Spaces that don’t have ductwork, like an addition, sunroom or garage, can be tricky to heat and cool. Extending ductwork from a present system can be pricey. And that added area might just be too big for your home comfort equipment to handle, because your equipment wasn’t sized with it in mind.

A mini-split is a great option for these areas since it doesn’t require ductwork. This all-in-one heating and cooling system has two parts: an outdoor condenser and an indoor wall-mounted evaporator. It’s frequently known as a mini-split heat pump since it moves heating and cooling, rather than generating it. As a result, mini-splits are very energy-efficient, with most earning ENERGY STAR® certification.

Selecting the right model for your home may seem like a large task, but our heating and cooling experts at Ilten's can provide support. We’ll get started with a no-obligation appointment to review your needs before giving you a free estimate. We’ll also go over any special offers, rebates and financing you might be eligible for.

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

Average Cost for Mini-Split Installation

One of the most popular 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 around $3,000, according to HomeAdvisor, who compiles average nationwide prices for typical home improvement work.

Your precise mini-split installation cost will be different based on the type you go with and how energy efficient it is. According to HomeAdvisor, other extra 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 necessary if you have an older house.

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 certain systems installed at your house through December 31, 2021. We advise consulting with your tax professional for more information.

Energy companies in Cedar Rapids also usually offer rebates for installing energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment. We’ll help you navigate this process to ensure 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 a very efficient method to heat and cool difficult parts of your home. These involve:

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

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

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

In comparison to more common 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 enjoy exact control over settings from room to room, as a result of zoned mini-split technology.

Our Pros Can Take on All Your Mini-Split Installation Needs

From helping you select the right model to knowledgeably installing it, our pros at Ilten's can take care of all your mini-split installation needs. Give us a call at 319-208-2351 today to learn how a mini-split system can make your residence cozier and to receive your free estimate!