Modern conveniences don’t have to intrude on the style of your home

The construction is finished, the walls are painted, and curtains are hung. But wait. What’s that interrupting your perfect aesthetic? Today’s high-tech homes come with plenty of convenience, but all those gadgets and gizmos can botch your sleek design.

The thought of installing devices such as ductless air-conditioning units on the walls might be intimidating, but remember that microwaves, flat-screen TVs and air-conditioning thermostats were all once unfamiliar elements of the home landscape — yet today, most homeowners barely notice them.

Fortunately, many of these tech devices have been created with aesthetics in mind. For example, Mitsubishi Electric’s systems are available in a wide range of options to blend into the look and feel of your old home — ducted, ceiling-recessed and even cabinet-concealed floor-standing units.

Technology also lends a new range of sounds to the household. Look for devices that keep operations whisper-quiet for minimal distractions.

When choosing a ductless heating and cooling system, look for the following characteristics: • Sustainability A system that is Energy Star-certified may qualify for local, state and federal tax credits or utility rebates. Shop for systems that operate with environmentally friendly refrigerant and recyclable components. • Energy efficiency Save on energy bills with models that readily adjust to temperature fluctuations. For example, Mitsubishi Electric systems use a finely tuned inverter-driven compressor for up to 40 percent more energy efficiency than conventional central-air systems and window units. • Air quality Eliminating ductwork alone helps improve air quality. Add a ductless system that gives extra attention to air quality with a specialized filtration system, and you can significantly reduce allergens, viruses and bacteria in the air.