Ductless Mini-Split A/C Cost and How to Pick One
Contents
A ductless air conditioner, also known as a mini-split, is a popular comfort solution because they can be installed in places where a traditional ducted system can't.
Find out how they range in price from basic to high-efficiency models.
A ductless A/C system can serve single or multiple rooms for efficient cooling and heating year-round.
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Ductless vs Central Air. What's the Difference?
In a central A/C system, conditioned air blows from various ducts.
In a mini-split system, the airflow comes out of the indoor unit, which can be mounted to the wall, ceiling, or floor.
They can be installed as the only air conditioning source or as an addition to a central a/c system.
We have installed them in both applications. Our single-zone projects include craft sheds, man caves, and loft rooms. Examples of multi-zone applications are attic apartments, vacation rentals, and additions.
What Is the Price Range for a Mini-Split System?
Mini-split A/C costs vary depending on different factors such as size, efficiency, and brand.
An obvious way to buy one in your budget is to pick the least expensive option, but here are some key differences to look out for.
Size vs Price
Let's start with size.
For example, according to the Pioneer brand website, here are equipment prices for different sizes. Visit their website for current pricing.
Both basic models, but different sizes.
| Model | Size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| WYS009AMFI19RL-16 | 9,000 BTU | $950 |
| WYS012AMFI19RL-16 | 12,000 BTU | $1000 |
Efficiency vs Price
Moving on to efficiency, we see equipment prices are more expensive for higher efficiency models.
Same sized system, different efficiencies.
| Model | Size | Efficiency | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| WYS009AMFI19RL-16 | 9,000 BTU | 19 SEER | $950 |
| WYS009AMFI22RL-16 | 9,000 BTU | 21.5 SEER | $1130 |
Brand vs Price
Some brands cost more than others, even for the same specs discussed so far.
Just like anything else, right? One difference we see is a higher price because of a longer warranty period.
Same size and efficiency, but different brands.
| Brand | Size | Efficiency | Price | Warranty | Homeowner Can Purchase? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pioneer | 9,000 BTU | 19 SEER | $950 | 5 yr. compressor & parts | Yes |
| Senville | 9,000 BTU | 19 SEER | $799 | 5 yr. compressor / 2 yr. parts | Yes |
DIY vs Professional Install
The table below shows the cost for mini-split heat pump installation including equipment, line sets, drain line, pad, electrical wire, and labor.
These two brands are the same size, similar efficiency, and have extended warranties when installed by a professional.
| Brand | Size | Efficiency | Price Installed | Warranty | Homeowner Can Purchase? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ruud | 9,000 BTU | 16 SEER | $2,550 | 10 yr. compressor & parts | Must be purchased by a licensed HVAC contractor |
| Daikin / Goodman | 9,000 BTU | up to 19 SEER | $2,430 | 12 yr. parts | Must be purchased by a licensed HVAC contractor |
Some additional considerations are customer reviews, warranty length, and aesthetic appeal.
Can you install a mini-split yourself? Yes.
There are many online guides available. But be prepared for the time and labor involved, extra parts, and warranty responsibility. You can check out this Pioneer mini-split installation guide for tips.
You hire a professional when you call Dragon A/C & Heating. We will complete your mini-split system install the same day and to code.
We stand by our work and only recommend brands we know deliver on performance and have great warranty service.
Our bottom line is we won't sell you cheaply made equipment that will waste your money with repairs.
Our ductless A/C services include:
- Installation only for homeowner provided equipment
- Full system install for equipment we provide w/ extended pro warranty
- Free quote on a new system install
- Maintenance and diagnostic repairs
