Image shows Ri-Industries concrete rainwater tanks

Harnessing Rainwater – The Benefits of Concrete Rainwater Tanks in South Australia’s Dry Conditions

by Ri Industries

Image shows Ri-Industries concrete rainwater tanks

 

Harnessing rainwater by using concrete rainwater tanks is a wonderful solution for those living in dry conditions, especially when studies find that bushfires and dry conditions are expected to increase in South Australia. One option gaining traction is the utilisation of concrete rainwater tanks, offering a multitude of benefits that align perfectly with the needs of South Australia’s residents and environment.

Water Conservation and Security

Concrete rainwater tanks, such as the ones manufactured by Ri-Industries, serve as reservoirs for capturing and storing rainwater runoff from rooftops. This collected water can then be used for various purposes, such as watering gardens, flushing toilets, and even supplying potable water with proper filtration systems. During dry conditions, when traditional water sources dwindle, having a concrete rainwater tank provides a reliable and sustainable alternative, reducing dependency on mains water and safeguarding against shortages.

Durability and Longevity

Concrete is renowned for its durability and longevity, making it an ideal material for rainwater tanks, especially in regions prone to extreme weather conditions like South Australia. Unlike plastic or metal tanks, which may degrade over time due to UV exposure or corrosion, concrete tanks are robust and resistant to deterioration. They can withstand the harsh Australian climate, ensuring reliable water storage for decades with minimal maintenance.

Temperature Regulation

In regions characterised by hot summers, such as South Australia, concrete rainwater tanks offer an additional advantage – temperature regulation. The thermal mass of concrete helps moderate water temperature, keeping it cooler during hot weather and reducing the risk of bacterial growth. This feature not only preserves water quality but also enhances its usability for various domestic and agricultural purposes.

Environmental Sustainability

The adoption of concrete rainwater tanks aligns with broader environmental sustainability goals. By harvesting rainwater, home owners can reduce their reliance on mains water, which often involves energy-intensive treatment and distribution processes. Also, rainwater harvesting promotes groundwater recharge and reduces stormwater runoff, mitigating the risk of soil erosion and minimising pollution in waterways. These eco-friendly practices contribute to conserving natural resources and protecting South Australia’s delicate ecosystems.

Cost-Efficiency

While the initial investment in a concrete rainwater tank may seem significant, it offers substantial long-term savings. With rising water costs and potential water restrictions during dry periods, homeowners can offset expenses by using rainwater for non-potable purposes. Additionally, concrete tanks have low maintenance requirements and a lifespan measured in decades, offering excellent value for money compared to alternative storage solutions.

Enhanced Property Value

The presence of a concrete rainwater tank can enhance the appeal and value of residential properties in South Australia. With water conservation becoming an increasingly important consideration for homebuyers, a well-maintained rainwater harvesting system can be a compelling selling point. Properties equipped with concrete tanks demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency, which resonates with environmentally conscious buyers.

Learn More

Concrete rainwater tanks offer a multitude of benefits, including water conservation, durability, temperature regulation, environmental sustainability, cost-efficiency, and enhanced property value. By harnessing rainwater, residents can mitigate the impact of dry conditions, reduce reliance on mains water, and contribute to a more water-secure future for the state. Are you ready to learn more? Call us on 08 8444 8100 and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Septic tanks Adelaide

Navigating Septic Tank Regulations in South Australia – What Every Homeowner Needs to Know

by Ri Industries

Image of septic tanks on a truck for delivery

Septic tank regulations need to be strictly adhered to when the tanks are installed in South Australia. Septic tank systems are a crucial component of many homes in SA, particularly in rural and semi-rural areas where connection to centralised sewerage systems is not feasible. While these systems offer practical solutions for wastewater management, they are subject to regulations to ensure public health and environmental protection. Understanding these regulations is essential for homeowners to maintain compliance and avoid potential issues. In this article, we’ll delve into the key aspects of navigating septic tank regulations in South Australia.

