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Heat Pump Pricing

How Much Does MiniSplit Installation Cost?

minisplit installation cost
  • Updated April 17, 2024
  • By: Editorial Staff

Average Cost Range: $7,275 - $22,410. Use our estimator below for a more personalized estimate

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Intro

Denver Minisplit installation cost can range from $5,600 to a of $28,500 on average, which can include the installation of a multiple indoor zones with a cold-climate condenser and including all other materials and labor.

Type of SystemCost Range
Mini-Split Heatpump $3,600 to $21,400
Cold Climate Mini-Split Heatpump$4,800 to $24,100

MiniSplit Installation Cost

Most homeowners who are looking at installing a mini-split system will be able to easily calculate the number of zones they may need.  We have broken out below the average costs to install each zoning type of minisplit systems to provide a rough range of what you should expect to pay:

Type of SystemCost Range
1-Zone Mini-Split$3,600 to $6,500
2-Zone Mini-Split$8,800 to $11,100
3-Zone Mini-Split or more$13,200 to $26,400

What Factors Affect MiniSplit Installation Cost?

MiniSplit installation costs will change depending on a few factors that are specific to your home and minisplit project. Here are the main factors that your minisplit contractor should assess in order to provide the estimate:
  • Number of zones
  • Indoor zone locations
  • Type of minisplit system
  • Electrical Panel & Outdoor unit location
Additional CostsCost Range
Electrical Panel Upgrade (if required)$3,200 to $5,200
Roof Installation & Crane (if required)$800 to $2,100
  • Intro
  • Installation Cost
  • Rebates
  • Panel Upgrade
  • Wall vs Ceiling Unit
  • Outdoor Location
  • Cold Climate vs Regular
  • FAQ
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MiniSplit Rebates
Xcel Energy's Energy Efficiency Program

This program offers rebates to residential account holders who install qualifying heat pumps in their homes.

Xcel Energy account holders will recieve their rebate(s) as a discount up-front with UniColorado. 

System Type2023 Rebate
Air Source Heatpump$1,700
Cold Climate Air Source Heatpump$2,200
MiniSplit Heatpump$1,700
Cold-Climate MiniSplit Heatpump$2,200
Denver Climate Action Rebates

The City & County of Denver offers a number of rebates and incentives to help Denver residents and businesses reduce their energy consumption and adopt more sustainable practices. The Denver Climate Action Rebate is paid directly to the contractor & therefore applied as a discount from the start.

System Type2024 Rebate
Air Source Heatpump$1,500
Cold Climate Air Source Heatpump$3,500
MiniSplit Heatpump$1,500
Cold-Climate MiniSplit Heatpump$3,500

Do You Need An Electrical Panel Upgrade?

If you considering a minisplit system, it’s a common concern that other expenses or upgrades that may be required that can increase the overall cost.

To simplify, each mini-split outdoor unit requires two free spaces in your electrical panel; The minisplit indoor units get their power from the outdoor condensing unit and do not require additional circuits.  The electrical scope required for mini-split installation is typically one 208-220v circuit with an amperage that commonly ranges between 15 amps to 40 amps. If you don’t have free spaces in your electrical panel, a panel replacement may be necessary. In certain cases, as allowed by electrical code, certain circuits may be condensed in the panel so a full upgrade may not be required.

In projects with a tighter budget, installation of an electrical sub panel is a relatively cheaper alternative to an electrical panel upgrade; Adding a subpanel is common for installing mini-splits and done on a daily basis.

A Full Electrical Panel Upgrade can tack on an additional cost anywhere from $3,100 to $5,200 depending on the level of complexity to install or alter. An Electrical Subpanel Installation may cost as little as $1,500 to $2,000 and above.

MiniSplit Unit Types

  • Wall-mounted units: These units are mounted on the wall and are typically the most common type of indoor unit for mini split systems. They can be mounted at any height on the wall and are ideal for cooling a single room or small space.
  • Ceiling-mounted units (aka Cassettes): These units are mounted on the ceiling and are often used in commercial or industrial settings where there is limited wall space but plenty of ceiling space. They are also used in larger residential spaces where multiple indoor units are needed to adequately cool the space. Typically, to fit a minisplit cassette into a residential property, there needs to be 16.5″ of joist clearance. This joist size is uncommon in houses built before the 2010’s.
  • Floor-mounted units: These units are mounted on the floor and are typically used in larger spaces where wall or ceiling mounting is not possible or desirable.
  • Ducted Mini-Splits: These systems consist of a mini-split airhandler and ductwork, typically installed in an attic or crawlspace. While these systems are much rarer than the conventional forced-air airhandling systems, ducted minisplits have their own benefits and are used for certain projects that require ductwork.
  • Concealed units: These units are installed in the ceiling or in a wall and have the indoor unit and air outlet located in the same unit. They are often used in new construction & newer buildings with a modern or minimalistic design and are ideal for providing heating and cooling to small or medium-sized rooms.
 
 

MiniSplit Outdoor Unit Location

The outdoor unit of a ductless air conditioning system is typically placed in a location that is easily accessible for maintenance and repair, and where it will not be obstructed by trees, bushes, or other objects. It is also important to ensure that the outdoor unit is properly ventilated and has adequate airflow around it.

