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Brentwood Homeowner Takes Unique Steps To Face Historic Drought Head-On

BRENTWOOD (CBSLA.com) — A Brentwood homeowner is facing California's historic drought head-on by harvesting rainwater and utilizing the condensation from air conditioning units.

Scott Mathers, the owner of Hey! Tanks LA, is working on a new home in Brentwood and says his water-saving business has increased as people become concerned about water security.

Not only is the landscaping at the home drought-resistant but Mathers has figured out ways to capture every drop of rain, every ounce of water used inside, and even condensation from air conditioning units.

He says doing so brings in 80,000 gallons of water a year for this home. The gray water is then used for things like irrigation and for the horses.

"Under us here is a 10,000-gallon fiberglass tank. It captures all the storm water when it does rain here in California and we put that water to beneficial use," Mathers said. "On this end of the driveway, we have the gray water tank. It's only a 70-gallon capacity."

As KCAL9's Jasmine Viel reports, the condensation from the air conditioning units from the house alone makes up 25 gallons of water per day.

Mathers says other homes can start saving water, as well.

"There are so many opportunities to harvest your water on your site," said Mathers.

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