How Much Does a Mini-Split Cost?

March 19, 2021

Areas that don’t have ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be a challenge to heat and cool. Adding ductwork from a current system could be pricey. And that added square footage may just be too large for your home comfort equipment to manage, because your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a wise idea for these areas because it doesn’t require ductwork. This comprehensive heating and cooling system has two parts: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s often referred to as a mini-split heat pump since it transfers heating and cooling, as opposed to generating it. As a result, mini-splits are extremely energy-efficient, with the majority reaching ENERGY STAR® certification.

Selecting the right kind for your residence could seem like a large task, but our heating and cooling professionals at B&D Air Conditioning can offer assistance. We’ll start with a no-pressure appointment to go over your needs before offering you a free estimate. We’ll also review any special offers, rebates and financing you might qualify for.

Here’s about how much you can anticipate to spend when you’re buying a ductless mini-split.

Estimated Cost for Mini-Split Installation

One of the most frequently installed sizes is a 12,000 BTU mini-split. This will heat and cool about 450–550 square feet, or about the size of a studio apartment.

With professional installation, the typical mini-split cost for this size is around $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide costs for usual home improvement jobs.

Your total mini-split installation cost will vary based on the type you choose and how energy efficient it is. Per HomeAdvisor, other additional costs could include:

  • Installing a concrete pad for the outdoor condenser, $75–$300.
  • Installing a dedicated electrical circuit, $250.
  • Upgrading the electrical panel, $1,200. This could be needed if you have an older house.

Do Mini-Splits Qualify for a Tax Credit?

Buying an ENERGY STAR-certified ductless mini-split can qualify you for valuable tax credits. The mini-split tax credit is $300 for eligible systems installed at your residence through December 31, 2021. We recommend consulting with your tax professional for more info.

Energy companies in Safford also typically give rebates for installing energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you navigate this process to make sure you get the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although getting a mini-split is typically pricier than more common heating and cooling systems, it’s a highly efficient method to heat and cool troublesome rooms in your residence. These involve:

  • Additions.
  • Garages.
  • Sunrooms.
  • Spaces you don’t visit very often.
  • Areas with hot and cold spots.

ENERGY STAR also advises installing mini-splits in homes with special challenges, such as:

  • Costly electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
  • Pricey central heat, either because of high fuel prices or low efficiency.
  • Older residences that don’t have ductwork as a result of radiator or baseboard heat.

In contrast with more common electric heating and cooling, ENERGY STAR says a mini-split can save you up to 30% on cooling and up to 60% on heating. You’ll also get exact control over temps from room to room, due to zoned mini-split technology.

Our Specialists Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you choose the right model to knowledgeably installing it, our pros at B&D Air Conditioning can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Give us a call at 928-432-6018 now to find out how a mini-split system can make your home comfier and to receive your free estimate!