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Cleaning, Septic Systems, and COVID-19

by Ri Industries

If it seems you’ve been doing an excessive amount of cleaning these past few months, you’re not alone. Worries about COVID-19 have us washing, wiping, and scrubbing more than usual. What can be wrong with that? Cleanliness plays an important role in keeping us healthy, right?

Of course the answer to that question is yes! Keeping our homes and ourselves clean is important to help maintain our good health. But, when it comes to our septic systems, there can be such a thing as ‘too clean’.

Septic tanks need natural bacteria to form because they work to break down solids. They will rid pollutants such as phosphorus, nitrogen and the disease-causing bacteria found in household wastewater. Using an abundance of cleaning materials can disrupt the growth of the natural bacteria which impedes the treatment of wastewater and can result in groundwater contamination which can, in turn, pose a threat to drinking water. 

You may be cleaning more and using antibacterial soaps, antibacterial cleaners, bleach, ammonia, etc. to help keep you and your family healthy. But by using an excessive amount of these cleaners, you risk upsetting the development of the necessary bacteria in the septic system which can then result in contaminated groundwater and drinking water. So, what is the best thing to do? 

The goal is to find a good balance. Cleaning supplies such as the ones we just mentioned are okay to use in minimal amounts. When possible, substitute septic safe cleaners for the harsh chemicals. Read our blog Safe Cleaning Products for Ri-Treat Waste Water Treatment System to learn more about septic safe cleaners, such as vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, soap – in the form of washing powder, dishwashing liquid and ordinary body soap, and biodegradable cleaning liquids.

Harsh chemicals are also often used to unclog drains. Again, in order to help maintain the natural bacteria in the septic tank, try using the methods we share in our blog Unclog Drains Without Harsh Chemicals. 

We understand staying healthy is on our minds more than usual these days and we want to do all we can to help. If you have questions about safe cleaning products or installing a Ri-Industries septic tank, please call us at 08 8444 8100.

 

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Will COVID-19 Affect the Septic System

by Ri Industries

COVID-19 introduced many concerns into our lives: A new strain of a virus that we were ill prepared to manage; financial worries stemming from forced lockdowns; even short supplies of everyday necessities. One issue that may not have caused concern, is actually something we should think about – septic systems. 

Homes and businesses in rural areas and those without access to the main sewer systems rely on individual septic systems. These systems are designed to function well with ‘normal’ use. When families are forced to remain home, the systems will be put to the test. Increased usage can cause problems for an overworked system. 

Fortunately for South Australia, we appear to have recovered well from the virus and people are returning to normal activities. Still, the septic systems have recently been used more than average and with school holidays happening in July we again will have children staying home. Plus it’s a time for family get-togethers. Additional heavy septic use is on the horizon. 

So, how can you prepare and keep your septic tank working well? Ri-Industries has some tips:

 

  • Take steps to conserve water. Limiting the generation of wastewater can be an effective step to maintaining the health of your system. Remind people to turn the water off when washing hands, brushing teeth, doing dishes in the sink. Ask for people to limit the amount of time they spend in the shower. Only run the washing machine and dishwasher when they are fully loaded. 
  • Manage the type of waste entering the system. Foods containing fats, oils and flour create waste that is difficult for the sewage system to properly handle.
  • Only dispose of flushable items down the toilet. Read our blog “Is This Safe to Flush?”  for a list of items that should not be flushed.

 

Septic tanks built by Ri-Industries are well designed and should have no problem handling the extra use, but being mindful and taking some precautions are always a smart thing to do. If you have questions about septic tanks or any of the Ri-Industries products, please call us at 08 8444 8100.

Ri-Industries Septic Tanks

Should I Buy a Home with a Septic Tank System?

by Ri Industries

 

Ri-Industries Septic Tanks

When preparing to buy a new home, you’ll likely make a list of all the things you want it to have – the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, a garden, shed or pool etc? One item you may not think about is septic system versus sewer. Before looking at areas and falling in love with a property, ask whether the homes are on a sewer line or if they have individual septic tanks. If you are looking at homes with septic tanks, here are some things you should know.

