Spaces that don’t have ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be a challenge to heat and cool. Adding ductwork from a present system can be costly. And that added space could just be too large for your home comfort equipment to manage, because your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a smart solution for these rooms as it doesn’t have to have ductwork. This combined heating and cooling system has two parts: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s frequently called a mini-split heat pump as it transfers heating and cooling, rather than making it. Because of this, mini-splits are highly energy-efficient, with the majority achieving ENERGY STAR® certification.

Choosing the right model for your residence may seem like a large task, but our heating and cooling professionals at Contra Costa Heating & AC can provide support. We’ll start with a no-obligation consultation to go over your needs before offering you a free estimate. We’ll also review any special offers, rebates and financing you might qualify for.

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

Average Cost for Mini-Split Installation

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 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 expenses for common home improvement jobs.

Your exact mini-split installation cost will differ based on the type you go with and how energy efficient it is. According to HomeAdvisor, other additional costs may entail:

  • 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 residence.

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 eligible systems installed at your residence through December 31, 2021. We advise consulting with your tax professional for more information.

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

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although installing a mini-split is usually more expensive than more common heating and cooling systems, it’s a highly efficient method to heat and cool tricky areas in your house. These include:

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

ENERGY STAR also recommends having mini-splits in residences with special challenges, such as:

  • Pricey electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
  • Costly central heat, either due to high fuel expenses or low efficiency.
  • Older houses 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 more accurage control over temperatures from room to room, thanks to zoned mini-split technology.

Our Specialists Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you select the ideal model to expertly installing it, our pros at Contra Costa Heating & AC can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Call us at 510-343-9841 now to learn how a mini-split system can make your house more comfortable and to receive your free estimate!