Pioneer Inverter+ Review - Image Source: Pioneer

The ductless mini split air conditioning system is an innovative alternative to the more expensive and complex ducted systems on the market. These systems essentially consist of two units connected via wires and refrigerant tubing. These two units are the external condenser and the internal air handler. Ductless mini splits are capable of providing a range of convenient features, and potentially provide the user with much more cooling power than any window-mounted or portable unit could hope to achieve. Today we will be reviewing one such system, the Pioneer Inverter+ (12,000 BTU). Pioneer has built and maintained a superb reputation through years of introducing high-quality appliances of a wide variety to the market. Check out our full review below to see if this split air conditioner maintains the Pioneer legacy.

Pioneer Inverter+ Air Conditioner Review

The Pioneer Inverter+ excels greatly at user-friendliness. The impressive range of convenient features included in the design of this unit makes it ideal for any residential setting. Additionally, should the user want more from their unit, there is a wide range of optional add-on components that drastically enhance certain aspects of the device, such as its ability to filter air etc. Continue reading for our full run-down of the pros and cons of this unit under a wide range of criteria.

Cooling Performance

With a cooling output of 12,000 BTUs, the Pioneer Inverter+ is ideal for installation in a residential setting of up to 550 square feet. Additionally, this unit features 12,000 BTUs of heating power, with auto changeover capability. This essentially means that the Pioneer Inverter+ will maintain a constant comfortable environment, providing cooling or heating where required to re-establish optimum temperature in the case of a temperature drop or rise. Finally, a ventilation feature is also included, for air circulation purposes.

Efficiency / Certifications

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) provides an adequate measurement of the efficiency of a unit’s performance. Scoring a SEER score of 17.2-17.5, the Pioneer Inverter+ is moderately efficient. Although there are several units on the market that we have reviewed that perform to a higher level of efficiency, the Pioneer Inverter+ will still function without breaking the bank.

Regarding certifications, this unit comes both UL-Listed and ETL certified, meaning that it has been safety assessed by Underwriters Laboratories, and meets North American market requirements. Additionally, the Pioneer Inverter+ is AHRI performance certified. This impressive suite of certifications allows the user peace-of-mind in the knowledge that their unit will not harm the air quality of their home.

Convenience

When it comes to convenience, the Pioneer Inverter+ comes with several immensely useful features and functions. With a wireless remote control, the user is enabled to change the settings on their unit from anywhere in the room. Additionally, this unit’s programmable timer is exceptionally convenient when correctly utilised. By setting the timer to power on the device at key times of the day, you can effectively eliminate the uncomfortable situation of returning home to an overheated home. Utilisation of the Pioneer Inverter+ is further refined by the inclusion of the optional add-onWi-Fi enabled control.

Finally, this unit benefits from night mode and auto restart. Night mode enables the device to adapt temperatures to match natural changing body temperatures to maintain a comfortable environment in the night, while auto restart allows  the unit to automatically reboot following a power outage.

Design

Weighing 125lbs, this system requires a professional for installation or transport. We strongly advise against attempting installation without a competent contractor, as this may forfeit your eligibility to avail of the associated warranty plan. Additionally, by hiring a professional, you effectively minimise your chances of a botched job, which can prove to be quite expensive to remedy. Washable air filters remove some dust and pollen particulates, while automatic swing air louvers aid in achieving an even distribution of conditioned air. Furthermore, the air handler itself is designed with an aesthetically pleasing front panel and dimmable LED display.

Additionally, there are a number of optional add-on features, including a higher density filter, an Ionizer, or a plasma dust collector, all which will greatly enhance this unit’s filtration deodorising performance.

Dimensions (Inches) 

Indoor Unit

Height: 11.5″

Width: 31.5″

Depth: 7.5″

Outdoor Unit

Height: 22″

Width: 30.5″

Depth: 12″

Help & Support

The Pioneer Inverter+ benefit is covered by a 2-years parts and 5-years compressor limited warranty, which is a relatively decent coverage period, although lacking when compared to some of the other warranty plans put forward by other brands we have reviewed.

Pioneer customer service representatives are contactable via email, telephone, and live chat. Additionally, helpful resources are available on the company’s official website, including detailed and refined FAQs, and downloadable user documents. Also available through the company’s website

Verdict

To conclude our assessment of the Pioneer Inverter+, there is not much to say other than this unit is a fine example of what one should look for when browsing the air conditioning markets. Excelling under the categories of convenience and design, this unit is both user-friendly, and well-constructed. It should be noted that there is no assessment category that the Pioneer Inverter+ fails at, or performs poorly in. This is surprisingly rare in today’s market, as even the most formidable of air conditioning units tend to have an achilles heel, whereas this unit does not seem to have a notable weakness. It is for this reason that we put our seal of approval on this unit, and certainly recommend it for anyone with an appropriate living space to support it.