How Much Does It Cost to Install a Mini-Split? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $2,000 - $14,500
The average cost to install a mini-split is $2,000 to $14,500, with a national average of $3,000. The more zones, the higher the cost.
The average cost to mini-split installation cost, plan to spend anywhere between $2,000 and $14,500. On average, the cost falls around $3,000. Whether you’re looking to entertain guests more comfortably year-round or your window unit has busted (again), and you need a better long-term cooling solution, installing a mini-split might be the answer.
- Average
- $3,000
- Low end
- $700
- high end
- $14,500
Mini-Split Cost Calculator
Calculations based on the cost of installing one multi-zone mini-split system. Calculations rounded to the nearest whole number.
| Quantity | Cost Range | |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-Zone System Cost | 1 multi-zone mini-split | $3,200–$14,500 |
| Installation Permit | 1 permit | $250–$400 |
| Multi-Zone Installation Labor | 1 HVAC contractor | $700–$3,000 |
| Optional: Remove AC Unit | 1 AC unit | $80–$150 |
| Total | $4,150–$17,900 | |
| Total with Options | $4,230–$18,050 |
Ductless Mini-Split Cost Breakdown
Cost by Type
| Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Single-zone | $2,000–$6,000 |
| Multi-zone | $3,200–$14,500 |
| Wall-mounted | $700–$4,100 |
| Ceiling-mounted | $2,400–$6,400 |
| Floor-mounted | $1,600–$3,300 |
| Ceiling cassette | $1,800–$5,800 |
Single-Zone
A single-zone mini split is a compact cooling system designed to cool a specific room or area in a building. It comprises a single indoor air-handling unit and an outdoor compressor unit connected by refrigerant lines. The cost of a single-zone mini split air conditioner can vary depending on factors like brand, capacity, and installation complexity. You can expect to pay between $2,000 to $6,000 on average.
Multi-Zone
A multi-zone mini split is a versatile cooling system that can simultaneously cool multiple rooms or zones within the home using a single outdoor compressor unit connected to multiple indoor air-handling units. This allows for individualized temperature control in different home or office areas. The average cost ranges from $3,200 to $14,500 depending on the number of indoor units, their capacity, brand, and installation complexity.
Wall-Mounted
In a wall-mounted mini split air conditioner setup, the indoor unit is installed on the wall of a room or space. Wall-mounted mini splits are known for their ease of installation and efficient cooling, making them a popular choice for individual room comfort. On average, a wall-mounted mini split air conditioner costs between $700 to $4,100 for a single-mounted indoor unit.
Ceiling-Mounted
The indoor units in a ceiling-mounted mini split are designed to be installed on the ceiling. These setups are often favored for their discreet appearance and efficient cooling performance, costing between $2,400 and $6,400 for a single indoor unit.
Floor-Mounted
A floor-mounted mini split unit is designed to be installed on or near the floor in the desired space. This type of mini-split system costs between $1,600 and $3,300, and it is often used in spaces with limited wall or ceiling space due to its versatility.
Ceiling Cassette
Featuring a discreet, recessed design with an indoor air-handling unit that fits seamlessly into the ceiling, ceiling cassette mini splits are prized for their aesthetics and efficient cooling performance. For these units, you can expect to pay between $1,800 and $5,800 for a system with a single indoor unit.
Cost of Parts
A ductless mini-split AC system comprises three main parts: an outdoor condensing unit, inside air units, and refrigerant coolant lines to connect everything. They can be bought as a kit, or each part can be purchased individually as needed.
