Do you want to add air conditioning to your home, but it doesn’t have any air ducts? You can either choose to:
- Install a central AC system and add ductwork. MSP’s central AC installation prices run from $7,000 to $12,000+, with new ductwork priced for the home.
- Install ductless AC. MSP’s ductless installation prices run from $7,000 to $20,000+, with $14,000 listed as the average. Zone count and the pipe runs affect the price.
These are MSP’s posted Twin Cities planning prices as of October 2026. Compare complete installation scopes when deciding which approach fits your home.
The varied cost range for ductwork and central AC system installation depends on the following:
- Your home’s layout
- The type of ductwork material used
- The contractor that you hire
- The AC that you install
You could also install a ductless AC system instead, removing the need for ductwork installation while still cooling rooms effectively.
While we cannot provide an exact estimate for your central or ductless AC installation without an in-home estimate, we’ll break down the cost factors so that you can start planning your budget.
Want a Free AC Estimate? Contact MSP!
Choosing between central or ductless AC system installations can be confusing. Not to mention having to decide which brand to install. MSP’s goal is to take out the guesswork and simplify the decision process. We’ll thoroughly evaluate your home before providing you with our professional recommendations.
Call us today at (651) 228-9200 or contact us below for a free AC estimate!
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Installing Ductwork and a Central AC System
First, let’s look at what factors influence the cost of adding a central AC system to a home without ductwork.
Your Home’s Layout
When determining the price of installing new air ducts, technicians must consider the layout of your home.
Most ductwork installations are hidden in either an attic or a basement. Some homes in the Twin Cities have one or the other, while some have both. A contractor should determine the most efficient placement for the new ducts to push out cooled air throughout your home.
The number of vents needed. A contractor should determine how many vents your home needs to cool your desired rooms properly. You’ll need to add air supply vents, return air grilles, and connections to the HVAC system, all of which requires cutting into walls and ceilings. Usually, the technician will install air vents near the windows.
The number of floors in your home can impact the cost. Multi-story homes will require extra materials and labor time to install additional ductwork, increasing the project price.
Homes with multiple floors are typically zoned, with an upstairs and a downstairs thermostat. In order to zone your HVAC system for customized temperature zones, technicians must install special dampers used to control airflow into the ductwork. These dampers will add to your ductwork installation costs but will make your home more comfortable.
The Type of Ductwork Material Used
Ductwork is made from either flexible or rigid materials. Both types have pros and cons, but flexible wire coil or aluminum ducts have lower installation costs per foot than rigid sheet metal ducts.
The Contractor That You Hire
Experienced and highly-skilled HVAC technicians will charge more for their AC installation services. However, you can have the peace of mind that they will install it correctly the first time around, saving you money on future repairs. When looking for the right technician, you’ll also want to consider whether they charge a flat-rate fee paid upfront or per hour. Technicians who provide flat-rate upfront fees have more reasonable rates generally. Plus, you know you’ll never be surprised by the final bill.The AC System That You Install
When installing a central air conditioner for the very first time, make sure that you discuss these critical needs with your technician:
- The size of the AC system your home needs for effective cooling
- The energy-efficiency ratings for the AC to reduce your monthly utility bills
- The type of thermostat you want to install based on its features
Installing a Ductless AC System
A ductless AC system connects an outdoor unit to one or more indoor units without adding air ducts. That makes it an option for an addition, garage or home that does not already have ductwork.
Ductless equipment also avoids energy losses from leaky ducts. ENERGY STAR estimates that a typical house loses about 20 to 30 percent of the air moving through its duct system to leaks, holes and poor connections. Actual savings depend on your existing ducts, equipment and how you use each room.
Each indoor unit serves a room or zone. Adding zones, longer pipe runs or more outdoor units can raise the installation price. The number of indoor units an outdoor unit can support depends on the model and required capacity.
Other ductless AC installation cost factors include:- Its cooling capacity
- Its efficiency and features
- Your home’s voltage
- Your home’s construction and layout
- The contractor that you hire
The Type of Ductwork Material Used
Ductwork is made from either flexible or rigid materials. Both types have pros and cons, but flexible wire coil or aluminum ducts have lower installation costs per foot than rigid sheet metal ducts.
The Contractor That You Hire
Experienced and highly-skilled HVAC technicians will charge more for their AC installation services. However, you can have the peace of mind that they will install it correctly the first time around, saving you money on future repairs.
When looking for the right technician, you’ll also want to consider whether they charge a flat-rate fee paid upfront or per hour. Technicians who provide flat-rate upfront fees have more reasonable rates generally. Plus, you know you’ll never be surprised by the final bill.
The AC System That You Install
When installing a central air conditioner for the very first time, make sure that you discuss these critical needs with your technician:
- The size of the AC system your home needs for effective cooling
- The energy-efficiency ratings for the AC to reduce your monthly utility bills
- The type of thermostat you want to install based on its features
Learn more in our article, “How Much Does It Cost to Replace an AC in Minneapolis.”
Ready to Install a Ductless or Central AC? Contact MSP!
MSP’s air conditioning professionals are ready to help you decide which system to install and provide you with a free estimate on your ductless or central AC installation. We can install the best models from Daikin, Mitsubishi, and Fujitsu in just one day.
For over 100 years, we’ve stayed committed to improving the comfort of Minnesota homeowners with every air conditioning installation. We proudly offer excellent financing options and extended warranties.
Call us at (651) 228-9200 or fill out our online form today to experience 5-star service!
Schedule ServiceFor more on ductless cooling and sizing, see our guides to mini-splits for homes with boilers and cooling a home with a boiler.