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Mini-Split AC Installation in California: What to Expect in Terms of Costs

Mini-split AC systems are increasing in popularity, especially in California, thanks to how adaptable they are compared to traditional whole-home systems. These versatile systems provide several benefits, including cooling without any ductwork, allowing you total control over temperatures in certain rooms or spaces. Because they only require a small hole to be drilled during installation for the conduit to connect the indoor and outdoor units, they’re much easier to retrofit to homes without ductwork.

The average mini-split AC installation cost in California tends to run between $8,000 and over $25,000 based on factors such as:

  • Size and cooling capacity
  • Energy efficiency
  • Number of indoor units or zones
  • Complexity of the installation
  • The company installing the system

For a more specific estimate of your installation cost, contact Bonney today.


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Size and Cooling Capacity

Your AC’s size is determined by its cooling capacity, which is measured in British thermal units (BTU). BTU is a unit of measurement used to measure the amount of energy necessary to heat a pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit. An AC’s BTU tells you how much heat the unit can remove from the air in an hour.

Typically, the higher the BTU rating you require for a space, the more expensive the AC unit will be. A professional technician can help you determine the BTU rating you need to keep your home cool.

Energy Efficiency

ACs come with a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating, which helps determine how energy-efficient the unit is. This ratio considers the cooling output of the system during a normal cooling season and the total energy used to achieve it. A higher SEER rating tells you that your AC is more energy efficient than a unit with a lower rating.

Of course, energy efficiency comes at a cost. Highly energy-efficient systems are typically costlier than less efficient systems. However, because you’ll save on energy costs each year you use your more efficient AC, you often save more in the long run with the higher up-front investment.

Number of Indoor Units or Zones

Unlike central AC, which cools your whole home through ductwork, mini-split ACs cool specific rooms or zones. Depending on the layout of your home and how you want to control your climate, you may need several mini-split AC systems to achieve your desired results.

A professional can review your home and help you determine exactly how many mini-split systems you’ll need. However, if you need a multi-zone setup or need several air handlers, you can expect costs to increase. This includes the costs of additional appliances as well as increased labor for installation.

Complexity of the Installation

Part of your final bill is labor, so if you need a more complex installation, you can expect the price to increase. Some common factors that can lead to a more complex installation, include:

  • Installing units on the upper levels of a home
  • When the indoor and outdoor units are further apart and longer connection lines are needed
  • If additional electrical work needs to be done to support the additional load
  • If additional carpentry work needs to be done to accommodate the AC’s outdoor installation

The Company Installing the System

If you call out three different companies to quote you on the same ductless install cost in California, you’ll get three different prices. Each company will have its own rates for labor and service, but you get what you pay for. Even if you find a company willing to do the job for less, you need to confirm that you’re still getting quality workmanship that’ll last.

Even if you have to pay more to get that higher-quality installation performed by a more reputable company, it’s often worth it to avoid any of the numerous things that could go wrong with shoddy workmanship. At Bonney, you get exceptional service every time. We know that keeping our employees happy leads to happy customers when they get the top-notch results they expect.


Schedule Your Expert Ductless Mini-Split System Installation With Bonney.

Bonney is Sacramento’s leading A+ Better Business Bureau member and we’re ready to show you why. Call us for your ductless mini-split system installation, and let us help you achieve a more comfortable, happier tomorrow.