BENTON HARBOR, Mich., Nov. 16, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Seven environmentally focused builders were recently honored by Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) with the company's Excellence in Sustainability award. This citation recognizes recent projects that demonstrate sustainable building practices, as defined by LEED® and NAHB guidelines, and feature energy-efficient appliance options from Whirlpool Corporation's portfolio of brands.

The Excellence in Sustainability awards are part of the Whirlpool Corporation Green Touch™ Program, which helps make it easier to design, build and market sustainable homes. The program provides builders with a variety of practical solutions to help make a difference, such as sustainable product options, design tools and marketing assistance.

This year's distinguished winners include:

• Artisan Home Crafters, LLC — Atlanta
• EQA Landmark Communities — Pittsburgh
• Heartland Homes — Lawrence, Pa.
• Hagood Homes, Inc. — Wilmington, N.C.
• Jay DeChesere, AIA, Architect, LEED AP — Wilmington, N.C.
• McDonald Construction and Development, Inc. — Oakland, Calif.
• Oakwood Homes — Denver

"This award pays tribute to companies devoted to sustainable efforts and building practices," said Tom Halford, general manager of Contract Sales and Marketing at Whirlpool Corporation. "As industry role models, these companies continue to be environmental stewards. We applaud their decision and support them in their efforts to positively influence the future of residential building."

About Whirlpool Corporation

Whirlpool Corporation strives to exceed expectations with appliances that help building professionals create homes of distinction. The Inside Advantage™ is designed to meet the needs of Whirlpool Corporation's building community customers. More than a program, The Inside Advantage™ provides trade customers with the strength of Powerful Brands, Innovative Products, Market Insight and Targeted Services, all from one company.

Whirlpool Corporation is the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of approximately $17 billion in 2009, 67,000 employees, and 67 manufacturing and technology research centers around the world.  The company markets Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Brastemp, Consul, Bauknecht and other major brand names to consumers in nearly every country around the world. For more information on Whirlpool Corporation and its offerings for building professionals, please visit insideadvantage.com or call 1-800-952-2537.

SOURCE Whirlpool Corporation