Rooms that don’t have ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be a challenge to heat and cool. Lengthening ductwork from a current system can be pricey. And that extra space could just be too big for your home comfort equipment to manage, because your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a wise option for these rooms since it doesn’t have to have ductwork. This comprehensive heating and cooling system has two parts: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s often known as a mini-split heat pump as it moves heating and cooling, as opposed to making it. Because of that, mini-splits are extremely energy-efficient, with most achieving ENERGY STAR® certification.

Selecting the right model for your home may seem like a large task, but our heating and cooling specialists at Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning can help. We’ll begin with a no-obligation appointment to hear about your needs before offering you a free estimate. We’ll also go over any special offers, rebates and financing you might be eligible for.

Here’s about how much you can plan to be responsible for when you’re installing a ductless mini-split.

Average Mini-Split Installation Cost

One of the most often used 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 typical home improvement work.

Your total mini-split installation cost will be different based on the kind you select and how energy efficient it is. Per HomeAdvisor, other added costs might 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 needed if you have an older house.

Do Mini-Splits Qualify for a Tax Credit?

Installing an ENERGY STAR-certified ductless mini-split can give you access to valuable tax credits. The mini-split tax credit is $300 for qualified systems installed at your home through December 31, 2021. We suggest talking with your tax professional for more details.

Energy companies in Buellton also often offer rebates for buying energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you figure out this process to confirm you get the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although installing a mini-split is typically costlier than traditional heating and cooling systems, it’s a highly efficient approach to heat and cool tricky spots in your home. These involve:

  • Additions.
  • Garages.
  • Sunrooms.
  • Areas you don’t visit very often.
  • Spaces with hot and cold spots.

ENERGY STAR also suggests using mini-splits in homes with special challenges, including:

  • Expensive electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
  • Pricey central heat, either as a result of high fuel expenses or decreased efficiency.
  • Older homes that don’t have ductwork due to 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 precise control over temps from room to room, thanks to zoned mini-split technology.

Our Specialists Can Take Care of All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you pick the best model to knowledgeably installing it, our specialists at Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Give us a call at 805-242-9638 now to learn how a mini-split system can make your house cozier and to receive your free estimate!