According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 50 percent of an average U.S. home's energy bill can be linked directly to cooling and heating costs, which amounts to approximately $1,100 per year, depending upon location. An energy-efficient cooling and heating system is the single most significant upgrade a homeowner can make to help save on these escalating utility costs.

Mitsubishi Electric US Cooling & Heating Division has introduced the Hyper-Heating INVERTER® (H2i®) MSZ-FH models, the most energy-efficient heating and cooling system available. At 30.5 SEER(Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), the highest efficiency rating for heating and air-conditioning systems, the H2i MSZ-FH models are the most efficient way to cool and heat a home, and can use up to 40 percent less energy per room than a conventional system.

Cooling and heating systems without ductwork have been commonplace in homes throughout Europe and Asia for years. Their efficient design and advanced motors ensure they don't waste energy like traditional central air systems.

"More homeowners now realize how much money can be saved by investing in energy-efficient cooling and heating. Because of this trend, energy efficiency is no longer a fringe product benefit. Homeowners expect it from the products we choose for our homes, and we should," says Mike Smith, senior product marketing manager, Mitsubishi Electric US Cooling & Heating Division.

Other Homeowner Benefits of the H2i M-Series:

• Cooling and heating in any room, any climate: H2i MSZ-FH models offer year-round, high-efficiency cooling and heating for any room in the house, in any climate. The patented technology allows   them to operate at 100 percent heating capacity even when the outdoor temperature is as low as +5 degrees Fahrenheit. This means the H2i MSZ-FH models have the highest performance capabilities in cold climates on the market.
• Control each room independently: Ductless technology means homeowners have complete, personalized control over each zone (or room) in their home. Zones can be cooled or heated to a specific temperature request and turned off when unoccupied. "This allows homeowners to cool or heat the rooms they use the most (such as the living room), while saving energy in areas of the house used the least (such as a guest bedroom)," says Smith. "We've been trained from childhood to turn off the lights when we leave a room to save energy; ductless zoning systems allow us to do this with cooling and heating as well."

Systems are controlled by either a hand-held controller or radio frequency wireless wall-mounted controller. Homeowners can also connect the Honeywell RedLINK Internet Gateway to a router, enabling system control from a PC or smart device.

• Minimal sound disruption: The system provides very quiet operation for both indoor and outdoor environments. Indoor fans operate quieter than a human whisper. "Homeowners don't need to be bothered by the loud sounds of the air conditioning turning on and off. The outdoor component of the system is quiet enough to be placed near your home, which is ideal for homes where outdoor space is at a premium," says Smith.
• Automatic sensor: The H2i MSZ-FH model indoor unit (fan) features exclusive 3D heat imaging technology called the i-see Sensor™ 3D. This sensor automatically scans the space, measuring both its size and the location of people. The system then delivers the exact amount of hot or cold air needed to meet the desired temperature in the particular space.
• Clean, healthy environment: The triple-action filtration system located in the unit may reduce allergens, viruses and bacteria circulating in the home's air.
• Green certifications and tax credits: The H2i MSZ-FH models are ENERGY STAR® qualified and can help attain points to earn LEED® certification for homes and meet aggressive U.S. Passive House standards. These systems also qualify for local, state and federal tax credits or utility rebates in many states, helping homeowners gain a return on their investment.

H2i MSZ-FH models will be available through independent local contractors in May 2014. To locate a contractor in your area, click here. For more information on the H2i MSZ-FH models, click here.