Spaces that don’t have ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be tricky to heat and cool. Extending ductwork from an existing system can be expensive. And that added square footage could just be too sizeable 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 spaces because it doesn’t need ductwork. This comprehensive heating and cooling system has two pieces: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s often referred to as a mini-split heat pump because it shifts heating and cooling, rather than making it. Because of that, mini-splits are very energy-efficient, with most achieving ENERGY STAR® certification.

Choosing the right model for your house may appear like a large task, but our heating and cooling specialists at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating can offer assistance. We’ll get started with a no-obligation meeting to discuss your needs before offering you a free estimate. We’ll also review any special offers, rebates and financing you might be eligible for.

Here’s about how much you can plan to pay 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 approximately 450–550 square feet, or roughly the size of a studio apartment.

With professional installation, the average mini-split cost for this size is about $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide expenses for typical home improvement jobs.

Your exact mini-split installation cost will vary based on the model you choose and how energy efficient it is. According to 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 could be necessary 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 select systems installed at your home through December 31, 2021. We advise consulting with your tax professional for more information.

Energy companies in Pella also usually have rebates for installing energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you go through this process to confirm you get the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although purchasing a mini-split is often pricier than standard heating and cooling systems, it’s a highly efficient method to heat and cool tricky spots in your residence. These include:

  • Additions.
  • Garages.
  • Sunrooms.
  • Areas you aren’t in very often.
  • Areas with hot and cold spots.

ENERGY STAR also suggests using mini-splits in houses with unique challenges, such as:

  • Costly electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
  • Costly central heat, either due to high fuel expenses or reduced efficiency.
  • Older houses that don’t have ductwork because of radiator or baseboard heat.

In comparison to 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 more accurage control over temps from room to room, thanks to zoned mini-split technology.

Our Specialists Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you choose the best model to knowledgeably installing it, our pros at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Call us at 641-628-3621 right away to discover how a mini-split system can make your house cozier and to receive your free estimate!