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New Arrivals: Sept/Oct 2008 (BUILDING PRODUCTS Magazine)

Autumn Arrivals: The new season brings a fresh selection of eco-friendly building products.

Bring the Heat: Tankless Water Heater Gaining Acceptance As Energy Prices Keep Going Up (Winston-Salem Journal)

Jun. 14--With water heaters representing 17 percent to 25 percent of a home's energy costs, it makes sense for consumers to take a harder look at new technology that could save money. They are noticing them now because of the energy savings that they promise. A conventional, storage-tank water heater holds a specific amount of hot water, typically between 20 and 100 gallons.

Pansonic Introduces Next Generation WhisperWarm Ventilation Fans

Panasonic Home & Environment Company announced two next-generation WhisperWarm ventilation fans, both of which can heat and help improve indoor air quality, while also being more compact, lightweight and quieter than their predecessor. In addition to providing warmth and air ventilation, the WhisperWarm FV-11VHL2 is available with a light and night light feature. For those who already have a lighting system, the WhisperWarm FV-11VH2 is available without lights - giving the consumer more choice when selecting their ventilation fan.

Polaris Water Heaters (Journal of Light Construction)

Polaris water heaters are among the most efficient tank-style water heaters on the market. They have sealed combustion burners and self-diagnostic controls; the stainless steel tank has 1-inch side taps for space heating applications. Venting is through the wall with 2- or 3-inch plastic pipe. Retail prices start at about $3,300, which includes tempering and pressure-relief valves. 800/937-1037

Artisan/Craftsman/Builder: Talking About Insulation! (The Santa Fe New Mexican)

With all of the talk about sustainable building practices these days, and especially now that the cost of energy is rising so fast, it is time to think about how much energy your house is using. According to the Web site of Santa Fe architect Ed Mazria (www.architecture2030.org), "Data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration illustrates that buildings are responsible for almost half of all energy consumption and greenhouse-gas emissions annually; globally the percentage is even greater. The majority of energy consumed for a building is used to heat and cool the inside air temperature, to make hot water, and to light rooms at night.

Illumi-Heat Bath Light/Heater (BUILDING PRODUCTS Magazine)

Illumi-Heat looks like a traditional light but also includes a heating element for use in a master bath, bedroom, or mudroom. Available in two styles, the fixture incorporates a 700-watt ceramic heating element and a remote control that allows users to activate each independently. It is able to raise the temperature of a 215-square-foot room by 5 degrees in as little as one hour, the company says.

WhisperWarm Ventilation Fans (BUILDING PRODUCTS Magazine)

Two new WhisperWarm ventilation fans heat, help improve air quality, and are lighter and more compact than their predecessor, according to the manufacturer. One model has light and night-light features that employ fluorescent bulbs, and both fans have an enclosed condenser motor that operates at low temperatures, increasing motor lifespan. Fans do not exceed a .7-sone level, they feature a new grille design, and they are painted to prevent rusting. 866-292-7292.

New Uponor EP Opposing-port, Multi-port Tees Offer Added Design and Installation Flexibility (ebuild)

The new EP Opposing-port, Multi-port Tees from Uponor are ideal for zone plumbing in two directions, offering design and installation flexibility for today's residential and multi-family plumbing applications. This new product offering makes it even easier for plumbing professionals to install all-plastic plumbing systems featuring Wirsbo AQUAPEX tubing and Uponor's advanced engineered plastic (EP) technology, which is highly durable and resists corrosion, pitting and scaling from aggressive water. Additionally, EP carries a much more stable cost when compared to metal alternatives.

New Website Heats Up Debate On Water Heaters: Is Tank Or Tankless Better? (ebuild)

When it comes to tankless water heaters, it's the questions that are endless. A new website launching today is the first to provide straight talk on tankless vs. tank water heaters, aimed at helping construction professionals advise their customers which system is best for different circumstances.

ProPEX EP Valves Use Innovative Ceramic Disc Technology for Greater Durability, Performance (ebuild)

The ProPEX EP In-line and Stop Valves from Uponor combine the proven performance of their engineered plastic (EP) with the precision and durability of ceramics to provide a product that resists corrosion, pitting and scaling, as well as chemical and mineral buildup.