Unlike sewers or a community septic system, an individual septic tank (often found in more rural areas) is not normally provided by your local council. This means it’s the responsibility of the homeowner to maintain and care for it. What does this entail? You may want to have the tank inspected each year. The inspector will check the system for leaks, inspect the scum and sludge levels, check the effluent screens, inspect the mechanical and electrical components, and more. Also, the septic tank will need to be pumped every three to five years.
Before you start worrying too much about the cost of an annual inspection and services to pump the tank, remember – with a sewer service or community septic system, you are – in effect – paying for this through your local council rates. But if you’re considering buying a property in an unsewered area, it’s a good idea to ask the seller how often they have the tank pumped and what the average cost is, so you can factor the cost into the budget for the home.

Since the septic tank is yours, you have final say when to have inspections or when to have it pumped. However, it’s best to stay on a regular schedule to avoid small problems becoming bigger, expensive ones. An inspection can see a small problem that is simple to repair, but if left unchecked, it can balloon to a large problem. If the septic tank has a leak, it can flood the leach field. If the leach field becomes flooded, sewage can come to the surface or even back up into the house to the bathtub or sink. Now you don’t only have a big, expensive problem to fix, but a smelly, dirty, unhygienic one! But don’t worry. Annual inspections and pumping every three to five years should help prevent these big problems. Also, remember that everything that is flushed or goes down drains will go into the tank, so be mindful of what passes through. With these precautions, your septic tank should function well and avoid major problems.

So, if you find a home you love and it has a septic system, we say go for it! Do you have questions about the care of the septic system? Do you need a system installed at your new home? We’ll be happy to help! Please call us on 8444 8100 or visit the septic tank section of our website.

 

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Considerations When Buying or Building a New House

by Ri Industries

Buying or building a new home is exciting, but it can also be a very daunting experience. There are many factors to consider such as number of bedrooms/bathrooms, neighbourhood, design, and more. Those are the fun factors which are a matter of choice. Then there are the structural and functional factors that need to be considered; not as fun, but in some ways, more important.

With so much to think about, you’ll be happy to learn that SA Water has provided some helpful tips on what questions you should ask when buying or building a new home:

  • When having a new home built, check that your builder has applied for water and sewerage connection on your behalf. If your contract with your builder doesn’t include a water and sewerage connection, you will need to apply for a connection.
  • If moving into a newly built home, if there is a connection, but no water meter on the property, you will need to apply for a meter.
  • Is your water meter accessible? Water meters must be kept free of obstructions so they can be read, maintained and periodically replaced. If the meter is partially buried or encased in concrete, you have to remove the obstruction or the meter may be relocated at your cost.
  • Is the property located in a dual water supply development? Prior to sale, each property must be checked to ensure no cross connection exists between the drinking water and recycled water supplies.
  • Is the water connection for the property located away from the property? If so, the property will have a special type of connection agreement. It’s important to note you are responsible for the maintenance and replacement of the water pipe between the meter and the property if repairs are required.
  • Does the property have a sewerage connection? Where is it located?
  • What is the condition of the drains connected to the sewerage connection?
  • Is there an external overflow point on the property? In the event of a blockage, an overflow relief gully may be required. This will allow the discharge to flow from the dwelling.

Are you buying or building a new home and have questions about septic systems? Call Ri-Industries, at 08 8444 8100, for answers.

 

Ri-Industries Septic Tanks

Septic Tank Safety Precautions

by Ri Industries

Ri-Industries Septic Tanks

 

Septic tanks are vital and necessary to help ensure the health and safety of our family and to ensure our homes work effectively. Ri-Industries has frequently written about the importance of regular maintenance to help keep your septic tank system functionally properly such as in this blog, but it is also important to note possible life saving safety precautions you should take when working on or near the septic tank.

 

  • Our first tip has been addressed in previous blogs. It relates to having a properly fitting and sturdy septic tank lid which covers the access port to the septic tank. The child-proof and vandal-proof concrete lids on our septic tanks will give you peace of mind. They are also available as stand-alone replacement lids.
  • If there are noxious fumes near the tank, that is a sign it is time for maintenance and you should not work in the area alone in case the fumes become overwhelming. 
  • Be sure all cuts and open wounds are well covered when working on or near the septic tank. Obviously, septic tank systems may contain serious bacterial hazards. 
  • No open flames! The contents of the septic tank can produce methane gas which is highly explosive. It’s best to place your fire pit well away from the septic tank just in case methane gas is expelled.
  • Do not get close to open septic tanks. It is best practice to allow professionals to perform all maintenance and repairs on the tank. When the tank is being worked on and the lid is off, do not lean over the opening. You may fall in, which is not only dangerous but also a very unpleasant experience, and/or the gases could be strong enough to knock you out. Again, passing out from the fumes is bad, passing out and falling into the tanks is seriously dangerous. 
  • If, by chance, you are nearby when someone else falls into the septic tank, DO NOT TRY TO RETRIEVE THEM YOURSELF! Immediately call for help from professionals with the proper equipment to keep them safe. While waiting for the emergency professionals to arrive, you can place fans around the opening to help blow fresh air into the tank. 

