Is Professional Mini Split Installation Worth the Price?

DIY ductless installation can be tempting because it reduces the cost of your mini split. However, DIY installation or even working with a general contractor rather than an HVAC specialist can lead to a lot of issues, and it often ends up costing you more in the long run.

At NETR, Inc, we work closely with our clients to ensure they select the right equipment for their homes, and we also provide trustworthy reliable installation. We believe that professional installation is worth the price for the following reasons.

Save Money on Ductless Heating and Cooling

1. Heat Load Calculations

The capacity of your mini split varies based on the size of the space you are trying to heat and cool. However, that doesn’t mean that you should just measure your room and then order equipment. If you do this, you will generally end up with the wrong size of equipment. Both over and under-sized heat pumps waste energy.

When you work with a professional, they do a Manual J heat load calculation. This takes into account your ceiling height, climate, insulation materials, sun exposure, and other factors that affect the heating and cooling needs of your space. Then, they ensure that you select the most efficient capacity for your home’s unique needs.

2. Product Expertise

Capacity is just one of many decisions that you need to make when selecting your mini-split. You also need to make choices about the brand, mount style, efficiency level, and special features. A professional experienced with ductless can answer your questions and guide you toward the best equipment.

They can also help you assess how all of the different factors affect the cost of your ductless system. For example, the cost of a ceiling-mounted unit is often more than the cost of a wall-mounted unit. This is due to additional features in the equipment as well as differences in the installation process.

3. Placement of Indoor Units

The placement of your indoor units has a direct impact on efficiency and on your comfort levels. If you select the wrong location, you may be able to maintain your mini split easily, and you may end up spending more than needed on your future heating and cooling costs.

4. Refrigerant

Heat pumps contain refrigerants. With most units, someone will need to cut and charge the refrigerant lines. Even if you install most of the unit yourself, you will have to pay a trained professional to handle this aspect of the installation.

5. Electrical Work

You also need to run electrical lines between the indoor and outdoor units. This can be dangerous for an inexperienced person. In some cases, you may even need to upgrade your electrical panel to support the mini-split.

6. Installation Challenges

Professional installers have handled countless installations. They know how to navigate a wide range of challenges, and they have established processes for dealing with common problems. If a DIYer faces the same issues, it can add a lot of extra time and cost to the installation. Beyond that, most homeowners don’t have the right tools to complete the process.

7. Warranties

Manufacturers like Mitsubishi and LG offer enhanced warranties when you work with an installer who has completed their dealer training. In some cases, doing a DIY installation voids nearly the entire warranty. That is because these companies know that the installation process can be tricky. They know that it’s better to work with a professional.

Whether you install the mini split yourself or hire a professional, you still have to purchase the equipment. Safeguard its value by investing in professional installation. But keep in mind that different HVAC professionals have different levels of expertise. Ideally, you should work with a professional who has extensive experience with the heating equipment you want to buy.

At NETR, Inc, we have earned the distinction of being a Mitsubishi Diamond Elite Contractor and an LG Pro Platinum Dealer. That means we have completed the highest level of dealer training with both of these manufacturers. We also have 30+ years of experience in the HVAC industry. You can rely on our team to help you select, install, and maintain your mini-split. To learn more, contact us today.