HVAC vs Mini Split A/C

[Adam Belasco]

Hi All,

I'm considering purchasing a 3000sqft townhome to BRRRR that currently has window unit A/C and radiator boiler system for heat. After walking the property with my HVAC contractor he recommended a mini split may be the way to go instead of adding duct work for an HVAC. One of the biggest reasons he recommended this is to preserve ceiling height in the basement which is already a bit shorter than I'd like. We would place the condenser on the roof so it would be out of sight and not an eye sore.

The question: Since I'd be turning this into a modern home with nice finishes will the property appraise the same way regardless of if it has HVAC or a mini split system?

Thanks in advance!

[Jobie DeVinney-Walsh]

For a savvy buyer a mini-split will have higher value than the traditional system. With a multi-head mini-split, each room can be individually controlled. This saves on the energy bill since rooms that aren't being used can have a lower temperature. You have one compressor and a "head" in each room. Great selling point for new owners.

You should also look at initial costs so that you get that money returned when you sell.

In the past, the Mini-Split equipment was much more expensive. But due to growing demand the prices have dropped. We installed a Mitsubishi single head mini-split in our family room about 5 years ago. Then the equipment retailed at around $3000. Today that same equipment is around 50% less.

You also need to look at labor costs. Our mini-split took about 3-4 hours to install. I just replaced a heat pump where the duct was already run and it took about 7 hours. 

Last thing to consider - right now duct material is hard to get. Some areas are looking at a month or more to get flex duct and then they have to use the size that is available - which might be too small or too large. If it is too small it will not work right and be noisy. If it is too large, the air might not get to the room at the end of the run.

Hope this is useful information.