2006 QR Top 100 Products

In every August issue we gather the highest lead-generating products covered in QR over the past year and compile them into one list for you. It’s that time of year again. Time to announce the 2006 Remodelers’ Choice: Top 100 Products.

Homeowners are becoming more and more educated about the products installed in their homes. With this list of products you, as a remodeler, can be on top of your game as the expert they turn to.

With energy prices soaring, the biggest trend being seen based on inquiries is in terms of energy efficiency. Homeowners are looking for ways to save long-term money while still increasing the value of their homes.

This trend can be seen clearly within the top seven products on our Top 100 Products list where solar (read Solar’s Bright Future on pg. 44 in the March 06 issue of QR) is the dominate category. Supporting this trend of energy-efficient products are tankless water heaters and radiant heating systems which have also ranked high on this year’s list. |

1 Sharp Electronics

Sharp Solar’s new triangular photovoltaic modules offer increasing design flexibility. Engineered specifically for hip roofs and complex roof lines, these black anodized aluminum frames, trim strips and backing sheets blend into the home’s exterior. These modules are also designed to withstand extreme heat and wind. Invertors, monitors and additonal panels can be added for a complete system. Circle 1

2 EnergyLux Solar Modules

BP Solar’s new all black BP EnergyLux solar modules match performance with aesthetics, offering the energy savings that solar provides in a way that complements a home’s roof. BP EnergyLux modules are now available as part of a BP Solar Home Solution. BP Solar also offers its traditional line of deep blue residential solar modules through BP Solar distributors and dealers nationwide. Circle 2

3 GE Energy

GE Energy’s roof integrated tile systems blend seamlessly with the roofline, providing a unique combination of functionality, attractiveness and increased property value to homeowners. GE’s current range of solar energy products includes solar cells, modules and prepackaged systems. The modules range from 35 to 165 watts, while system designs can range from hundreds of watts to megawatts and can be used in either on-grid or off-grid applications. Circle 3

4 SolarPower SPR-215-BLK

The SunPower SPR-215-BLK is designed specifically for on-grid residential systems where a combination of high module efficiency and outstanding appearance is desirable. Utilizing 72 series-connected A-300 solar cells, the SPR-215-BLK delivers industry-leading power density in a unique all-black module package with exceptionally uniform appearance. Circle 4

5 d.Blue Technology

Kyocera Solar introduces a photovoltaic (PV) module featuring an energy conversion efficiency using d.Blue technology, a Kyocera-developed cell-processing method. Named in reference to its 187-watt maximum power output, the new KC187G is the most efficient photovoltaic module Kyocera has. The newly developed d.Blue manufacturing process incorporated in the KC187G creates a microscopic texture on the cell’s multicrystalline silicon surface, reducing reflectance and maximizing the amount of sunlight the cell can absorb. Circle 5

6 Evergreen Solar

Spruce Line Photovoltaic Modules from Evergreen Solar are rated up to 190W and efficiency of 12.7 percent. Using Evergreen Solar’s String Ribbon technology, these modules are constructed in an alumninum frame with double-wall construction on all four sides and no protruding screws offering greater mounting flexibility. Circle 6

7 Sunmodule

The Sunmodule SW 165/175 mono/P by SolarWorld offers monocrystalline 5-in. cells behind a hardened glass glazing and are embedded in transparent EVA. This module has a maximum system voltage of 600 volt and is sealed with a very high-quality Tedlar film. Circle 7

8 Bookcase Door