If you're thinking about upgrading your HVAC system, you've probably heard a lot about mini splits and heat pumps lately—and for good reason. These systems are energy-efficient, flexible, and growing in popularity across Northern Colorado.
But are they a smart fit for your home in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, or the surrounding areas? At Choice City Home Services, we help homeowners make confident, informed decisions about heating and cooling. Here’s what you need to know.
A mini split, also known as a ductless mini split, is a type of heat pump system that provides both heating and cooling without needing ductwork. It consists of two main components:
Each indoor unit can be independently controlled, making mini splits a great solution for zoned heating and cooling—perfect for spaces like finished basements, guest rooms, or additions that don’t connect to your existing HVAC ductwork.
Whether it's a mini split or a traditional central system, a heat pump works by transferring heat instead of generating it.
Thanks to advancements in cold-climate heat pump technology, these systems are now effective even in below-freezing conditions—yes, even during those chilly Loveland mornings or Fort Collins snowstorms.
You might think a heat pump wouldn’t hold up in Colorado’s cold winters—but today’s systems are built for it. Brands like Mitsubishi, Daikin, and Fujitsu offer models that work efficiently even when temperatures dip below 0°F.
Benefits of heat pumps and mini splits include:
✅ Energy Efficiency
They move heat instead of generating it, so they use far less energy than traditional systems—especially electric baseboard heaters or window A/C units.
✅ Dual Functionality
Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling in one system, so there’s no need for a separate furnace and A/C.
✅ Zoned Comfort
With mini splits, each unit operates independently. Want your basement cool but your upstairs warmer? No problem.
✅ No Ductwork Needed
If your home doesn’t have ducts—or you’re adding on—mini splits save you from costly duct installation or modification.
✅ Quiet Operation
These systems are whisper-quiet compared to older furnaces or traditional A/C compressors.
While whole-home setups are totally possible, mini splits shine in certain situations, like:
Choice City is a fully licensed general contractor, so we’re uniquely qualified to design and install mini split systems as part of your larger remodel or home improvement project. We can take care of the HVAC, electrical, framing, and finishes—start to finish.
FeatureHeat PumpFurnace + A/C ComboHeating EfficiencyVery high (especially electric)Varies by fuel and modelCooling EfficiencyHighHigh (modern systems)Year-Round UseYes (heating + cooling)No (two separate systems)Environmental ImpactLower (no combustion)Higher (gas or propane use)Upfront CostModerate to highModerate to highMaintenanceLower overallTwo systems to maintain
If you’re interested in improving energy efficiency and simplifying your system, a heat pump might be the perfect fit—especially paired with other upgrades like insulation, smart thermostats, or energy-efficient windows.
Installing a mini split or heat pump system is a job best left to licensed pros (like our HVAC and electrical teams here at Choice City). Here's what to expect:
We’ll help you choose the right system size and configuration based on your home’s layout and your goals—whether that’s energy savings, comfort control, or both.
At Choice City Home Services, we’re proud to serve homeowners across Fort Collins, Longmont, Loveland, Windsor, Timnath, Severance, and Greeley. Our team is fully licensed, friendly, and experienced in both traditional HVAC systems and newer technologies like mini splits and heat pumps.
Whether you’re finishing a basement, upgrading an older system, or just tired of hot and cold spots, we’ll help you find a solution that makes sense for your home and your budget.
Curious whether a mini split or heat pump system is right for your home? Give us a call at 970-308-3638 or visit choicecityhs.com to schedule your free consultation.