How Much Does a Mini-Split Cost?

March 19, 2021

Rooms that lack ductwork, such as an addition, sunroom or garage, can be difficult to heat and cool. Extending ductwork from a present system could be pricey. And that added square footage may just be too big for your home comfort equipment to take on, as your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a smart solution for these rooms 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 typically referred to as a mini-split heat pump because it moves heating and cooling, in place of creating it. Because of this, mini-splits are extremely energy-efficient, with many earning ENERGY STAR® certification.

Picking the appropriate model for your home could seem like a large task, but our heating and cooling specialists at Marcos AC & Heating can provide support. We’ll begin with a no-obligation meeting to hear about your needs before giving 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 anticipate to spend when you’re buying 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 roughly the size of a studio apartment.

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

Your total mini-split installation cost will differ based on the kind you go with and how energy efficient it is. As mentioned by HomeAdvisor, other added costs may entail:

  • Installing a concrete slab 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 home.

Do Mini-Splits Qualify for a Tax Credit?

Installing 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 house through December 31, 2021. We advise consulting with your tax professional for more details.

Energy companies in Houston also usually give rebates for buying energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you figure out this process to confirm you have the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although purchasing a mini-split is often more expensive than standard heating and cooling systems, it’s a very efficient method to heat and cool difficult rooms in your residence. These can be:

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

ENERGY STAR also suggests using mini-splits in houses with atypical challenges, like:

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

In comparison to 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 have precise control over temps from room to room, as a result of zoned mini-split technology.

Our Pros Can Take Care of All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you pick the best model to professionally installing it, our specialists at Marcos AC & Heating can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Reach us at 713-469-3357 today to learn how a mini-split system can make your home cozier and to get your free estimate!