Panasonic Brand Overview

Corporate History

Beginning with a design for an improved light socket, Konosuke Matsushita founded his company in 1894, with only three employees, in a two-story house. In 1918, the company known today as Panasonic was born, and in 1956 began manufacturing home appliances, with the launch of its “home coolers” following two years later. A branch in the United States was founded in 1959 as the Matsushita Electric Corp. of America and, in 2008, became known as the Panasonic Corp. of North America.

Product Lines

Panasonic manufactures single-split systems, multi-split systems, ECOi VRF systems, controls and other accessories for heating and cooling systems designed for residential and light commercial use. Heat-pumps and air conditioner options include low-ambient air conditioners for single or multiple rooms. Wall-, ceiling- and duct-mounted systems are available. The highest efficiency systems have up to 21 SEER, including on an indoor, wall-mounted heat-pump. Outdoor units are available, as well. Panasonic also offers residential solar solutions, as well as home monitoring.

Environmental Impact

Panasonic Global claims to be a leader in green innovation, including the development of a Concept of Green Plan 2018. This plan addresses several environmental concerns such as reducing carbon dioxide production, recycling resources, minimizing water consumption and ensuring wise use of chemical substances. The plan also includes identifying the company’s impact on biodiversity and contributing to conservation efforts. Panasonic reports steady progress on this plan.

With the slogan, “A Better Life, A Better World,” and a wish for “a better life” and “a sustainable society,” in 2017, Panasonic created the Panasonic Environment Vision 2050. Looking at the international picture and citing the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals by the United Nations, this was created as the long-term vision. The goal is clean energy and a sustainable lifestyle. As part of the vision, Panasonic will “Create a Safe and Secure Society with Clean Energy” and “Promote Businesses Aiming for a Sustainable Society.”

Contractor Certification

In May 2015, Panasonic began a Dealer Rewards Program. The goal of which is to have well-trained dealers and contractors, so the end user experience is improved. Online educational training is available to dealers and contractors, enabling them to achieve levels of certifications after completing training modules. Panasonic has three levels of certification – Bronze, Silver and Gold.

Warranty

In the United States and Puerto Rico, Panasonic split air conditioners, in general, come with 7-year compressor and 5-year parts warranties, as well as 1-year on controllers. There is also a 30-day labor warranty for the compressor. Units must be installed by a contractors who are licensed for HVAC installation for the warranty to be valid.