SATELLITE INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITY
SATURDAY, JULY 23, 2005, 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. ET
WHO: PBS' “Hometime” Home Improvement Expert Dean Johnson
Since 1986, Dean Johnson has hosted “Hometime” on PBS - providing viewers with information, solutions, tips and ideas for improving their homes.
WHAT: Tips on Choosing and
Maintaining Air Conditioners –
How to stay comfortable and cool this summer while
keeping down the utility bill.
Plus: New government energy regulation for home air conditioners.
WHY: In some parts of the country, air conditioning alone can account for nearly 60% of a household's monthly energy bill during the summer. With energy costs on the rise, energy efficiency will be key for consumers this summer. But a new national survey reveals that 90% of homeowners do not know the efficiency rating of their air conditioning system and are unaware that new air conditioners soon must meet a higher minimum federal efficiency standard. This year an estimated 4 million air conditioning units will be sold as either replacement or first time purchases before the summer is over.
All central air conditioners manufactured in the U.S. after January 23, 2006 must meet the new federal minimum 13 Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (or SEER rating), a 30% increase from the current minimum standard. An air conditioner's SEER rating is similar to the miles-per-gallon rating for automobiles: the more efficient the unit, the higher the SEER rating and the less it costs to operate. Air conditioners and heat pumps account for two-thirds of electricity use during peak summer demand periods. Improved efficiency in these units is viewed as key to reducing electricity demand and easing the strain on the nation's power grids during peak periods.
Even though consumers are looking to keep cool, Dean Johnson will inform viewers of what to ask for when purchasing an air conditioner -- in areas such as energy efficiency, noise reduction, and engine reliability. He will demonstrate what to look for “inside the box” of an air conditioner and explain the new SEER rating and the impact of the new government mandate.
Topics of Discussion will include:
n What questions to get answered before purchasing a new air conditioner.
n When does it make sense to buy a new air conditioner?
n Air conditioner size.
n Is an air conditioner easy to install? What are some tips on selecting and working with an air conditioning contractor.
n What type of technology should homeowners look for in a new air conditioning system?
n What are the benefits of a "scroll" compressor - the engine inside high-efficiency air conditioners - in terms of energy savings, quieter operations and reliability?
n What changes in government regulations (scheduled for 2006) should homeowners take into consideration when buying a new air conditioning system? What is SEER? How does it affect me?
n How to get your air conditioner in peak shape for the long, hot summer.
n How can a homeowner make their existing air conditioner operate better & longer? How often should I clean the filter?
Dean will be able to provide viewers with a quick demonstration of what to look for “inside the box” of an air conditioner. Additional b-roll support will be available as a live hot roll or via cassette placement for any taped interviews. This satellite media tour is sponsored by Emerson.
To arrange an interview with Dean Johnson, contact: