Nexmetal 24V DC Battery Powered Mini Split Air Conditioner Heat Pump Review – 1/2 Ton 6,000 BTU Off-Grid Cooling and Heating Solution
The Nexmetal 24V DC battery powered Mini Split Air Conditioner Heat Pump (1/2 Ton – 6,000 BTU/h) is engineered for energy independence, solar compatibility, and efficient climate control in small spaces. Designed to run directly on 21–30V DC current, this system eliminates the need for an inverter, making it a practical solution for off-grid cabins, RV setups, tiny homes, marine applications, and battery-based solar systems.
Unlike traditional mini splits that rely on AC conversion, this 24V DC mini split operates natively on DC power, maximizing energy efficiency and reducing system complexity. With a high SEER rating of 21, low power consumption of 350 watts, and both heating and cooling capabilities, this unit positions itself as a specialized off-grid climate control system.
This comprehensive review explores its features, specifications, energy performance, heating efficiency, installation components, practical applications, and overall value.
Product Overview
The Nexmetal 24V DC Mini Split Air Conditioner Heat Pump is a compact wall-mounted mini split designed specifically for 24V battery systems. It provides:
- Cooling capacity of 6,000 BTU/h (1,700 W)
- Heating capacity of 7,000 BTU/h (1,900 W)
- Rated power input of 350 Watts (14.5 A)
- Native 21–30V DC operation
- True 24V DC compressor and fans
- SEER rating of 21
- Memory retention after power loss (up to 24 hours)
This system is particularly suitable for users seeking efficient temperature control without relying on AC power or inverters.
Technical Specifications Table
Below is a structured product data table based on manufacturer and Amazon listing details:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Nexmetal |
| Model Type | 24V DC Battery Powered Mini Split |
| Form Factor | Mini-Split |
| Capacity | 0.5 Ton |
| Cooling Capacity | 6,000 BTU/h (1,700 W) |
| Heating Capacity | 7,000 BTU/h (1,900 W) |
| Voltage Range | 21–30 Volts DC |
| Rated Power Input | 350 Watts (14.5 A) |
| SEER | 21 |
| Color | White |
| Product Dimensions | 11″D x 30″W x 21″H |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Special Feature | Native 24V DC Operation |
| Included Accessories | 10 ft insulated lines, drain line, remote control |
What Sets This 24V DC Mini Split Apart?
Traditional mini split systems require 110V or 220V AC power. In solar systems, this requires a DC-to-AC inverter, which introduces:
- Energy loss
- Increased equipment cost
- Added wiring complexity
- Heat generation from conversion
The Nexmetal 24V DC mini split runs directly from 21–30V DC current. This makes it ideal for:
- 24V lithium battery systems
- AGM or lead-acid 24V banks
- Solar-powered off-grid homes
- Mobile installations
By eliminating the inverter, this system reduces power loss and enhances efficiency.
Cooling Performance – 6,000 BTU Efficiency
With a cooling capacity of 6,000 BTU/h (1,700 W), this unit is optimized for:
- Small bedrooms
- RV interiors
- Tiny houses
- Cabins under 300 square feet
- Marine cabins
- Office pods
Stable and Efficient Cooling
Despite its compact size, the cooling output is sufficient for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures in small spaces. Because it operates directly on DC power, nearly all available battery energy is delivered to the compressor rather than being lost in conversion.
Low Power Draw
At only 350 watts rated input, this system is highly energy-efficient. This makes it especially practical for solar arrays between 800W to 1500W paired with 24V battery systems.
Heating Performance – 7,000 BTU Heat Pump
In addition to cooling, the system includes a heat pump heating function.
Heating Capacity:
- 7,000 BTU/h (1,900 W)
Unlike electric resistance heaters that convert electricity directly into heat at a 1:1 ratio, heat pumps move heat rather than generate it. According to product information, this system provides heating efficiency up to five times greater than a traditional electric heater.
Benefits of Heat Pump Heating:
- Reduced battery drain
- Lower energy consumption
- Effective temperature control in mild to moderate cold
- Year-round usability
This makes it practical for off-grid winter heating without rapidly depleting battery storage.
SEER 21 – High Energy Efficiency Rating
One of the most impressive aspects of this unit is its SEER rating of 21.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures cooling efficiency over an entire season. A rating of 21 places this mini split in a high-efficiency category for small systems.
