Florida Workshop Stays Cool with Navien HVAC

In Central Florida, where heat and humidity are constant challenges, creating a comfortable indoor environment requires more than just a standard HVAC solution, especially in non-traditional spaces. For homeowner Kenneth Hemp, that challenge became clear when he converted a former horse barn into a fully functional workshop. The structure, designed for hands-on projects and storage, quickly proved difficult to use in the Florida climate. Without proper cooling, the space was overwhelmed by heat, humidity, and even insects, making extended use nearly impossible.  
 
At the same time, HVAC contractor Lorenzo Mendoza, owner of Sol Aire Air Conditioning in Sanford, Florida, was building his business around delivering high-quality, reliable solutions to customers facing exactly these types of issues. With nearly two decades of experience in the industry, Mendoza had recently launched his own company and was intentional about aligning with products that offered both performance and strong technical support.   
  
“I have plenty of experience working with Navien plumbing products throughout my career,” said Mendoza. “They not only provide a great product that I can stand behind as a contractor, but to know they will stand by their products, provide great tech support and customer service support, it makes choosing Navien an easy decision. When Navien came out with their line of HVAC products, I was one hundred percent bought in.” 

To address the needs of Kenneth’s space, Mendoza and his team installed the Navien NAZ heat pump paired with the NAS air handler. The system’s variable-speed technology played a critical role in the decision. Unlike traditional systems that operate at full capacity and then shut off once they reach the set temperature, the Navien system continuously adjusts output to maintain consistent temperatures while minimizing energy use. This was particularly important for a detached workspace, where maintaining comfort without driving up energy costs was a top priority.  
 
“When I was looking into building this space, I knew it had to be air conditioned,” said Hemp. “I wanted something that was going to be reliable and provide the efficiency that I was looking for. Digging into Navien’s new HVAC products with the variable speed motor and the high SEER2 rating, I thought they were perfect fits for this build."  
 
The installation itself highlighted several advantages for the contractor. The system’s design eliminates the need for communication wiring between indoor and outdoor units, allowing for standard 24-volt connections and greater flexibility in thermostat selection. This gave the homeowner the freedom to choose a preferred thermostat rather than being limited to proprietary controls. A standout installation feature of the NAZ for Mendoza and his team was the built-in Bluetooth connection using the Navien Multikit app.  
 
“What is really nice about the NAZ is the built-in Bluetooth capability,” said Mendoza. “Compared to other systems we’ve installed that don’t have it, this saves a significant amount of time during installation. Our technicians can handle system startup and monitor performance right from their phones, without having to go inside and interrupt the homeowner to access the thermostat. They can view all the system readings in real time, take screenshots, and upload that information directly into our dispatch system. That way, we have a record of pressures and performance data for future service calls. It keeps everything efficient, organized, and minimally disruptive to the customer.”  
 
Once operational, the system delivered immediate and noticeable results. The workshop, previously difficult to occupy in warm weather, now cools rapidly and maintains a consistent temperature even during peak Florida heat. The variable-speed operation allows the system to run longer at lower output, reducing energy consumption while keeping the space comfortable throughout the day. Despite the size and capacity of the unit, the impact on energy costs has remained minimal, an outcome that exceeded initial expectations.  

“When I thought about putting an air conditioner in this building, I thought my power bill was going to double, especially when using a 5-ton unit compared to the 3-ton used in our house,” said Hemp. “Not only does the Navien NAZ completely outperform my in-home unit, but I have barely noticed a difference on our energy bill.”  
 
Another standout benefit has been the system’s quiet performance. Compared to older, single-speed units that run loudly at full power, the Navien system operates so quietly at lower speeds that it can be barely noticeable. This not only enhances comfort but also reflects the efficiency of the system’s design.  
 
For Mendoza, the success of this and other installations has reinforced confidence in the product line. Customer feedback has been consistently positive, with many homeowners appreciating both the performance and the flexibility the system offers. In fact, referrals have become a key driver of new business, as satisfied customers recommend the solution to friends and family.  
 
For Kenneth, the transformation has been significant. What was once an uncomfortable and underutilized structure is now a fully functional, climate-controlled workspace that can be used year-round.