Areas that don’t have ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be difficult to heat and cool. Adding ductwork from an existing system could be costly. And that additional area might just be too sizeable for your home comfort equipment to take on, because your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.
A mini-split is a smart idea for these areas as 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 often referred to as a mini-split heat pump since it shifts heating and cooling, in place of creating it. Because of that, mini-splits are extremely energy-efficient, with most achieving ENERGY STAR® certification.
Choosing the right model for your residence may feel like a large task, but our heating and cooling experts at Three Rivers Heating and Cooling can provide support. We’ll get started with a no-obligation consultation to go over your needs before offering you a free estimate. We’ll also go over any special offers, rebates and financing you might be able to take advantage of.
Here’s about how much you can anticipate to be responsible for when you’re getting a ductless mini-split.
Average Cost for Mini-Split Installation
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 around the size of a studio apartment.
With professional installation, the usual mini-split cost for this size is about $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide prices for usual home improvement work.
Your precise mini-split installation cost will vary based on the model you choose and how energy efficient it is. Per HomeAdvisor, other extra costs might involve:
- Installing a concrete area for the outdoor condenser, $75–$300.
- Installing a dedicated electrical circuit, $250.
- Upgrading the electrical panel, $1,200. This might be needed 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?
Getting 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 house through December 31, 2021. We suggest chatting with your tax professional for more info.
Energy companies in Portland also typically give 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 buying a mini-split is typically costlier than standard heating and cooling systems, it’s a very efficient way to heat and cool difficult spots in your residence. These involve:
- Additions.
- Garages.
- Sunrooms.
- Areas you aren’t in very regularly.
- Spaces with hot and cold spots.
ENERGY STAR also suggests using mini-splits in homes with atypical challenges, such as:
- Pricey electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
- Expensive central heat, either because of high fuel costs or decreased efficiency.
- Older homes that don’t have ductwork due to radiator or baseboard heat.
In comparison 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 enjoy exact control over settings from room to room, as a result of zoned mini-split technology.
Our Professionals Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs
From helping you select the ideal model to professionally installing it, our professionals at Three Rivers Heating and Cooling can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Reach us at (503) 739-5400 right away to learn how a mini-split system can make your house more comfortable and to get your free estimate!