Spaces that don’t have ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be difficult to heat and cool. Lengthening ductwork from an existing system could be costly. And that additional area might just be too large for your home comfort equipment to take on, because your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.
A mini-split is a smart idea for these spaces as it doesn’t need 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 since it shifts heating and cooling, as opposed to generating it. As a result, mini-splits are extremely energy-efficient, with many reaching ENERGY STAR® certification.
Selecting the right model for your home may appear like a large task, but our heating and cooling experts at Lanz Furnace and Fireplace can help. We’ll get started with a no-obligation appointment to learn about your needs before providing you with a free estimate. We’ll also review any special offers, rebates and financing you might qualify for.
Here’s about how much you can plan to be responsible for when you’re buying a ductless mini-split.
Estimated Cost for Mini-Split Installation
One of the most often installed 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 usual home improvement projects.
Your total mini-split installation cost will differ based on the model you go with and how energy efficient it is. Per HomeAdvisor, other extra costs might include:
- 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 needed if you have an older home.
Do Mini-Splits Qualify for a Tax Credit?
Buying an ENERGY STAR-certified ductless mini-split can give you access to valuable tax credits. The mini-split tax credit is $300 for certain systems installed at your house through December 31, 2021. We advise talking with your tax professional for more details.
Energy companies in Monroe also often have rebates for installing energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you figure out this process to make sure you get the best value from your new mini-split unit.
Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?
Although getting a mini-split is often pricier than more common heating and cooling systems, it’s a highly efficient way to heat and cool difficult rooms in your house. These include:
- Additions.
- Garages.
- Sunrooms.
- Spaces you don’t use very frequently.
- Locations with hot and cold spots.
ENERGY STAR also recommends having mini-splits in residences with special challenges, such as:
- Pricey electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
- Expensive central heat, either due to high fuel costs or low efficiency.
- Older houses that don’t have ductwork because of radiator or baseboard heat.
In contrast with more common 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 more accurage control over temperatures from room to room, as a result of zoned mini-split technology.
Our Professionals Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs
From helping you pick the best model to knowledgeably installing it, our professionals at Lanz Furnace and Fireplace can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Reach us at 608-291-3606 today to find out how a mini-split system can make your house cozier and to request your free estimate!
