Consumer Corner
Choosing the Right HVAC Solution for Your Household Needs
Last Updated on August 1, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Choosing the Right HVAC Solution for Your Household Needs
(Family Features) Selecting the right heating and cooling system depends on your specific needs and lifestyle. Whether you work from home, live with multiple generations, or are renovating a historic home, there are solutions that can be tailored to your everyday needs. One of the most versatile HVAC solutions is an all-electric, all-climate heat pump. These high-performance solutions offer greater versatility than conventional HVAC systems, as they are engineered to perform efficiently across a wide range of temperatures and environmental conditions. An all-climate heat pump can make it easy to meet your home’s year-round comfort and energy-efficiency needs. To find a solution that matches your unique lifestyle, consider these options from the heating and cooling experts at Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS) to help you make an informed decision. Optimized comfort for home offices Mitsubishi Electric offers a variety of mini-split air-conditioning and heat pump system options to best meet the needs of a home office. If you’re converting an unconditioned space to an office, a single-zone system will best meet your needs. This consists of one indoor unit and one outdoor unit connected by small refrigerant lines. The indoor unit can be ducted or ductless, the latter being ideal if you don’t have connecting ductwork already in place, saving you additional material costs. You may be familiar with the classic wall-mounted indoor unit, but there are other ductless options to fit any aesthetic. If you are moving into a new home or renovating an old one, a multi-zone system may be a better option to consider. One multi-zone outdoor unit connects up to eight indoor units and provides personalized comfort in multiple spaces. This functionality eliminates the problem of hot and cold spots in the home and allows for energy to be used only in the zones that need it. You can choose all ductless, ducted, or a combination of both, connected to a single outdoor multi-zone unit. All-climate heat pumps are also beneficial for noise reduction. Mitsubishi Electric outdoor units are as quiet as a typical conversation, and most indoor units are whisper quiet – ideal for working from home. Flexible and personalized solutions for multigenerational families Zoned Comfort Solutions are also ideal for multigenerational households. In many homes, a single thermostat controls the temperature for the entire house, leaving some rooms hot, some rooms cold, and some rooms in a constant state of flux. Whether you need to heat and cool a basement apartment for grandparents or maintain a different climate for children’s bedrooms, there’s a better, zoned solution that can adapt to your family’s temperature preferences. A multi-zoned home is divided into segments based on size and layout with each zone controlled by a thermostat. Instead of those thermostats connecting to a single unit, each zone has its individual unit style, including ceiling cassettes, wall-, and floor-mounted models that keep a zone at the set temperature without affecting the other zones. Ultimately, this provides better personalized comfort and can lower household energy consumption and cost. High-performance ductless systems for home renovators You can upgrade your HVAC system quickly and easily even in a historic home or when tackling a one-room addition. Ductless systems, which can include recessed ceiling cassettes and wall-mounted indoor units, blend seamlessly with home aesthetics and require minimal installation work. Among these options, certain models stand out for their smart features and enhanced comfort. For instance, the Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-FX Deluxe Wall-mounted Indoor Unit offers built-in Wi-Fi. Users can easily manage temperature, scheduling, and operation remotely. The unit’s advanced 3D i-see Sensor® scans the room to create a detailed thermal profile, detecting variations in heat based on size, temperature, and movement. It then adjusts airflow and temperature accordingly, delivering personalized comfort while helping reduce energy use based on room occupancy. The MSZ-FX is also ENERGY STAR® certified and features Dual Barrier Coating technology designed to reduce the accumulation of dust and buildup on the vanes of the indoor unit. Comfort you can count on, wherever life takes you No matter your lifestyle − remote work, multigenerational living, or renovating − there’s an HVAC solution designed to meet your needs. Mitsubishi Electric all-climate heat pumps combine efficiency, comfort, and adaptability in one system. With expert guidance and the right configuration, you can create a home environment that delivers year-round comfort and long-term energy savings. Learn more about which all-climate heat pump system is right for you at MitsubishiComfort.com. Photo courtesy of Getty ImagesDiscover more from Daily News
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Consumer Corner
Littlest Pet Shop Partners With Like Nastya to Bring Collecting—and Storytelling—Back to the Spotlight
Littlest Pet Shop names Like Nastya as an official brand partner, launching a new YouTube content series and teasing more fan experiences through 2026.
