How Much Does it Cost to Run a Mini Split Per Month

Mini-splits are an efficient and economical way to provide heating and cooling to areas of the home without existing ductwork. Instead of running large, loud, inefficient air conditioning systems, mini-splits use small, quiet outdoor units that bring in air through discreet ducts. The indoor units can be placed high or mounted on the ceiling. After hearing about the technical benefits, let's discuss the cost of running a mini-split. 

Cost to Run Mini Split

Mini-splits' main advantage is their versatility. Unlike central units, they don't require large return ducts or bulky vents. With just one outdoor unit, you can serve multiple rooms with a single line set—and even more, various line sets can connect the same outdoor unit with up to four indoor units.

They're also energy efficient since they only operate when needed, translating into lower electricity costs over time. In addition, mini-splits are designed for easy installation with minimal disruption during construction or remodeling projects. They don't require temperature balancing between rooms like traditional heating systems. Lastly, you can add air exchange kits to mini-split systems for better fresh air circulation and a healthier interior environment.

How Much Does it Cost to Run a Mini Split Per Month?

The costs of running a mini-split system per month vary based on a few factors, such as its size and SEER rating, as well as the climate in which it's operating. The monthly operating cost can range from $50 to several hundred dollars or more - with a significant factor being your city's electricity price. 

Calculating Average Wattage

First, you'll need to figure out the average wattage of the mini-split. You may be able to find this one the mini-split itself, if not in the manual. Simple, divide the BTUs of the mini-split by it's SEER rating: 

Average Wattage = Size Of Mini Split (In BTUs) / SEER rating

For example, let's say we have a 12,000 BTU mini split with a 14 SEER rating. This would give us an average wattage of roughly 857 watts. Now let's apply this to find the monthly cost of running a mini split.

The True Monthly Cost of Running a Mini Split

Now, take the average wattage you just found, multiply it by your city's electricity price in kilowatts per hour, then multiply it by your usage hours per day. Finally, once you get that number, divide it by 1000, and then you'll have your monthly cost of running a mini split per month. 

Mini Split Running Cost = Average Wattage (kWh) × Electricity Price × Usage Hours / 1000

Continuing with the 857 average watts mini split example from above, let's say our electricity price is $0.30 per hour, and we plan on using it for 8 hours a day. So we will do 857 kWh x $0.30 x (8 hours x 30 days), giving us 61,704. We would then divide that by 1000 to get

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Average Monthly Cost Based on Types of Mini Split

Single Zone Mini Split

• Single-zone mini splits are the most affordable option and are ideal for heating or air conditioning in a single room. The indoor unit will draw between 500-650 watts of power and is typically sized to match the square footage of the room being conditioned. As such, these units will generally cost around $30/month or less in electricity to run.

Multi-Zone Mini Split

• Multi-zone mini-split systems allow you to condition multiple rooms in your house simultaneously, up to four separate zones. The indoor units range from 700-1200 watts, depending on the size of the space being conditioned. This mini split type can run up to $100/month in electricity, depending on usage levels.

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Chart of How Much it Costs to Run a Mini Split Per Month

Factors Affecting The Monthly Cost of Running a Mini Split

The cost of running a mini-split depends on several factors, making it hard to estimate how much you'll pay each month.

Efficiency Rating

• The efficiency rating of the unit, aka SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), has the most significant effect on the operating cost of a mini split. The higher the SEER rating, the less electricity is used to run the system.

Climate

• If you live in an area with very hot summers and mild winters, you are likely to use your mini split more in summer, increasing energy costs. The same applies to areas with cold climates, but in reverse - if you use your mini-split in winter more than summer, expect increased electricity bills during those months.

Size of Unit

• You must select the correct size for your mini split system and install it professionally for maximum efficiency and savings. A larger unit will need more energy to operate than a smaller one. Therefore if you choose a model that's too large for your space, you could spend more money than necessary on electricity bills.

Voltage

• Voltage is another crucial factor to consider when installing your ductless mini split. Smaller micro splits utilize a regular 110- to 120-volt connection, typical in most households, while bigger units require greater voltage. These versions require a 220 to 240-volt connection; before purchase, ensure that the voltage in your home matches the voltage in your device. Incorrect voltage usage can cause a circuit to fail, a loss of efficiency, or even a fire.

Are Mini Splits Expensive to Run?

Mini-split systems are generally not expensive to run, especially compared to traditional HVAC systems. They are highly energy-efficient because they allow for zoned heating and cooling, meaning you can control the temperature in individual rooms rather than heating or cooling the entire house. This targeted approach reduces energy waste and can lower your utility bills. Additionally, mini-splits use inverter-driven compressors that adjust their speed based on the cooling or heating demand, further improving efficiency. While the initial installation cost can be higher than some other systems, the ongoing operational costs are typically lower, making mini-splits a cost-effective option in the long run.