 

When you have a quality septic tank such as the ones provided by Ri-Industries and you hire professionals to maintain and repair the septic tank, there is very little risk of injury to you or your family. However, it’s important to be aware of the above-mentioned safety tips to ensure you take the highest level of safety precautions.

 

For questions regarding our septic tanks, or if you need to order a new septic tank lid to replace an old one, please call 08 8444 8100 and we will be happy to assist you. 

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Avoid Summer Septic Tank Problems

by Ri Industries

Summer is a time to enjoy your beautiful outdoors, entertain guests, and simply …RELAX! Well, there are very few home maintenance issues more stressful and less relaxing than problems with your septic tank. To help avoid any messy issues this summer, Ri-Industries offers these tips for summer septic tank care.

  1. Planning a party or having guests stay with you? That means extra water and waste going through the septic tank. You can help eliminate problems by doing laundry and other heavy water use tasks before guests arrive. If you’re having a big party, consider having your septic tank pumped beforehand.
  2. Which items can be flushed? The answer is very simple – only toilet paper and human waste! Be sure your guests understand this. A helpful sign placed above the toilet may help prevent costly repairs. Common items that cause septic tank problems are:
    *Cat litter
    *Grease and oils
    *Cotton swabs
    *Dental floss
    *Nappies
    *Disposable wipes
    *Feminine hygiene products
    *Hair
    *Cigarette butts
  3. Kids, and adults love to play with water when the weather is hot, running through sprinklers in particular. These are best sprayed away from the septic field to avoid standing water. Identify a separate part of the garden for this play.
  4. Parking can be challenging when you have a lot of people over. Avoid using your lawn to increase the parking area, especially over the septic field. Also, do not ride dirt bikes or go-karts near your septic tank as these also can cause damage.

With just a little forethought, planning, and education, your summer can be relaxing, enjoyable, and free of septic tank problems. If you have questions about Ri-Industries Septic Tanks, please call 08 8444 8100 and we will be happy to help you. Happy Summer!

Preparing for Delivery and Installation of Septic Tanks

by Ri Industries

Preparing for delivery and installation of septic tank Ri-IndustriesCongratulations, you’ve purchased a new septic tank system for your home! What comes next? Preparation for the delivery and installation of the septic tank. Don’t worry, we’ll do all the hard work, but it will be made easier if you understand the process. 

Your first question may be, “What happens with the existing septic tank on my property?” if you already have a septic tank. That’s a great question. The answer will be up to the installer of the new septic tank. Often, they will choose to leave the old tank in the ground. The soil they dig out for the hole for the new tank will be used to fill the old tank and bury it. This is more cost effective than removing the tank. Once the new tank is installed the plumber will run a new line to the new tank.

Your second question may be, “How do you get that large tank onto my property?” Another great question. As you can imagine, our trucks are large. They measure 10 metres long and 2.5 metres wide, therefore we need to assess the best way to unload your tank, taking factors into account such as:

  • We will need to reverse up to the hole therefore easy access is very important
  • A clear, level site is required to unload the tank in your excavated area
  • 4.7 metres is needed for the truck to pass under trees and overhead power lines
  • A minimum height clearance of 8 metres is required when unloading
  • 4 metres clearance is required between gate posts.
  • Once the truck is in position to complete the lift/delivery of the tank it needs an area of 6m wide and 10.5m long for the outriggers and rotation of the crane.

If you have concerns about the delivery of your new septic tanks, please don’t worry. We offer FREE on-site visit inspections by one of our drivers if we have one in the area. If not, we will speak with you over the phone about the site conditions to help make the process as smooth as possible. 

Do you have questions? We will be happy to answer! Please call Ri-Industries at 08 8444 8100.

 

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Purchasing a Septic Tank

by Ri Industries

Learn about the process of purchasing a septic tankPurchasing a septic tank is not something one does often in life and may, at first, feel overwhelming. Ri-Industries would like to help ease your mind by explaining how the process works.

There are two circumstances when you might purchase a septic tank: for a new home build or for an existing home. Each circumstance follows its own process.

