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

A mini-split is a great idea for these areas because it doesn’t have to have ductwork. This all-in-one 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 because it transfers heating and cooling, as opposed to generating it. Because of that, mini-splits are very energy-efficient, with most reaching ENERGY STAR® certification.

Selecting the right model for your house may appear like a large task, but our heating and cooling pros at 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning can help. We’ll start with a no-obligation meeting to go over your needs before giving 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 anticipate to spend when you’re buying 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 an estimated 450–550 square feet, or about the size of a studio apartment.

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

Your total mini-split installation cost will differ based on the model you select and how energy efficient it is. According to HomeAdvisor, other added costs may include:

  • Installing a concrete area 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 residence.

Will a New Mini-Split|Do Mini-Splits|Can a High Efficiency Mini-Split} Qualify for Any Tax Credits?

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 home through December 31, 2021. We advise consulting with your tax professional for more details.

Energy companies in Mission Viejo also typically offer rebates for installing energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you navigate this process to make sure you have the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Price?

Although getting a mini-split is often pricier than traditional heating and cooling systems, it’s a very efficient method to heat and cool difficult spots in your residence. These include:

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

ENERGY STAR also recommends having mini-splits in homes with unique challenges, like:

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

When compared to 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 temperatures from room to room, thanks to zoned mini-split technology.

Our Pros Can Take on All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you choose the ideal model to expertly installing it, our professionals at 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Reach us at 949-204-0859 today to learn how a mini-split system can make your home cozier and to receive your free estimate!