Spaces that don’t have ductwork, such as an addition, sunroom or garage, can be a challenge to heat and cool. Adding ductwork from an existing system could be expensive. And that extra square footage might just be too sizeable for your home comfort equipment to take on, as your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.
A mini-split is a smart solution for these rooms as it doesn’t require ductwork. This comprehensive heating and cooling system has two pieces: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s typically called a mini-split heat pump as it transfers heating and cooling, instead of creating it. As a result, mini-splits are highly energy-efficient, with most reaching ENERGY STAR® certification.
Choosing the right model for your residence may feel like a large task, but our heating and cooling pros at Watts Electric & AC can provide support. We’ll start with a no-obligation consultation to hear about your needs before offering 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 pay when you’re getting a ductless mini-split.
Average Mini-Split Installation Cost
One of the most popular 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 typical mini-split cost for this size is about $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide costs for typical home improvement work.
Your exact mini-split installation cost will be different based on the kind you choose and how energy efficient it is. As mentioned by HomeAdvisor, other added costs could entail:
- 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 house.
Do Mini-Splits Qualify for a Tax Credit?
Buying an ENERGY STAR-certified ductless mini-split can make you eligible for valuable tax credits. The mini-split tax credit is $300 for qualified systems installed at your residence through December 31, 2021. We recommend talking with your tax professional for more details.
Energy companies in Columbia also typically offer rebates for buying 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 Cost?
Although getting a mini-split is usually costlier than standard heating and cooling systems, it’s an extremely efficient approach to heat and cool tricky parts of your home. These can be:
- Additions.
- Garages.
- Sunrooms.
- Areas you don’t visit very often.
- Areas with hot and cold spots.
ENERGY STAR also advises using mini-splits in residences with special challenges, including:
- Expensive electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
- Costly central heat, either as a result of high fuel costs or decreased efficiency.
- Older residences that don’t have ductwork because of radiator or baseboard heat.
In contrast with 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 enjoy precise control over temps from room to room, due to zoned mini-split technology.
Our Specialists Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs
From helping you choose the best model to expertly installing it, our pros at Watts Electric & AC can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Give us a call at 601-736-7362 today to learn how a mini-split system can make your home more comfortable and to receive your free estimate!