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Reduce Water Use in the Garden

by Ri Industries

Did you know that an average Australian household will use 40% of its water in the garden? This makes the garden a prime location for water saving techniques. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Install a dripper system and only water during the permitted hours.
  • Use mulch to prevent water loss through evaporation and prevent soil erosion.
  • Plant your garden in watering zones. Group plants that require large amounts of water together to reduce your water use.
  • Choose a drought-resistant lawn.
  • Don’t over water your lawn – train it to use less water by encouraging the roots to grow deeper. Let grass grow longer in the summer months which will shade the soil surface and reduce evaporation loss.
  • Don’t water during windy weather – water will blow away from where it’s needed most.
  • Instead of hosing, use a broom or rake to clean paths, paved areas and patios.

Our Ri-Treat Waste Water Treatment System is another tool that will help with water use. By using this system, the waste water from your home will be treated and made usable for the garden. Call us to learn about all of our products on 08 8444 8100 and start saving water!

Top Myths About Septic Tanks

by Ri Industries

Ri-Industries Septic Tank

 

A septic system not used or maintained properly can bring unsolicited problems as well as become a health hazard and compromise the quality of your water. Here are 4 common myths Ri-Industries wants septic tank owners to be aware of:

MYTH #1: The amount of water a family uses or consumes does not affect its septic tank system.

Water consumption and use, whether through leaking pipes and taps or excessive laundering, will increase the amount of effluent that travels through the tank, requiring more frequent pumping. Ri-Industries recommends being diligent about thorough routine inspections of your plumbing fixtures in addition to your septic tank.

MYTH #2: Bacteria additives are not necessary for your tank.

Solids are broken down by the presence of bacteria; therefore bacteria additives may be an alternative to help your system break down the grease and oils to help your septic tank to work properly and efficiently

MYTH #3: Pouring household chemicals down your drain does not harm your septic tank.

One of the easiest ways to rid your house of chemicals and hazardous materials is to flush them down the drain or toilet. Don’t do it. This practice can cause damage to your septic system and is a health hazard. A great way to avoid toxins in your house and your septic system is to use all natural chemicals.

MYTH #4: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!

Don’t wait for a problem or for your tank to break. Routine maintenance of your system is required to keep your tank functioning and to prevent damage to your drainfield. Plus, your septic tank will last longer with proper preventive maintenance—and will save you money in the long-run.
If you own a septic tank system and are unsure of how it works, and what is required to keep your tank in good working condition, don’t hesitate to contact us at Ri-Industries. We serve customers throughout Adelaide and South Australia.

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Tips to Save Water in the Bathroom

by Ri Industries

Here’s an interesting fact –  40% of all water used in the home is used in the bathroom. So if you want to conserve water, the bathroom is the logical place to begin. 

First, take a look at the appliances. Check the manufacturers water efficiency label and look for products with a high star rating. A standard 3-star rated shower head can save the average home approximately $150/year and only costs about $20. 

Not only can water efficient appliances help you save water, but a few simple changes in habits can help too. Ri-Industries offers the following tips to help you save water in the bathroom:

  • Take shorter showers.
  • Use a timer in the shower to help you keep track of time.
  • Use a bucket to collect water while waiting for the water to get hot. Use the collected water on plants or other household uses.
  • Insulate hot water pipes.
  • Do not run water while shaving. Use water only to rinse off.
  • Only use as much water as is necessary in the bath.
  • Monitor the temperature as the tub fills to avoid adding water to regulate the temperature.
  • Collect used bathwater to use in the garden or to wash cars.
  • Use 4-star rated toilets.
  • Regularly check toilets for leaks and repair when needed.
  • Turn water in basin off when brushing teeth or shaving. Use running water only to rinse.

Ri-Industries is committed to water conservation and community education. For more information, please contact us at 08 8444 8100.

 

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The Benefits of the Ri-Scape Septic Tank

by Ri Industries

ri image

 

When thinking about home improvements, most people will focus on painting, furnishings, landscaping and more. These are fun projects to dive into with beautiful results to enjoy. One necessity for your home, although it may be one you would prefer not to think about, is a septic tank. A properly functioning septic tank is crucial to enjoying all of those home improvements you worked so hard to complete.

