I bought a townhouse last summer, and it was tough to deal with the heat even with three portable A/C units. We're now considering a mini-split system because central A/C isn't common in WA state. We're looking at a system with three heads, but the quote we received was around $20k, which is way over our budget given the current financial climate. I'm wondering if there are cheaper alternatives to install mini-splits, like hiring workers separately, doing some of the work ourselves, or finding affordable contractors. Has anyone else been in a similar situation or have suggestions?
6 Answers
One option to consider is the Mr. Cool units; they're designed for DIY installation and can save you some cash. You might want to hire a handyman or electrician just to help with the electrical connections, and then handle the rest yourself. The installation isn't too complicated if you're somewhat handy!
One thing to think about is whether your window units are too small for your space. Sometimes investing in a couple of larger window units could be a more cost-effective solution than going for a full mini-split installation. But if you're set on mini-splits, consider grouping the quotes more strategically or looking for potential discounts if you find neighbors interested in getting systems installed at the same time.
I personally had great success installing DIY units; it was less stressful than I expected. I bought a unit from Amazon for around $700 and got a local HVAC guy to install it for $500. All in, I spent under $2k! If you're willing to put in the effort for installation, you can save big this way.
Before jumping into anything, check your attic insulation. Good insulation can make your home more comfortable with the existing units. And for the mini-splits, think about asking local suppliers or HVAC techs if they might want to take on a DIY installation as a side job. You might even get a group rate if you and some neighbors go in together!
I think you should get a few more quotes before making a decision. That $20k sounds high; I’d expect something closer to $14k in your area. You can consider DIY with Mr. Cool but make sure to stick with a reputable HVAC company that installs mini-splits regularly. They’ll have better pricing and experience. I got two heads installed for about $7800 a few years back in a high-cost area, so it’s doable if you shop around.
Right? You can really maximize your savings by comparing quotes. It's all about getting someone who knows mini-splits well ; you don’t want to end up with a company that rarely installs them.
That makes sense! I've had similar experiences with high quotes, and then finding better deals once I looked around.
Remember that financing can sometimes be a good option if you're worried about upfront costs. Some programs, like the HEAR/HOMES act, could even help offset some costs depending on what’s being offered in Washington. So it's worth checking out!
Yeah, definitely consider hiring an electrician for the necessary power to the unit. Other than that, it’s mainly about drilling a hole for the lines and mounting the indoor unit—pretty manageable!