Consumer Corner

What to Know Before Hiring an HVAC Contractor

Published

7 months ago

September 25, 2024

Daily News Staff

(Family Features) For many homeowners, the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system is among the home’s most important, and most costly, features. This system ensures the home remains at a comfortable temperature, and it also plays a significant role in the home’s energy usage.

HVAC

If you’re in the market for a new HVAC solution, you probably know there’s no shortage of installers. Before you hire a contractor, there are some important factors you should consider, according to the experts at Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS), a leader in heating and cooling innovation.

Product Options
A qualified technician will have the knowledge and flexibility to install a wide range of products and solutions. As the country moves toward electrification, your contractor should be well-versed in conventional HVAC systems and more sustainable options such as energy-efficient, mini-split ductless and ducted heat pumps.

It’s also important to know about a prospective contractor’s experience with the equipment, including installation, maintenance, and repair. Accreditation, licensing, and training will give you a good idea, but you should also explore the contractor’s reputation and reliability through references and reviews.

Price
When exploring your options, get a written quote that details the proposed equipment and labor costs. Ask about incentives available at the time of service, including discounts, rebates, or other pricing specials. If you are installing an energy-efficient heat pump, you might also be eligible for incentives through the Inflation Reduction Act, such as tax credits and state rebate programs.

Financing
Replacing or repairing your HVAC system can be an unexpected expense. More HVAC contractors are beginning to offer financing options to help customers with upfront costs. Ask about financing options – preferably low-interest options – early on in your conversations with contractors. If any are offered, ensure the contractor is working with a trusted, reputable lending provider. If you are investing in an energy-efficient system, your heating and cooling savings may even allow you to recoup your loan over time.

Warranty
Many HVAC manufacturers offer equipment warranties that can help offset future repair costs, but it’s important to understand what’s covered. For example, Diamond Contractors, specially trained in installing Mitsubishi Electric equipment, allow for a 12-year warranty on parts and a 12-year warranty on compressors after equipment has been registered.

Equipment Issues
A qualified technician can help you understand the various options and explain terms you don’t know. You should feel comfortable asking questions and requesting the information in writing.

Learn what else you need to know before making a big investment in a new HVAC system at mitsubishicomfort.com.

Asking the Right Questions Matters

You’ve done research, budgeted for upfront costs, and compared units, but can’t make sense of the different HVAC systems. Hiring the right contractor can help alleviate these concerns.

Asking the right questions is especially important if you have specific energy goals in mind. Consider these questions:

Are you certified in HVAC installation, repair and maintenance?
Do you have insurance?
Do you have references I can speak with?
What are the indoor unit options for my home’s design and square footage? How many units do I need? How many of these systems has your company installed in the last few years?
Does my home’s design support ductwork, or are ductless systems the best option for me? What are the pros and cons of each?
What’s the temperature range this system can manage?
How does this system handle partial loads? (“Load” is the amount of heating or cooling needed to bring a space to a comfortable temperature.)
How frequently does the system need to be serviced? What kind of maintenance does the system need? What kind of maintenance program do you offer?
What kind of utility cost savings can I expect comparing a split-ductless heat pump system to a conventional HVAC system?
Will I need any supplemental equipment to achieve my energy usage goals?

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SOURCE:
Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS)

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Consumer Corner

Zelle Shuts Down Standalone App: Transitioning Users to Bank Platforms

Zelle’s standalone app ceased money transfers on April 1, 2025, requiring users to access the service via participating banks, enhancing security amid rising digital fraud.

Published

2 days ago

April 10, 2025

Rod Washington

On April 1, 2025, Zelle, one of the most widely used digital payment services in the United States, officially shut down the money transferring services available on its standalone mobile app. While the service itself is not disappearing, many users will need to adapt to a new way of accessing this popular tool for peer-to-peer payments.

Why It Matters

Zelle has established itself as a key player in the peer-to-peer payment market. It facilitates instantaneous transfers without fees between bank accounts, making it a foundational tool for consumers and small businesses alike. The change primarily affects those who previously used the Zelle app independently of their bank’s app or website. Users will now need to re-enroll with one of the 2,200 participating banks or credit unions that offer Zelle via their digital banking platforms.

What Is Happening to the App?

Though the standalone Zelle app has closed its money transfer services, users will still be able to access it. The app now provides a directory of the over 2,200 banks and credit unions that support Zelle. A recent press release indicates that the app will shift its focus to consumer education, particularly around scams and fraud prevention. According to an in-app alert accessed on April 4, users can continue to log into the app until August 11, 2025.