Purchasing a septic tank for a new home build: Typically speaking, the builder will handle the entire process. They will arrange for a wastewater engineer to determine the size and type of septic tank needed. This may be a STED point, common effluent point, or a soakage bed.  They will also arrange for a plumber (installer) to inspect the site for any other concerns that may arise from an installation perspective. However, the homeowner may decide to take the septic tank out of the home build and handle it directly. Therefore, the homeowner will be responsible for arranging the wastewater engineer and plumber. The homeowner may purchase the septic tank directly from Ri-Industries or he/she may instruct the plumber to purchase the septic tank from us.

Purchasing a replacement septic tank: The homeowner can choose to handle the entire process themselves which means they will be responsible to arrange for the wastewater engineer, the plumber/installer, and purchase the septic tank. Or, the homeowner may hire a plumber/installer who will manage all of the other steps for them.

Are you installing a Ri-Treat Waste Water Treatment System instead of a standard septic tank? If so, these units need to be ‘commissioned’ by a service agent, so you need to contact them two weeks prior to you moving into your new house. Generally, the procedure is to ensure that the tank is ¾ full of water and all pumps are operational.  The system should be fully established within two weeks, with clean water discharging to the irrigation system.

If a Ri-Treat unit is replacing an existing septic tank,  we will send the unit pre commissioned therefore ready to run and work as soon as the electricity is connected.

Ri-Industries has been in operation since 1947 and we have made it our life’s work to deliver outstanding pre-cast concrete products. We are committed to excellence, not only in our manufacturing techniques and processes but through every interaction we have with our customers. We appreciate the opportunity to speak with you about your septic tank needs. Please call us at 08 8444 8100 to speak with one of our experts.

 

Why Saddle Risers, Increments, and Cover Slabs are Beneficial for Septic Tanks

by Ri Industries

Yay! It’s time to get the septic tank pumped! Wait a minute, that’s not something people get excited about. Let’s face it, while we understand there is a need for a septic tank, it’s not something we like to think about on a regular basis. Once it’s been installed, we’d prefer to put it out of mind.

One good thing about septic tanks is that they are fairly low maintenance. If we follow simple rules about what should not be flushed, the tank should function well without much work on our end. There will come a time though, on average once every three – five years, when the tank should be pumped. Why? Because tanks breed bacteria which digests sewage to a sludge. The sludge builds up over time eventually leaving little room for new sewage. If not pumped, sewage will overflow into the disposal area causing it to fail. Failed disposal areas can be smelly and expensive to fix. So, when the time comes to pump the septic tank, we want it to be as inexpensive as possible and cause the least disruption to the landscaping as possible.

A common problem faced by septic tank maintenance companies is difficulty locating the tank. Sounds a bit funny, doesn’t it? But the tank is, after all, underground and it’s likely there have been years to develop beautiful landscaping around it. Wouldn’t it be awful if every three – five years the landscaping had to be destroyed simply to find the septic tank?

Thankfully, Ri-Industries has a solution to help the septic tank maintenance worker locate the tank without making a mess and ruining your landscaping. Saddle risers, increments, and cover slabs work together to help the septic tank maintenance worker avoid all that painful digging and disruption to your outdoor area. No more guessing the exact spot where the septic tank is located. The saddle makes it easy to find, open and access septic tanks to pump out the contents and quickly re‐seal the cover. The covers are gas tight to contain odours and water tight to prevent effluent leaking from the septic tank or water from entering the septic tank.  They can also stop children and stock falling into or accessing your septic tank.

Ri-Industries manufacture saddles risers, increments, and cover slabs:

  • To suit all horizontal septic and holding tanks
  • Coverslabs suitable for pedestrian traffic only
  • Radius of saddle riser varies to suit tank
  • Each component fitted with 1.3t ‘Swiftlift’ anchors for lifting

For answers to all your septic tank, saddle riser, increment, and cover slab questions, call us at 08 8444 8100. We look forward to hearing from you.

TIps to prepare septic system for cold weather

Preparing Your Septic Tank for Colder Weather

by Ri Industries

It was a brutally hot summer, but we made it through and are being rewarded with cooler temperatures now. As the days and nights continue to grow colder as we move through Autumn, it’s time to prepare your septic system to work its best during the long winter months. Let’s discuss tips to prepare your septic tank for the colder weather.

