Heat Pump Basics for Mohave County Homes (Ducted & Ductless)
Horizon Air Conditioning – Your Local HVAC Experts Since 1985
Living here on “Arizona’s West Coast,” we all know the deal. The summer sun demands a powerful cooling solution, but our desert winter nights can bring a surprising chill. For Mohave County homeowners, finding a single, year-round system that is both effective and energy-efficient is key. Enter the heat pump.
Mohave County Climate Reality
A heat pump is the ideal all-in-one solution for our area because it’s built to handle both extremes: blistering summer highs above 110°F and winter nights that can drop into the 30s. Year-round operation demands the kind of efficiency a heat pump delivers.
What Is a Heat Pump, Anyway?
Think of a heat pump not as a heater or an air conditioner, but as a heat mover. Because it’s moving heat rather than creating it (like a furnace does by burning fuel), it’s a remarkably efficient way to provide year-round comfort. This process, called heat transfer, is where you’ll see major energy savings.
Ducted vs. Ductless: Which System is Right for You?
Heat pumps come in two main configurations: ducted (central) systems and ductless mini-splits. Each has unique benefits tailored to different types of homes and needs.
Ducted (Central) Heat Pumps
A ducted heat pump is an all-in-one system that connects to your home’s existing ductwork to distribute conditioned air.
Pros:
- Seamless, whole-home solution
- Uses existing ductwork for straightforward installation
- Invisible, central operation
Cons:
- Efficiency depends on duct condition
- Leaks in ductwork can lead to energy loss
- Single thermostat for the whole house
Best for: Homes with existing, well-maintained ductwork looking for a simple, whole-home upgrade.
Ductless Heat Pumps (Mini-Splits)
Ductless systems use an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units, mounted on walls or ceilings in specific rooms or zones.
Pros:
- Extremely efficient with no ducts to leak air
- Allows for “zoning” to control rooms independently
- Perfect for homes without ductwork or for new additions
Cons:
- Indoor units are visible on the wall
- May require multiple indoor units for a whole home
- Higher upfront cost for multiple zones
Best for: Homes without ductwork, solving hot/cold spots, or homeowners wanting maximum efficiency.
Good, Better, Best: Your Mohave County Heat Pump Options
Ducted Heat Pump Upgrade
Replace your old furnace and AC with a modern, high-efficiency central heat pump. It’s the most direct upgrade for homes with existing ductwork.
Targeted Mini-Split System
Add a high-efficiency ductless mini-split to a key area like a master bedroom or workshop for zoned comfort.
Whole-Home Ductless Solution
Get the ultimate in efficiency and comfort with a multi-zone mini-split system. Control each room independently and never pay to heat or cool empty spaces.
The Horizon Difference: Installation Matters
- Nearly 40 years of local Mohave County experience
- Proper system sizing for our extreme climate
- Complete ductwork evaluation to prevent energy loss
- 24/7 emergency service from trusted local technicians
Local Rebates & Permitting
A new, high-efficiency system can unlock significant savings. Local utilities like UniSource Energy Services and the Mohave Electric Cooperative often provide rebates. APS also offers a $30 Smart Thermostat Rebate.
Proper permitting through bodies like Mohave County Development Services or the Bullhead City permitting office is essential for safety and compliance.
