How Much Does a Mini-Split Installation Cost?
A mini-split, also known as a ductless mini-split or ductless HVAC system, is a type of heating and cooling system that provides individual room or zone control. It consists of an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, connected by refrigerant lines and electrical wiring. Mini-splits are used to heat and cool specific areas of a home or building and are a flexible alternative to traditional central HVAC systems.
Mini-split cost ranges between $2,000 – $14,500. Ductless air conditioner cost can vary widely, depending on factors like system type, size, and additional features. The average cost to install a mini-split is $3,000.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of mini-split installation costs, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect when upgrading your HVAC system before the summer heat hits.
Mini-Split Cost by Type
Mini-split systems come in various types, each with its own installation costs and considerations:
Wall-Mounted
Wall-mounted mini-splits are the most popular and generally the most affordable type of mini-splits, starting at $1,300. They’re installed high on a wall and offer efficient cooling and heating for open spaces.
Ceiling Cassette
Ceiling cassette mini-splits are installed in the ceiling, providing a sleek and unobtrusive design while maintaining your desired temperature. Many people prefer this design, but ceiling cassettes are a more expensive mini-split type, costing around $3,000.
Floor-Mounted
Floor-mounted mini-splits operate similarly to other mini-split systems but they’re designed to be installed at a lower level, typically along the baseboard or on a wall near the floor. The cost for this type of unit varies between $1,300 and $4,000.
What Factors Influence the Cost of a Mini-Split System?
Several factors can significantly impact the overall cost of installing a mini-split system. Understanding these factors is crucial when planning your budget:
Labor Costs
Not all mini-split installations are the same. The more extensive the installation, the more the labor costs will be. According to fixr.com, the average hourly rate of air conditioning technicians ranges from $18.93 – $35.23 depending on the local market.
Unit Size
The size of the mini-split unit and its cooling or heating capacity directly affects the installation cost. Size for mini-split air conditioners is expressed in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The more space you need to cool, the more BTUs you’ll need, and the more expensive it will be.
These are the costs of mini-split air conditioners in 2023 by size, according to Today’s Homeowner.
| Mini-Split Size | Home Square Footage | Average Cost |
| 0.75 ton | 450 sq. ft. | $1,805 |
| 1.0 ton | 600 sq. ft. | $2,035 |
| 1.5 tons | 900 sq. ft. | $2,910 |
| 2.0 tons | 1,200 sq. ft. | $3,330 |
| 2.75 tons | 1,800 sq. ft. | $3,455 |
| 3.0 tons | 2,000 sq. ft. | $4,435 |
Number of Zones
The number of indoor units and zones you want to create in your space will impact the installation cost. Open floor plans might be able to get away with only having one unit, but if you have multiple rooms that you want to cool individually, you’ll need to purchase multiple units.
Price increases for labor when you add more units as well.
| Number of Zones | Average Cost |
| Single-zone system | $2,500 – $6,500 |
| Dual-zone system | $5,000 – $9,000 |
| Three-zone system | $5,800 – $11,000 |
Additional Mini-Split Costs
Aside from the primary system and labor costs, there are other additional services and factors to consider:
Permits
Many local governments typically mandate homeowners to secure permits prior to the installation of mini-split systems. While the specific prerequisites and expenses can fluctuate depending on your location, it’s advisable to allocate around $250 – $400 for permit costs. Your chosen HVAC technician is usually well-equipped to assist you in managing and understanding this permit process.
A/C Features
Certain features like advanced air filtration or smart thermostats may add to the cost but offer enhanced comfort and efficiency. Some homeowners find the added convenience of these features well worth the price, but these features are not necessary for a fully functioning A/C.
Brand
The brand and model you choose can significantly influence the upfront cost, but it can also affect long-term performance and maintenance expenses. The most expensive brands, like Fujitsu and Mitsubishi, can cost over $8,000. Daikin and Panasonic are more affordable options.
Here’s average cost by brand, according to Bob Villa:
| Unit Brand | Average Cost |
| Daikin | $1,000 – $4,000 |
| Fujitsu | $1,100 – $8,300 |
| Mitsubishi | $1,200 – $8,650 |
| Panasonic | $1,700 – $2,800 |
| Rheem | $1,100 – $8,300 |
Mini-Split vs Multi-Split
It’s essential to understand the difference between a mini-split and a multi-split system. A ductless system can be categorized as a mini-split when it links with only one indoor handler via the condensing unit. Conversely, when the same condensing unit serves multiple indoor handlers, the system is referred to as a multi-split. In multi-split setups, it’s common to find individual thermostatic controls for each unit or zone, allowing precise temperature regulation.
Why Choose Ductless Mini-Splits?
A ductless mini-split is a heating and cooling system that provides both air conditioning and heating to individual rooms or zones within a building. It’s called “ductless” because it doesn’t rely on a network of air ducts to distribute conditioned air, unlike traditional central HVAC systems.
Here are their advantages that make them a popular choice for heating and cooling:
- Energy Efficiency: Ductless systems are highly efficient, reducing energy consumption and utility bills.
- Zoning: You can control the temperature in different rooms independently.
- Easy Installation: The absence of ductwork makes installation easier and less invasive.
- Aesthetics: Ductless units are sleek and can blend seamlessly with your interior decor.
How to Save Money on Split AC Unit Installation
If you’re looking to minimize your split HVAC system cost, here are some tips to help you save on your mini-split installation:
- Compare Multiple Quotes: Get quotes from different professionals to find the best deal.
- Invest in Energy-Efficient Units: Although they might have a higher upfront cost, energy-efficient units can save you money in the long run.
- Opt for Off-Peak Installation: Scheduling the installation during the offseason can lead to lower labor costs.
- Minimize the Quantity of Zones: Keep in mind that, in specific situations, a single air handler can be configured to cater to multiple rooms.
- Select the Appropriate System Size: A unit that is undersized will be overworked in its cooling efforts, while an oversized unit will cycle too frequently, resulting in energy wastage.
DIY Mini-Split Install vs Hiring a Professional
While DIY installation might seem like a cost-saving option, hiring a professional or experienced split system installer has several advantages:
- Expertise: Hiring out gives you the security of knowing who is installing your system has the experience and knowledge necessary for a successful installation.
- Advice: HVAC technicians can advise you on the size of unit and number of units you may need based on your home’s size and layout.
- Safety: Installing a mini-split can be complex, which you want to ensure is done safely and correctly.
Mini-Split Installation Cost FAQs
How much does a mini-split cost?
Ductless air conditioner cost ranges between $2,000 – $14,500. The cost of a mini-split installation can vary widely, depending on factors like system type, size, and additional features. The average cost to install a mini-split is $3,000.
How long do Taskers take to install a mini-split AC?
The installation time depends on the complexity of the job, but a seasoned Electrical Tasker who installs mini splits can typically complete the task in 5-10 hours.
Can a mini-split cool a whole house?
Yes, mini-split systems can cool an entire house by creating multiple zones, each with its thermostat, allowing you to control the temperature in various rooms. Note that these systems can also handle heating, meaning mini-split heat pump cost is included in your overall ductless air conditioner cost.