Licensing and Approval

In South Australia, the installation, alteration, or replacement of septic tank systems typically requires approval from the local council or relevant authority. Homeowners must obtain the necessary permits and adhere to specific guidelines regarding system design, installation, and location. These regulations aim to ensure that septic tanks are installed correctly to prevent contamination of groundwater and surface water. 

System Design and Installation

Septic tank systems must be designed and installed in accordance with state and local regulations, as well as Australian Standards. The design considerations include factors such as soil type, site topography, and proximity to water bodies. Installation and design of septic systems are regulated by the Health Department in each state. Local Council Health Inspectors will have relevant area specific information. Contact your local Council for a copy of these specifications.

The exact nature of your septic tank will need to be in line with your States’ regulations, but no matter where you are, we have a range of concrete septic tanks and replacement concrete septic tank lids to suit your needs.

Maintenance and Inspection

Regular maintenance and inspection are essential for the proper functioning of septic tank systems. Homeowners are typically responsible for maintaining their systems in good working order, which may involve tasks such as regular pumping, monitoring for leaks, and avoiding the disposal of inappropriate materials into the system. Additionally, periodic inspections by qualified professionals may be required to ensure compliance with regulations and identify any issues promptly.

Environmental and Health Considerations

Proper management of septic tank systems is critical for safeguarding public health and protecting the environment. Poorly maintained or malfunctioning systems can pose risks such as groundwater contamination, surface water pollution, and the spread of waterborne diseases. By adhering to regulations and implementing best practices, homeowners can minimise these risks and contribute to a healthier environment.

Compliance and Enforcement

Non-compliance with septic tank regulations can result in serious consequences, including fines, legal action, and environmental damage. Local councils and environmental health authorities have the authority to enforce regulations and investigate complaints related to septic tank systems. Therefore, homeowners must ensure that their systems meet all regulatory requirements and address any issues promptly to avoid penalties. You can rest assured that Ri-Industries will meet all the regulatory requirements of your local council and health authorities. 

Community Engagement and Education

Community engagement and education play vital roles in promoting compliance with septic tank regulations. Local councils, environmental organisations, and community groups can provide resources, workshops, and outreach programs to educate homeowners about proper septic system management. By raising awareness and fostering a sense of responsibility among homeowners, these initiatives can contribute to the overall health and sustainability of communities.

Navigating septic tank regulations in South Australia requires a clear understanding of the legal requirements, system design principles, maintenance practices, and environmental considerations. Ri-Industries has been in the septic tank business for more than 75 years and has developed efficient manufacturing techniques to produce concrete septic tanks and septic tank lids that will comply with local regulations. You may contact your local Council for a copy of their specifications. Of course, our experts are always here to help also. 

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How to Prepare for Septic Tank Emergencies

by Ri Industries

Proper maintenance of your septic tank is essential to prevent potential damage to your property and ensure the proper functioning of your septic system. Ri-Industries takes great pride in the quality of our products and you can rest assured they will function well when proper care is taken. However, it’s always good practice to be prepared for an emergency. Here are some steps to help you prepare for septic tank emergencies:

  • Understand Your Septic System:
    • Familiarise yourself with the layout and components of your septic system. Know the location of the septic tank, distribution box, and drain field.
  • Keep Records:
    • Maintain detailed records of your septic system, including the installation date, last pumping date, and any repairs or maintenance performed. This information can be valuable for troubleshooting during emergencies.
  • Regular Inspections:
    • Conduct regular visual inspections of your septic system. Look for signs of potential issues, such as standing water, unusual odours, or soggy areas around the drain field.
  • Pumping Schedule:
    • Adhere to a regular septic tank pumping schedule as recommended by a professional. Regular pumping helps prevent solids from accumulating and causing blockages.
  • Educate Household Members:
    • Ensure that everyone in your household is aware of what can and cannot be flushed or disposed of in sinks and drains. Educate them on the importance of proper septic system care.
  • Emergency Contact Information:
    • Keep contact information for a licensed septic system professional or septic service company readily available. In case of an emergency, you can quickly reach out to a professional for assistance.
  • Know the Warning Signs:
    • Be aware of the warning signs of septic system issues, such as slow drainage, gurgling sounds in plumbing fixtures, sewage odours, or backups. Address these signs promptly to prevent more significant problems.
  • Protect the Drain Field:
    • Avoid parking vehicles or placing heavy objects on the drain field, as this can compact the soil and disrupt the system’s ability to treat wastewater.
  • Install Effluent Filters:
    • Consider installing effluent filters in the septic tank. These filters help prevent solids from reaching the drainfield and causing clogs.
  • Emergency Kit:
    • Prepare a basic emergency kit that includes tools, gloves, a flashlight, and any other items you may need for quick assessments and temporary fixes.
  • Emergency Action Plan:
    • Develop an emergency action plan that includes steps to take in case of a backup or other septic system emergencies. This plan should outline who to contact and what immediate actions to take.
  • Regular Professional Inspections:
    • Schedule periodic professional inspections of your septic system. Professionals can identify potential issues before they escalate into emergencies.

