Spaces that don’t have ductwork, including an addition, sunroom or garage, can be tricky to heat and cool. Lengthening ductwork from a current system can be expensive. And that extra square footage might just be too sizeable for your home comfort equipment to handle, since your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a great idea for these areas because 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 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 most reaching ENERGY STAR® certification.

Choosing the right model for your residence may appear like a large task, but our heating and cooling pros at Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning can help. We’ll start with a no-obligation consultation to hear about your needs before providing you with a free estimate. We’ll also review any special offers, rebates and financing you might be eligible for.

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

Average Mini-Split Installation Cost

One of the most frequently installed sizes is a 12,000 BTU mini-split. This will heat and cool an estimated 450–550 square feet, or around 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 common home improvement work.

Your exact mini-split installation cost will be different based on the model you choose and how energy efficient it is. Per HomeAdvisor, other added costs could 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 needed if you have an older residence.

Do Mini-Splits Qualify for a Tax Credit?

Getting an ENERGY STAR-certified ductless mini-split can qualify you for valuable tax credits. The mini-split tax credit is $300 for qualified systems installed at your home through December 31, 2021. We suggest consulting with your tax professional for more information.

Energy companies in Omaha also usually have rebates for buying energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you navigate this process to make sure you get the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although getting a mini-split is typically more expensive than standard heating and cooling systems, it’s a very efficient approach to heat and cool troublesome spots in your home. These can be:

  • Additions.
  • Garages.
  • Sunrooms.
  • Rooms you don’t visit very regularly.
  • Rooms with hot and cold spots.

ENERGY STAR also recommends having mini-splits in houses with atypical challenges, like:

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

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

Our Professionals Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you select the best model to expertly installing it, our professionals at Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Call us at 402-509-5940 now to find out how a mini-split system can make your home comfier and to get your free estimate!