Areas that lack ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be a challenge to heat and cool. Extending ductwork from a current system could be costly. And that added square footage might just be too large for your home comfort equipment to manage, since your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.
A mini-split is a smart solution for these rooms since it doesn’t need ductwork. This all-in-one heating and cooling system has two components: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s frequently known as a mini-split heat pump as it shifts heating and cooling, as opposed to generating it. Because of that, mini-splits are very energy-efficient, with the majority achieving ENERGY STAR® certification.
Choosing the correct model for your house can feel overwhelming, but our heating and cooling pros at H&C Heating and Cooling can provide support. We’ll get started with a zero-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 qualify for.
Here’s about how much you can anticipate to be responsible for when you’re getting a ductless mini-split.
Average Cost for Mini-Split Installation
One of the most often used 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 usual mini-split cost for this size is around $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide costs for common home improvement work.
Your total mini-split installation cost will be different based on the model you choose and how energy efficient it is. Per 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 could be required 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 qualified systems installed at your home through December 31, 2021. We advise consulting with your tax professional for more details.
Energy companies in Laurel also often give rebates for purchasing energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you figure out this process to confirm you have the best value from your new mini-split unit.
Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?
Although buying a mini-split is typically pricier than more common heating and cooling systems, it’s an extremely efficient way to heat and cool difficult parts of your home. These involve:
- Additions.
- Garages.
- Sunrooms.
- Spaces you don’t visit very often.
- Spaces with hot and cold spots.
ENERGY STAR also advises installing mini-splits in houses with atypical challenges, including:
- Pricey electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
- Costly central heat, either because of high fuel prices or low efficiency.
- Older homes that don’t have ductwork due to radiator or baseboard heat.
When compared 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 temps from room to room, as a result of zoned mini-split technology.
Our Specialists Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs
From helping you select the best model to professionally installing it, our specialists at H&C Heating and Cooling can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Call us at 301-960-3247 today to learn how a mini-split system can make your house comfier and to receive your free estimate!