How Much Does a Mini-Split Cost?

March 19, 2021

Rooms that lack ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be a challenge to heat and cool. Adding ductwork from a current system can be costly. And that added square footage might just be too large for your home comfort equipment to manage, since your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a smart option for these spaces since it doesn’t require ductwork. This comprehensive heating and cooling system has two pieces: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s frequently referred to as a mini-split heat pump since it transfers heating and cooling, in place of generating it. Because of this, mini-splits are extremely energy-efficient, with the majority earning ENERGY STAR® certification.

Selecting the appropriate model for your residence can appear like a big task, but our heating and cooling professionals at Heartland Heating & Cooling can offer assistance. We’ll get started with a zero-pressure appointment to go over your needs before providing you with a free estimate. We’ll also go over any special offers, rebates and financing you might be eligible for.

Here’s about how much you can anticipate to be responsible for when you’re getting a ductless mini-split.

Average Mini-Split Installation Cost

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

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

Your precise mini-split installation cost will be different based on the kind you choose and how energy efficient it is. Per HomeAdvisor, other added costs might entail:

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

Do Mini-Splits Qualify for a Tax Credit?

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

Energy companies in Des Moines also often have rebates for purchasing energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you navigate this process to make sure you have the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although purchasing a mini-split is often pricier than standard heating and cooling systems, it’s an extremely efficient method to heat and cool difficult areas in your residence. These involve:

  • Additions.
  • Garages.
  • Sunrooms.
  • Spaces you aren’t in very regularly.
  • Locations with hot and cold spots.

ENERGY STAR also advises using mini-splits in homes with unique challenges, like:

  • Pricey electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
  • Costly central heat, either due to high fuel expenses or low efficiency.
  • Older homes that don’t have ductwork due to radiator or baseboard heat.

When compared to traditional 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 enjoy exact control over temps from room to room, as a result of zoned mini-split technology.

Our Pros Can Take on All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you select the right model to knowledgeably installing it, our professionals at Heartland Heating & Cooling can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Give us a call at 515-344-3579 now to find out how a mini-split system can make your house more comfortable and to get your free estimate!