The average prices below are for the parts only and don’t factor in the labor cost for professional HVAC installation, which can cost between $300 and $1,500 alone.
| Part | Cost |
|---|---|
| Outdoor unit | $1,000–$5,500 |
| Indoor unit(s) | $400–$1,800 |
| Refrigerant lines | $5 per foot |
| Installation kit | $300–$500 |
Cost by Size
Ductless mini-split installation is determined mainly by the size of the system.
| Unit Size (BTUs) | Cost |
|---|---|
| 6,000 | $450–$1,600 |
| 9,000 | $600–$2,300 |
| 12,000 | $700–$3,200 |
| 18,000 | $1,000–$4,200 |
| 24,000 | $1,100–$5,200 |
| 30,000 | $1,600–$5,700 |
| 36,000 | $1,800–$6,000 |
| 42,000 | $3,000–$8,000 |
The average 12,000 BTU unit will cost about $3,000. Ductless cooling systems cost about 30% more than a new ducted system and nearly twice as much as a standalone window AC, so consider your energy bill while budgeting for the long term.
The advantage of a multi-split or multi-zone system is that it allows you to have different cooling areas in your home. Every outdoor unit can have up to five indoor units attached to them. Most systems come with at least one indoor unit. Additional units can cost between $400 and $1,800. More powerful condensers are needed to run more than five units at a time and can increase costs.
Number of HVAC Zones
When deciding how many rooms you need cooled in your home, you can choose between a single-zone and a multi-zone mini-split system. An HVAC professional can assess each room's square footage to ensure the right fit. More zones lead to higher costs, with single-zone units ranging from $2,000 to $8,800 and five-zone units from $4,800 to $18,000.
| Number of Zones | Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,000–$8,800 |
| 2 | $2,700–$11,100 |
| 3 | $3,400–$13,400 |
| 4 | $4,100–$15,700 |
| 5 | $4,800–$18,000 |
Brand
Ductless mini-split units offer a range of brand options. Some are reputable and have a higher price tag, while others are less familiar but offer more budget-friendly choices.
| Brand | Cost |
|---|---|
| Panasonic | $1,700–$2,800 |
| Daikin | $1,000–$4,000 |
| Fujitsu | $1,100–$8,300 |
| Rheem | $1,100–$8,300 |
| Mitsubishi | $1,200–$8,650 |
Efficiency
The efficiency of a mini-split unit significantly impacts its overall cost. A higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating means lower monthly energy costs due to increased efficiency. You should factor this in when choosing a unit, especially in a region with extreme temperatures where a higher SEER-rated system may be cost-effective for you.
Energy-efficient units save money in the long run and often even qualify for utility rebates and government tax credits. However, they may come with a higher upfront cost. Be sure to balance your budget with long-term savings when making a decision.
Location in Your House
Different mini-split units can serve different areas within your home. For example, a single-zone ductless mini-split AC might cool one bedroom, while a quad-zone system could cool your bedroom, bathroom, living room, and basement, depending on the model and square footage.
The more rooms you cover, the more you’ll pay for the additional indoor units and the labor to install each of them. Also, remember that higher floors need extra installation accessories, so expect to pay $10 to $20 more per foot of materials and a couple of extra hours for labor.
Additional Mini-Split Installation Cost Factors
Aside from the unit type, size, efficiency, and brand of the system you choose, the mini-split installation cost is also impacted by some other factors.
Permits
Installing a multi-zone mini-split AC system often requires you to secure a permit, and it's recommended that you consult your local municipality for guidance. Typically, permits for such installations can range from $250 to $400, so budget accordingly and ensure compliance with local regulations before beginning your project.
Hiring Contractors
Labor costs of hiring a professional HVAC contractor are typically between $300 and $2,000 for a single-zone system, depending on the mounting location. Multi-zone systems can range between $700 and $3,000.
In addition, ductless mini-split AC installation may require a local electrician if you do not have a dedicated 110- or 200-volt box, costing $50 to $100 per hour. You’ll probably need a dedicated electrical circuit, which can cost an additional $250. A local carpenter may also be required to cut the three-inch hole for the refrigerant lines for each unit. They can range from $25 to $50 per hour.
And you’ll need a concrete pad to put the ductless mini-split unit on, which may cost several hundred dollars if completed by a professional. If you do that part yourself, factor in the cost of materials (such as lumber and rebar for framing and the concrete mix) as you budget for the project.
