Areas that don’t have ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be tricky to heat and cool. Extending ductwork from an existing system may be costly. And that extra space may just be too big for your home comfort equipment to take on, since your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a wise idea for these spaces since it doesn’t need ductwork. This all-in-one heating and cooling system has two pieces: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s frequently known as a mini-split heat pump because it shifts heating and cooling, rather than making it. Because of this, mini-splits are highly energy-efficient, with many earning ENERGY STAR® certification.

Picking the right model for your home may feel like a large task, but our heating and cooling professionals at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating can help. We’ll get started with a no-obligation consultation to go over 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.

Average Mini-Split Installation Cost

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 average mini-split cost for this size is approximately $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide prices for typical home improvement jobs.

Your total mini-split installation cost will differ based on the model you go with and how energy efficient it is. Per HomeAdvisor, other added costs might involve:

  • 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 necessary if you have an older house.

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 certain systems installed at your home through December 31, 2021. We advise consulting with your tax professional for more info.

Energy companies in Pella also typically have rebates for buying 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 installing a mini-split is typically more expensive than standard heating and cooling systems, it’s a very efficient way to heat and cool tricky rooms in your house. These include:

  • Additions.
  • Garages.
  • Sunrooms.
  • Rooms you aren’t in very regularly.
  • Spaces with hot and cold spots.

ENERGY STAR also advises having mini-splits in homes with special challenges, including:

  • Pricey electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
  • Costly central heat, either as a result of high fuel prices or reduced efficiency.
  • Older homes that don’t have ductwork as a result of radiator or baseboard heat.

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

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

From helping you choose the right model to expertly installing it, our specialists at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Reach us at 641-628-3621 today to learn how a mini-split system can make your home comfier and to get your free estimate!