Spaces that don’t have ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be difficult to heat and cool. Extending ductwork from an existing system could be pricey. And that added space could just be too large for your home comfort equipment to handle, since your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.
A mini-split is a wise idea for these areas as it doesn’t require ductwork. This comprehensive heating and cooling system has two parts: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s typically called a mini-split heat pump since it moves heating and cooling, rather than generating it. Because of this, mini-splits are very energy-efficient, with most reaching ENERGY STAR® certification.
Selecting the right model for your residence may seem like a large task, but our heating and cooling pros at Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning can offer assistance. We’ll start with a no-obligation meeting to learn about your needs before giving 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 getting 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 about 450–550 square feet, or about the size of a studio apartment.
With professional installation, the usual mini-split cost for this size is approximately $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide expenses for common home improvement jobs.
Your exact mini-split installation cost will vary based on the model you select and how energy efficient it is. Per HomeAdvisor, other extra costs could include:
- Installing a concrete slab for the outdoor condenser, $75–$300.
- Installing a dedicated electrical circuit, $250.
- Upgrading the electrical panel, $1,200. This might be needed if you have an older home.
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 eligible systems installed at your home through December 31, 2021. We recommend consulting with your tax professional for more information.
Energy companies in Bishop also usually offer rebates for buying energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you figure out this process to ensure you receive the best value from your new mini-split unit.
Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?
Although purchasing a mini-split is usually more expensive than traditional heating and cooling systems, it’s an extremely efficient method to heat and cool tricky rooms in your house. These can be:
- Additions.
- Garages.
- Sunrooms.
- Spaces you don’t visit very frequently.
- Rooms with hot and cold spots.
ENERGY STAR also recommends using mini-splits in houses with special challenges, like:
- Costly electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
- Costly central heat, either due to high fuel costs or reduced 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 exact control over temps from room to room, because of zoned mini-split technology.
Our Professionals Can Take on All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs
From helping you select the right model to professionally installing it, our pros at Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Reach us at 760-784-9034 today to discover how a mini-split system can make your house comfier and to receive your free estimate!