Types of Ductless ACs and Their Installation Costs
When the summer heat becomes unbearable, it is important to find ways to stay cool and comfortable at least when indoors. In the last few years, ductless air conditioners have gained immense popularity, as they provide homes and workplaces with a convenient and efficient cooling solution. That said, to choose an option that meets all cooling requirements, one can learn about the various types of ductless air conditioners available today and their installation costs.
What are ductless air conditioners?
Ductless air conditioners, often called mini-split systems, are cooling units that do not require ductwork for installation. They comprise an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units by a refrigerant line and electrical wire. One can monitor the temperature in different rooms or preferred zones. Due to a ductless design, the mini splits prove to be an energy-efficient, flexible alternative to regular central air conditioning systems.
Is ductless AC right for you?
If one needs air conditioning installation without ductwork, precise temperature control, independent temperature zones in various rooms, and energy savings , ductless air conditioners can be the right choice .
Different types of ductless air conditioners
Common and popular types of ductless air conditioners are:
- Wall-mounted mini-split units
- Floor-mounted mini split units
- Single-zone mini-split units
- Multi-zone mini split units
- Ceiling cassette mini split units
- Concealed duct mini split units
The installation costs of ductless air conditioners
When planning to buy a mini-split air conditioner, it is imperative to consider the cost of installation . On average, the installation cost for a standard unit is around $4,500. However, depending on factors such as type, size, efficiency ratings, performance, and, of course, the popularity of the brands, installation costs can range from as low as $1,000 to $16,000.
- Wall mounted
Wall-mounted mini-split tops the list in terms of being popular and friendly on the pocket. The price range is between $1,200 and $4,300 for a single-zoned system. - Floor mounted
The homeowners willing to install a floor-mounted ductless unit must be prepared to spend between $1,300 and $3,700. - Single zone
A single mini-split zone unit’s installation cost starts from $2,000 and can go up to $7,800. - Multi zone
The average cost for a multi-zone AC unit set-up is around $2,700 to $14,000. The charges can be costly depending on the additional zones covered. The maximum installation cost can go up to $16,400. - Ceiling cassette
These ductless AC units mimic built-in air ducts and have a stylish look. Installation cost for Ceiling cassette mini-splits ranges from $2,000 to $6,000, so plan the budget accordingly. - Ceiling mounted
Ceiling-mounted mini-splits offer the best of both worlds—a wall mount and a ceiling cassette. However, they can be a bit heavier on the pocket, and the average installation cost is around $2,400 to $5,500.
How to choose the best ductless air conditioner?
When selecting a mini split, set a budget in place . While it may be tempting to choose a cheap ductless air conditioner, it is essential to find a balance between cost and quality. Initially, it may cost more to invest in a reliable model from a reputable brand, but one can save money by reducing maintenance and energy expenses over time.
The price of ductless air conditioner units on sale can vary depending on the type of unit . Wall-mounted systems tend to be the most affordable option, as these are commonly used and widely available. Ceiling recessed systems, on the other hand, can be slightly more expensive due to the additional installation requirements and the need for professional expertise. Floor-mounted systems generally fall in between in terms of cost, as these offer the flexibility of being placed at ground level. Ultimately, the specific ductless air conditioner price will depend on factors such as brand, size, and energy efficiency ratings of the unit . The price range of the ductless air conditioner units ranges from $1500 to $15000.
Today, the mini split of reliable brands starts from as low as $699 and can go up depending on the customers’ needs, the size, and the BTU ratings. Ductless air conditioning units can be purchased from giant online marketplaces.
Things to keep in mind for easy installation of ductless ACs
Ductless air conditioners are known for their simple installation process. However, one needs to ensure that one has access to certified installers around the area. Check whether the brand of choice has a wide network of authorized installers who can assist in the installation and maintenance of the unit on a regular basis .
When planning to purchase a mini split air conditioner, one can do a simple online check for “ductless air conditioner installation near me costs” to find out the related costs. The pricing can vary depending on several factors, such as:
- Type of unit
- Size
- Cooling capacity
- Seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating
- Vents, ductwork, and returns
- Zones and controls
- Additional installations
- Warranty considerations
The installation cost of different types of ductless air conditioners will also vary according to the location and installation provider. It is important to get free estimates and compare the quotes to choose the best and most affordable contractor according to the requirements. One can also seek professional throughout the whole process from finding known brands to checking the installation.