Rooms that don’t have ductwork, such as an addition, sunroom or garage, can be a challenge to heat and cool. Lengthening ductwork from a current system can be costly. And that added square footage might just be too sizeable for your home comfort equipment to handle, as your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a wise idea for these rooms since it doesn’t require ductwork. This comprehensive heating and cooling system has two components: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s typically called a mini-split heat pump because it moves heating and cooling, instead of creating it. Because of that, mini-splits are very energy-efficient, with the majority reaching ENERGY STAR® certification.

Choosing the right model for your home may feel like a large task, but our heating and cooling professionals at Ambient Air can provide support. We’ll begin with a no-obligation consultation to learn about your needs before offering you a free estimate. We’ll also review any special offers, rebates and financing you might be able to take advantage of.

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

Average Cost for Mini-Split Installation

One of the most often used sizes is a 12,000 BTU mini-split. This will heat and cool approximately 450–550 square feet, or about the size of a studio apartment.

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

Your total mini-split installation cost will be different based on the kind you choose and how energy efficient it is. Per HomeAdvisor, other added costs might include:

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

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 house through December 31, 2021. We advise talking with your tax professional for more information.

Energy companies in Tucson also typically give rebates for installing energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you figure out this process to confirm you have the best value from your new mini-split unit.

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Cost?

Although purchasing a mini-split is usually pricier than typical heating and cooling systems, it’s a very efficient approach to heat and cool tricky rooms in your home. These can be:

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

ENERGY STAR also recommends installing mini-splits in residences with special challenges, like:

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

In comparison 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 get precise control over settings from room to room, thanks to zoned mini-split technology.

Our Specialists Can Handle All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you pick the ideal model to expertly installing it, our professionals at Ambient Air can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Reach us at 520-357-4912 today to learn how a mini-split system can make your residence more comfortable and to request your free estimate!