Our verdict
Pick the DELLA Vario 12,000 BTU 230V if you prefer DELLA's support and parts network and its stated figures suit your room. Pick the DELLA Optima 12,000 BTU 230V if lower running costs matter most and you need a stated cold-weather rating.
The central trade-off
Efficiency. The DELLA Optima 12,000 BTU 230V is rated 24 SEER2 against 23 for the DELLA Vario 12,000 BTU 230V, roughly 4% less cooling energy at the same output.
Cold weather. The DELLA Optima 12,000 BTU 230V is rated to heat down to -13°F; the DELLA Vario 12,000 BTU 230V's listing doesn't state a low-temperature limit.
Noise. The DELLA Optima 12,000 BTU 230V lists 30 dB indoors at its quietest, against 52 dB.
Side by side
| Specification | DELLA Vario 12,000 BTU 230V | DELLA Optima 12,000 BTU 230V |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling (maker) | 12000 BTU | 12000 BTU |
| Heating (maker) | 12000 BTU | 12600 BTU |
| SEER2 | 23 | 24 |
| HSPF2 | Not stated by the maker | 10 |
| Heats down to (maker) | Not stated by the maker | -13°F |
| Voltage | 230 V | 230 V |
| Refrigerant | R-454B | R-454B |
| Room size (maker) | 550 | 550 sq ft |
| Indoor noise (maker) | 52 db | 30 db |
| Line set included | Not stated by the maker | Not stated by the maker |
| Warranty | Not stated by the maker | Not stated by the maker |
Values are the makers' published specifications. "Not stated" means the maker doesn't publish it.
Which should you choose?
Choose the DELLA Vario 12,000 BTU 230V if
- You prefer DELLA's support and parts network
- Its stated figures suit your room
Choose the DELLA Optima 12,000 BTU 230V if
- Lower running costs matter most
- You need a stated cold-weather rating
- It's going in a bedroom