Spaces without ductwork, including an addition, sunroom or garage, can be a challenge to heat and cool. Adding ductwork from a present system can be costly. And that extra area may just be too large for your home comfort equipment to manage, as your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.
A mini-split is a wise solution for these spaces because it doesn’t require ductwork. This combined heating and cooling system has two pieces: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s frequently called a mini-split heat pump since it transfers heating and cooling, as opposed to generating it. Because of this, mini-splits are extremely energy-efficient, with the majority achieving ENERGY STAR® certification.
Choosing the correct model for your house can appear like a lot of work, but our heating and cooling professionals at Age Heating & Cooling can offer assistance. We’ll begin with a zero-obligation meeting to learn about your needs before giving you a free estimate. We’ll also review any special offers, rebates and financing you might be eligible for.
Here’s about how much you can plan to be responsible for when you’re buying a ductless mini-split.
Average Cost for Mini-Split Installation
One of the most often installed sizes is a 12,000 BTU mini-split. This will heat and cool about 450–550 square feet, or around 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 typical home improvement projects.
Your precise mini-split installation cost will differ based on the model you choose and how energy efficient it is. As mentioned by HomeAdvisor, other extra costs might entail:
- 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 necessary if you have an older home.
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 certain systems installed at your residence through December 31, 2021. We advise talking with your tax professional for more information.
Energy companies in Sandpoint also often give rebates for installing 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 installing a mini-split is usually costlier than traditional heating and cooling systems, it’s a very efficient way to heat and cool difficult areas in your home. These involve:
- Additions.
- Garages.
- Sunrooms.
- Rooms you aren’t in very often.
- Areas with hot and cold spots.
ENERGY STAR also suggests using mini-splits in homes with unique challenges, such as:
- Costly electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
- Pricey central heat, either as a result of high fuel prices or low efficiency.
- Older houses that don’t have ductwork as a result of radiator or baseboard heat.
In contrast with 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 enjoy precise control over temps from room to room, due to zoned mini-split technology.
Our Specialists Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs
From helping you pick the right model to professionally installing it, our pros at Age Heating & Cooling can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Reach us at 208-578-4258 right away to learn how a mini-split system can make your house cozier and to receive your free estimate!