Gray-Water Systems: Going Green, Literally!

You may be asking yourself what exactly is a "gray-water" system?  It's simply a plumbing system that you install in your home to reroute all the water you use for your shower, laundry, sinks, etc. to the landscaping outside.

What normally happens in traditional plumbing systems, water is used and drained into the sewer system for recycling.  Now, normally this isn't a bad thing, but according to the Environmental Protection Agency, this type of water accounts for 54% of an entire household's use.  That's an astounding amount of water that can be used for the benefit of everything green outside the house.  As an added bonus, you're saving money on your water bill by cutting out the extra you spend watering your lawn.  At the end of the day, you're already accustomed to showers (I hope!), laundry, washing dishes and the like - so why not use that water for something that will benefit us all as a whole?  Some installation services even claim that you can save as much as 30-40% on your monthly water bill using this system!  It's a win-win!

Normally, installing a gray-water system will require the administrative headache by apply for and receiving the appropriate permits (as with anything in extreme home improvements).  I live in California, and being the green-friendly state that it is, approved legislation to allow homeowners to install these systems without all the permits and associated red tape.

Gray-water systems are a viable option in an effort to go green and live an environment friendly lifestyle.  The average cost of these systems are initially steep -- after all, you're making a significant change but the kits themselves can range from $600 and up.  However, unless you're an avid DIY you will have to hire a company to install the kit for you.  Those prices can vary depending on who you go with and is outside the scope of this article.  However, after an initial investment, you could look towards reducing your water bill significantly, and helping out the environment all at the same time!

Until next time:  Stay Green!

Save Money and the Environment when Commuting

I live in California where gas prices are continuously in flux and are generally higher than what I'm used to seeing around the nation. I'm an American. I commute. I love my car (who doesn't?). If you're like me (and I'm assuming you are), then the thought of ditching your car and depending on public transportation is a definite no-go.

However, I've come to the realization that saving money on gas and making some small sacrifices can go a long way, not only for the wallet, but for the environment as well. Here are some quick tips on how to reduce your spending for gasoline, as well as reducing your carbon footprint:

1. Car Pool! HOV lanes, or how ever they're described in your neck of the woods. Utilize them! The less cars on the roads equal less traffic. Less traffic equals a shorter commute time. A shorter commute time equals less emissions. It's a win, win. Plus, you might sneak a quick nap if you're not the one driving!

2. Bicycle! Yes I said it. The good ol' bicycle. What was once a modern invention for transportation in the good ol' days is now just a recreation toy. However, more and more socialites and hipsters are riding around on these things to get to and from work. The beauty behind these bad boys: You don't have to worry about parking, you'll enjoy the work out, and you're lessening your carbon footprint.

3. Public transportation. Yes I know what I said earlier. But for some this is an absolute must, especially in crowded metro areas. However, if you live the burbs, then find out if your county has a rail system and then link that with local bus routes to reduce your footprint.

There's not a lot of scientific data to throw around here folks, just some plain old common sense. You will have to make some adjustments and sacrifices, but even once or twice a week can make a huge difference when you're looking to save money and help the environment on your daily commute. Until next time!