In general, the outdoor unit is placed on a concrete pad or other flat surface that is level and able to support the weight of the unit; wall-mounting the outdoor unit is also a common option that helps to save space.

It is important to note to follow local codes and regulations regarding the placement of the outdoor unit, as these may vary depending on your specific location’s regulations.

MiniSplit Heat Pump: Cold Climate vs Regular

A regular mini split heat pump is designed to operate efficiently in moderate climates, where the outdoor temperature typically stays above freezing. In these conditions, the heat pump can easily extract heat from the outdoor air and transfer it into the indoor space, providing both heating and cooling as needed.

A cold climate mini split heat pump, on the other hand, is specifically designed to operate efficiently in colder climates, where the outdoor temperature may drop below freezing. These units are equipped with special features that allow them to continue to extract heat from the outdoor air even when the temperature is very low.

Some of the features that may be included on a cold climate mini split heat pump include a low ambient temperature kit, which helps the unit to start and run at lower temperatures, and a defrost cycle, which helps to prevent ice from forming on the outdoor unit.

Cold climate mini split heat pumps may also have a higher heating capacity than regular mini split heat pumps, as they are designed to provide sufficient heat even in very cold conditions. They may also be more expensive to purchase and install than regular mini split heat pumps.

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Frequently Asked Questions
How much should it cost to install a mini split?

The cost of installing a mini split air conditioning system can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the size and type of unit you choose, the complexity of the installation, and the location of the installation. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3,200 to $10,000 or more for a complete mini split installation.

There are a few key factors that can influence the cost of a mini split installation:

  1. Size and type of unit: The size and type of mini split unit you choose will have a big impact on the overall cost of the installation. Larger units and multi-zone systems will typically be more expensive to install than smaller, single-zone units.

  2. Complexity of the installation: The complexity of the installation can also affect the overall cost. Factors that can increase the complexity of the installation include the need for electrical work, the distance of the unit from the indoor unit and more.

  3. Location of the installation: The location of the installation can also impact the overall cost.

Why do minisplit systems cost so much to install?

There are a few reasons why mini split systems can be more expensive to install compared to traditional central air conditioning systems.

  1. Complexity of installation: Mini split systems require the installation of both an outdoor unit and an indoor air handler, which can be more complex than installing a single central air conditioning unit. The indoor air handler must be connected to the outdoor unit with a conduit, which includes the power and refrigerant lines. This conduit must be properly sealed to prevent leaks. In addition, the outdoor unit must be properly installed and secured to ensure proper operation.

  2. Customization: Mini split systems are designed to be customized to the specific needs of the homeowner. This means that the system may need to be customized to fit the layout of the home and the specific cooling and heating needs of the homeowner. Customization can add to the cost of the installation.

  3. Electrical and ductwork: Mini split systems typically do not require the use of ductwork, but they do require electrical work to be installed. This can add to the cost of the installation, especially if the home does not have an existing electrical system in place or if the existing electrical system needs to be upgraded.

Is a ductless mini split worth it?

Whether or not a mini split system is worth the money will depend on your specific circumstances and needs. Mini split systems can offer a number of benefits, including:

  1. Energy efficiency: Mini split systems are generally more energy efficient than traditional central air conditioning systems because they use a variable speed compressor, which can adjust the cooling output to match the specific needs of the home. This can help to save energy and reduce energy costs.

  2. Customization: Mini split systems are designed to be customized to the specific needs of the homeowner. This means that they can be tailored to fit the layout of the home and the specific cooling and heating needs of the homeowner.

  3. Quiet operation: Mini split systems are known for their quiet operation, making them a good choice for homes where noise is a concern.

  4. Ductless installation: Mini split systems are relatively easy to install and do not require the use of ductwork, which can make them a good choice for homes that do not have existing ductwork or that are difficult to retrofit with ductwork.

Are mini splits more expensive to install than central air?

In general, mini split systems can be more expensive to install compared to traditional central air conditioning systems. The cost of installing a mini split system can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the size and type of unit you choose, the complexity of the installation, and the location of the installation

 

How long does it take to install a ductless mini-split?

In general, you can expect the installation of a ductless mini split system to take anywhere from a few hours to a full day or more.

Here are the general steps involved in installing a ductless mini split system:

  1. Planning and preparation: The first step in installing a ductless mini split system is to plan and prepare for the installation. This includes choosing the location for the indoor and outdoor units, determining the size and type of unit needed, and ensuring that the electrical and refrigerant lines can be run to the units.

  2. Installing the outdoor unit: The outdoor unit of the mini split system is typically installed on a concrete pad or other stable surface near the side of the house. The unit must be properly secured and the electrical and refrigerant lines must be properly connected.

  3. Installing the indoor unit: The indoor unit of the mini split system is typically installed on an exterior wall or in the ceiling. The unit must be properly secured and the electrical and refrigerant lines must be properly connected to the outdoor unit.

  4. Testing and commissioning: Once the units are installed, the system must be tested and commissioned to ensure that it is operating correctly. This may involve adjusting the refrigerant charge and checking the system for leaks.

Again, the length of time it takes to install a ductless mini split system can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances of the installation.

 

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