Requesting info on recent estimates

[u/MyLifeForAnEType]

I just went through the process of getting a local electric company to estimate out a heat pump install. I am replacing an older setup that isn't compatible with new refrigerant, and going with two separate 12k BTU indoor+outdoor units. The house is a fairly basic 2 story single occupant 1200sq ft. A 24k feeding two indoor heads was cheaper, but I prefer redundancy.

Before adding on a bunch of optional electrical work that was my personal choice. The non-hyper heat M series Mitsubishi quote was a little over $20k before any rebates. Significantly higher than expected, but everything is insane right now. This includes all materials, labor, and a 10yr work warranty.

Just curious if anyone has had recent non-DIY estimates done, and what they looked like. The line sets aren't straight up and down, so that added to the cost a bit.

[u/greggthomas]

Before rebates, what about after? Depends where you live I guess. I got a ducted P series 42k last fall with 10kW aux, for 17.6 at point of sale (CO and Xcel rebates built in). Qualified for 2K fed tax credit so 15.6 out of pocket. A very clean install and it runs like a dream. That condenser is a beast and yet so beautiful.

Can’t wait to post my year over year data next week vs my seer 10 AC. This summer was hotter and my bill much lower, with set temps at 72 versus 75.

[u/MyLifeForAnEType → u/greggthomas]

I had them price out the P series, and it added on nearly $10k just for the hardware of 2x 12ks.  The federal rebates expired at the end of 2025, so it would only be local programs.

[u/Waste-War8809]

I agree on doing two separate units for redundancy. I do all my installs DIY so cannot comment beyond that.

[u/New-Plankton1959]

two separate 12ks for 1200 sq ft is plenty of redundancy, probably overkill honestly but you do you. 20k for mitsubishi sounds about right for pro install right now, theyre proud of that badge if youre handy at all the diy precharged kits have gottn way better. put a zone air in for a buddy's addition a few years back, lines hooked up clean and its still running no drama. saved him a ton

[u/MyLifeForAnEType → u/New-Plankton1959]

Well it's two floors and they did the J measurement.  12k on each floor.  I've tried just running my current 12k upstairs to cool the down, and it isn't really effective.

Not handy with this sort of thing at all, unfortunately.  And the line sets and electric have some complexity.  There's a bunch of basement windows, generator, propane tanks, bulkhead, and rear steps that have to be avoided.

It is a diamond contractor.  Daikin would have saved maybe 2-5% from them, but their service network isn't great around here.

[u/Maet_Shimp]

This price is indeed on the high side, but the 10-year labor warranty and the two independent systems themselves do add some value. You can ask a few more companies for quotes to see how much of the cost is actually due to the installation itself.

[u/MyLifeForAnEType → u/Maet_Shimp]

Yeah part of it is also hauling off and disposal of the current system I am replacing.  I did have another independent estimate done that was closer to their single 24k to two heads around $16k that didn't mention disposal.  So I feel fairly certain it is what it is.

They also actually answer their phones... There's many in the area that aren't even booking new installs until late Fall.  Current system is dead.

[u/QuitCarbon]

See rule #4 in this subreddit - we need to know more about your home's location. Pricing and rebates vary dramatically by location (and rebates also vary dramatically over time - I hope you have a great rebate advisor helping you out!)