  • Get Pumped! Septic tanks don’t need to be pumped every year, in fact on average they should be pumped every 3 – 5 years, but if this is the year that yours should be pumped do it before it gets too cold outside. Colder temperatures mean the ground becomes more difficult to break through and accessing your tank is therefore more difficult
  • Inspection Time! Locate the lid of your septic tank and inspect it for cracks and/or holes. A secure lid is imperative to keep small animals, debris, and even children from getting inside the tank. Plus, we want to trap heat inside the tank because there is resident anaerobic bacteria in the septic tank that break down the solid waste materials and treat the raw wastewater that your household produces. The heat maintains a high level of metabolism among the bacteria. Ri-Industries offers stand-alone child-proof and vandal-proof concrete lids for our tanks should you need a replacement.
  • Protect! The drainage field around the septic tank should be protected during the cold months since freezing temperatures and frozen ground can cause damage. Insulate the drainage field by covering it with a layer of mulch a couple of inches thick.
  • Use It! Regular use of the septic system is important to keep things moving properly. Normal, everyday household use is typically sufficient. If you plan on being away during the winter months, arrange for someone to stop by and make sure your septic system gets some use.

That’s all there is to it! Just a few simple steps to help protect your septic tank and keep it working properly for you throughout the colder winter months. Of course, if you have questions or find you need a new septic tank, please call us at 08 8444 8100.

 

 

Ri-Treat Waste Water System

Safe Cleaning Products for Ri-Treat Waste Water Treatment System

by Ri Industries

The Ri-Treat Waste Water Treatment System is an environmentally friendly wastewater treatment system Adelaide guaranteed to be of superior quality. It is designed to reclaim the wastewater produced by your home, recycle it, and re-use it around your home. It is a great conservation tool and a way to save money on your water bill.

As with anything in life, to get the best results you should make sure to take proper care of the system. In addition to caring for the system itself, you should also monitor the substances which make their way into the system. Why is this so important? Substances mixed with wastewater will be reclaimed and recycled and will make their way back into your ecosystem. It is important that they don’t have a harmful effect.

One area which deserves close attention is your choice of household cleaners. You want to avoid putting poisonous materials into your waste water. The following are suitable cleaners:

  • Vinegar
  • Bicarbonate of soda
  • Soap – in the form of washing powder, dishwashing liquid and ordinary body soap
  • Biodegradable cleaning liquids

Disinfectants should be used sparingly. Bleach, antibacterial solutions or toilet cleaners should NEVER be used.  Should any form of bleach enter the system this may cause the system to work inefficiently. The bleach will kill off all the ‘good bacteria’ and can create an odour in the system. In addition, doing two or more loads of washing in a 24-hour period can mean the system may not operate effectively. It is recommended that clothing be washed over a period of time to ensure effective operation of the system.

Ri-Industries is proud to deliver quality products that help residents of South Australia with the important task of conserving water. Please call us, at 08 8444 8100, to learn more about our products.

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Is Your Septic Tank Ready for Summer?

by Ri Industries

Summer is on the way and for many of us that means frequent house guests and lots of time spent outdoors. After many long cold months of being cooped up indoors, we can’t wait to step outside and take deep breaths of fresh air while enjoying the beautiful landscape of our home with our friends and family. One kink that might ruin that plan is a septic tank with a problem.

What are some signs that your septic tank may need maintenance?

  • contaminated tanks
  • untreated sewage discharge
  • soft smell spots
  • pooling water
  • slow drains
  • an overly healthy lawn
  • heavy rainfall

Did rainfall surprise you? Heavy rainfalls can cause the water table to rise. When the water table rises too high, it can saturate the septic tank’s soakage field which can cause contaminants to back up into the septic tank. So, when there has been heavy rain, take steps to put less stress on the septic system. For example, flush the toilet less, take shorter showers, and do less laundry. These are important tips to remember especially when you have guests staying with you and therefore the toilets, showers, laundry, etc. are used more. Also, divert water flow away from the area of the septic tank. Keep the soil around the septic tank from getting too saturated.

One more tip, watch how you mow your lawn! The drains that feed your septic system are buried underground, but not that deeply. A heavy riding mower and an improperly set mowing blade could damage the septic lines causing a dangerous backup in the septic system.

It is best to take preventative action to avoid major problems with the septic system so follow the recommendations for best care practices and be familiar with warning signs that maintenance may be needed. Questions?  Call Ri-Industries , 08 8444 8100, and we’ll be happy to help!