Areas that don’t have ductwork, such as an addition, sunroom or garage, can be difficult to heat and cool. Lengthening ductwork from an existing system could be expensive. And that added area could just be too sizeable for your home comfort equipment to take on, as your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a wise idea for these areas since it doesn’t require ductwork. This all-in-one 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 because it transfers heating and cooling, in place of creating it. Because of this, mini-splits are very energy-efficient, with many achieving ENERGY STAR® certification.

Selecting the right model for your residence may seem like a large task, but our heating and cooling specialists at Patterson & Stirling can offer assistance. We’ll get started with a no-obligation appointment to learn about your needs before offering you a free estimate. We’ll also discuss any special offers, rebates and financing you might be eligible for.

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

Estimated 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 roughly the size of a studio apartment.

With professional installation, the typical mini-split cost for this size is approximately $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide prices for common home improvement projects.

Your total mini-split installation cost will vary based on the kind you go with and how energy efficient it is. Per HomeAdvisor, other additional costs may include:

  • Installing a concrete pad for the outdoor condenser, $75–$300.
  • Installing a dedicated electrical circuit, $250.
  • Upgrading the electrical panel, $1,200. This might be required if you have an older house.

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 home through December 31, 2021. We advise talking with your tax professional for more details.

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

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although buying a mini-split is usually costlier than typical heating and cooling systems, it’s a highly efficient approach to heat and cool difficult spots in your home. These can be:

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

ENERGY STAR also recommends installing mini-splits in residences with atypical challenges, including:

  • Expensive electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
  • Expensive central heat, either as a result of high fuel expenses or decreased efficiency.
  • Older houses that don’t have ductwork because of radiator or baseboard heat.

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

Our Specialists Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you choose the right model to professionally installing it, our pros at Patterson & Stirling can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Reach us at 814-308-0416 right away to learn how a mini-split system can make your house comfier and to get your free estimate!