Mini-splits or ductless HVAC units are much more efficient than most other heating and cooling options. However, it’s important to note that while all units are relatively efficient, some are more efficient than others.
If you want the most efficient option possible, you should look for the highest possible SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) and HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) ratings. SEER measures the efficiency of the system’s cooling, while HSPF measures the efficiency of its heating.

To boost your efficiency even more, you should look for great features such as i-See technology. Offered on select Mitsubishi models, the i-See sensor is a thermal scanner that analyzes the temperature profile of the room to detect hot and cool spots. Then, it uses this information to improve comfort and efficiency. Here’s an overview of how the technology works.
What Is the 3D I-See Sensor?
This is a small sensor attached to high-end Mitsubishi ductless units. Generally, it is a small red sensor attached to the base of a wall- or ceiling-mounted unit. It’s about the size of the tip of your pinky, but it plays a powerful role in improving comfort and efficiency.
How Does the 3D i-See Sensor Work?
The sensor divides the heating and cooling space into 752 3D zones, and it continuously sweeps from left to right to sense the temperatures in each zone. Then, using the information it has gathered, it directs the mini split to adjust fan settings and louver directions to optimize the temperatures in the room.
If the room is empty, the sensor will know because it won’t sense heat coming off of people in any of the zones. Then, it will switch to energy-saving mode or adjust its temps as needed.
When the sensor “sees” an occupant in the room, it will try to make that person more comfortable. In heating mode, it will direct extra heat toward the person, and in cooling mode, it will send cool air their way.
Customizing Your i-See Sensor Settings
That said, some people do not like air directed at them. That doesn’t mean that you have to avoid the i-See sensor. Here’s the good news — these sensors are customizable. You can tell it how you want it to respond to occupants in the room.
Which Units Have i-See Sensors?
Wondering which units have this sensor? Several different models come with this technology including the following:
- MSZ-FS Deluce Wall-Mounted Unit — This unit offers a 250 to 1000-foot capacity, and it can come with up to 33.1 SEER and up to 13.5 HSPF. It also offers customizable airflow, dual barrier coating on interior components, and advanced triple filtration.
- SLZ Four-Way Ceiling Cassette — This unit offers a swing fan, indirect or direct airflow settings, and you can choose whether or not you want to add the i-See sensor. It boasts a 350 to 1000-foot capacity. Its units come with up to 22.4 SEER and up to 12.2 HSPF ratings.
These are just two options, and Mitsubishi is constantly updating and improving its offerings. When you contact one of our comfort consultants, they will be able to talk more with you about the different units that have this technology.
Other Energy-Saving Features
In addition to or in lieu of i-See technology, you may want to look for the following features on your mini split:
- Econo cool — This setting slightly bumps up the temperature on the thermostat, and then it uses fans to make your room feel the same as it did on the lower temperature setting. This reduces energy consumption, without compromising comfort.
- Swing fan — The swing fan works like an oscillating fan. It improves the movement of air through your home, and this helps to keep the home comfortable without driving up your electricity bill.
- Nano platinum filters — Nano filters attract less dust and debris than regular filters. When your HVAC unit has to push air through dirty filters, it doesn’t run as efficiently as it should. As a result, improving the filters on your unit also improves its efficiency.
Improve Efficiency and Comfort Today
Ready to make your home more comfortable? Looking for a more efficient path to comfort? Then, a ductless mini split with i-See technology or other energy-efficient features may be the perfect place to start.
At N.E.T.R. Inc, we have completed the highest level of dealer training with Mitsubishi and we can help you find the best unit for your needs. We’ve also completed extensive training with LG, the other top manufacturer of ductless mini splits, and we’d love to talk with you about LG’s technology as well.
Our number one goal with every client is to design a heating and cooling solution that works for their needs and with their budget. Want to talk about your situation? Then, contact us today.