Ductless mini-split indoor unit

Ductless Mini-Split Installation in Des Moines, IA

A ductless mini-split system gives you pinpoint comfort control without the complexity of ductwork. Whether you're cooling a finished basement, heating an addition, or creating zones so different rooms stay at different temperatures, a mini-split delivers efficient comfort tailored to your space. Obsidian Heating and Cooling has been installing mini-split systems in Des Moines-area homes since 2009. We're a veteran-owned business and Tempstar Elite Dealer, and we understand that mini-split installation is as much about aesthetic integration as it is technical precision. Your indoor wall-mounted units should look intentional and blend with your décor—while the refrigerant lines stay hidden in walls or conduit. We handle both perfectly.

Veteran Owned
15+ Years of Experience
24/7 Emergency Service
Tempstar Elite Dealer
Up to 15-Year Warranty
Parts & Labor
Up to 24 Months of Financing at 0% Interest
Why Choose Mini-Splits
LG ductless mini-split outdoor unit being commissioned with manifold gauges

Why Homeowners Choose Mini-Split Systems for Des Moines Homes

Mini-split installation is intricate work—wall placement, line routing, condensate drainage, and electrical integration all demand precision. Our veteran background means we take that precision seriously. Every line is routed carefully, every wall mount is level and secure, and every electrical connection is documented. When you see your finished mini-split installation, it looks professional, not improvised.

We're an authorized Tempstar dealer with direct manufacturer support. This means the mini-split equipment you receive carries full factory warranty, and we're the point of contact if service is ever needed. We also get training on the latest mini-split technology and efficiency optimization—knowledge that translates directly into better system performance for your home.

If you're adding a room, finishing a basement, or upgrading specific spaces, ductwork installation is expensive, disruptive, and often impractical. A mini-split is the answer. We can install a zone in days, not weeks, with minimal wall penetration and no attic or crawlspace disruption. Your addition gets comfort without the cost and mess of duct runs. Our ductless mini-split guide walks through zone planning in more detail.

Unlike central AC, mini-splits are visible—wall-mounted indoor units sit in plain sight. We work with you to choose placement that's functional and attractive. Modern units are compact and sleek; we can mount them high on a wall to minimize visual presence, hide lines in conduit or within walls, and route condensate efficiently so you never see drainage. It looks intentional, not jury-rigged.

Each mini-split zone runs independently. Heat the basement while keeping upstairs cool. Maintain one temperature in the living room while your home office runs differently. This granular control lets you condition only the spaces you're using, cutting energy waste dramatically. Many homeowners see 15–25% energy savings just from eliminating central AC inefficiency in unconditioned spaces.
Our Installation Process

Our Mini-Split Installation Process — Design to Finish

From initial space assessment to final testing and training, every step is handled with precision and care. Here's what to expect when you choose Obsidian Heating and Cooling for your mini-split installation.

Space Assessment & Zone Design

Mini-split installation starts with understanding your space and comfort goals. We'll walk through the area you want to condition—a basement, bonus room, master bedroom, garage conversion, or addition—and discuss placement options. Indoor units can mount high on walls, low near baseboards, or even on ceilings (less common but possible). Outdoor units need clearance for airflow but can often fit in side yards, on roofs, or on ground-level pads.

We'll also discuss zone strategy. One indoor unit handles up to 400–500 square feet efficiently. Larger spaces might need two indoor units on one outdoor condenser. We'll calculate the cooling and heating capacity your space needs using load calculation methods. An oversized unit will short-cycle; undersized won't keep up in extreme weather. We get sizing right.

We'll also review your electrical panel capacity. Most mini-splits run on 208–240V circuits; older homes might need panel upgrades or dedicated circuits. We'll identify any electrical work needed upfront so there are no surprises.

What We Assess
Square Footage & Load

Precise capacity calculation for your space.

Optimal Placement

Indoor unit positioning for airflow and aesthetics.

Outdoor Unit Location

Clearance and accessibility evaluation.

