Zeta Communities- Net Zero Modular Green Building

Posted on August 4, 2011 by Paul Gerrard

Modular Green Building Oakland

Who moved my cheese?

Zeta communities is a new type of construction company. ZETA is building modular homes in a factory in Sam Leandro CA. that are net zero, that means over the course of a year ZETA buildings’ energy production and occupant consumption of energy nets to zero. It does this by combining advanced energy efficiency technology with grid-tied photovoltaics and other clean energy sources. Affordable, good quality construction, stylish and green. Could this be the future of construction?

This Flagship home is certainly a very interesting concept and for a green plumber, its a treasure trove of new technology.

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First Permitted Gray Water/ Rain Water System, Contra Costa County.

Posted on August 3, 2011 by Paul Gerrard

75 Gallon Grey Water Storage Tank

The tanks are now in the ground for the first permitted Gray Water Recycle and Rain water Harvesting system in Contra Costa County.

This new construction custom home in Lafayette was ‘Dual-Plumbed’ from the very start. Dual Plumbing refers to the system of installing separate pipes for gray water and black water within the building envelope. The drain lines for the tubs and showers, lavatory sinks and laundry were installed parallel to the toilet and kitchen sink drains (black-water). This is completely code compliant and does not need special permitting.

The home owner was very motivated for conscious construction and worked diligently with the architect, consultant, contractor and plumbing contractor to push for the permit for a gray water/ rain water system. The permit has been approved, setting precedent for other systems in the Contra Costa County and, hopefully, surrounding areas. Continue reading →

Guest Blog- Fully Sustainable Green Pipe Finally in California

Posted on August 3, 2011 by Paul Gerrard

Aquatherm replaces copper for hydronics and potable water systems.

Engineered in Germany and used throughout Europe for over 35 years, a completely sustainable plastic piping system for potable water use has finally hit California.

100% recyclable, less than 1/3 of the energy to produce and completely non-toxic, Aquatherm Green Pipe is the most environmentally friendly pipe in the world! Aquatherm is the only pipe approved by Greenpeace and applies to nine different LEED categories Continue reading →