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

A mini-split is a wise option for these spaces 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 since it shifts heating and cooling, rather than creating it. As a result, mini-splits are very energy-efficient, with many achieving ENERGY STAR® certification.

Selecting the right model for your home may feel like a large task, but our heating and cooling professionals at Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling can help. We’ll get started with a no-obligation appointment to review 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 expect to be responsible for when you’re getting a ductless mini-split.

Average Cost for Mini-Split Installation

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 usual mini-split cost for this size is approximately $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide costs for usual home improvement work.

Your precise mini-split installation cost will vary based on the type you go with and how energy efficient it is. Per HomeAdvisor, other added 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 may be needed if you have an older home.

Do Mini-Splits Qualify for a Tax Credit?

Getting an ENERGY STAR-certified ductless mini-split can give you access to valuable tax credits. The mini-split tax credit is $300 for eligible systems installed at your home through December 31, 2021. We recommend consulting with your tax professional for more details.

Energy companies in Rockford also usually offer rebates for purchasing energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you go through this process to make sure you receive the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although getting a mini-split is typically costlier than standard heating and cooling systems, it’s an extremely efficient approach to heat and cool tricky parts of your house. These involve:

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

ENERGY STAR also advises installing mini-splits in houses with unique challenges, such as:

  • Pricey electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
  • Pricey central heat, either as a result of high fuel expenses or decreased efficiency.
  • Older homes 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 temps from room to room, as a result of zoned mini-split technology.

Our Pros Can Take Care of All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you select the ideal model to expertly installing it, our professionals at Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Give us a call at (815) 914-6197 right away to find out how a mini-split system can make your home more comfortable and to receive your free estimate!