Electrical Requirements

Panel capacity and circuit needs.

Zone Strategy

Single or multi-zone configuration planning.

Insulation Quality

Space efficiency and thermal characteristics.

Equipment Selection & Design Proposal

Once we understand your space, we present options. Mini-splits come in single-zone and multi-zone configurations, various capacity tiers, and different efficiency ratings. A high-efficiency inverter-driven compressor runs quieter and uses less energy but costs more upfront. A standard unit is less efficient but more affordable. We'll model energy costs for each option so you can make an informed choice.

We'll also discuss features: smart thermostat integration, whisper-quiet operation, heating capability (if applicable), and aesthetic options. Some units are compact and minimal; others have more substantial wall presence. We'll recommend what balances your comfort needs, energy goals, and budget. You'll receive a detailed written proposal with equipment specs, installation timeline, electrical requirements, and financing options.

What You'll Receive
Equipment Options

Different efficiency and price tiers outlined.

SEER2 & HSPF Ratings

Efficiency impact on operating costs.

Energy Cost Projections

Seasonal savings estimates for each option.

Warranty Coverage

Full warranty details and extended options.

Financing Options

Multiple plans to fit your budget.

Preparation & Location Marking

Before installation day, we prepare your space. We'll mark the precise locations where the indoor unit will mount (we confirm with you first), identify where refrigerant lines will route (within walls if possible, in attractive conduit if not), and plan the condensate drain line (usually to a nearby floor drain or exterior downspout). We also schedule any electrical work that's needed—panel upgrades, dedicated circuits, or rough wiring.

Preparation also includes protecting your home during installation. We'll lay drop cloths, secure furniture away from work areas, and minimize dust. We'll also confirm utility access—gas, water, or electrical obstacles that might affect routing—and address those ahead of time.

Preparation Checklist
Final Placement Confirmation

Indoor unit locations marked and approved.

Line Routing Plan

Refrigerant and condensate line paths mapped.

Electrical Work Scheduled

Panel upgrades or circuits coordinated.

Home Protection

Drop cloths and dust containment setup.

Utility Access Confirmed

Obstacles identified and addressed.

Installation Timeline

Schedule coordinated with your availability.

Professional Installation & Line Routing

Installation day is where precision matters. Our technicians mount the indoor unit securely—level, properly supported, and at a height you're happy with. We drill a small hole (typically 3–4 inches) through the wall to run the refrigerant lines, electrical wiring, and condensate drain to the outdoor unit. The hole is sealed with a special collar that accommodates all lines while maintaining the wall's air-tightness.

We run the refrigerant lines carefully, insulating them to prevent heat loss (or gain) and supporting them so they don't sag or kink. Line length matters—incorrect length affects charging and efficiency. We position the outdoor unit on a level pad or mounting bracket, ensuring proper clearance from walls, vents, and air intake obstruction. Electrical connections are made to code, grounded properly, and documented for safety.

Once everything is connected, we pressure-test the refrigerant circuit with nitrogen to verify no leaks, evacuate any moisture from the system, and charge with the correct refrigerant type and quantity. For homeowners who want lines hidden in walls rather than conduit, we can coordinate with electricians to run lines through existing wall cavities—a cleaner, more integrated look.

Installation Details
Indoor Unit Mounted

Secure, level, and properly positioned.

Wall Penetration Sealed

Professional collar maintains air-tightness.

Lines Routed & Insulated

Proper support and heat protection.

Pressure Tested

Nitrogen tested for leak-free operation.

Electrical Connected

Code-compliant and properly grounded.

Condensate Drainage

Efficient routing to proper termination.

Outdoor Unit Positioned

Level pad with proper clearances.

Refrigerant Charged

Exact type and quantity per specs.

Testing, Startup & Your Operation Training

Once installed, we run the system through a complete cooling and heating cycle (if applicable). We verify that the indoor unit responds to thermostat commands, that airflow is strong and well-distributed, and that temperatures are moving in the right direction. We measure refrigerant pressures to confirm proper charge. We test the condensate pump (if present) to verify it's draining properly.

