How Much Does a Mini-Split Cost?

March 19, 2021

Areas without ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be difficult to heat and cool. Extending ductwork from an existing system can be costly. And that added area might just be too sizeable for your home comfort equipment to manage, since your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a smart solution for these areas because it doesn’t have to have ductwork. This all-in-one heating and cooling system has two components: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s frequently called a mini-split heat pump since it moves heating and cooling, in place of making it. As a result, mini-splits are very energy-efficient, with most earning ENERGY STAR® certification.

Selecting the correct model for your residence can seem like a large task, but our heating and cooling specialists at Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning can provide support. We’ll start with a no-obligation meeting to learn about your needs before providing you with a free estimate. We’ll also go over 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.

Average Mini-Split Installation Cost

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

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

Your total mini-split installation cost will differ based on the kind you go with and how energy efficient it is. According to HomeAdvisor, other extra costs could involve:

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

Do Mini-Splits Qualify for a Tax Credit?

Installing an ENERGY STAR-certified ductless mini-split can give you access to valuable tax credits. The mini-split tax credit is $300 for select systems installed at your house through December 31, 2021. We recommend consulting with your tax professional for more information.

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

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although getting a mini-split is often pricier than standard heating and cooling systems, it’s a very efficient method to heat and cool troublesome parts of your home. These include:

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

ENERGY STAR also recommends using mini-splits in homes with special challenges, including:

  • Expensive electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
  • Expensive central heat, either due to high fuel prices or decreased efficiency.
  • Older houses that don’t have ductwork as a result of 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 get exact control over temps from room to room, because of zoned mini-split technology.

Our Pros Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you pick the right model to knowledgeably installing it, our specialists at Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Give us a call at 952-373-0377 right away to find out how a mini-split system can make your home comfier and to request your free estimate!