Areas that don’t have ductwork, including an addition, sunroom or garage, can be tricky to heat and cool. Adding ductwork from an existing system could be expensive. And that additional space might just be too big 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 as 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 referred to as a mini-split heat pump because it transfers heating and cooling, as opposed to creating it. Because of that, mini-splits are very energy-efficient, with many earning ENERGY STAR® certification.

Choosing the right model for your home may feel like a large task, but our heating and cooling professionals at Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling can provide support. We’ll start with a no-obligation meeting to review your needs before giving 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 anticipate to be responsible for when you’re buying a ductless mini-split.

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

Your exact mini-split installation cost will differ based on the type you choose and how energy efficient it is. As mentioned by HomeAdvisor, other extra costs might involve:

  • Installing a concrete area for the outdoor condenser, $75–$300.
  • Installing a dedicated electrical circuit, $250.
  • Upgrading the electrical panel, $1,200. This may 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?

Installing 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 house through December 31, 2021. We suggest chatting with your tax professional for more info.

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

Are Mini-Splits Worth the Price?

Although purchasing a mini-split is often costlier than traditional heating and cooling systems, it’s a very efficient method to heat and cool troublesome areas in your house. These include:

  • Additions.
  • Garages.
  • Sunrooms.
  • Areas you don’t use very regularly.
  • Locations with hot and cold spots.

ENERGY STAR also suggests using mini-splits in homes with unique challenges, including:

  • Costly electric heat from baseboards, wall heaters or radiators.
  • Costly central heat, either as a result of high fuel expenses or reduced efficiency.
  • Older residences 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 have exact control over settings 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 ideal model to professionally installing it, our specialists at Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Call us at 804-302-6657 right away to discover how a mini-split system can make your home comfier and to receive your free estimate!