Removal of Existing HVAC
When you choose to install a ductless AC unit to replace your old central air system, it's recommended that you remove the old equipment to prevent issues with the components degrading due to not being used. This process involves removing old condensers, ductwork, and thermostats. The removal cost typically ranges from $80 to $150 and ensures a smoother transition to the new mini-split AC system.
Upgrades
Certain upgrades may be necessary or simply desired when enhancing a mini-split system. For instance, if you live in a snowy region, you may need to elevate the unit off the ground and prevent damage. You may also want to add a wireless system operation for convenient temperature adjustments. Below are various common mini-split add-ons and accessories and their average costs.
Wall mount bracket: Enables secure wall mounting of the outdoor unit, saving floor space
Wireless remote controller: Offers remote temperature control and convenience for homeowners
Condenser stand: Elevates the condenser unit, protecting it from ground-level hazards
Condensate removal pump: Efficiently drains excess condensation to maintain optimal humidity levels
Drain pan heater: Guards against freezing in colder climates, ensuring uninterrupted operation
| Upgrade | Cost |
|---|---|
| Wall mount bracket | $40–$100 |
| Wireless remote controller | $50–$300 |
| Condenser stand | $100–$210 |
| Condensate removal pump | $120–$280 |
| Drain pan heater | $140–$560 |
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Ductless Mini-Split AC System Yourself?
Do-it-yourself mini-split installation should be left to only the most advanced DIYers. It’s usually better (and safer) to hire an HVAC company to complete this relatively complex project for you. Plus, a professional will better be able to estimate what kind of system you need to properly cool your home most efficiently, saving you money on your energy bill in the long run.
In order to complete your project, you’ll also have to handle electrical wiring and refrigerant lines, which require a licensed pro in most states.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can save money on mini-split installation by considering a few key factors:
Get multiple quotes by doing thorough research and obtaining multiple quotes from HVAC professionals. This will help you compare prices and ensure you're getting a competitive rate.
Opt for a single-zone system if your needs allow it, as single-zone systems cost less, and multi-zone setups are generally more expensive.
DIY what you can if you have some DIY skills. You might be able to handle parts of the installation process yourself, further reducing labor costs.
Explore available rebates and incentives from utility companies and government programs, as they can help offset initial expenses.
The HVAC contractor you hire will be able to calculate the size you need, but you can roughly calculate it yourself based on BTUs (British Thermal Units).
BTUs are a unit of measure to calculate the amount the air conditioning system can cool or heat your space.
Factors that affect the mini-split size you need include:
Square footage of your house
Number of floors in your house
Number of windows and amount of sunlight shining in the room you want to cool
Height of the ceiling
Number of people living in the house
The general rule is that every 500 or 600 square feet requires one ton of cooling or 12,000 BTUs.
Choosing between a ductless mini-split and central AC depends on your specific needs. Ductless mini-splits are ideal for targeted cooling, providing zoned comfort and energy efficiency. They are perfect for smaller spaces or homes lacking ductwork. In contrast, central AC offers consistent cooling throughout the entire house but requires ductwork and may be less energy-efficient for smaller spaces.
Consider factors like budget, home size, and cooling preferences to make the right choice. Combining both systems, with a ductless mini-split in specific areas, can also be a viable solution for tailored comfort and overall efficiency.
It all depends on the unit’s SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio). A higher SEER rating means better efficiency and lower costs for your energy bills.
Take a look at the product you’re considering purchasing and compare it to other models to decide which one is affordable upfront but will keep your energy costs low over time.
Absolutely! Especially if you have an older home that currently doesn’t have air conditioning where installing ductwork just wouldn't work. No one likes being hot in the warmer months, so if you’re looking to sell your home in the near future, installing a ductless mini-split AC can be a good way to enjoy your home more while you’re in it, boost the return on your sale, and serve as a perk to peak buyers’ interest.