Although it’s good to be prepared, you can feel confident that septic tank emergencies are not common with Ri-Industries tanks when proper care is taken and maintenance carried out. Our website has a number of articles which detail best practices such as Maintaining a Septic Tank in South Australia. If you have questions about our tanks or how to best avoid emergencies, please call us at 08 8444 8100.

Xeriscaping in South Australia

by Ri Industries

Xeriscaping in South Australia is a landscaping approach that focuses on conserving water by using drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation techniques. It is particularly well-suited for regions with arid or semi-arid climates, such as South Australia, where water resources can be limited. Xeriscaping not only helps to reduce water usage but also creates beautiful and sustainable landscapes.

Here are some key principles and considerations for xeriscaping in South Australia:

Plant Selection:

  • Choose native and drought-resistant plants: Select plants that are adapted to the local climate and can thrive with minimal water. South Australia has a diverse range of native plants that are well-suited for xeriscaping, such as kangaroo paws, grevilleas, and saltbushes.
  • Group plants by water needs: Arrange your plants in zones based on their water requirements to ensure efficient irrigation. This helps avoid overwatering or underwatering specific areas.

Soil Preparation:

  • Improve soil quality: Enhance your soil’s ability to retain moisture by adding organic matter like compost. Well-amended soil can better support plant growth and reduce the need for frequent watering.

Mulching:

  • Apply mulch: Cover the soil with a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw. Mulch helps to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Efficient Irrigation:

  • Use drip irrigation: Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to the root zones of plants, reducing water wastage through evaporation and runoff. Install a timer to control watering schedules.
  • Install rain sensors: Rain sensors can automatically shut off your irrigation system when it rains, preventing overwatering during wet periods.

Watering Practices:

  • Water deeply and infrequently: Instead of shallow, frequent watering, water your xeriscape plants deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth and drought resistance.
  • Water during cooler times: Watering in the early morning or late afternoon reduces water loss due to evaporation.

Hardscape and Design:

  • Use permeable materials: Choose permeable paving materials like gravel or permeable concrete to allow water to penetrate the soil rather than running off.
  • Group plants strategically: Group plants with similar water needs together to create visually appealing and water-efficient garden designs.

Maintenance:

  • Regularly inspect and maintain your xeriscape garden. Prune and remove dead or diseased plants, and adjust irrigation as needed based on seasonal weather changes.

Sustainability:

  • Consider using rainwater harvesting systems to collect and store rainwater for irrigation purposes, further reducing your reliance on mains water.

Xeriscaping in South Australia not only helps conserve water but also promotes the use of native plants, which can benefit local wildlife and create a sense of place in your landscape. Be sure to check with your local nursery or landscaping professionals for advice on selecting the best drought-resistant plants for your specific location in South Australia, as climate conditions can vary within the region.

See more about xeriscaping by visiting https://www.ri-industries.com.au/category/xeriscaping/.

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Maintaining a Septic Tank in South Australia

by Ri Industries

Maintaining a septic tank in South Australia, as in any other region, is essential for the proper functioning of your wastewater system and to avoid costly repairs. Here are some household tips for homes with septic tanks in South Australia:

Regular Pumping:

Have your septic tank pumped out by a licensed professional regularly, typically every 3-5 years. The frequency may vary depending on the tank size and household usage.

