Horizon Air Conditioning – Your Local HVAC Experts Since 1985
Living in Bullhead City means dealing with some of the most extreme heat in the nation. When summer temperatures regularly soar above 115°F and your AC runs constantly from May through October, cooling can account for 50-60% of your summer energy bill. The Colorado River might provide recreation, but it doesn’t cool your home – that’s where high-efficiency air conditioning becomes essential.
At Horizon Air Conditioning, we’ve been helping Tri-State area residents optimize their cooling systems for nearly four decades. High-efficiency AC systems aren’t just about staying cool anymore – they’re about doing it smarter, with superior comfort, dramatically lower energy usage, and advanced controls that make sense for our desert climate.
Bullhead City Climate Reality Check
• Record high: 128°F (June 1994)
• Average summer highs: 108-115°F
• Days above 100°F annually: 100+
• Cooling season: 7-8 months
Understanding SEER2: The New Efficiency Standard
If you’ve shopped for an AC recently, you’ve probably encountered SEER2 ratings. Think of SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2) as the “miles-per-gallon” rating for your air conditioner – the higher the SEER2, the more efficiently your AC produces cooling.
This updated metric became the federal standard on January 1, 2023, replacing the original SEER ratings. The key difference? SEER2 testing includes real-world conditions like ductwork resistance and filter restrictions, giving Bullhead City homeowners a more accurate picture of actual performance.
What This Means for Your Home
Current Minimum Standards: In Arizona, any new central AC must be at least 14.3 SEER2 (equivalent to about 15 SEER under the old system). This means even the most basic new unit today is more efficient than mid-grade systems from just a few years ago.
Your Potential Savings: If your current AC is 10-15 years old, it likely has a rating of 10 SEER or less. Here’s what upgrading could mean for your wallet:
| Old System | New System | Estimated Savings |
|---|---|---|
| 8-10 SEER | 14.3 SEER2 (minimum) | 30-35% |
| 8-10 SEER | 16 SEER2 | 40-45% |
| 8-10 SEER | 20+ SEER2 | 50% or more |
Tip from Horizon: Don’t confuse SEER2 with cooling power – it measures efficiency, not capacity. A higher SEER2 unit produces the same cooling using less electricity, which is crucial when Mohave Electric Cooperative rates climb during peak summer months.
AC Compressor Types: Choosing Your Comfort Level
The compressor is the heart of your AC system, and different types offer vastly different comfort experiences. Here’s what’s available:
Single-Stage: The Reliable Workhorse
A single-stage compressor operates at 100% capacity or not at all – like a light switch with no dimmer. While this is the most affordable option upfront, you’ll experience:
- Temperature swings of 3-5 degrees
- Higher energy bills from constant on/off cycling
- More wear on components
- Louder operation when running
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners, rental properties, or if you’re planning to move soon.
Two-Stage: The Smart Compromise
Two-stage units offer low (60-70%) and high (100%) settings. On typical Bullhead City days, it runs on low, switching to high only during extreme heat. Benefits include:
- More consistent temperatures (±2 degrees)
- 20-30% energy savings over single-stage
- Quieter operation most of the time
- Better humidity control during monsoon season
Best for: Homeowners seeking comfort improvements without the premium price of variable-speed systems.
Variable-Speed: The Ultimate in Comfort
Variable-speed (inverter-driven) compressors continuously adjust from 25% to 100% capacity, maintaining your exact temperature setting within half a degree. In our testing across Bullhead City homes, these systems deliver:
- Rock-steady temperatures in every room
- Whisper-quiet operation
- Superior humidity control (crucial during monsoons)
- Highest efficiency (up to 21+ SEER2) and potential for longer equipment life
Best for: Homeowners who want top-tier comfort, quiet operation, and maximum efficiency—ideal for hot-climate primary residences and sensitive areas like nurseries and home offices.