 Ri-Industries has some good news to share. The recently introduced Ri-Scape septic tank eliminates many concerns homeowners have when installing septic tanks. Normally, when installing septic tanks, two holes must be built, one for the tank and one for the pump chamber. The beauty of the RI-Scape is that it is smaller than typical septic tanks and is an all-in-one unit with the pump chamber already incorporated into the tank. This means that only one hole is required. This is great news for people building in smaller areas but also if they live in areas – like along the River Murrary – where pipes connecting the tanks and the pump chambers are prone to break and link, due to land movement. There is also no chance of the Ri-Scape leaking.

If you are interested in learning more about the Ri-Scape septic tank, or any of the products offered by Ri-Industries, please call us at 08 8444 8100.

 

 

Rainwater Tanks Make Water Conservation Simple

by Ri Industries

ri rainwater tanks

 

Ready for even more rainwater tank facts? Ri Industries is helping spread the word about the many benefits of using rainwater tanks Adelaide. Here are 9 more compelling reasons to install a rainwater tank at your home.

  • Rainwater tanks come in many different sizes; visit Ri Industries to learn more, or use our phone app to view specific details and measurements of our rainwater tanks.
  • Use of rainwater saves our oceans and rivers by reducing the amount of sewage discharged to these waterways.
  • By the numbers:

             10mm of rain fall results in 200sqm roof = 2,000 litres X 80%                    collection / rain bounce = 1,600 litres water stored;

  • 2,500 litres water stored will provide 4 litres / toilet flush ( 140 litre / week) as an alternative source with lower levels of salt and other substances.
  • Producing water from a rainwater tank is 5 times more energy efficient than when produced in a desalination plant.
  • Rainwater tanks can be buried underground out of sight and is a good option for smaller properties.
  • According to the Government, if southeast Queensland and Sydney homeowners increased rainwater tank installations by 5 percent, major water projects could be delayed for years.
  • Your garden will thrive when showered with your collected rainwater!

Learn even more about what a rainwater tank can mean to your home by calling Ri Industries at 08 8444 8100 and speaking with one of our experts.

How Much Water Can a Rainwater Tank Save?

by Ri Industries

Water conservation is especially important in Australia, but can take a bit of effort. By adjusting the way you bathe, do dishes, wash laundry, etc, you can save a little water here and a little water there. That’s great. Every drop counts. There is a way, however, to dramatically increase the amount of water you and your family save with little to no effort on your part! How? Have Ri Industries install a concrete rainwater tank. 

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How much water can you save with a rainwater tank? Here are some statistics based upon a family of four in Adelaide, with a 100m² roof catchment area and a 1000L tank. In one year, enough rainwater will be captured to:

  • Flush a toilet twice per day per person

OR

  • Provide one bath per person per week (150L tub)

OR

  • Run a sprinkler system for one hour five days a week (1.5 L/min)

OR

  • Wash dishes in the dishwasher every day

OR

  • Give each person a 5 minute shower twice a week (standard flow shower)

Now that’s saving a lot of water! Learn more about Ri Industries concrete rainwater tanks by calling 08 8444 8100.

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Tips to Save Water in the Kitchen

by Ri Industries

Did you know that the kitchen uses around 10% of total household water consumption? To help you save water, Ri Industries offers the following tips:

  • Dishwashers consume the most water in the kitchen. Look for the WELS label of  water efficiency. The more stars, the more water efficient the appliance. Only run the dishwasher when it is full. If the dishwasher has a rinse-hold setting, use it in lieu of rinsing dishes with sink water.
  • Do not run water over frozen food to defrost. Instead, defrost overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Use washing-up liquid sparingly to limit the amount of rinsing required.
  • Waiting for the running water to warm up? Catch it in a container and use it to water plants, rinse dishes, or wash fruits and vegetables.
  • Use a plugged sink or a tub of water whenever possible to avoid running the tap.

Want to conserve even more water? Call 08 8444 8100 to learn about Ri Industries rainwater tanks and Ri Treat Waste Water Treatment System.

10 Facts about Rainwater Tanks

by Ri Industries

Ri Rainwater Tanks

Are you considering installing a concrete rainwater tank on your property? There are many benefits to having a rainwater tank. Here are 10 facts about rainwater tanks Adelaide that may help you to make your decision to use a rainwater tank.