LITTLEST PET SHOP is leaning into a very 2026 reality: kids discover brands as much through screens as they do through toy aisles.
This week, the iconic collectible toy line announced a new partnership with Like Nastya—one of the world’s biggest child creators—signaling a major push to connect LITTLEST PET SHOP’s long-running “tell your own story” DNA with today’s digital-first families.
A creator partnership built on imagination
According to the announcement, Like Nastya has more than 409 million subscribers across YouTube and reaches billions of views each month. Her content is known for positivity, imaginative play, and family-friendly storytelling—an easy brand fit for LITTLEST PET SHOP, which has always centered quirky characters, customization, and kid-led narratives.
The collaboration is positioned as a “meeting of two creative worlds,” with both Nastya and LITTLEST PET SHOP encouraging kids to express themselves, dream big, and celebrate individuality through play.
In a statement included in the release, Like Nastya said she’s excited to partner with the brand to inspire kids everywhere to tell their own stories.
What fans can expect (starting now)
The partnership begins this month with a content series on Like Nastya’s YouTube channel featuring LITTLEST PET SHOP toys. Beyond the initial videos, additional pieces of the collaboration will roll out throughout 2026—described as new experiences, surprises, and fresh ways to play.
For toy brands, that “reveal over time” approach is increasingly the playbook: keep the community engaged with ongoing drops, creator activations, and new touchpoints that extend beyond a single product moment.
A legacy brand with a modern relaunch
LITTLEST PET SHOP is no newcomer to fandom. The brand first launched more than 30 years ago and has sold over 1 billion pets to date. Its staying power has always been tied to collectability—plus the way kids (and collectors) build personalities and worlds around each pet.
The release also highlights the brand’s recent momentum: LITTLEST PET SHOP was relaunched in 2024 under a licensing agreement between brand owner Hasbro and Basic Fun!, the global toy marketer behind the current line. The Generation 7 pets quickly returned to best-seller status, driven by a new wave of young fans and longtime collectors who never really left.
Why this matters for toy marketing right now
This partnership is a clear signal that toy marketing is no longer just about commercials and endcaps—it’s about creators who can make play feel immediate, shareable, and story-driven.
Basic Fun!’s Maureen Dilger, Vice President of Global Brand Marketing, emphasized that Like Nastya reflects what LITTLEST PET SHOP stands for: imagination, self-expression, and “scroll-stopping stories.” Hasbro’s Marianne James, Senior Vice President of Global Licensing, framed the partnership as a way to connect the brand’s legacy with today’s digital generation—while still honoring collectors who have supported the franchise for decades.
In other words: this isn’t a pivot away from the core fanbase. It’s an expansion of the storytelling ecosystem.
Where to follow LITTLEST PET SHOP
Fans can find more information about the LITTLEST PET SHOP brand and product line at LittlestPetShop.com and by following the official @LITTLESTPETSHOP social channels.
Important links:
Follow on social:
- Littlest Pet Shop on Instagram
- Littlest Pet Shop on TikTok
- Like Nastya on YouTube
- Like Nastya on Instagram
- Like Nastya on TikTok
Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
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Consumer Corner
The Luxury Letdown: Why Features Alone Don’t Deliver the Full Car-Buying Experience
Full Car-Buying Experience: The article discusses the “luxury letdown” in car buying, where consumers desire more than flashy features; they seek comfort, quality, and an enjoyable driving experience. While many prioritize special features, true satisfaction comes from thoughtful design and connection with the vehicle. Additionally, safety and value without excessive costs are crucial for buyers.
The Luxury Letdown: Why Features Alone Don’t Deliver the Full Car-Buying Experience
(Family Features) In a world where everyone is juggling busy schedules and endless choices, it’s only natural to want more from your vehicle. Not just more features, but more comfort, more quality and more enjoyment every time you get behind the wheel.
According to recent survey data from Mazda, 74% of car buyers said special features are “very” or “extremely important,” but 30% admitted they don’t have any features worth showing off to friends or family. This is the “luxury letdown;” the excitement of new features fades, leaving you wanting something more meaningful from your car.
People are looking for more than just bells and whistles. They want a car that feels good to drive, that is thoughtfully designed and that brings more joy and satisfaction to everyday life. It’s not about having the most options or the flashiest tech. It’s about all that and quality, comfort and a sense of connection that lasts long after the new car smell fades.