Why Variable-Speed Matters in the Desert
- Humidity Control: During monsoon season (July-September), these units remove 2-3x more moisture than single-stage systems
- Temperature Consistency: Maintains setpoint within 0.5°F – no more hot spots or cold zones
- Quiet Operation: Runs at low speeds 80% of the time, barely audible
- Extended Lifespan: Fewer start/stop cycles mean less mechanical stress
Maximizing Your Investment: Costs, Savings & Incentives
High-efficiency AC units require a larger upfront investment, but the long-term savings in our extreme climate make them worthwhile. Here’s how to make the numbers work:
Typical Investment Ranges in Bullhead City
| System Type | SEER2 Range | Installed Cost* | Annual Savings** |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Stage | 14.3-15 | $5,000-$7,500 | $400-$600 |
| Two-Stage | 16-18 | $7,500-$10,000 | $600-$900 |
| Variable-Speed | 19-21+ | $10,000-$15,000 | $900-$1,400 |
*For typical 3-5 ton systems | **Compared to 10 SEER unit, based on average Bullhead City usage
Available Incentives & Rebates
Federal Tax Credits (Through 2032)
- Heat Pumps: 30% of cost, up to $2,000 per year
- Central AC: 30% of cost, up to $600 per year
- Must meet efficiency requirements (most new units qualify)
- File with IRS Form 5695
Mohave Electric Cooperative Rebates
- Energy efficiency rebates available for qualifying systems
- Time-of-use rate plans can maximize savings
- Contact MEC for current program details
Financing Options
- 0% financing for 12-60 months (qualified buyers)
- Low-interest loans through local credit unions
- Horizon Air Conditioning payment plans available
Ready to Upgrade Your Comfort?
Let Horizon Air Conditioning help you choose the perfect high-efficiency system for your home and budget.
Call (928) 758-3311 Get Free EstimateGood, Better, Best: Choosing Your Ideal System
Meet the New Standards
14.3 SEER2 Single-Stage Systems
- Meets all current efficiency codes
- 30%+ more efficient than old units
- Lower upfront cost
- Reliable cooling for budget-conscious homes
Typical Savings: $400-600/year vs. old 10 SEER unit
Balance Comfort & Value
16-18 SEER2 Two-Stage Systems
- Noticeable comfort improvement
- Quieter operation
- Better humidity control
- Qualifies for higher rebates
Typical Savings: $600-900/year vs. old 10 SEER unit
Ultimate Desert Comfort
19+ SEER2 Variable-Speed Systems
- Precise temperature control (±0.5°F)
- Whisper-quiet operation
- Maximum energy savings
- Longest equipment life
- Smart home integration
Typical Savings: $900-1,400/year vs. old 10 SEER unit
The Horizon Difference: Professional Installation Matters
Why Choose Horizon Air Conditioning?
- Nearly 40 years serving the Tri-State area
- Factory-trained technicians
- Proper Manual J load calculations for right-sizing
- Complete ductwork evaluation and optimization
- Comprehensive maintenance plans
- Local, family-owned business you can trust
Remember: Even the best high-efficiency AC won’t perform properly if it’s incorrectly sized or poorly installed. Our certified technicians ensure your new system delivers every bit of comfort and savings it promises. We’re authorized dealers for major brands including Carrier, Trane, Lennox, and Rheem.
Take Action: Your Path to Comfort & Savings
Living in one of America’s hottest cities doesn’t mean accepting sky-high energy bills. With today’s high-efficiency AC technology and available incentives, upgrading your cooling system is one of the smartest investments you can make in your Bullhead City home.
Whether you choose a good, better, or best solution, moving to a high-efficiency AC unit will:
- Cut your cooling costs by 30-50%
- Improve your home’s comfort dramatically
- Increase your property value
- Reduce your environmental impact
Schedule Your Free Efficiency Assessment Today
Discover exactly how much you could save with a high-efficiency AC upgrade.
Call (928) 758-3311 Schedule OnlineHorizon Air LLC
Based in Fort Mohave • Serving Bullhead City, Laughlin, Mohave Valley, Needles, and surrounding communities
License #ROC 344248 • Bonded • Insured
CR-39 Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Specialists
Your comfort is our commitment.