  1. Collecting rainwater is environmentally beneficial and a socially responsible way to use a natural resource.
  2. When water restrictions are imposed by government to help conserve water, rainwater tanks are an excellent alternative.
  3. Fewer than 20% of households in Australia use a rainwater tank.
  4. Rainwater can be used for drinking purposes if collected and stored properly.
  5. Over 40 percent of households in Adelaide have installed rainwater tanks–significantly higher than Sydney, Melbourne and other populous areas.
  6. A toilet can be flushed with rainwater. 
  7. Around 55,000 litres of water could be collected from a 100m2 roof area and used to supply part of your household’s water needs.      
  8. Washing your clothes with rainwater is safe and often a preferred method of laundering.
  9. Creativity is not lost when installing an above-ground water tank. Ri-Industries’ pre-cast tanks can be painted to blend into your landscape for an aesthetically pleasing look.
  10. Rainwater tanks are a cost effective way to collect and use water which reduces use of mains water and saves you money on your water bill.

If you are considering a rainwater tank as a viable option for your household in Adelaide or South Australia, Ri-Industries is sure to have what you are looking for. We offer above-ground and underground pre-cast concrete rainwater tanks. Contact us to further discuss your needs.

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4 Unique Uses for Precast Concrete Tanks

by Ri Industries

RI industries is well known for its precast concrete tanks used for waste water treatment systems, septic systems, and concrete rain water tanks, but there are other uses for a precast concrete tank.

Here are 4 unique ways to use a precast concrete tank:

1. Storage

A precast concrete tank is an excellent choice for your underground or above-ground storage needs. Whether you want storage space for water, grain and recycling materials, the sturdiness and durability of precast concrete is a sure bet. Also, concrete tanks are ideal to store anything you don’t want to lose in a fire.

2. Shelter

Homeowners, particularly in storm-heavy areas, will benefit from a concrete shelter that can provide a dry, safe haven to weather any storm.

3. Sculpture Base 

Precast concrete tanks are a strong base for sculptures and signs. The concrete is typically stained to compliment the sculpture that will utilise the base space. Also, precast concrete tanks are often used to create an aesthetically pleasing entrance sign in shopping malls, restaurants, churches, neighborhoods and more!

4. Plunge Pool

Plunge right into your own precast concrete pool. Compact and economic plunge pools can be used 365 days a year and decorated with tiles to compliment any outdoor garden space. These pools are easy to heat and maintain.

For more information on precast concrete tanks, contact us or download our app to view our precast concrete tank specifications.

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Why do I need to service my aerobic waste water treatment system?

by Ri Industries

Routine scheduled maintenance is the one thing you need to do to ensure your Ri-Treat Waste water treatment system operates properly.  Aerobic treatment systems are on-site sewage treatment systems that use forced air to treat wastewater and surface application, or drip irrigation, to disperse the treated wastewater. They may also be used to replace subsurface systems that are failing due to high groundwater and/or poor soil.

Servicing

Once the unit has been installed it is the owners/operators responsibility of on-site secondary treatment systems (STS) to ensure the unit is serviced by an accredited service company and to hold a current maintenance and/or service contract for their system. Owners/operators shall ensure that all maintenance and servicing is undertaken by an appropriately trained person. This person must have completed a training course as specified by SA Health.  Servicing must be undertaken in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the conditions of the relevant authority’s approval (eg. Council/SA Health). Service providers must forward a copy of each service record to the relevant authority and notify that authority if they cease to service the system.

General Maintenance Guidelines          

A system that is poorly maintained will not produce properly treated effluent; therefore Ri –Industries recommends owner/operators hire a maintenance service with the experience and knowledge of your system.

You will have best success for a properly working system if you follow these general guidelines:

  •  Aerobic systems are for household wastewater, so be sure to avoid using any form of bleach, antibacterial solutions or toilet cleaners, as these will kill off all of the good bacteria and create an odour in your system.
  • Be diligent in disinfecting your system to reduce the risk of pathogens in the effluent. Disinfection is the primary mechanism for destroying pathogen organisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoan cysts.  Disinfection also prevents the spread of waterborne diseases to downstream users and the environment. The most commonly used disinfectant is chlorine. Other disinfection methods include ultraviolet (UV) radiation and ozonation.
  • Check the surface application area; your vegetative cover should not be ignored during maintenance inspections.
  • Clean the equalisation tank every one or two years.  Routine tank inspections during your scheduled maintenance service will help you avoid sludge overflow.
  • Don’t ignore your system alarm.  Most systems are equipped with an alarm to alert you of a system failure.  Inspect the system immediately or call a professional if you are not comfortable managing the issue yourself.

