CHICAGO— Based on consumer trends and shifting demographics, Comfort Zone will launch a number of new home environment appliances that feature a growing focus on color and design at this year’s International Home + Housewares Show, here.
“Consumers are feeling more confident these days due to the healthy economy and this is allowing them to be more daring in their design choices. Couple this with the fact that Millennials are coming of age and becoming a driving force in consumer retail and you can see that people are paying more attention to design and are actually seeking out designs that push the envelope,” said Barry Jacobs, senior director, home environment, Comfort Zone.
In heating, the company will launch two new heater models, a 23-inch ceramic tower heater and a motion sensor ceramic heater.
“Technology is blossoming again, and our products are getting smarter and more sophisticated each year. Our new ceramic tower fan was designed by our in-house design team for a contemporary but timeless appeal and sports a new eco-function that really helps reduce cost,” Jacobs noted, adding, “Our new heater with a motion sensor both enhances safety and reduces cost.”
The 23-inch tower heater, model CZ523RBK, features a contemporary design with digital thermostat. It includes 1,500-watt output and is suitable for large rooms. It also includes an 8-hour countdown timer and intelligent eco-mode. It also includes safety features such as a tip over switch and overheat protection, and carries a manufacturer suggested retail price of $59.99.
The Motion Sensor ceramic heater, model CZ460, is a portable model designed for smaller spaces including the office. The unit automatically shuts off after 30 minutes without sensing motion. Once motion is detected it automatically resumes heating. In addition, after two hours of no motion, the heater will permanently power off for cost efficiency and safety. It carries a suggested retail price of $39.99.
In cooling, the company will launch two new fans. The Hybrid tower fan, model CZHF1WT, features an exclusive patent-pending design, which uses a high velocity centrifugal fan that is said to channel air through adjustable louvers to blow wherever it’s needed.
In addition, it is said to feature 30% more airflow than a standard tower fan, and includes an LED control panel, full function remote and eco-mode. It carries an MSRP of $79.99.
The new CZBT4AS model is the company’s upgraded desk fan. The multi-use clip/desk fan features a 360-degree rotating fan head that tilts to face any direction. It includes a base with rubber feet said to keep it stable on any flat surface, and can be powered by batteries, computer or USB adaptor. It features four color options, and carries an MSRP of $14.99.
“This year we’re seeing strong interest in round, contemporary shapes. You’ll see that design trend evident in many of the new fans we’ll be showing this spring. In some cases they are shown in fun, colorful form. In others they’re paired with technology to offer great styling that also works in fun and creative ways,” Jacobs added.
In addition, the company will be expanding on its humidification offering. Of the expansion, Jacobs noted, “Comfort Zone is already a market leader in heaters and fans and we are rapidly growing our humidifier business. Our goal is to become the market leader in each of our categories.”
The company’s new ultrasonic cool mist family humidifier, model CZHD31, features two animal spouts for kids and one spout for adults. It also features quiet operation and a one-gallon tank said to last for up to 24 hours with automatic shut off when the tank empties.
The humidifier’s animal spout options include white with cat and rabbit spouts, green with alligator and frog spouts, brown with owl and monkey spouts and gray with elephant and koala spouts.
“We knew we had to create appealing animal designs, so we worked with a successful toy designer and sculptor who actually sculpted the initial concepts out of clay. Now these designs are being patented to ensure they remain unique in the marketplace,” Jacobs noted.
The humidifier carries an MSRP of $44.99.
