At Whywait Plumbing, “green” means everything to us. It means helping you save water and reduce your energy bill. It also means sharing information on how you can conserve our natural resources. After all, that’s what being a good neighbour is all about.
So in this section of our web site, you’ll find a frequently-updated series of easy-to-implement green living ideas. 
Have an idea or two of your own? Please send them along and we’ll be happy to post them on this page…and, with your permission, give you due credit.
Thanks from all of us at Whywait Plumbing.
Green Kitchen Remodeling.
In today's world, a green kitchen remodel makes financial and ecological sense. As you prepare to remodel your kitchen, make sure you leave room in the budget for green home appliances. Of course, besides the ENERGY STAR refrigerator and dishwasher, there are a few other green kitchen features you may have overlooked . . .
-
Consider installing a compost pail under a counter to make saving scraps for your compost bin more convenient.
- Think about other electronic items in your kitchen. Televisions and phones come with Energy Star ratings and new green technologies are always on the horizon.
- Use natural, ecologically friendly detergent or liquid soap to wash your dishes.
- Think about cutting back on paper and foam plates and cups and using fewer paper towels on a daily basis. Washing dishes and rinsing rags uses much less energy than manufacturing and discarding disposable products.
Use Recycled Products.
Whenever possible, buy products that are made of recycled material or can be reused or recycled. We’re talking about bank cheques, greeting cards, tote bags, and many more.
Try Fish or Veggies!
Replacing one meal of red meat with a more sustainable option (such as sustainably harvested fish or sustainably grown vegetables) can dramatically reduce ozone depleting carbon emissions.
Water Conservation.
Plug your sink while washing vegetables, etc., rather than letting the water run continuously.
Solar Heating.
A staggering 70% of energy use in Australian homes is for space heating and cooling (40%) and heating water (30%). Solar heating can dramatically reduce electricity usage, therefore reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Dry Cleaning.
Choose a dry clean that uses chemical-free, non-toxic cleaning solutions and does not use perchloroethylene to clean your clothes. Perchloroethylene is the chemical your clothes are submerged in...you know it by its distinctive odour. It’s been associated strongly with asthma attacks and allergic reactions.
Washing Your Clothes.
Look for an environmentally friendly laundry detergent. There are several to choose from, and each is:
- Suitable for grey water systems
- Concentrated for extra loads per bottle
- PH balanced for sensitive skin
Antique or Pre-Owned Jewelry.
Gifts that sparkle are definitely popular with moms and sweethearts, but the jewelry industry has wreaked havoc on the environment. For example, it takes up to 5 tons of water and 20 tons of mine waste to create a simple gold ring! Consider buying something pre-loved, from a socially responsible jeweler or items made from glass, shells or recycled materials. It may sound a little tacky, but there's some truly beautiful pieces available!
Green Roof Insulation.
Any type of roofing insulation will cut your energy bill drastically while increasing your indoor comfort. But normal batts insulation is toxic, so we recommend recycled cellulose fibre. Initially it costs more, but offers superior insulation qualities which means, over time, you’ll enjoy substantial cost savings. It’s also fire retardant and vermin repellent.
Pet Flea & Tick Meds.
Retail flea and tick meds are loaded with pesticides that can harm your pets and deplete their immune systems. In fact they’re so toxic that people shouldn’t come in contact with them at all. Instead, try adding Brewer’s Yeast and Garlic to pet meals or use an essential oil combination to repel unwanted bugs. Pennyroyal is an excellent herbal repellent but should never be used around pregnant pets or peeps.