If you have questions about the maintenance of your aerobic treatment system, please do not hesitate to contact us with questions. We are proud to serve the Adelaide and South Australia area with all of your waste water treatment needs.

5 Ways to Avoid the Cost of Replacing Your Septic Tank

5 Ways to Avoid the Cost of Replacing Your Septic Tank

by Ri Industries

Replacing a septic tank is costly. Though it may be necessary at some point in your lifetime, scheduled routine maintenance and inspection of your septic tank can lengthen the life of your septic system. Ri Industries recommends doing these five things to avoid replacing your septic tank.

5 Ways to Avoid the Cost of Replacing Your Septic Tank

1. Keep Foreign Materials Out

It is important to keep foreign materials from getting flushed into your system.  Flush biodegradable only; items such as dental floss, tampons, condoms, plastic bags and grease should not be disposed of through your septic system.

2. Remove Sludge

Sludge will build up and block your outlet pipe, eventually causing the septic system to fail.  Periodically removing sludge, often called de-sludging, will keep your septic system processing properly. Ri Industries recommends de-sludging every 3-4 years, or according to local regulations.

3. Conserve Water Usage

Water conservation will keep your septic system in good working condition by reducing the amount of water absorption in your drainfield.   Ways to reduce your water usage include repair leaky taps and toilets; use water-saving showerheads and low-flow toilets; and not running water when brushing teeth or shaving.  Also, when machine laundering, be sure to wash full loads or change your settings to accommodate smaller loads.

4. Maintain Proper Tank Conditions

The enzyme/bacteria in your septic tank converts the solids to liquids – a process necessary to begin purification. To remain at the septic tank system’s recommended bacteria levels, do not dispose of household cleaners, drain openers, chlorine bleaches and other harsh chemicals through the system.

5. Know Your Septic System

Understand your septic tank system’s design; know how it operates and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on how best to care for your septic tank system. Remember— knowledge is power.

In addition to these five maintenance tips, prepare a routine checklist and maintenance schedule, and stick to it. Septic tank inspections should occur 1-2 times each year to allow for timely detection of operating issues and may deter a full replacement of your system.

Do you have any questions about your septic system? Please do not hesitate to contact us for your septic tank needs in Adelaide and South Australia.

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Ri-Industries Reaches Customers through Mobile App

by Ri Industries

Ri-Industries Reaches Customers through Mobile AppDid you know Ri-Industries has a mobile app?

With half of Australian adults owning a smartphone, Ri-Industries wanted a way to reach our customers on the go.  Focused on convenience, our Ri-Industries Catalogue App allows you to view our product specs and measurements – anytime, anywhere.

Ri-Industries app features

Our products are at your fingertips with simple navigation features on the mobile version of the Ri Industries catalogue.  View easy-to-read diagrams, including sizes and specs, on all of our products, such as rainwater tanks, septic tanks and accessories, storm water sumps, and grates and frames.

Plus, contacting us is easier than ever with the app’s messaging and email capabilities. Our app also allows you to search by keywords, select favourites and review your viewing history.

How to download the Ri-Industries Catalogue App:

Android Users

  • Click here for a direct download for your Android smartphone or tablet
  • Or, Android users can download the app from Google Play; just click the “Install” button and you’ll be ready to go.

iPhone or iPad users

  • Download the app for your iPad or iPhone.
  • Or,  iOS (iPad or iPhone) users can search “Ri Industries” on iTunes, and click on the “FREE,” then “Install” buttons to download our Ri Catalogue App.

Of course, either Ri Catalogue Apps can be downloaded by visiting our website home page directly.

Share with us

We hope you find our catalogue app to be time-saving and convenient.

Click here to tell us how we’re doing—we would love to hear from you.  And, if you have an idea of more conveniences we can offer our customers, please share it in the comments below.