September 22, 2008

Innovative Plumbing Solutions for our Southern Californian Home


The plumbing lines have been run for the Go Green Home!


As well as a line from the city, the Go Green Home incorporates a grey water system. Reusing water from sinks, showers, and washers the system uses "grey" water to irrigate the landscaping. It is a great way to make the most of our resources, especially during droughts.


Another way the home innovates sustainability and green design is though rainwater collection. Rainwater which is collected or “harvested” can be put to use both indoors and outdoors. The rainwater catchment system prevents leaves and “first capture” to be diverted, while following rain gets filtered to insure the highest water quality, and goes on to tanks to be stored for later use. Gauges allow you to easily monitor the tank levels. Making the most of our natural resources, this system also lessens the quantity and velocity of runoff from storms, which is a concern in Urban areas.


Tankless water heaters will be installed, providing the entire home with hot water when it is needed. Unlike conventional water heaters which waste energy having to reheat stored water, tankless water heaters heat the water directly, can control temperature without fluctuations, and comparatively last over three times longer. Tankless heaters are available in either electric or natural gas. They save space; more importantly the save energy. Tankless systems use up to 50% less energy to run. It also allows the option of installing multiple heaters for separate appliances, or whole house systems for larger projects. A safer alternative to conventional tank heaters, they do not have exposed pilots, making them family friendly.