Casita and ADU mini split installation.

Updated September 2026

A detached casita, ADU, guest house, or garage apartment in Central Texas rarely justifies the cost of extending your home’s central HVAC system. A single ductless mini split heat pump is the standard, code-compliant solution that provides efficient heating and cooling without ductwork. We offer flat-rate, same-day installation across the I-35 corridor from Waco to New Braunfels.

Flat pricing, same everywhere we work

Every install is wired to code by our TDLR-licensed contractor. Long line-set runs, panel upgrades or unusual mounting can add cost, and we tell you up front, before any work starts. For market context, see our Austin mini split cost guide: typical Central Texas quotes run $3,000 to $5,000 for a single zone.

Why a Mini Split Is the Right Fit for Detached Spaces

Running ductwork from your main house to a separate structure is expensive, invasive, and often impractical—especially when the space is used only occasionally. A ductless mini split heat pump solves this cleanly. It mounts to an exterior wall, requires only a small three-inch hole for the line set, and delivers both heat and cooling from a single unit. For permitting and inspection purposes, a single-zone mini split is the accepted standard for detached living quarters in Central Texas municipalities. No zoning complications, no oversized equipment, no trenching for refrigerant lines across the property.

What the Install Involves

Our installation is straightforward and typically completed the same day. We mount the indoor air handler on an interior wall, place the outdoor condenser on a pad or bracket, and connect them with pre-insulated copper lines. All electrical work is handled by our TDLR-licensed technicians, and we include the disconnect switch, line hide cover, and condensate drain. No hidden fees: the flat price covers materials, labor, and a full system test. We work within your schedule and clean up completely before leaving.

Sizing and What Affects the Price

The flat rates—$1,500 for one zone, $2,500 for two, $3,500 for three—apply to standard installations where the indoor and outdoor units are within 50 feet of each other and wall access is clear. Sizing is determined by the square footage and ceiling height of the space; a 12,000 BTU unit typically covers 400–500 square feet, while a 9,000 BTU unit handles smaller garage apartments or guest rooms. Factors that may adjust pricing include longer line sets, difficult wall penetrations (e.g., concrete or stone), or the need for a dedicated electrical sub-panel. We’ll confirm the scope before any work begins.

Questions

Will a mini split pass inspection for my ADU or casita?

Yes. In Central Texas, a properly installed ductless mini split heat pump meets the mechanical code requirements for detached dwelling units. Our installations include a permit-ready setup with a dedicated electrical disconnect and proper line set coverage. We handle the TDLR-licensed work, and the system is designed to pass local inspections in cities like Austin, Round Rock, and San Marcos.

Can I install a mini split myself to save money?

DIY mini split installations often fail inspection and void the manufacturer’s warranty. Improper line set connections, incorrect refrigerant charge, and unlicensed electrical work create safety and efficiency issues. Our flat rate includes a TDLR-licensed contractor, all materials, and a same-day install—so you get a code-compliant system without the risk of costly rework.

What if my garage apartment or guest house has no existing electrical service?

If the space lacks a dedicated electrical circuit, we can coordinate with a licensed electrician to add one. Our flat rate covers the mini split installation itself, including the disconnect and wiring from the unit to the panel. If a new sub-panel or service upgrade is needed, we’ll provide a separate quote. Most standard installations in Central Texas use an existing 15- or 20-amp circuit.

We install across Central Texas — see the full service area or the Austin cost guide.