Mini Split suggestions

[1911Fan]

I installed a Mr Cool 18k in my basement ($1300) after my existing Fedder kicked the bucket. Our AC dealer wanted 5k+ to install a complete replacement. The circulation fan still works in the old system, so I have it circulating the air throughout and it works great to cool and heat the space. It was also a pretty easy install over 2 days (maybe 5h in total, but I had to leave to buy a hole saw and picked up the rest of the install the next day). I already had the 240v service/disconnect from the old AC so electrically I only had to do the hookup. Due to location of the inside unit I also had to install a pump with a disconnect wired into the unit to prevent it from running if the float switch in the pump was triggered.

All in all, I’m very happy with how it turned out and the total cost relative to have a new central unit installed.

 

[H2O MAN]

Your area is about 750 square feet with wall divisions or rooms, mini split won't be a good idea; unless if you have maybe a couple of them. Plan to have the HVAC done before drywall and everything (would be even better before the foaming...)
I am with you, perhaps a central 1.5 ton air-handler/heat pump system would be better.

The two companies I have spoken with agree that a central 1.5 ton air-handler/heat pump system would be better than mini-splits... they both confirmed problems with electronics in many M-S systems that I have read about going bad after just a couple years of use.

The ceiling and gables get sprayed next week, and the duct work will be all metal giving the place a nice industrial look.