Having separate cooling and heating systems in your home might inflate your household’s annual power consumption. This Green mini split model guide will help you discover a power-saving cooling and heating system that can regulate the temperature in just one room or an entire house.
The Gree brand is one of the largest manufacturers of air conditioning systems globally, but unlike so many of its competitors, the company doesn’t produce heat pumps, window ACs, and similar types of air conditioning systems.
However, the brand offers a handful of packaged, Variable Refrigerant Flow and Central Air systems designed for residential and commercial settings. Our Gree mini split model guide focuses on units that are intended for use in primarily residential contexts.
You should read our guide to mini-split systems if you’re not familiar with how they work.
At a Glance – The 4 Best Gree Mini-Split Models
| Model | Energy Efficiency | Operating temperature range | Price range |
| Livo Gen 3 | 19SEER | -13F to 115F | $$-$$$ |
| Vireo Gen 3 | 25.3SEER | -22F to 122F | $$$-$$$$ |
| Gree Sapphire | 38SEER | -22F to 129F | $$$$ |
| Gree Multi+Ultra | 23SEER | -31F to 115F | $$$$ |
Vireo+ has you covered with a multitude of features that help you live well and stay comfortable, all controlled easily either with the wireless infrared remote controller or optional wired controller.
The Sapphire provides ULTRA Heating technology to keep you reliably warm when temperatures drop as low as -22°F.
Key Factors To Consider Before Getting a Gree Mini-split
Approaching the process of getting a new mini-split for your home unprepared can leave you with an expensive and energy inefficient system that isn’t suited for a space in which it is installed.
Besides getting more familiar with the offers of industry-leading brands like LG, Mitsubishi, or Gree, you also need to understand the cooling and heating requirements of the space where the unit is going to be used.
Gree’s mini-splits are available in multiple sizes, and you can use them to regulate room temperature in spaces that have less than 500sq/ft or more than 3,000sq/ft. Also, you can choose between different indoor component types and decide how far from the outdoor compressor you want to install them.
Check out our guide to the best 24,000 BTU mini-splits, if you already know which mini-split size you need.
Become More Familiar With The Brand’s Mini-split Options
Gree’s mini-split products for residential use are divided into single-zone and multi-zone categories. Each category contains several mini-split series, and each series contains multiple models. We won’t cover the features of mini-split systems from all of the brand’s series.
Instead, we’ll focus on the models from the following four series:
- Livo Gen 3 – This series features ten different models with cooling and heating capacities that range from 9,000 BTU to 36,000 BTU. All units can have just one wall-mounted indoor component, and they’re not Energy Star certified.
- Vireo Gen 3 – The maximum output mini-splits from this series can have is limited to 24,000 BTUs. You can choose between four types of indoor components, but you should keep in mind that the system’s energy efficiency depends on the indoor component you select.
- Sapphire – As the brand’s most advanced single-zone mini-split systems, models from the Sapphire series are designed for use in extreme conditions. The highest output these units can offer is capped at 2-tons.
- Gree Multi+Ultra – Depending on the model you choose, Gree Multi+Ultra mini-splits can have between two and five zones.
The brand offers multiple warranty options, but most of its models come with its standard 5-year warranty for the compressor and all other parts of the system.
Consult with an HVAC Technician
Mini-split systems have to be installed according to state laws and electrical and building codes, which is why you shouldn’t go through the installation process alone. Gree has a nationwide network of licensed technicians that can guide you through the mini-split selection and installation process from start to finish.
You can use the company’s website to find a local contractor that will evaluate your cooling and heating needs and help you select the Gree’s mini-split that best fits your requirements.
This service is usually expensive, and it might end up costing you thousands of dollars if you opt for one of the brand’s more advanced models. Despite this, you shouldn’t cut costs on installation because a single misstep during this process can damage the entire system.
You can find more affordable cooling options in our guide to the best 72-inch ceiling fans.
Calculate The Cooling and Heating Area
Factors such as the climate, home insulation, and the layout of the space can affect the coverage range of mini-split systems. So, a 36,000 BTU mini-split can be suitable for 1,200sq/ft to 2,000sq/ft homes depending on one or more of these factors.
The HVAC technician you contact through Gree’s website can help you calculate the appropriate size of the mini-split system for the space you want to heat and cool. Optionally, you can use an online HVAC calculator to determine which mini-split size you need.
The output of the brand’s single-zone models doesn’t exceed 3 tons, and you’ll have to get a multi-zone unit if you want to regulate the room temperature in spaces that have more than 2,000sq/ft. Check our guide to the best 12,000 BTU mini-splits if you’re searching for a system you can use to heat and cool space smaller than 550sq/ft.
