labor savings outweigh the higher unit price. The Advantage line's lower unit cost is a mirage — professional installation erases the savings.

Zomg the Handyman's Take

"I've installed all three lines. The DIY 5th Gen is the best value for 95% of homeowners. The only time I recommend EasyPro is when someone needs a capacity that the DIY line doesn't offer, or when local code requires a licensed installation. The Advantage line has its place for budget-constrained commercial installs where the contractor is already on-site."

Our Recommendation

For the vast majority of HVACZAR customers, the MrCool DIY 5th Gen is the clear winner. You get the highest efficiency, built-in WiFi, the widest operating temperature range, and — most importantly — you don't pay for professional installation.

Browse the full lineup:

• 9K BTU Bundle — small rooms, bedrooms
• 12K BTU Bundle — most popular, medium rooms
• 18K BTU Bundle — living rooms, open spaces
• 24K BTU Bundle — large rooms, garages
• 36K BTU Bundle — whole floors, workshops

Use code SUMMER100 to save $100 at checkout.

Shop MrCool DIY 5th Gen Bundles →