How Much Does a Mini-Split Cost?

March 19, 2021

Spaces that lack ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be difficult to heat and cool. Extending ductwork from an existing system could be expensive. And that additional square footage might 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 smart solution for these areas as 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 typically known as a mini-split heat pump because it moves heating and cooling, in place of making it. As a result, mini-splits are highly energy-efficient, with the majority reaching ENERGY STAR® certification.

Selecting the appropriate model for your house might feel overwhelming, but our heating and cooling specialists at Cytech Heating & Cooling L.C. can provide support. We’ll get started with a no-obligation consultation to learn 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 expect to pay 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 about 450–550 square feet, or roughly the size of a studio apartment.

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

Your exact mini-split installation cost will be different based on the model you select and how energy efficient it is. Per HomeAdvisor, other added costs might involve:

  • Installing a concrete pad for the outdoor condenser, $75–$300.
  • Installing a dedicated electrical circuit, $250.
  • Upgrading the electrical panel, $1,200. This may 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 home through December 31, 2021. We suggest chatting with your tax professional for more information.

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

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although buying a mini-split is usually more expensive than traditional heating and cooling systems, it’s a highly efficient method to heat and cool tricky areas in your home. These can be:

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

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

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

In comparison to regular 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 exact control over temperatures from room to room, due to zoned mini-split technology.

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

From helping you choose the ideal model to expertly installing it, our specialists at Cytech Heating & Cooling L.C. can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Give us a call at 956-630-3522 right away to learn how a mini-split system can make your home cozier and to get your free estimate!