Ductless AC systems, known as mini-splits, are picking up a serious head of steam. Known for being reliable, super quiet, and energy efficient, these ductless cooling systems are game changers for home comfort. However, the cost of ductless air conditioning is a chief concern for most people. At Clarke and Rush, we’re the Sacramento, CA area’s top choice for the installation of mini-splits. We receive a lot of questions about the price tag for these modern systems.
There is no flat rate for a ductless system. Some are fairly affordable, while top shelf models can cost a pretty penny. We’ll cover some of the factors that influence the price of a ductless AC system.
The Number of Indoor Cooling Zones
The number of zones you want cooled in your home will be the biggest factor in determining the price. Every zone in the house needs its own air handler to provide the cool air. So, a single-zone system is going to be cheaper than a multi-zone system.
Adding more zones to a house or commercial building raises the price tag for two main reasons. First, you’ll have to purchase more equipment to cool more zones. You need to install air handlers, and the outside unit will need to be a lot larger to handle them. Second, there are separate installation processes for each zone. Because there are no ducts involved, technicians will install the handlers directly into the wall or ceiling.
The System’s Cooling Capacity and BTUs
Just like with traditional window units, a 5,000 BTU air conditioner is generally cheaper than a 10,000 BTU option. The more powerful the ductless AC, the more it’s typically going to cost. So, if you have more area to cool, you can likely expect to pay more for your system. For people with smaller homes or those who only need to cool smaller rooms, these systems are more affordable.
It’s important to note here that proper sizing matters when it comes to equipping your home. If you get a system that’s too small for your house, it will constantly run trying to cool it down. This puts wear and tear on the machinery and causes your bills to spike. Conversely, a system that’s too large for the house will short cycle, turning on and off too frequently. The wear and tear from this continuing on-and-off operation is even worse for the lifespan of the system. You need to ensure you get the Goldilocks version that is just right for the area you need to cool.
The Mini-Split’s Energy Efficiency and SEER2 Ratings
SEER2 is the seasonal energy efficiency ratio rating that tells you how efficient an HVAC system is. Systems that cost less to run annually typically cost a bit more up front. Most people now realize that lower monthly bills offset higher initial costs. However, it’s still an expense that many cannot afford.
The good news is that all modern mini-splits are quite energy efficient. Some are better than others, but there are no “energy hogs” in this category. So, when you need a reliable system that offers powerful cooling without spiking your bills, mini-splits are certainly worth it. When you work with us, we’ll help you compare systems to find one that fits your home’s needs and your budget.
Types of Indoor Air Handlers
Air handlers, as briefly mentioned above, are the parts of mini-split systems installed on your wall or ceiling to blow the cool air in. There are different sizes and styles you can choose from here. For instance, you can make a small aesthetic sacrifice to save some money. Wall-mounted units are generally more affordable but bulkier than ceiling-mounted ones.
If you prefer a more discreet look, you will likely have to pay a bit more. You can find ceiling cassettes that are installed flush with the ceiling. You can also find units that hook up at the baseboards like old radiator units. With many different shapes and sizes to choose from, you can find something that fits your style and your budget.
Installation Complexity And Labor
How difficult the installation process is will dictate how much labor is involved, and that will greatly influence the price. We’re going to have a much easier time installing a mini-split in a house with a straightforward layout than one that presents installation challenges.
Also keep in mind that we have to run air and refrigerant lines from the outdoor unit to the air handler. Longer lines require more materials and more labor, and so do multiple lines. These choices are going to move the needle up on the overall price. The simplest installations are always the most affordable.
Advanced Features and Technology
Modern ductless systems come with a variety of optional features that can enhance your experience. However, they may also influence the price. Smart technology allows you to control your system from your app, or to integrate it into your home Wi-Fi assistants. This is a very cool, modern feature, but it’s also a little on the pricey side. You can also find units that have motion sensors that will adjust the temperature if they register that someone is in the room. If you’re home, things stay cooler; if you’re gone, there’s no need to run the system. This saves a lot of energy expenses, but the up-front costs are higher.
You should keep this in mind when shopping for a ductless AC. Just like with a new car, more add-ons are going to cost you more money. For many homeowners, just having a standard system is good. Others, however, like the models with all the bells and whistles because they are simpler and more energy-efficient over the course of years. At Clarke and Rush, we offer flexible financing on approved credit for homeowners. So, you should be able to purchase the exact system you want for your home.
At Clarke and Rush, we are proud to be your go-to HVAC contractor in Sacramento. With decades of experience, we know exactly how to install a mini-split promptly and professionally, minimizing disruption to your daily routine. Once you schedule with us, we make sure that everything goes as smoothly as possible. If you need other HVAC work done, we’re also the smart choice because we provide a full range of residential and commercial HVAC services, working with furnaces, heat pumps, thermostats, and more. Our skilled technicians demonstrate excellent workmanship on every job they complete.
Prices for ductless air conditioning depend on the size, model, and type of system you need. We’ll help you make the best choice for your home and budget.
Contact Clarke and Rush today for more information about our ductless mini-split AC systems.