Spaces that don’t have ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be tricky to heat and cool. Adding ductwork from a present system could be costly. And that additional area might 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 great solution for these spaces because it doesn’t require ductwork. This combined heating and cooling system has two parts: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s often referred to as a mini-split heat pump because it shifts heating and cooling, in place of creating it. As a result, mini-splits are extremely energy-efficient, with most reaching ENERGY STAR® certification.
Selecting the right model for your residence may feel like a large task, but our heating and cooling experts at Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning can provide support. We’ll start with a no-obligation appointment to review your needs before offering you a free estimate. We’ll also discuss any special offers, rebates and financing you might be able to take advantage of.
Here’s about how much you can plan to be responsible for when you’re installing 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 approximately 450–550 square feet, or roughly the size of a studio apartment.
With professional installation, the typical mini-split cost for this size is around $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide costs for common home improvement work.
Your exact mini-split installation cost will vary based on the kind you select and how energy efficient it is. As mentioned by HomeAdvisor, other added costs may 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 needed if you have an older house.
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 qualified systems installed at your house through December 31, 2021. We recommend talking with your tax professional for more details.
Energy companies in Kearney also usually offer rebates for buying energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you figure out this process to make sure you receive the best value from your new mini-split unit.
Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?
Although purchasing a mini-split is often pricier than more common heating and cooling systems, it’s an extremely efficient approach to heat and cool difficult areas in your residence. These can be:
- Additions.
- Garages.
- Sunrooms.
- Areas you don’t use very frequently.
- Areas 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.
- Pricey central heat, either due to high fuel expenses or decreased efficiency.
- Older homes that don’t have ductwork as a result of radiator or baseboard heat.
In contrast with 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 enjoy exact control over temps from room to room, due to zoned mini-split technology.
Our Specialists Can Take Care of All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs
From helping you pick the best model to knowledgeably installing it, our pros at Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Reach us at 308-624-3485 today to find out how a mini-split system can make your house cozier and to request your free estimate!