Water Conservation:

Be mindful of water usage. Fix any leaks promptly, install water-saving fixtures, and avoid excessive water use, as it can overload the septic system.

Use Septic-Safe Products:

Use septic-safe cleaning products and detergents. Avoid harsh chemicals and antibacterial soaps, as they can disrupt the beneficial bacteria in the tank.

Proper Waste Disposal:

Do not flush non-biodegradable items like diapers, sanitary products, paper towels, or chemicals down the toilet. Use a waste bin for disposal.

Garbage Disposal:

Avoid using a garbage disposal unit, as it can introduce solid waste into the septic system, leading to clogs and reduced efficiency.

Limit Chemicals:

Reduce the use of strong chemicals, like bleach and drain cleaners, as they can harm the septic tank’s bacteria. Consider eco-friendly alternatives.

Spread Out Water Usage:

Avoid heavy water usage all at once. For example, do not do all your laundry in a single day. Spread out activities that involve water.

Regular Inspections:

Schedule regular inspections of your septic system by a qualified technician to catch any issues early and ensure it is functioning correctly.

Maintain Drain Fields:

Protect the drain field by avoiding parking vehicles or placing heavy objects on top of it. Plant grass or shallow-rooted vegetation over the area.

Keep Trees and Shrubs Away:

Avoid planting deep-rooted trees or shrubs near the septic system, as their roots can damage pipes and the tank.

Monitor for Warning Signs:

Be vigilant for signs of septic system problems, such as slow drains, foul odours, or wet spots. Address issues promptly.

Record Keeping:

Keep records of maintenance, pumping schedules, and repairs. This will help you track the health of your septic system over time.

Compliance with Regulations:

Familiarise yourself with local regulations and requirements for septic systems in South Australia and ensure your system complies with them.

Remember that septic system maintenance is crucial for both your home’s functionality and the environment. Regular care and responsible usage can help prolong the life of your septic tank and reduce the risk of costly repairs. When in doubt, consult a professional for guidance on your specific system’s needs.

Want more tips? Check out the many articles we have on our website.

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The Importance of Trade Waste Arrestors in South Australia

by Ri Industries

image of trade waste arrestors

Trade waste arrestors are essential for businesses in South Australia that generate trade waste. What is trade waste? It’s liquid wastewater from a commercial or industrial entity that enters the sewer system. Some trade waste must be pre-treated before entering the sewer system. In those cases, trade waste arrestors are used to stop harmful trade waste entering the drainage system where it may affect people or the environment. The arrestors capture the waste and allow it to settle and separate. The treated wastewater can then safely enter the sewer system while the harmful waste can be disposed of.

A number of different trade waste arrestors are available including silt, grease and detention tanks. The type of trade waste arrestor that is required for a business will depend on the type and volume of trade waste that it generates. If your business requires one, our experts can help determine which type is correct for your business.

Let’s look at some of the benefits of using trade waste arrestors in South Australia:

  • Protects sewerage systems from damage: Trade waste arrestors trap pollutants that can damage sewerage systems, such as oil, grease, and suspended solids. This helps to prevent blockages and overflows, which can cause flooding and environmental damage.
  • Protects the environment: Trade waste arrestors trap pollutants that can pollute waterways and the environment, such as oil, grease, and chemicals. This helps to keep our waterways clean and safe for people and wildlife.
  • Prevents fines: Businesses that discharge trade waste without a trade waste arrestor can be fined by SA Water. By installing a trade waste arrestor, you can help to protect yourself from fines and financial penalties.
  • Improves public health: Trade waste arrestors help to reduce the risk of disease by preventing the spread of pollutants, such as bacteria and viruses. This helps to protect public health and safety.

Learn about the benefits of a Ri-Industries trade waste arrestor along with some information about the installation and maintenance by reading Trade Waste Arrestors by Ri-Industries – Benefits, Installation, and Maintenance. 

If you are a business in South Australia that generates trade waste, you should have a trade waste arrestor installed. This is an important investment that will help to protect your sewerage system, the environment, and public health. Learn about the Ri-Industries Trade Waste Arrestor on our website and call to 8444 8100 to speak with one of our experts.

