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 added space could just be too sizeable for your home comfort equipment to manage, because your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a great option for these rooms because it doesn’t have to have ductwork. This comprehensive heating and cooling system has two components: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s typically known as a mini-split heat pump since it transfers heating and cooling, in place of generating it. As a result, mini-splits are highly energy-efficient, with many earning ENERGY STAR® certification.

Choosing the right model for your residence may seem like a large task, but our heating and cooling specialists at Tri City Fuel & Heating can offer assistance. We’ll get started with a no-obligation appointment to go over 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 be responsible for when you’re installing a ductless mini-split.

Average Cost for Mini-Split Installation

One of the most popular 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 select and how energy efficient it is. According to HomeAdvisor, other extra costs may involve:

  • 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 required if you have an older residence.

Will a New Mini-Split|Do Mini-Splits|Can a High Efficiency Mini-Split} 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 eligible systems installed at your home through December 31, 2021. We advise talking with your tax professional for more info.

Energy companies in West Columbia also often offer rebates for buying energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you navigate this process to ensure you receive the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Is Installing a Mini-Split Worth the Cost?

Although buying a mini-split is usually costlier than more common heating and cooling systems, it’s an extremely efficient way to heat and cool tricky rooms in your residence. These include:

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

ENERGY STAR also suggests using mini-splits in homes with atypical challenges, like:

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

In contrast with 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 get precise control over settings from room to room, as a result of zoned mini-split technology.

Our Pros Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you select the best model to professionally installing it, our specialists at Tri City Fuel & Heating can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Give us a call at 803-265-4208 now to discover how a mini-split system can make your house more comfortable and to receive your free estimate!