Decide If You Need a Single-zone or Multi-zone Mini-split
You can choose from six series of Gree’s single-zone mini-splits. Each series contains up to ten models equipped with different features. Units from the Vireo Gen 3 series can be paired with four different types of indoor components, but their output cannot be split into two or more zones.
The brand has more than ten multi-zone models that belong to four different series, and you can choose between units that are designed for moderate or extreme weather conditions. The number of zones Gree’s models can have depends on the model, and it varies from two to nine.
Opting for a multi-zone mini-split will enable you to control the temperature in different parts of your separately. However, these systems are more expensive than the brand’s single-zone options, and their installation costs are higher.
Please read our guide to the best 5-zone mini-split options to learn more about what these multi-zone systems can offer.
Create a Well-structured Budget
Setting the price cap for each stage of the mini-split selection and installation process will make estimating the entire project’s cost easier. Brand’s most affordable models belong to the Livo+ series, but their performance capabilities and energy efficiency are limited.
Opting for a unit from the Livo Gen 3 or Vireo Gen 3 series is probably the most economical solution if you need a single-zone model. However, Gree’s multi-zone units can cost up to $5,000 depending on the number of indoor components they have.
You’ll have to spend an additional $500 to $2,000 or more on the installation cost, which means that your overall budget for a new Gree minis-split should be between $1,500 and $8,000.
Also, buying a mini-split system directly from the manufacturer isn’t possible, and you have to contact a licensed distributor to get a quote on the system you’re interested in. Our guide to the best Lowes mini-splits can help you find a model that fits your budget.
Choosing a Gree Mini-split System
The wide selection of models the Gree brand offers can make the process of finding the system that meets your needs a daunting task.
However, this process is going to be much easier if you prepare properly for it and determine beforehand the size of the system you need and the number of zones it should have. Let’s take a look at some of the things you can do to make this process quicker and simpler.
Get The Right Mini-split Size
The cooling and heating outputs of the models from each of the single-zone and multi-zone series span from 9,000BTU to 60,000 BTU. Hence, finding a unit that can regulate the temperature in your entire home or just in your garage shouldn’t be too difficult.
You shouldn’t decide which mini-split size to get on your own, and the HVAC contractor should advise which of the brand’s models is the best choice for you. Also, choosing the correct mini-split for the size of the space you want to heat and cool will maximize its energy efficiency.
Check The Model’s Energy Efficiency Ratings
The energy efficiency ratings of Gree’s mini-splits largely depend on the series they belong to. So, models from the Livo Gen 3 series have 19SEER ratings, while mini-splits from the Vireo Gen 3 series can have seasonal energy ratings up to 25.3SEER.
It is worth noting that SEER and HSPF ratings of models from the same series aren’t always the same. You also should check if the unit you want to get is Energy Star certified because some models from a specific series might not have this certification.
Find Out The Noise Levels of The System’s Indoor and Outdoor Components
The amount of noise a mini-split system is making can be a factor that helps you decide which model to choose. Checking the unit’s noise level is particularly important if you’re looking for a ductless AC you can install in your bedroom.
Moreover, the amount of noise a mini-split is going to make depends on its maximum cooling and heating outputs. The indoor components of the models from the Gree’s Livo, Vireo, Sapphire, and Multi+Ultra series generate between 28dB and 55dB of noise.
Their outdoor components are somewhat louder, but their noise level doesn’t exceed 70dB.
Learn More About The Unit’s Dehumidification and Air Filtration Capabilities
The Fan mode is a standard mini-split feature that allows you to circulate the air without cooling it. Operating a unit in this mode also helps reduce the number of air pollutants in your home by trapping dust, pet dander, and other types of particles in the air filter.
The Dry mode regulates the air humidity within the mini-split’s coverage range. The dehumidification capacity of Gree mini-splits depends on the model, and it spans from 1.70 to 7.5 pints per hour. Also, the amount of moisture a unit can absorb in an hour depends on the indoor component you choose.
Go Through the Safety Features and Upkeep Requirements
The model you pick should be able to enter the defrost mode or detect a refrigerant leak automatically. Most Gree mini-splits have the self-diagnostics feature that discovers the root of the problem the system has encountered.
They also display error codes that inform you which issue the system detected, which makes it easier to restore the system to full functionality. The upkeep requirements of these ACs don’t go beyond regular air filter cleaning and annual system checks performed by a licensed HVAC technician.
