How much does a mini-split cost to install?

Accounting for the 2025 HVAC refrigerant requirements and including both equipment and labor costs, the total mini split air conditioner installation price on average ranges from $2,500 to $12,000. It depends on the number of zones and the complexity of the installation.

Here we will breakdown key factors affecting installation costs next, including the square footage of the area to be cooled, the number of zones, DIY installation costs, and others. Let's start!

Mini Split AC Installation Cost by Square Footage and BTU

The installation cost of a mini split system varies depending on the size of the space you want to cool. Here are common indoor space for home or offices with their corresponding required BTU, and average installation costs of mini split system.

For a kitchen of 150–400 sq. ft., it typically requires a 6,000 to 9,000 BTU mini split system and costs $2,500–$4,200 to install.

For a bedroom or home office of 450–550 sq. ft., it would need 12,000 BTU mini split AC system, with installation costs averaging $3,500–$5,000.

For a garage or medium-sized living room of 600–1,000 sq. ft., a 18,000 BTU mini split system is recommended, and the total cost is around $4,500–$6,500.

For a large open-plan area or combined living and dining space of 1,200–1,600 sq. ft., you’ll need a 24,000 BTU mini split AC system, costing approximately $6,000–$8,000.

Cost to Install Mini Split AC by Number of Zones

A single-zone mini split system typically provides 6,000–18,000 BTU, suitable for small space ranging from 150 to 1,000 sq. ft. Installation costs range from $2,500 to $4,500.

A dual-zone mini split system offers 12,000–24,000 BTU, ideal for cooling a combined area of 800 to 1,600 sq. ft. The average installation cost is $4,500 to $7,500.

A three-zone mini split system provides 18,000–36,000 BTU, covering a total area of 1,200 to 2,500 sq. ft. Installation costs typically range from $6,500 to $9,500.

A 4-zone mini split system delivers 24,000–42,000 BTU, suitable for spaces totaling 2,000 to 3,000 sq. ft. The average installation cost is $8,000 to $12,000.

A five-zone mini split system supports 30,000–60,000 BTU, designed for multiple zones covering 2,500 to 3,500+ sq. ft. Installation costs range from $10,000 to $15,000.

Other Mini-Split Installation Costs

When installing a mini-split system, additional costs beyond the basic system may apply. Below is a breakdown of other factors to consider:

Labor Costs

Labor typically accounts for $500 to $2,000 of the total installation cost. Factors such as running refrigerant lines through walls, mounting units, and electrical wiring can increase the cost. Multi-zone mini split systems and installations requiring longer line sets tend to involve higher labor fees.

Permits

Permits are often required for HVAC installations and may add $100 to $300 to the overall cost. It varies from different local regulations and whether electrical upgrades are needed to comply with building codes.

Hiring Costs

Professional HVAC contractors charge between $50 to $150 per hour, depending on their expertise and location. Hiring a reputable installer ensures proper setup and system efficiency, which can save on future maintenance and repair costs.

Outdoor Unit Costs

The outdoor compressor unit, a critical part of any mini-split system, costs between $1,000 and $5,000. Larger capacity and more features would cost more.

Indoor Unit Costs

Indoor air handlers cost $400 to $1,500 per unit. Multi-zone systems require additional indoor units, which increase the total cost.

Line Set Costs

Refrigerant line sets, which connect the indoor units to the outdoor unit, cost between $100 and $300 per line set, depending on the length required. Longer line sets or installations requiring line covers may incur additional charges.

Upgrade Costs

Upgrades like electrical panel enhancements, insulation improvements, or adding a condensate pump can cost an additional $200 to $1,500.

DIY Installation Costs

DIY installation of a mini-split system can reduce costs by $1,000 to $3,000, as you won't need to pay for professional labor. However, you’ll need to invest time and effort into handling refrigerant lines, electrical wiring, and mounting the units properly.

On the other hand, hiring a professional typically adds $500 to $2,000 in labor costs but ensures the system is installed efficiently, meets code requirements, and protects warranties.

If you decide to go the DIY route, consider choosing a brand like Della for your mini split system. Della mini splits are designed with ease of installation in mind, making them an ideal choice for DIY enthusiasts.

They provide detailed mini splits installation guides, step-by-step video tutorials, and even offer installation tool kit rental services to help simplify the process. With Della, you can tackle the installation confidently while saving on labor costs.

Why Do Mini Split Systems Cost So Much to Install?

Mini split systems are costly to install due to the precise labor required to connect indoor units to the outdoor compressor with refrigerant lines, wiring, and drainage.

The process often involves wall modifications, mounting, and electrical upgrades. Advanced energy-efficient technology in units and additional costs for permits or multi-zone setups further increase the overall expense.

Is a Mini Split Cheaper Than Central Air?

Installing a mini split system typically costs 20–50% more upfront than central air. However, mini splits often save 30–40% on energy bills by cooling only specific zones instead of the entire home and higher cooling and heating efficiency.

Additionally, mini splits avoid the expense of ductwork maintenance and repairs, which can make them more economical over time for homes without existing ducts.

How to Save on Mini Split System Installation Costs

To reduce ductless mini split AC installation costs, start by comparing quotes from multiple contractors—the labor costs can vary much from one to each other. Buying the system yourself instead of through your installer can also help you avoid a 10-15% markup, potentially saving another $300 to $700 depending on the unit size.

Look into local energy rebates; many utility companies offer incentives for energy-efficient systems that can reduce costs by $200 to $1,000. Additionally, scheduling your installation in the off-season, like fall or spring, can lower labor rates by 10-20%, which could amount to another $300 to $800 in savings.

While DIY installation may seem tempting, keep in mind that professional installation ensures efficiency and warranty protection—saving you from future repair costs, which could run into thousands.

Talk to Della about Your Mini Split AC Needs

Understand and save your installing mini split AC system costs for valuable and long-term investment.

Della provides reliable support, detailed guides, and high quality mini split air conditioner units to help you install the mini split systems with less costs and smoother. Visit Della today to get started!

FAQ

Does an electrician install a mini-split?

An electrician doesn’t typically install the entire mini-split system but handles specific electrical tasks. These include wiring the outdoor unit to the electrical panel, installing a dedicated circuit breaker, and ensuring proper grounding. The rest of the installation, such as mounting the indoor units and connecting refrigerant lines, is completed by an HVAC professional.

How many mini splits do I need for a 1500 square foot house?

For a 1,500 sq. ft. house, you’ll typically need a multi-zone system with 2–3 indoor units. A system with 24,000–36,000 BTU is usually sufficient.

How many mini splits for a 2000 sq ft house?

A 2,000 sq. ft. house generally requires 3–4 indoor units or a system with 36,000–48,000 BTU.