Ductless mini split cost: unit prices by brand
A single-zone ductless mini split system costs $1,000 to $6,000 for the equipment, depending on brand, size and efficiency. Budget brands like Pioneer and GREE start near $1,000; Mitsubishi, Daikin and Carrier run up to $4,800 to $6,000.
Quick answer
$1,000 – $6,000single-zone equipment, before labor
Most single-zone mini split systems cost $1,400 to $4,800 before installation. Budget units start near $1,000, and premium high-efficiency systems reach $6,000.
Prices by brand
| Brand | Price |
|---|---|
| Pioneer | $1,000 – $3,400 |
| GREE | $1,000 – $3,800 |
| LG | $1,100 – $5,000 |
| Daikin | $1,100 – $5,600 |
| Fujitsu / Rheem | $1,300 – $4,700 |
| Mitsubishi / Trane | $1,400 – $4,800 |
| Carrier | $2,400 – $6,000 |
Installed prices by size
| Size | Installed |
|---|---|
| 6,000 BTU (0.5 ton) | $2,500 – $3,500 |
| 9,000 BTU (0.75 ton) | $3,000 – $4,200 |
| 12,000 BTU (1 ton) | $3,500 – $5,000 |
| 18,000 BTU (1.5 tons) | $4,500 – $6,500 |
| 24,000 BTU (2 tons) | $6,000 – $8,000 |
| 30,000 BTU (2.5 tons) | $7,000 – $9,500 |
| 36,000 BTU (3 tons) | $8,000 – $11,000 |
| 42,000 BTU (3.5 tons) | $10,000 – $13,000 |
| 48,000 BTU (4 tons) | $12,000 – $15,000 |
For complete project costs, see Mini split installation cost.
Choosing a mini split
- Size: about 20 to 30 BTU per square foot of the room, more for sunny or poorly insulated spaces.
- Hyper-heat / cold-climate models from Mitsubishi, Fujitsu and Daikin keep heating near or below 0°F.
- Efficiency: higher SEER2 and HSPF2 ratings cost more but run cheaper.
- Installer network: premium brands have more certified installers and longer warranties.
How to get a fair quote
- Get at least three written quotes that list the brand, model number, size (tons or BTU) and efficiency rating.
- Ask whether the price includes permits, removal of the old unit, refrigerant, a new thermostat and any duct or electrical work.
- Ask for a load calculation (Manual J) instead of matching the old unit's size by default.
- Compare labor warranties (1 to 10 years) as well as the manufacturer's parts warranty, and register the equipment.
- Schedule non-urgent work in spring or fall, when contractors are less busy and more willing to discount.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Mitsubishi mini split?
About $1,400 to $4,800 for a single-zone Mitsubishi system before installation, and $2,500 to $6,000 installed for most rooms.
What is the cheapest mini split brand?
Pioneer and GREE are among the least expensive, starting around $1,000 for a single-zone system.
Is a mini split cheaper than central air?
For one to three rooms, yes. For a whole home, a multi-zone mini split often costs as much or more than central air with existing ducts.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your home, region, equipment and contractor, so get several written quotes. Heat & Air Costs is not an HVAC contractor; read our disclaimer.