Top 4 Gree mini-split models
Livo Gen 3
The variable-speed compressor gives you complete control over the cooling and heating outputs of the Livo Gen3 mini-splits. This series features more than ten models that can have a maximum capacity of 36,000 BTUs. Their energy efficiency ranges from 16SEER to 18SEER, while their 9HSPF heating seasonal performance factor is the same for all models.
The mini-splits from this series are compatible with wall-mounted indoor air handlers and you can adjust their settings with a remote or through an app on your smartphone. The remote controller has the I-Feel function that measures the temperature at its current location and ensures an even room temperature across the unit’s coverage area.
Pros
- Modern and elegant design
- Suitable for small and large spaces
- Equipped with the G-10 inverter technology
- Offers advanced air filter options
Cons
- Low SEER and HSPF ratings
- Not Energy Star certified
The new Gree LIVO GEN 3 Wall Mount units are the latest addition to the Gree comfort family. These heat pump systems are built around Gree's G10 Inverter and variable compressor technology, using R410A refrigerant.
Vireo Gen 3
The wide operating temperature range makes the Vireo Gen 3 series units a great option for warm and cold climates. All mini-splits from this series retain their full functionality at temperatures as low as -22F or as high as 122F.
Moreover, the Gree Vireo Gen 3 mini-splits are highly energy-efficient, but whether or not a model will be Energy Star certified depends on the indoor component you choose. These mini-splits are compatible with wall-mounted, ceiling cassette, universal floor-ceiling, and slim duct indoor components.
Their dehumidification capacity depends on the model, and it varies from 1.70 pt/hr on a 9,000 BTU system to 5.1pt/hr on 2-ton units.
Pros
- Low noise level
- WiFi-enabled
- Coils have anti-corrosion coating
- Excellent heating capabilities
Cons
- Single-stage compressor
- Energy efficiency depends on the indoor component
Vireo+ has you covered with a multitude of features that help you live well and stay comfortable, all controlled easily either with the wireless infrared remote controller or optional wired controller.
Gree Sapphire
The SEER rating of the mini-splits from the Gree Sapphire series depends on the model’s output, so a 9,000 BTU unit will have a 38SEER rating, while the 2-ton Sapphire mini-split has a 21.5 SEER rating. Despite this, all models from this series are Energy Star certified.
The wall-mounted indoor component lets you switch between different fan speeds and adjust the airflow volume output to your current needs. Mini-splits from the Sapphire series have excellent safety features as they can detect a refrigerant leak automatically or defrost the coils only when necessary.
Pros
- Low power consumption
- Quiet indoor and outdoor components
- Programming a Sapphire mini-split is easy
- All models from this series are Energy Star certified
Cons
- Steep price
- Limited coverage range
The Sapphire provides ULTRA Heating technology to keep you reliably warm when temperatures drop as low as -22°F.
Gree Multi+Ultra
In case you need a multi-zone mini-split system, you should consider getting a model from the Gree Multi+Ultra series. You can choose from four models that have 18,000, 24,000, 36,000 and 42,000 BTUs. Opting for an 18,000 BTU option will enable you to divide your home into two zones, while a 42,000 BTU version of the Gree Multi+Ultra unit lets you split your home into two to five cooling and heating zones.
All mini-splits from this series are designed to work normally in extreme weather conditions as their operating temperature range spans from -31F to 115F.
Pros
- Compatible with ducted and non-ducted indoor units
- Equipped with a variable speed compressor
- Excellent low-temperature performance
- Available with up to five indoor components
Cons
- Expensive installation process
- Only two models from this series are Energy Star certified
The Vireo Wall Mount Ductless has a compact design, for quiet comfort and an attractive appearance. Comes with built-in Wi-Fi allowing you to remotely the unit with your smartphone.
Our Verdict: What Is The Best Gree Mini-split Model For Your Home?
Gree is one of the most reliable mini-split manufacturers because most of the brand’s models are capable of great performances regardless of the weather conditions. The energy efficiency of the units from the Livo+ and Livo Gen 3 series is underwhelming as they might increase your household’s power consumption during cooling and heating seasons.
That’s why we recommend the single-zone units from the Vireo Gen3 or Sapphire series that have high SEER and HSPF ratings. You should consider one of the models from the Gree Multi+Ultra series if you need a multi-zone mini-split that can offer more than 24,000 BTUs of cooling and heating capacity.
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Best Overall
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Runner Up
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Best Multi-Zone
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3.5
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3.5
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3.5
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3.5
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N/A
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$1,143.49
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$2,038.36
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$6,794.62
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Was this Gree mini-split model guide useful? Let us know in the comments or continue reading our Senville mini-split review if you would like to explore alternatives to Gree mini-splits.
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