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FloodSafe Auto-Shutoff Connectors (JLC Online)

According to some insurance experts, catastrophic water damage causes more claims than fires do. Watts' FloodSafe Auto-Shutoff Connectors are designed to reduce the danger of ruptured supply lines. The braided-stainless-steel hoses have a valve that shuts off the water if the flow on the demand side exceeds 2.9 gallons per minute. If your clients' water pressure stays between 30 and 80 psi and their fixtures and appliances don't require too high of a flow, these hoses could spare them some serious headaches. A pair for a washing machine costs $25. 978/688-1811,

Elite Oasis Washer and SteamCare Dryer (BUILDING PRODUCTS Magazine)

The Elite Oasis washer and SteamCare dryer combine powerful cleaning in a top-load washer with steam function in the dryer. The front-loading dryer has a TimedOxi option for oxygen-based stain fighting and eliminates up to 99.9 percent of certain bacteria, according to the manufacturer. The dryer uses a 35 percent larger blower to increase airflow, drying a load of laundry more quickly than it takes to wash one, the maker says. 800-469-4663.

SmartDispense Front-Load Washer (BUILDING PRODUCTS Magazine)

The SmartDispense front-load washer stores and automatically dispenses detergent and fabric softener based on each load's size, soil level, and fabric or cycle type. The unit treats more than 40 different combinations of stains and fabric type. Its companion dryer's reverse tumble action keeps fabrics tangle-free. The DuoDry system has a variable heater and dual motors, thermistors, and moisture sensors to help clothes dry evenly and faster. 800-626-2005.

Finishing Touches: Ready to Wear (BUILDING PRODUCTS Magazine)

Front-loading Washers Rule the Energy-Efficiency Race, But Affordable Top-loaders are Regaining Lost Ground (BUILDING PRODUCTS Magazine)

Whirlpool's front-loading washing machines and dryers have so many bells and whistles that the manufacturer sends an information-packed DVD home with everyone who buys one.

Whirlpool Brand Scientists Go Hi-Tech Helping Consumers Sort Out Age Old Chore (ebuild)

Whirlpool brand's Institute of Fabric Science (WIFS) has entered the re-launch cycle, now the freshest laundry resource for millions of customers worldwide. The recently transformed WIFS Web site utilizes the expertise of fabric professionals to tackle the various laundry-related inquiries that Whirlpool receives from consumers. The revamped Web site (www.instituteoffabricscience.com) operates as an informational hub for the many people who struggle daily with fabric care dilemmas. With built-in customer service, expert advice, consumer lifestyle stories, statistics, and more, the site makes laundry easier and less like a chore.

Honeycomb Care Large-capacity Washers and Dryers (CUSTOM HOME Magazine)

Honeycomb Care large-capacity washers and dryers feature self-diagnostics, a computer program that will add improvements as technology advances, and a child safety lock. The appliances have programs for different clothing. 800.843.7231. www.miele.com

Home Appliance Manufacturers and Their Customers Show Commitment to Energy and Conservation (ebuild)

Home appliance manufacturers, through their trade group the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), have teamed with energy and water advocacy groups to lobby Congress to pass an energy bill which will include the strictest federal energy efficiency standards to date for several major appliance products. AHAM is also pushing for a first ever national water limit requirement for residential dishwashers and clothes washers. The new energy and water standards will result in a savings of up to 3.3 Quads of energy and nearly 11 million acre feet of water over 30 years.

Promising Products (BUILDER Magazine)

MOLD-RESISTANT GYPSUM and concrete made with waste from coal-fired power plants are among the top 10 home building technologies for 2007, according to the Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing (PATH). PATH, a program run by HUD, says the 10 technologies are the future of home building and hold the most promise for improving the quality of homes."Our 2007 list focuses on PATH-profiled technologies at the nexus of technological advantage, market readiness, and market appeal," says Mike Blanford, in HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research. "Each product on the list has the potential to transform the way we build or finish homes, and many of them offer environmental benefits as well as strengths in other areas."