CHICAGO— Guardian Technologies entered two new product segments at the International Home + Housewares Show with the launch of the PureGuardian small space dehumidifier and Energy Light appliance.
“We’re always exploring new product opportunities and the dehumidifier was a natural fit. The point of this product is not to serve as a whole house dehumidifier, often purchased for moisture problems in basements when doing a basement renovation. Rather, it meets the needs of our consumers that are looking into options throughout their home to improve the quality of the air they breathe,” said Cyndi Caffoe, director of product development, Guardian Technologies.
The dehumidifier, model DH201CA, is targeted for spaces in the home such as bathrooms, laundry rooms and closets that harbor extra moisture. Additionally, the appliance can be used in RVs and boats.
The small space living trend was one factor in the appliance’s design, according to Caffoe, and one expected to grow in the coming years.
She noted, “The small space living trend is occurring in secondary homes and in multi-family units, which have been growing in numbers over the last several years. While the number of units is growing, the overall size of that living space is decreasing to just over 1,000 square feet.”
She added that the trend is attractive to a variety of demographics including single, unmarried young professionals, Millennials and empty nesters looking to downsize.
In addition to its size and portability, the unit features silver clean protection to fight the growth of mold and mildew on the surface of the water tank, which is said to eliminate the need for filters to make the unit maintenance free. It also features Peltier (thermo-electric) technology, which is said to eliminate the need for a heavy compressor.
The tank of the dehumidifier is suitable to collect up to approximately 360ml of water per day at 80% humidity, and features an indicator light to warn users when the tank is full. In addition, the unit will automatically shut off when the tank is full.
The company’s new Energy Light, model SPA50CA, is intended to help increase energy levels and focus by providing a bright light that simulates daylight.
While a new product segment for the company, Caffoe said, “In the last few years we’ve expanded the PureGuardian brand to not only improving the air but creating a better, more comfortable home environment. Building on this idea, we decided the Energy Light would be a natural addition to our assortment.”
The unit features a sleek and portable design and is suitable for the home, office or travel. It provides daylight therapy indoors using LED technology with up to 10,000 LUX. It features adjustable settings, which allows users to adjust the length of sessions up to 30 minutes, and white light that offers three intensity levels with a blue light option, for a total of six intensity levels.
“Many people suffer from diminished amounts of energy during the winter months. While this product is a natural fit for markets that face tough winters or a lot of rain, it doesn’t have to be limited to these locations,” Caffoe said. “These same side effects can be experienced in normal business environments that have low lighting. Any consumer that works in a dimly lit area in a 9 to 5 type of job or even home office may benefit from the light therapy.”
The Energy Light also includes a USB port and adjustable built-in stand, and carries a suggested retail price of $79.99.
