Lanai A/C Estimate $3960.00
 

M & S A/C gave us an estimate of $3960.00 for A/C unit for our Lanai. The unit is a Mitsubishi Heat Pump 1 1/2 ton. Is this a fair price? The Lanai size is 31 ft X 10 ft.

We received a similar quote for an inclosed 9x14 area. They used a formula to determine the size. A friend has a small window air conditioner mounted near the floor. Very efficient at a fraction of the price. Window units are banned here, but I've seen a lot of them.

How big is the lanai

before I'd do that I would try extending the current system with ducts, that should be a few hundred $$

When you extend the current system to the enclosed lanai, you will have a change in your property taxes. Currently, an enclosed lanai (whether enclosed with vinyl or glass) is not considered an increase in livable square footage. When you connect to the HVAC system, it then becomes part of the living space and is taxed as such. Having a portable system does not increase your taxes.

Sounds high. I had an LG brand installed in Virginia with heat and AC for a 15 X 18 room addition for $2100. This was equal to a 12,500 BTU unit and had a 21 SEER rating.

I keep hearing this time and time again and don't understand the thinking. I am imagining the additional amount of tax you would pay on that living space would be inconsequential compared to the enjoyment of bringing heat and air into the lanai and not have to deal with a separate unit that is expensive, will need maintanance, and may have some sound issues.

Also keep in mind that increases the value of your home by increasing the legitimate sq. ft. of living space.

This is probably the same unit that we had installed last year. If the price includes insulation over the lanai then it's probably about right.

It works very well. Also having the mini-split gives the option of opening all the lanai windows and experiencing an "outside" environment but still maintaining the house with a/c running.

Extending the house system was not what we wanted to do.