What Is the Average Cost of Ductless Air Conditioning Installation?

Posted on the 18 July 2023 by Shoumya Chowdhury

The cost of installing a ductless air conditioner can vary significantly based on the system that you select, but one surefire way of establishing the total expense is by obtaining quotes from reliable HVAC providers. 

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Cost of the Unit

Ductless air conditioning costs more than window units but less than central cooling systems. 

The price varies based on factors like the size of the home, the number of rooms needing cooling, and the type of system chosen; a home energy assessment will help you select an appropriate size ductless AC for your space. 

Basic ductless air conditioning systems consist of an outdoor condenser unit connected to one or more indoor air handlers, through which refrigerant flows freely, allowing you to heat or cool specific rooms within your home independently. 

Single-zone ductless air conditioning systems usually cost from $3,000 to $4,500, including installation. Additional zones and higher BTU ratings will increase costs; for an accurate cost estimate before work commences, contact a reputable contractor. 

An energy-efficient model may qualify you for rebates from your energy provider. Still, before making this choice, it is crucial to consider both upfront costs vs. long-term savings when making this investment decision.

Cost of the Installation

Installation costs for ductless air conditioning systems typically surpass that of purchasing them while being less than central air (if your home does not already contain existing ductwork). Key factors affecting installation costs are number of zones and home size.

An average single-zone ductless mini-split system costs around $2,000 to install, including both unit cost and installation services. Multi-zone systems cost significantly more, as they require multiple outdoor condenser units and multiple indoor air handler units for proper functioning. 

Efficiency ratings and cooling capacities also play a part in the installation costs of ductless ACs. Higher-efficiency models may cost more upfront but will save homeowners money over time on utility bills. Furthermore, energy-efficient systems may qualify for rebates from utilities or local governments, so be sure to find out what options exist in your area.

Cost of the Equipment

Ductless air conditioning equipment costs can vary significantly depending on its energy efficiency rating and cooling capacity. High-efficiency systems may even qualify for rebates from local utilities or manufacturers, providing an added incentive to invest in such an energy-efficient solution. 

A basic ductless air conditioning system typically comprises an outdoor unit connected by refrigerant lines to one or more indoor air handlers and conditions air throughout a home’s living spaces. Its total cost can vary between $3,000 and $9,500. 

Wall-mounted ductless systems are affordable as they don’t require extensive installation work. Ceiling-suspended systems tend to be more costly but have greater airflow capacities. 

Other factors influencing the cost of ductless air conditioners include their brand, size, and BTU ratings. Furthermore, programmable thermostats may increase total costs but ultimately save homeowners money on energy costs in the long run.

Cost of the Service

Ductless air conditioning systems can be an ideal way to cool homes that do not have ductwork installed, such as garages or attics that would be hard to access with traditional air conditioners. Unfortunately, their installation costs can vary widely depending on what type of unit is purchased and its method of installation. 

Ceiling cassette systems tend to be more costly than other ductless cooling solutions because they’re installed directly into the ceiling yet offer optimal airflow while remaining discreet in appearance. 

Before purchasing a ductless system, it is vital to consider its size, as this will impact its power and energy use. A system too small will fail to cool your home adequately. At the same time, one too large could overspend on energy use – to avoid this scenario, consult an HVAC professional about conducting an energy audit before investing in one.