How Much Does a Split Unit Cost Compared to Central AC?

Hey, Mike Haines here, let’s face it , no one enjoys shopping for a new air conditioning system, but it’s something you’ll have to do at some point. And when you start comparing costs, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. What’s the difference between a central system and a 3 zone mini split? Are split unit systems actually cheaper? Can you install them yourself? I’ve broken it down for you below in plain English.

Comparing Installation Costs of Split Units and Central AC

If you’re asking how much does a split unit cost, the short answer is: it depends. A ballpark figure for a three-zone mini split system which is one outdoor unit and three indoor air handlers roughly falls between $3,500 and $6,500 for the equipment alone.

A tri zone mini split gives you the flexibility to control temperatures in three separate spaces. That’s a huge step up from one thermostat trying to manage your entire house.

Add in professional installation, and you’re likely looking at another $1,500 to $4,000, depending on local contractor rates, whether you need electrical upgrades, and how complex your home layout is.

Now compare that with a full central AC system. If you’re replacing an aging unit and need ductwork repairs or upgrades, the total cost could easily run $8,000 to $12,000. In some homes with long, leaky ducts, that number climbs even higher.

Why Split Units Are Often More Affordable Long Term

Upfront costs only tell half the story. The real savings come from how efficiently your system runs over time.

Traditional central AC systems push air through ductwork — and 20% to 30% of that cool air is often lost before it reaches your vents. The losses are worse if your ducts run through an attic, basement, or crawlspace.

A 3 zone mini split system, on the other hand, delivers cooled air directly from the indoor unit into the room. There are no ducts. No losses. No wasted money.

Even better, most modern mini splits come with SEER2 ratings between 18 and 24, compared to older systems that top out at 10 or 12. That can reduce your monthly cooling costs by up to 40%, depending on your usage.

Over time, that savings adds up — especially during peak summer months.

How Brand and Features Affect the Price

Not all systems are created equal. Some people go for high-end brands like the MRCOOL 3 zone mini split, which tend to come with features like:

• Wi-Fi app control

• Smart thermostats

• Inverter compressors

• Multi-speed fans

• Pre-charged refrigerant line sets

These extras raise the price, but they also improve convenience and energy efficiency. For example, being able to adjust your cooling remotely while you're at work can keep your house comfortable without wasting electricity all day.

You’ll also want to factor in BTU capacity. A mini split with 3 heads and a 36,000 BTU output will naturally cost more than a 24,000 BTU system, but it can cool a much larger area.

What About Heating?

Here’s something people forget: most multi zone mini split systems come with heat pump functionality built in.

That means you’re getting cooling and heating in one unit, which adds year-round value. In milder climates, these systems can completely replace your furnace. In colder areas, they work as supplemental heat — taking the edge off your bills during shoulder seasons.

When Is a Mini Split the Better Option?

Split units aren’t always the best fit. If your home already has a perfectly good set of ducts and your central unit is fairly new, sticking with a standard AC might be smarter.

But mini splits are a game-changer in the following situations:

• You’re finishing an attic, basement, or garage.

• You’re adding a new room or addition and don’t want to extend ducts.

• Your current central AC doesn’t evenly cool the home.

• You want separate temperature zones for different rooms.

• Your house has no ducts, and you don’t want invasive renovations.

They’re also ideal for older homes with plaster walls or retrofits where ductwork would be expensive or destructive.

How to Estimate Costs for Your Home

Here’s a breakdown of equipment-only pricing to help you compare:

Labor costs for mini split installs usually range from $500 to $2,000 per zone, depending on wiring, wall access, and whether your breaker box needs an upgrade.

What If You Want to Install It Yourself?

DIY installation is possible with certain systems, like the MRCOOL 3 zone mini split, which includes pre-charged lines and clear instructions.

These setups are designed for homeowners, though you still need to follow code and possibly pull permits depending on your local laws. Most people, however, opt for a licensed HVAC technician to ensure safe, compliant installation.

Bottom Line: Which One Saves You More?

A central AC system still makes sense for homes with existing ductwork in good condition. It offers whole-home cooling from one central thermostat and works great if you want to “set it and forget it.”

But for people looking to reduce monthly bills, target specific rooms, or avoid duct repairs, the multi zone mini split system is often the better deal long term.

It’s also quieter, more flexible, and easier to scale as your home needs change.

Key Takeaways

• A typical 3 zone mini split costs $3,500–$6,500 before installation.

• Central AC systems often run $8,000+ — more with ductwork.

• Ductless systems waste less energy and cost less to run.

• MRCOOL and other DIY systems can save on labor.

• Heat + cooling in one system adds year-round value.