Mini split installation can be more affordable than installing a traditional HVAC system. One reason is it doesn’t require running ductwork throughout your home. Operating costs, including energy bills and maintenance, also tend to be lower. To help understand if a ductless mini split system would be more affordable for you to install, we’ll compare average installation costs and some factors that impact them.
- The average cost of mini split installation is $3,000 as of early 2023, according to Forbes. However, the cost can range between $2,000 and $14,500.¹
- A traditional HVAC system is generally more expensive to install. The average cost of installation is about $8,000, but it can range from $5,000 to $34,000.²
What Affects Installation Costs and Affordability?
The cost of installing a mini split or HVAC system depends on many variables. A ductless mini split is more affordable on most levels. However, affordability depends on the following:
Type of System
A wall-mounted indoor unit costs from $500 to $2,000, while you can also install a ceiling-mounted or recessed ceiling unit for under $2,000. Floor-mounted units range from $1,300 to $4,000.¹
On the other hand, a central AC costs $6,000 to install. A split AC or furnace costs $9,600 on average, while a boiler averages $10,800. To install a furnace during mini split installation, expect to pay an average of $7,800 (but it can cost as high as $21,000).²
System Size/Capacity
Unit size, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), is a significant cost factor for both mini splits and traditional systems. The larger the system, the more expensive it is. An 80,000 BTU HVAC system costs $6,000 to $12,000, but a mini split system gives you more flexibility as each air handler can serve one room or area.² Therefore, you can install a 12,000 BTU unit for $3,000 and decide what you need for other spaces.¹
An HVAC contractor can help you determine the size needed to properly cool your home. The number of zones impacts the cost of a mini split system. A single indoor head, combined with the outdoor unit, costs between $8,000 to $8,800, but the number of heads can impact the cost as follows:
- Two-Head System: $2,700 to $11,100.
- Three-Head System: $3,400 to $13,400.
- Four-Head System: $4,100 to $15,700.
- Five-Head System: $4,800 to $18,000.
Generally, you’ll spend another $700 to $2,300 for each additional indoor unit.¹
Efficiency
The more efficient a standard HVAC or mini split system, the more it’ll cost upfront. mini splits are generally more efficient. Energy efficiency is measured using a system’s seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). A 25 SEER mini split may cost more to install, but it’ll save you over the long run compared to a 14 SEER air conditioner.
Other Cost Considerations
These aren’t the only factors that affect the cost of mini-split installation. Here are others to consider to determine whether it’s more affordable for you:
- Labor: The basic installation for a mini split costs $375 to $1,500 (assuming a rate of $75 to $150 per hour) and takes five to 10 hours. But you’ll spend more to have heads (indoor air handlers) installed in difficult-to-access areas or for upgrades by an electrician, who may charge $50 to $100 per hour.¹ By contrast, the labor for a traditional HVAC system ranges between $500 and $2,500.²
- Materials: You’ll pay for materials no matter what type of system you install. mini split refrigerant lines cost about $6 per foot. Installation kits run from $300 to $500.¹ Meanwhile, ductwork costs between $10 and $20 per linear foot, with homes generally needing 50 to 200 feet of ductwork, so you can see how materials costs for a standard HVAC system can add up.²
- Permits: In most locations, you’ll need a permit to install a mini split or an HVAC system. The permit can add between $250 and $400 to the project cost.¹
A mini split also often includes a heat pump, which can provide heating and cooling. It may eliminate the need for a furnace but costs $4,800 on average and between $1,900 and $7,800.¹ Installing multiple air handlers adds to the cost, but a mini split heat pump generally costs less than a standard heat pump.
Is a Mini Split Really More Affordable?
It can be, but it still requires budgeting and considering the needs of your home. The main cost factors include the type of system, its size, and energy efficiency, while labor costs must also be considered. You can save by installing the system in the spring or fall, comparing quotes from multiple contractors, and choosing a higher-efficiency system (for long-term savings). Rebates and tax credits can help you save on high-efficiency systems.
Contact Air Stars Today
Air Stars provides professional ductless air conditioning installation in Oregon. If you’re considering mini split installation, our licensed, trained technicians can help select the best type and size of system for your home. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call (503) 304-1320.
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