Why Is Zelle Shutting Down the App?

Zelle announced the decision to shut down its standalone app back in October 2024, noting that a significant majority of its users already access the service through their bank’s apps or websites. Since the announcement, the company has been phasing out enrollment and transaction capabilities within the standalone app. Late last year, Zelle communicated again via in-app alerts and emails, urging users to migrate to their bank or credit union’s platform to continue using the service.

In a statement regarding the shift, Zelle highlighted its remarkable growth, reporting that consumers and small businesses moved nearly half a trillion dollars on the platform in the first half of 2024, a 28% year-over-year increase. Initially launched in 2017 primarily for users whose financial institutions had not yet joined the network, Zelle has experienced widespread adoption across almost all major banks and credit unions.

Zelle’s decision may also be motivated by security concerns. With an uptick in fraud targeting digital payment apps, directing users through regulated financial institutions may afford them additional protection and oversight.

When Did the App Shut Down?

The standalone Zelle app ceased processing transactions on April 1, 2025. Users can no longer send or receive money via the app, and those who wish to continue using Zelle must re-enroll through a compatible bank or credit union’s mobile app or website.

How Will My Payments Be Affected?

Individuals who previously used the standalone Zelle app need to take action. They can no longer send or receive money via the app and must migrate to a bank or credit union that offers Zelle. Users who do not re-enroll through a partner institution should inform their senders accordingly.

To check if a specific bank supports Zelle, visit enroll.zellepay.com. Once logged into a bank’s mobile app or website, users can usually locate Zelle in the “Payments” or “Transfers” section. The transition may require users to verify their email address or phone number associated with their former Zelle account.

Fortunately, those using Zelle through their mobile banking app will not experience any changes and do not need to take further action.

How Many People Use Zelle?

As of June 2024, Zelle boasted 143 million consumer and small business accounts, with users executing money transfers 1.7 billion times in the previous year. The integration of Zelle into nearly all major U.S. banks indicates that it will likely retain its dominance in the digital payment space, despite the changes to its standalone application.

While the shutdown of Zelle’s standalone app marks a significant transition, the underlying service remains robust and widely utilized. By directing users to bank platforms, Zelle aims to enhance security and further solidify its position in the competitive landscape of digital payments. As users adapt to this change, Zelle continues to play a vital role in simplifying and securing money transfers across the country.

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Consumer Corner

Cinematic Anamorphic Lens Mod for GoPro HERO13 Black Now Shipping and Available Internationally

Published

3 days ago

April 10, 2025

Daily News Staff

GoPro Anamorphic Lens Mod + HERO13 Black

Anamorphic Lens Mod for HERO13 Black Delivers Dramatic, Hollywood-like Video for Creators and Filmmakers in a Tremendously Affordable Package

SAN MATEO, Calif., April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GoPro (NASDAQ: GPRO) is now shipping the Anamorphic Lens Mod for its new camera, HERO13 Black. Anamorphic Lens Mod delivers expanded performance for creators and filmmakers looking to achieve cinematic and artistic video from HERO13 Black. With a Hollywood-ready 21:9 aspect ratio and ultra-wide field of view complemented by lessened distortion, the Anamorphic Lens Mod is perfect for professional cinematographers, photographers, and creators looking to achieve sought-after Anamorphic perspectives and lens flares in a package that costs a fraction of similar professional systems. Starting today, Anamorphic Lens Mod for HERO13 Black is shipping on GoPro.com for $129.99 MSRP and is available at retailers internationally. Anamorphic Lens Mod is quickly becoming a go-to lens for creators and filmmakers looking to achieve cinematic results in a small and affordable camera system. “Anamorphic Lens Mod and HERO13 Black have expanded what I can create with my GoPro,” says GoPro Creator and commercial filmmaker, Chris Rogers. “With the addition of the Anamorphic Lens Mod to my GoPro camera kit, I can capture incredibly dramatic and cinematic perspectives in a durable, and portable package that’s stands alongside professional setups that cost tenfold more.” Anamorphic Lens Mod is compatible with HERO13 Black’s Auto Detect feature, which intelligently senses Anamorphic Lens Mod and switches the camera into the corresponding mode. In-camera “de-squeezing” delivers video immediately available for review and allows for streamlined post-production editing. The Lens Mod is waterproof and tough enough to withstand the elements – helping you get the shots you need. Anamorphic Lens Mod ($129.99) joins three other Lens Mod accessories that complete the HB-Series Lens Collection.

Ultra Wide Lens Mod ($99.99): Transforms HERO13 Black into the ultimate POV camera by capturing more in every shot with a 177° field of view and new 1:1 aspect ratio.
Macro Lens Mod ($129.99): Expands the creative possibilities of HERO13 Black with variable focus on objects up to 4x closer than the standard GoPro Lens.
ND Filter 4-Pack ($69.99): Delivers smart, cinematic motion blur in photos and videos with ND4 / ND8 / ND16 / ND32 for pros and novices alike.

Also available this week, the new HB-Series Lens Collection includes the Ultra Wide Lens Mod, Macro Lens Mod, Anamorphic Lens Mod, and ND Filter 4-Pack – all together in one convenient, protective case for $349.99. Later in Q2, customers will also be able to purchase the HERO13 Black + HB-Series Lens Collection as a single bundle for $699.99 to leverage the full power of the HERO13 Black and HB-Series Lens Collection – also packaged together in a protective case. HERO13 Black, Anamorphic Lens Mod, Ultra Wide Lens Mod, Macro Lens Mod, and ND Filter 4-Pack are all now available individually on GoPro.com. About GoPro, Inc. (NASDAQ: GPRO)
GoPro helps the world capture and share itself in immersive and exciting ways. GoPro has been recognized as an employer of choice by both Outside Magazine and U.S. News & World Report for being among the best places to work. Open roles can be found on our careers page. For more information, visit GoPro.com. Connect with GoPro on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, YouTube, and GoPro’s blog, The Current. GoPro customers can submit their photos and videos to GoPro Awards for an opportunity to be featured on GoPro’s social channels and receive gear and cash awards. Members of the press can access official logos and imagery on our press portal. GoPro, HERO and their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of GoPro, Inc. in the United States and other countries. SOURCE GoPro, Inc.

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News

Nissan Reduces Pricing for 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder: A Commitment to Value?

Published

6 days ago

April 6, 2025

Rod Washington

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In a move that signifies its dedication to customer satisfaction and value, Nissan has announced significant reductions in the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for two of its most popular models, the 2025 Rogue and 2025 Pathfinder. This strategic decision comes at a time when many consumers are navigating a challenging car-buying landscape, making affordability a key factor in their purchasing decisions.

Lower Prices for Greater Accessibility

The pricing adjustments span across all grades for both the Rogue and Pathfinder, reflecting Nissan’s commitment to ensuring that more customers can access quality vehicles without straining their budget. With rising costs affecting many households, these reductions are not just a reactive measure but a proactive step in continuing to provide exceptional value.

The 2025 Rogue, known for its versatility and efficient performance, will now appeal even more to families and individuals alike who prioritize both style and functionality in their vehicles. Meanwhile, the Pathfinder, a reliable and spacious SUV, caters to those needing extra room for travel, adventures, or daily commutes.

Why This Matters

For many buyers, feeling secure about their investment in a vehicle is paramount, especially when purchasing in today’s economic climate. By lowering the MSRP, Nissan aims to make the Rogue and Pathfinder not only more accessible but also more appealing as options in the competitive SUV market.

The decision to reduce prices aligns with Nissan’s larger strategy to maintain its customer-centric approach, fostering long-term relationships with buyers by ensuring they receive value for their investment.

What to Expect

As detailed in Nissan’s recent press release, prospective buyers can look forward to more competitive pricing as they explore their options. The enhanced value proposition of the 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder aims to provide customers with quality vehicles that meet their needs without compromising on features or reliability.

While specific pricing details were not fully disclosed in the press release, interested customers are encouraged to visit their local dealerships or check the official Nissan website for the latest updates and MSRP listings.

Conclusion

With the 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder, Nissan is not just reducing prices; it’s reaffirming its commitment to providing accessible, quality vehicles for all. By prioritizing affordability, Nissan continues to lead the way in understanding and addressing the needs of its customers in a rapidly changing market.

Stay updated on further developments and insights as Nissan continues to innovate and respond to the needs of car buyers everywhere. Whether you’re in the market for a spacious family SUV or a versatile crossover, Nissan’s latest offerings provide a compelling reason to consider these models.