Ductless AC costs will vary based on several factors, but in the US, the range is between $3,000 and $5,000 or more (that’s about $4,000 to $6,500 in Canadian dollars). This amount should cover the cost of the ductless AC unit and the installation.
Investment in a ductless air conditioning system will depend on more than just the cost of installation. Read on to learn more about the costs associated with the purchase, installation, and maintenance of ductless AC units.
Are Ductless AC Costs Worth the Investment?
A ductless AC costs more than a window unit but substantially less than central air conditioning (if your home doesn’t already have ductwork). Where your investment falls on this scale depends on several factors.
Here’s a breakdown of each contributing cost factor:
The Amount of Cooling You Need
Do you want to heat and air condition your entire home, or just a new add-on? Do you live in a four-bedroom ranch-style house or a cozy condo? The larger the square footage you wish to cool, the larger and more costly your ductless system will be.
A one-room ductless AC unit is composed of a single indoor air handler connected to an outdoor condensing unit through a small hole in the wall. Thankfully, multiple air handlers can connect to a single outdoor unit, allowing you to cool most or your entire home while saving on installation costs.
The Efficiency You Desire
Ductless mini-split air conditioners are more energy efficient than central air conditioner systems. This is due to energy loss via ductwork. In some cases, ductwork losses may account for more than 30 percent of cooling energy consumption. A poorly installed, low-quality, or too-small mini-split system can be just as inefficient as any other HVAC appliance.
All HVAC systems feature an efficiency rating so you can estimate operating costs. Look for ductless mini-split units with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios (SEER) and Energy Star-rated appliances when choosing a unit for your home. Remember, high-efficiency equipment will cost more upfront, but will reduce your utility bills for years to come.
Existing Infrastructure
The infrastructure that already exists at your home will have an impact on the overall cost. Installation of a ductless mini-split will require a technician to mount the indoor unit on the wall and position the outdoor unit on a concrete slab in your yard. A technician will also need to cut a hole in the wall to run refrigerant lines, control wiring, and electrical connections between the indoor and outdoor units. If any of this infrastructure already exists, the installation could take less time and cost less.
Power Requirements
If you don’t already have a suitable exterior GFCI outlet for the condensing unit to plug into, you’ll need to have one installed by a reputable electrician. Outdated home wiring may set you back because your home must be up to code before altering the HVAC system.
Are There Tax Credits to Help with Ductless AC Costs?
Most federal tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements expired in 2017 or earlier. However, Energy Star rebates may be available through your local energy provider. Learn more about rebates in your area with the Energy Star Rebate Finder.
Call Aire Serv for an In-Home Ductless AC Cost Estimate
For a permanent home cooling solution without ductwork, nothing beats a ductless air conditioner. Learn how much ductless air conditioning will cost by scheduling an in-home estimate from your local Aire Serv®. Request an appointment online or call (855) 259-2280 today to get started!
