How Much Does a Mini-Split Cost?

March 19, 2021

Spaces that don’t have ductwork, including an addition, sunroom or garage, can be difficult to heat and cool. Adding ductwork from an existing system could be costly. And that added square footage may just be too sizeable for your home comfort equipment to take on, as your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a wise solution for these rooms because it doesn’t need ductwork. This all-in-one heating and cooling system has two pieces: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s often referred to as a mini-split heat pump as it moves heating and cooling, in place of creating it. As a result, mini-splits are extremely energy-efficient, with the majority achieving ENERGY STAR® certification.

Selecting the appropriate model for your home can seem like a large task, but our heating and cooling pros at B & B Heating & Cooling can help. We’ll start with a no-obligation meeting to learn about your needs before offering you a free estimate. We’ll also discuss any special offers, rebates and financing you might qualify for.

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

Estimated Cost for Mini-Split Installation

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

With professional installation, the average mini-split cost for this size is approximately $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide expenses for common home improvement projects.

Your total mini-split installation cost will vary based on the kind you choose and how energy efficient it is. As mentioned by HomeAdvisor, other extra 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?

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

Energy companies in Florissant also usually offer rebates for purchasing energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you go through this process to ensure you get the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although getting a mini-split is often pricier than typical heating and cooling systems, it’s a very efficient way to heat and cool troublesome rooms in your residence. These include:

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

ENERGY STAR also suggests using mini-splits in residences with unique challenges, like:

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

In comparison 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 precise control over settings from room to room, due to zoned mini-split technology.

Our Professionals Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you pick the ideal model to professionally installing it, our professionals at B & B Heating & Cooling can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Reach us at 314-325-7552 today to learn how a mini-split system can make your residence more comfortable and to receive your free estimate!