Rooms that don’t have ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be a challenge to heat and cool. Lengthening ductwork from a current system can be expensive. And that added area could just be too big for your home comfort equipment to manage, since your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a great solution for these rooms since it doesn’t have to have 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 since it transfers heating and cooling, in place of generating it. Because of this, mini-splits are very energy-efficient, with most reaching ENERGY STAR® certification.

Choosing the right model for your home may appear like a large task, but our heating and cooling specialists at Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning can offer assistance. We’ll begin with a no-obligation consultation to learn about 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 expect to be responsible for when you’re buying a ductless mini-split.

Average Cost for Mini-Split Installation

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 average 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. According to 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 might be required if you have an older residence.

Do Mini-Splits Qualify for a Tax Credit?

Installing an ENERGY STAR-certified ductless mini-split can qualify you for valuable tax credits. The mini-split tax credit is $300 for select systems installed at your residence through December 31, 2021. We suggest talking with your tax professional for more information.

Energy companies in Arlington also often have rebates for buying energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you navigate this process to make sure you get the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although installing a mini-split is often more expensive than traditional heating and cooling systems, it’s a highly efficient method to heat and cool troublesome spots in your house. These include:

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

ENERGY STAR also advises having mini-splits in homes with unique challenges, including:

  • Costly electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
  • Expensive central heat, either as a result of high fuel costs 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 have precise control over temps from room to room, thanks to zoned mini-split technology.

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

From helping you choose the right model to knowledgeably installing it, our pros at Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Call us at 360-255-5857 right away to learn how a mini-split system can make your home cozier and to request your free estimate!