Why This Matters
- Lower long-term energy consumption
- Reduced solar system strain
- Improved battery longevity
- Greater operating hours per charge cycle
For off-grid setups, efficiency directly impacts comfort sustainability.
True 24V DC Compressor and Fan Motors
This system is engineered with:
- True 24V DC compressor
- True 24V DC fan motors
This is not an AC system modified for DC use. It is purpose-built for DC operation.
Advantages:
- Lower startup surge
- Smooth power delivery
- Reduced electrical stress
- Better compatibility with battery systems
High startup surges in AC mini splits often cause inverter overload. This DC-native system avoids those complications.
Power Consumption and Battery Runtime
Rated Power Input: 350 Watts (14.5 A)
To understand runtime potential:
A 24V 100Ah lithium battery stores approximately 2,400 Wh.
At 350W draw, theoretical continuous runtime equals:
Approximately 6–7 hours (depending on cycling and temperature load).
In real-world conditions, since the compressor cycles on and off, actual runtime can be extended significantly.
This makes it ideal for:
- Solar-powered cabins
- Backup battery systems
- Off-grid weekend homes
- RV and van conversions
Memory Retention After Power Failure
The system retains its last operating mode for up to 24 hours after power interruption.
This feature ensures:
- Automatic restart after battery recharge
- No need to reconfigure settings
- Improved reliability in fluctuating solar environments
This is especially helpful in off-grid systems where voltage may temporarily dip.
Installation and Included Accessories
The package includes:
- 10 ft insulated refrigerant lines
- Drain line
- Remote control
These components simplify installation and reduce additional costs.
However, installation may still require:
- Vacuum pump
- Proper refrigerant handling
- Electrical wiring knowledge
Professional installation is recommended for optimal performance.
Design and Dimensions
The indoor unit measures:
- 11 inches deep
- 30 inches wide
- 21 inches high
Its white finish complements modern interiors, RV builds, and cabin walls.
The compact size ensures it does not overwhelm small rooms.
Ideal Applications
The Nexmetal 24V DC mini split heat pump is best suited for:
- Off-grid cabins
- Tiny homes
- Van life conversions
- Boats and marine cabins
- Solar workshops
- Small remote offices
It is not designed for whole-house climate control but excels in targeted small-area cooling and heating.
Advantages Summary
- Native 24V DC operation
- No inverter required
- High SEER 21 rating
- 6,000 BTU cooling capacity
- 7,000 BTU heating capacity
- 350W low power input
- Heat pump efficiency
- Memory restart feature
- Solar compatibility
- Reduced startup surge
Limitations to Consider
- Designed for small spaces
- Requires 24V battery system
- Professional installation recommended
- Limited cooling range compared to larger systems
Understanding these factors ensures proper expectations and application.
Comparison with 220V Mini Splits in Solar Systems
| Feature | Nexmetal 24V DC | Standard 220V Mini Split |
|---|---|---|
| Inverter Required | No | Yes |
| Conversion Loss | None | Moderate |
| Startup Surge | Low | Higher |
| Off-Grid Efficiency | Excellent | Moderate |
| System Complexity | Lower | Higher |
By eliminating the inverter, this system improves solar efficiency and simplifies wiring.
Safety and Reliability
Running directly on DC power reduces:
- Inverter failure risk
- Electrical overheating from conversion
- System complexity
Additionally, operating within 21–30V DC allows flexibility during battery charging and discharging cycles.
Real-World Scenario Example
In a 24V solar cabin setup with:
- 24V 200Ah lithium battery bank
- 1,200W solar array
This unit can run during peak sunlight hours and continue operating into evening without immediate battery depletion.
Its 350W consumption makes it manageable for modest solar systems.
Final Verdict
The Nexmetal 24V DC battery powered Mini Split Air Conditioner Heat Pump (1/2 Ton – 6,000 BTU) is a specialized solution built specifically for DC solar and battery-based systems.
With a high SEER rating of 21, low 350W power draw, and true 24V DC components, it eliminates the inefficiencies associated with AC inverters. Its heat pump capability provides year-round usability while maintaining energy-conscious operation.
For users building or upgrading a 24V solar system, this mini split offers a focused, efficient, and practical climate control solution for small spaces.