The features and benefits of high-tech HVAC equipment can often be lost on the end users — homeowners and building owners. What may seem to HVAC contractors like the greatest invention since sliced bread can result in blank stares from customers. But there is a way to make tech trends understandable to customers.

The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) is pleased by the results of verification testing of appliances and tankless and storage water heaters released by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) under the Energy Star® program.

The ecoTough™ Series of gas-fired residential condensing tankless water heaters has been expanded with the NRC83, an Energy Star®-rated unit designed for smaller homes and multifamily dwellings. It is available in both indoor (the two-pipe, direct vent NRC83-DV) and outdoor (NRC83-OD) models.

The domestic hot-water indirect storage tank lines WST and SST offer plumbing and HVAC professionals simplified installation and superior durability, which ensures fewer callbacks while providing end users years of reliable operation, the company said.

Rinnai Corp. announced that it has enhanced its online presence with the launch of a digital resource center and blog called “Think Tankless.” Rinnai said that Think Tankless provides it with a new way to share tankless-related information with potential customers, while enabling site visitors to post comments and questions.

A.O. Smith Corp. showcased its comprehensive residential product offering through the company’s Mobile Marketing Vehicle at the recent 2012 National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) International Builders’ Show in Orlando.