How Much Does a Mini Split System Cost?

Last Updated on October 22, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

As flexible ductless heating and cooling solutions providing zonal temperature control, mini split systems have surged in residential popularity. But what’s a realistic price range to budget for a complete mini split installation? While not inexpensive, understanding the cost components helps homeowners determine if mini split technology aligns with both lifestyle needs and financial realities.

Mini splits require notable upfront investment for equipment and professional installation. However, their energy and maintenance savings over a lifetime often offset initial sticker shock for many owners relative to alternatives.

How Much Does a Mini Split System Cost?

For a mini split system expect total costs ranging $2,500 to $10,000+ depending on the climate zone, square footage, number of zones, efficiency ratings, brand quality, labor complexity, and overall scope.

A full installation involves:

• Purchase of appropriately sized indoor unit(s) and a coordinating multi-zone outdoor condenser based on home layout. $2,000 to $5,000
• Professional installation, mounting, wiring, refrigerant charging, and testing of the interconnected split system by certified HVAC technicians. $1,500 to $4,000
• Any needed electrical service upgrades to adequately power the equipment. This may involve installing new circuits. $500 to $2,000
• Minor structural modifications like framing, drywall repairs, or exterior penetrations for refrigerant lines between the compressor and units. $200 to $1,000
• Cosmetic finishing around units and lines for visual appeal. $300 to $1,000

The expenses add up quickly. While possible as a DIY project for the ambitious, the long-term reliability and energy efficiency gains of professional installation are significant for most homeowners.

According to an article on Today’s Homeowner, installation costs for a single mini-split unit typically range from $1,805 to $4,435, with an average cost around $2,995. The overall price may increase if additional electrical work or permits are required.

Another source, Angi, reports that the average installation cost for a mini-split system can be between $2,000 and $14,500, depending on the complexity of the installation and the number of zones involved. For instance, multi-zone systems can significantly increase costs, with some installations reaching up to $17,900 when including optional services.

According to Atlas AC Repair, the total cost for a ductless mini-split installation is approximately $4,340, which includes around $3,000 for equipment and about $1,340 for labor. This estimate highlights that labor costs can be a significant portion of the overall expense.

A report from EnergySage indicates that median costs for ductless mini-split systems can range from about $5,908 to $37,488, depending on the number of zones and specific project requirements. They also note that larger installations with multiple zones can lead to costs exceeding $65,000.

Finally, according to an article on Bob Vila, typical mini-split installation costs range from about $2,000 to $14,500, with an average around $3,000. The price is influenced by factors such as unit size and brand; for example, a 12,000 BTU-capacity unit may cost between $700 and $3,200.

Mini Split Systems Are a Unique HVAC Option

Mini split systems offer:

• Flexible ductless design with compact wall-mounted indoor unit(s) installed in different zones as needed. No major ductwork modifications required in most retrofits.
• An outdoor condenser connected to various indoor units through small, inconspicuous refrigerant lines and electrical cables. Single compressor outputs to multiple zones.
• Individual thermostats allow custom comfort by adjusting each zone’s temperature separately based on occupancy and personal preferences. No one gets stuck being too hot or cold.
• Energy-saving inverter-driven compressors only output required heating or cooling capacity to match real-time zone demands instead of cycling on and off indiscriminately.

This zonal flexibility and efficiency is why mini splits are gaining popularity as technology improves and prices become more competitive.

BTUs and Zone Numbers

BTUs (British Thermal Units)

• Dictate the thermal heating and cooling output matched to room size. Too few BTUs result in insufficient temperature regulation. Too many wastes money.
• Proper sizing ranges between 8,000 to 24,000 BTUs for most residential rooms depending on factors like occupancy, insulation, exposure, etc.
• More BTUs costs more upfront, so right-sizing for each zone prevents overspending.

Number of Zones

• Single-zone systems are lower cost options suited for additions or remote rooms. However, expanding to multiple zones later has extra costs.
• Multi-zone systems enable custom comfort room-by-room but have higher equipment and installation costs given their complexity. 2-4 zones is common.

Get sizing and zonal layout right the first time to avoid costly future upgrades or retrofits. Think long-term.

You might also like our articles on the cost of freon recharge, capacitor replacement, or furnace replacement.

Energy Efficient SEER Ratings

Typical multi-zone mini split costs by efficiency rating:

• 14 SEER – $2,500 to $4,000
• 16 SEER – $3,500 to $5,000
• 18+ SEER – $4,500 to $6,500+

While premium efficiency equipment carries higher upfront costs, the resulting energy savings from lower electricity usage pays back over time through reduced utility bills. Invest wisely.

 Mini Split vs Central AC Costs

System	Equipment Price Range	Installation Price Range	Total Price Range
Central Air	$3,000 to $5,000	$1,500 to $3,000	$4,500 to $8,000
Mini Split	$2,500 to $4,500	$2,000 to $4,000	$4,500 to $8,500

While equipment piece costs are broadly similar, mini splits require pricier labor due to system complexity versus ducted AC. However, central systems lack zoning advantages that mini splits provide.

DIY Mini Split Kits

DIY mini split equipment bundles allow ambitious homeowners to handle installation themselves as an alternative to save on labor. However, approach with realistic caution:

Pros

• Equipment kits from MrCool, Pioneer, and others cost $1,000 to $2,000 for a complete single to multi-zone system. Significant parts savings.
• You provide free installation labor – a major expense when hiring out. Sweat equity pays off.

Cons

• Installation is highly complex, requiring specialized skills. Poor technique risks leaks, electrical issues, or underperformance.
• Mistakes may void equipment warranties. Manufacturers protect their reputations by presuming professional installs.
• Permits are still required. County inspections demand professional-grade workmanship.

DIY mini splits are best left to very handy homeowners willing to learn. For most, paying professionals avoids headaches down the road.

Mini Splits Reduce Costs Over Time

While carrying higher initial purchase and installation costs, mini splits save owners money long-term through:

• Energy savings from their precise zone temperature control without wasting energy heating or cooling unused spaces 24/7.
• High-efficiency variable speed inverter compressors matching cooling and heating output to real-time demands instead of cycling on and off inefficiently.
• Lack of ductwork losses from air leaks, outdated insulation, or improper sizing that reduce heating and cooling efficiency in central forced-air systems.

Taken together, these mini split performance advantages offset their initial price premium for most owners through lower energy bills over years of use.

A Cost-Effective Option in the Long Run

While requiring greater upfront budget allocation, benefits that make mini splits pay off as smart long-term investments for many include:

• Substantial energy bill reductions from optimized efficiency and room-by-room temperature precision. Zoning accuracy leaves no room wasted.
• Lower lifetime maintenance costs by eliminating dusty ductwork repairs, replacements, sealing, cleaning, and insulation. Major savings.
• Extended reliable lifespan of 15-20 years on par with modern central AC systems. Durability and quality matter.
• Enhanced year-round comfort from precise temperature personalization and advanced humidity control. Custom comfort feels luxurious.

Properly installed quality mini split systems offer homeowners improved lifestyle experiences that justify costs over decades of use for those valuing zonal climate control.

Mini Split AC Brands and Models

Pricing can fluctuate substantially based on brand reputation and product positioning:

Premium Brands

• Mitsubishi, Fujitsu, Daikin – $4,000 to $7,000
• Known for quiet operation, efficiency, controls, and reliability.
• Primarily sold and installed through HVAC contractors.

Mid-Range Brands

• LG, Panasonic, GREE, Carrier – $3,000 to $5,000
• Provide a mix of value, functionality, and professional installation.
• Sold through both contractors and local retailers.

DIY Budget Branded Models

• Pioneer, MRCOOL, Klimaire – $1,500 to $3,000
• Focus on accessibility and low equipment cost over long-term robustness.
• Sold as packaged kits through home improvement stores or online.

Research professional reviews carefully before purchasing to understand true ownership experiences and total costs.

Special Financing Options

• Payment Plans – Many equipment retailers offer 0% financing spread over 6 to 36 months. This lowers monthly cash outlay potentially.
• Utility Rebates – Some energy companies provide rebates up to $500 per ton when installing qualifying energy-efficient mini splits. Pre-approval required.
• Tax Credits – Federal tax credits on mini splits have expired but some states still offer credits or property tax exemptions for going green. Amounts vary greatly.
• Long-Term Energy Savings – Lifetime energy savings averages 30-50% versus conventional systems. Cumulative reduced utility bills offset installed costs over a decade typically.

Leverage these angles thoughtfully to reduce overall spend without compromising quality or energy performance.

Final Words

While requiring an upfront investment of $2,500 to $10,000+, a properly designed and installed mini split system can provide homeowners customized comfort and lower utility costs over decades of use.

Carefully weigh lifetime value against initial price when selecting equipment. With smart planning, mini splits can prove a cost-effective upgrade for owners wanting advanced zonal climate control.

Answers to Common Questions

What is the disadvantage of mini-split?

Downsides of mini splits include higher upfront costs, the need for multiple wall-mounted indoor units, and potential refrigerant leaks from the exterior lines. They also provide less whole-home airflow than central systems with fully integrated ductwork throughout.

Is it better to leave a mini-split on all the time?

It’s actually most efficient to use mini splits’ smart thermostats and timers to cycle the systems on and off as needed to maintain desired temperatures in each zone. Allowing them to run nonstop wastes energy through excessive reheating and recooling. Programmed operation optimizes costs.

What are the most common hidden costs?

Common overlooked add-ons include extra circuit electrical work for power, drywall patching from indoor unit mounts, miscellaneous mechanical permits, refrigerant line concealment, and cosmetic touch up repairs around the installation that can each add hundreds to the final costs. Careful planning avoids surprise expenses.