Rooms without ductwork, such as an addition, sunroom or garage, can be difficult to heat and cool. Extending ductwork from a current system could be expensive. And that extra area could just be too sizeable for your home comfort equipment to handle, because your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.
A mini-split is a great option for these spaces because it doesn’t have to have ductwork. This comprehensive heating and cooling system has two components: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s often called a mini-split heat pump since it transfers heating and cooling, instead of making it. Because of this, mini-splits are extremely energy-efficient, with many achieving ENERGY STAR® certification.
Selecting the appropriate model for your home might appear like a lot of work, but our heating and cooling pros at Lakeside Heating & Air can provide support. We’ll start with a zero-obligation appointment to go over 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 installing a ductless mini-split.
Estimated Cost for Mini-Split Installation
One of the most frequently installed sizes is a 12,000 BTU mini-split. This will heat and cool an estimated 450–550 square feet, or roughly the size of a studio apartment.
With professional installation, the typical mini-split cost for this size is approximately $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide prices for common home improvement work.
Your total mini-split installation cost will differ based on the kind you go with and how energy efficient it is. According to HomeAdvisor, other extra costs may involve:
- Installing a concrete slab 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 house.
Do Mini-Splits Qualify for a Tax Credit?
Buying 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 recommend talking with your tax professional for more details.
Energy companies in Chelan and Wenatchee also usually have rebates for installing energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you go through this process to ensure you receive the best value from your new mini-split unit.
Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?
Although getting a mini-split is often pricier than typical heating and cooling systems, it’s a very efficient way to heat and cool troublesome parts of your home. These include:
- Additions.
- Garages.
- Sunrooms.
- Areas you don’t visit very regularly.
- Locations with hot and cold spots.
ENERGY STAR also recommends using mini-splits in residences with special challenges, including:
- Costly electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
- Pricey central heat, either due to high fuel expenses or decreased efficiency.
- Older residences that don’t have ductwork due to 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 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 ideal model to professionally installing it, our specialists at Lakeside Heating & Air can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Give us a call at 509-284-4265 today to find out how a mini-split system can make your house cozier and to get your free estimate!