Areas that don’t have ductwork, such as an addition, sunroom or garage, can be a challenge to heat and cool. Lengthening ductwork from an existing system could be costly. And that additional space might just be too big for your home comfort equipment to manage, as your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.
A mini-split is a smart idea for these areas because it doesn’t need ductwork. This comprehensive heating and cooling system has two parts: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s frequently called a mini-split heat pump because it moves heating and cooling, rather than making it. As a result, mini-splits are highly energy-efficient, with many reaching ENERGY STAR® certification.
Choosing the right model for your home may seem like a large task, but our heating and cooling specialists at Refrigeration Systems Ltd. can provide support. We’ll start with a no-obligation meeting to hear about 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 plan to be responsible for when you’re installing 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 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 usual home improvement projects.
Your total mini-split installation cost will vary based on the type you select and how energy efficient it is. According to HomeAdvisor, other additional costs could entail:
- 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 required if you have an older home.
Will a New Mini-Split|Do Mini-Splits|Can a High Efficiency Mini-Split} 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 eligible systems installed at your house through December 31, 2021. We suggest chatting with your tax professional for more information.
Energy companies in Richmond also typically offer rebates for buying energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you figure out this process to ensure you get the best value from your new mini-split unit.
Are Mini-Splits Worth the Price?
Although getting a mini-split is typically costlier than standard heating and cooling systems, it’s a very efficient way to heat and cool tricky parts of your house. These can be:
- Additions.
- Garages.
- Sunrooms.
- Areas you don’t use very frequently.
- Locations with hot and cold spots.
ENERGY STAR also advises having mini-splits in residences with special challenges, like:
- Expensive electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
- Expensive central heat, either due to high fuel prices or decreased efficiency.
- Older homes 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 get more accurage control over settings from room to room, due to zoned mini-split technology.
Our Professionals Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs
From helping you pick the ideal model to expertly installing it, our pros at Refrigeration Systems Ltd. can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Call us at 778-693-2532 today to learn how a mini-split system can make your home cozier and to request your free estimate!