Beyond the Surface
Forget what you think you know about luxury vehicle features. The most memorable cars are typically built with an incredible attention to detail – a craftsmanship you can see and feel. Smart, thoughtful innovation makes driving better, not more complicated. From the shape of the seats to the way the materials feel under your fingertips, every detail is designed to enhance the experience. In fact, 80% of survey respondents said thoughtful design that makes the driving experience better is extremely or very important during the car-buying process. These subtle touches elevate the everyday and make a car feel truly special.
The Joy of Driving, Reimagined
Driving should be more than a means to get from point A to point B. The most rewarding vehicles are often those that make every journey feel intentional and enjoyable. Responsive handling, intuitive controls and a cabin designed for comfort can transform even the most routine commute into a moment of enjoyment. When a car is engineered to connect driver and road, it brings back the pleasure of driving many have forgotten. For some, this feeling gets lost beneath features and digital overload, but it’s possible to rediscover harmony between driver and car – making every trip feel intentional and rewarding.
Confidence Comes Standard
Safety is more than a feature – it’s a foundation. Advanced safety technologies and strong crash-test ratings provide peace of mind for drivers and their families. With an industry-leading number of Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+-awarded vehicles – including the Mazda3 Sedan and Hatchback, CX-30, CX-50, CX-50 Hybrid, CX-70, CX-70 PHEV, CX-90 and CX-90 PHEV – Mazda is committed to keeping safety at the forefront. Features like active safety systems, robust body structures and intelligent alerts help keep everyone protected, allowing drivers to focus on the road ahead.
Value That Surprises
Many shoppers believe a premium experience comes with a premium price tag. However, value is found in vehicles that deliver quality, innovation and comfort without the luxury markup. The materials, craftsmanship and driving dynamics often surprise those who expect to pay more for such an experience. It’s not just about what’s included, but how it all comes together to create a sense of satisfaction and pride in ownership. The result is a driving experience that feels special, accessible and built to last.
A New Standard for Everyday Driving
In a world that constantly demands so much, there is a kind of more that stands out. Not just in features, but in the feeling, the craftsmanship and the sheer joy of driving. This is the more of Mazda – a more that is intentional, meaningful and designed to enrich every journey.
When you’re ready for more from your next vehicle, visit Mazdausa.com.
SOURCE:
Mazda
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Lifestyle
5 Tips to Upgrade Your Home Office
Consider these ideas to blend function, comfort and style, and create a home office that inspires creativity and makes you want to sit down and get things done.
Last Updated on January 26, 2026 by Daily News Staff
5 Tips to Upgrade Your Home Office
(Family Features) Hybrid schedules and remote work have become the norm for many people, which means a functional and inspiring workspace is more necessity than luxury. With the right setup – be it a dedicated room or a cozy corner – your space can boost productivity, spark creativity and make your workday more enjoyable. Consider these ideas to blend function, comfort and style, and create a home office that inspires creativity and makes you want to sit down and get things done. Focus on Comfort The desk and chair are the foundation of any home office. Be sure to build a setup that matches your work style by picking the right height desk (with the proper amount of storage and workspace to complete your tasks) and an adjustable chair with good lumbar support. If you’re at your computer most of the time during the day, an ergonomic keyboard and monitor stand can also make a comfortable difference. Create a Clutter-Free Work Zone Incorporating smart storage solutions like shelves, filing cabinets or baskets can help keep your workspace tidy and free of distracting clutter. Desk trays can keep small office supplies organized and within easy reach while maintaining a clean aesthetic. Add Personality with Decor Much like the rest of your home, your workspace should reflect your personality and style. Add artwork, decorative accents, plants or a photo wall to bring inspiration and freshness to your office and choose a color palette that promotes positivity and focus, such as soft blues, greens or neutrals. Layer Functional Lighting For optimal productivity, combine natural light with task and ambient lighting. If possible, position your desk near a window to capture natural light then supplement your space with a desk lamp for focused illumination and floor lamps, under-shelf lighting or wall sconces to add warmth and depth. Don’t Forget Acoustics Distracting noises can negatively impact focus. To absorb sound, use soft furnishings like rugs, upholstered chairs or curtains and consider a white noise machine if you need a more soothing work environment. Find more ideas to update every room in your house at eLivingtoday.com. Photo courtesy of ShutterstockDiscover more from Daily News
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