We then walk you through operation: how to use the remote control, how to set temperatures, what fan speeds mean, how to interpret the display, and how to recognize warning codes if anything goes wrong. We explain maintenance—filter cleaning every 2–4 weeks during use, outdoor coil inspection annually, and what to watch for. You'll get the equipment manual, warranty documentation, and our contact information for questions.

Before We Leave
Cooling & Heating Tested

Full cycle operation verified.

Pressures Verified

Refrigerant charge confirmed correct.

Airflow Tested

Strong, well-distributed air delivery.

Condensate Drainage

Pump and drain lines tested.

Operation Training

Remote control and features explained.

Maintenance Schedule

Filter care and inspection timeline.

Full Documentation

Manuals, warranty, and contact info.

Q&A Session

All questions answered before departure.

24/7 Emergency HVAC Services Veteran-Owned & Operated 15+ Years of Experience 1-Year of Free Maintenance With Every Install 24/7 Emergency HVAC Services Veteran-Owned & Operated 15+ Years of Experience 1-Year of Free Maintenance With Every Install

Schedule Your Mini-Split Installation Consultation

A mini-split is ideal for specific zones—basements, additions, room-by-room control, or homes without ductwork. Let's assess whether it's the right fit for your needs.

Obsidian Heating and Cooling mini-split installation service area map covering Greater Des Moines
Our Service Areas

Mini-Split Installation Throughout Des Moines

We install ductless mini-split systems across Des Moines and surrounding communities, serving basements, additions, and room-specific comfort needs.

Serving Our Neighbors in & Around:

Not Sure If We Service Your Area?

We're dedicated to serving Greater Des Moines and our surrounding communities. Give us a call if you're not sure if we come to you—chances are we do.

Ankeny, IA

North metro Des Moines homeowners trust us for mini-split installations in finished basements, bonus rooms, and new additions. We've installed systems in hundreds of Ankeny homes with fast scheduling and expert integration.

Mini-Split Installation in Ankeny

Urbandale, IA

Throughout northwest Des Moines and Urbandale, we install mini-splits in every home type. We're experienced with the area's housing stock and know how to route lines for minimal aesthetic impact.

Mini-Split Installation in Urbandale

Altoona, IA

Southeast of Des Moines, we provide professional mini-split installation for room-by-room comfort control. Our experience with local home designs ensures seamless integration.

Mini-Split Installation in Altoona

Grimes, IA

North of Des Moines, Grimes residents choose mini-splits for additions and zone comfort. We maintain fast scheduling and deliver expert installations every time.

Mini-Split Installation in Grimes

Clive, IA

West of Des Moines, we install mini-split systems in Clive's established and newer neighborhoods. Our 15 years of local experience means we know optimal placement for aesthetics and performance.

Mini-Split Installation in Clive
Complete Comfort Solutions

Complete Comfort Solutions Beyond Mini-Splits

Mini-splits excel for zones, but we offer full-home options too.

Central AC Installation

If you want whole-home cooling without zones, a traditional central AC system handles it efficiently. Perfect for comprehensive home comfort.

Central AC & Heat Pump Options

Heat Pump Installation

A ducted heat pump provides both heating and cooling from a single system—better for whole-home coverage than multiple mini-split zones.

Explore Heat Pump Installation

Furnace Installation

For homes that prefer heating and cooling separation, a furnace handles winter warmth efficiently and reliably.

Get a New Furnace Installed

Mini-Split Repair & Maintenance

Keep your existing mini-split system running smoothly with expert service, filter maintenance, and professional tune-ups.

Schedule Mini-Split Service

Indoor Air Quality Solutions

Improve air filtration and humidity control alongside your mini-split system for complete comfort and health.

Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
Answering Your Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Mini-Split Installation

A mini-split is a ductless system with one outdoor compressor unit connected to one or more indoor wall-mounted air handlers via refrigerant lines. Central AC uses ductwork to distribute air throughout the home. Mini-splits are ideal for specific zones (basement, addition, single room) because they don't require ductwork and allow independent temperature control per zone.

Yes. Many mini-split units are heat pumps that provide both heating and cooling. In winter, they extract warmth from outside air and deliver it indoors. This is efficient even in Iowa winters, though supplemental heat might be needed on extreme cold days. We can discuss heating options and supplemental strategies when sizing your system.

Cost varies widely based on equipment capacity, the number of zones, line routing complexity, and any electrical work required. A single-zone system for a basement or addition typically costs less than full-home central AC because it's limited scope. We'll provide a detailed estimate after assessing your space. Flexible financing options make systems more affordable if upfront cost is a concern.

The indoor wall unit is visible by design—it's compact and modern-looking, but you'll see it. Refrigerant lines can be routed through walls and hidden if you're open to wall penetration, or run in attractive outside conduit. We work with you to integrate the system aesthetically. The outdoor unit sits outside and isn't visible from most angles.

A typical single-zone installation takes one to two days. Day one includes mounting the indoor unit, drilling the wall penetration, routing lines, and setting the outdoor unit. Day two covers electrical connections, refrigerant charging, testing, and startup. Multi-zone systems or complex routing might take longer. We'll provide a firm timeline in your proposal.

We handle most electrical work if it's within the scope of the mini-split connection. If your home's main electrical panel needs an upgrade or a dedicated circuit needs to be run through walls, we typically coordinate with a licensed electrician. We'll outline electrical requirements in your proposal so there are no surprises.

Many mini-split systems can be expanded. A single-zone outdoor unit typically can't be expanded, but a multi-zone outdoor unit might have unused capacity for a second or third indoor unit later. We'll design your initial system with expansion in mind if that's a possibility. Adding a zone later costs less than installing a second completely separate system.

Not entirely, unless you're comfortable with room-by-room zoning. A mini-split is ideal for specific spaces, but whole-home cooling from mini-splits requires multiple zones and outdoor units—which costs more than central AC for whole-home coverage. We'll help you decide whether mini-splits, central AC, or a hybrid approach makes the most sense for your home.

Modern mini-splits are comparable to or more efficient than central AC because they eliminate ductwork losses (which can be 15–30% of cooled air in some homes). A high-efficiency mini-split might actually use less energy than an older central AC system, even if the central unit is newer. We'll estimate your specific efficiency gains.

Minimal compared to central systems. Cleaning the indoor unit's filter every 2–4 weeks during use, inspecting the outdoor coil annually for debris, and ensuring condensate drainage is clear. Most units need professional service annually or every other year. We recommend our maintenance plan for automatic scheduling and priority service.
Ready to Get Started?

Ready to Install a Mini-Split System in Your Des Moines Home?

A mini-split gives you comfort, efficiency, and control without the cost and disruption of ductwork. Whether you're cooling a finished basement, heating an addition, or creating zones for independent comfort, Obsidian Heating and Cooling is ready to design and install a system that works beautifully in your space.

Our veteran-owned team has installed thousands of mini-split systems across Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, Altoona, Grimes, and Clive. We're Tempstar Elite Dealers with direct manufacturer support and years of experience integrating mini-splits into every home type. When you call us, you're working with technicians who understand both the technical precision and the aesthetic integration that makes a great mini-split installation.

We'll evaluate your space, discuss options, and provide a detailed proposal with no pressure. Perfect for basements, additions, and zone control needs.

We offer flexible financing options to make mini-split installation more affordable, and we recommend scheduling routine maintenance to keep your system running efficiently for years.

Keep your mini-split system running efficiently with our maintenance plans for automatic scheduling and priority service.
Obsidian Heating and Cooling team serving Des Moines, IA
More Mini-Split Services

Explore All Mini-Split Services

See everything we handle for mini-split systems, or jump straight to a related service.

© Red Barn Media Group 2026