Do Mini Splits Use A Lot Of Electricity

Mini splits are generally more energy-efficient than traditional HVAC systems, so they do not use a lot of electricity relative to their cooling and heating output. Their efficiency comes from the ability to cool or heat specific zones in your home, reducing energy waste. The amount of electricity a mini split uses depends on factors like its size (measured in BTUs), how often it runs, and its energy efficiency rating (SEER or EER). While a mini split does consume electricity, its advanced technology and targeted operation often result in lower overall energy consumption compared to central air systems, making them a cost-effective choice for many homeowners.

How Much Does it Cost to Run a 12,000 BTU Mini Split

The cost to run a 12,000 BTU mini-split system depends on several factors, including the system's efficiency (measured in SEER or EER), the cost of electricity in your area, and how many hours per day the system is operating. Here's a basic way to estimate the cost:

1. Determine the Power Consumption: A 12,000 BTU mini-split typically consumes around 1,000 watts (1 kW) when running at full capacity. However, more efficient models may use less energy.

2. Calculate the Hourly Cost: Multiply the power consumption by the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in your area. For example, if electricity costs $0.13 per kWh:

   1. $$\text{Hourly cost}=1\text{ kW}\times 0.13\text{ USD/kWh}=0.13\text{ USD/hour}$$

3. Estimate the Daily/Monthly Cost: Multiply the hourly cost by the number of hours the unit operates each day and by 30 to get a monthly estimate. For instance, if the mini-split runs 8 hours per day:

   1. $$\text{Daily cost}=0.13\text{ USD/hour}\times 8\text{ hours}=1.04\text{ USD/day}$$

   2. $$\text{Monthly cost}=1.04\text{ USD/day}\times 30\text{ days}=31.20\text{ USD/month}$$

So, running a 12,000 BTU mini-split for 8 hours a day could cost around $1.04 per day or approximately $31.20 per month, depending on your local electricity rates and the system's efficiency. These numbers can vary based on usage patterns and efficiency, so your actual costs might be higher or lower.

How Much Does It Cost To Run An 18,000 BTU Mini Split

To estimate the cost of running an 18,000 BTU mini-split, follow these steps:

1. Determine the Power Consumption: An 18,000 BTU mini-split typically consumes around 1,500 watts (1.5 kW) when operating at full capacity, though this can vary slightly depending on the system's efficiency.

2. Calculate the Hourly Cost: Multiply the power consumption by the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in your area. For example, if electricity costs $0.13 per kWh:

   1. $$\text{Hourly cost}=1.5\text{ kW}\times 0.13\text{ USD/kWh}=0.195\text{ USD/hour}$$

3. Estimate the Daily/Monthly Cost: Multiply the hourly cost by the number of hours the unit operates each day and then by 30 for a monthly estimate. For instance, if the mini-split runs 8 hours per day:

   1. $$\text{Daily cost}=0.195\text{ USD/hour}\times 8\text{ hours}=1.56\text{ USD/day}$$

   2. $$\text{Monthly cost}=1.56\text{ USD/day}\times 30\text{ days}=46.80\text{ USD/month}$$

So, running an 18,000 BTU mini-split for 8 hours a day could cost around $1.56 per day or approximately $46.80 per month, depending on your local electricity rates and the system's efficiency. These are general estimates, and actual costs may vary based on usage patterns and local electricity prices.

How Much Does it Cost to Run a 24,000 BTU Mini Split?

To estimate the cost of running a 24,000 BTU mini-split, we can follow a similar approach as before:

1. Determine the Power Consumption: A 24,000 BTU mini-split typically consumes around 2,000 watts (2 kW) when running at full capacity. However, more efficient models may use slightly less energy.

2. Calculate the Hourly Cost: Multiply the power consumption by the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in your area. For example, if electricity costs $0.13 per kWh:

   1. $$\text{Hourly cost}=2\text{ kW}\times 0.13\text{ USD/kWh}=0.26\text{ USD/hour}$$

3. Estimate the Daily/Monthly Cost: Multiply the hourly cost by the number of hours the unit operates each day and by 30 to get a monthly estimate. For instance, if the mini-split runs 8 hours per day:

   1. $$\text{Daily cost}=0.26\text{ USD/hour}\times 8\text{ hours}=2.08\text{ USD/day}$$

   2. $$\text{Monthly cost}=2.08\text{ USD/day}\times 30\text{ days}=62.40\text{ USD/month}$$

So, running a 24,000 BTU mini-split for 8 hours a day could cost around $2.08 per day or approximately $62.40 per month, depending on your local electricity rates and the system's efficiency. These estimates can vary based on actual usage patterns, the efficiency of the unit, and local electricity costs, so your actual costs might be somewhat different.

How Much Will A Mini Split Raise My Electric Bill

The impact of a mini split on your electric bill depends on factors like the system's size, efficiency, usage patterns, and local electricity rates. Generally, mini splits are energy-efficient, often costing less to run than traditional HVAC systems. For example, a 12,000 BTU mini split running for 8 hours a day might increase your bill by approximately $30 to $40 per month, while a larger 24,000 BTU unit could add around $60 to $80 per month, depending on your electricity cost and how often the system is used. Although a mini split will raise your electric bill, its zoned cooling and heating capabilities often result in overall energy savings, especially if it replaces a less efficient system.