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For that size of a system, ducted is less expensive and more reliable than mini-splits (but it is not always practical to install).

A large multi-zone installation (~20 rooms) with all-new duct work and natural gas backup in a major cold-weather US metro can be about $40K.

Would a heat pump work? 8 mini-splits sounds like way too. Mini-splits are also the cheaper option, surprised they cost $10k. A heat pump in my area wouldn't be too much more than $10k (excluding duct work).

Find another contractor. I got three heads in the Bay Area for around $8500 total. The only caveat was that this didn’t include patching the walls.

For 8 units? That sounds like good price.

That would be $80,000 total?

10k per unit

8 zone systems from Mitsubishi are 8-10k

https://www.acdirect.com/ductless-mini-splits/8-zone-mini-sp...

80k is hilarious. That’s a 70k install for pulling lines, charging them and maybe an electrical run and pad.

Even if you have to buy two or three systems the price is laughable.