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Environmental Benefits of Concrete Septic Tanks

by Ri Industries

The environmental benefits of concrete septic tanks are an important factor when deciding on
the type of septic tank to install for your home or business. We understand the importance of
caring for our environment, after all, we live here too. So, let’s take a moment to look at the
environmental benefits of the concrete septic tanks designed and built by Ri-Industries.
Concrete septic tanks offer several environmental benefits in South Australia. Here are some
key advantages:

1. Durability and Longevity: Concrete septic tanks have a long lifespan, typically lasting for
several decades. This durability reduces the need for frequent replacements, minimising
waste and the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and installing new
tanks.

2. Resistance to Groundwater Contamination: Concrete septic tanks are designed to be
watertight, preventing the leakage of effluent into the surrounding groundwater. This
feature helps protect the quality of groundwater, which is essential for drinking water
supplies and the health of ecosystems.

3. Efficient Treatment of Wastewater: Concrete septic tanks provide an effective means of
treating wastewater from households. They separate solid waste from liquids and allow
the natural decomposition of organic matter. The treated effluent, which is typically
higher in quality, can then be released into the soil through a drainage field or leach
drain system, where further treatment occurs.

4. Nutrient Recycling: The effluent produced in concrete septic tanks contains valuable
nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus. When properly treated and managed, this
nutrient-rich effluent can be beneficial for fertilising plants and enhancing soil fertility,
reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers.

5. Reduced Energy Consumption: Concrete septic tanks operate passively, without the
need for electricity or mechanical components. They rely on natural processes, such as
gravity and bacterial activity, to function effectively. This feature reduces energy
consumption and the associated greenhouse gas emissions.

6. Minimised Chemical Usage: Compared to other wastewater treatment systems, concrete
septic tanks typically require fewer chemicals for operation and maintenance. This
aspect reduces the potential for chemical contamination in the environment and lowers
the reliance on potentially harmful substances.

It’s important to note that proper design, installation, and regular maintenance are crucial for
maximising the environmental benefits of concrete septic tanks. Regular inspections, pump-
outs, and adherence to local regulations and guidelines are necessary to ensure their optimal
performance and minimise any potential negative impacts on the environment.

We welcome the opportunity to speak with you about our products. You can learn more by
going to our website or by calling 08 8444 8100.

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Sustainable Home Designs Benefit from Including Concrete Rainwater Tanks

by Ri Industries

Underground concrete rainwater tanks can play a vital role in sustainable home design and
construction practices. Here are some ways in which they can be seamlessly incorporated:

1. Integrated Water Management: Designing a sustainable home involves efficient water
management. Concrete rainwater tanks can be integrated into the overall water
management system, collecting and storing rainwater for various uses such as toilet
flushing, laundry, garden irrigation, and even potable water with proper filtration. By
incorporating rainwater tanks, homeowners can reduce their reliance on mains water
supply, conserve water resources, and minimise the environmental impact of water
consumption.

2. Green Roofs and Walls: Concrete rainwater tanks can be integrated into green roof or
green wall systems. These systems involve vegetation planted on roofs or walls, which
can help insulate the building, reduce stormwater runoff, and improve air quality. The
rainwater collected in the tanks can be used for irrigation, ensuring the plants receive an
adequate water supply.

3. Sustainable Landscaping: Concrete rainwater tanks can support sustainable
landscaping practices. The collected rainwater can be used for watering plants, lawns,
and gardens, reducing the reliance on potable water and conserving water resources.
Additionally, the tanks can be designed to incorporate overflow systems that direct
excess water to permeable surfaces or bioswales, minimizing runoff and replenishing
groundwater.

4. Durability and Longevity: Concrete rainwater tanks are known for their durability and
longevity. By incorporating these underground tanks into the initial construction of a
sustainable home, homeowners can ensure long-term water storage and reduce the
need for replacements or repairs. This reduces waste and supports a more sustainable
approach to building materials.

5. Education and Awareness: Incorporating concrete rainwater tanks into sustainable home
design provides an opportunity to educate homeowners and raise awareness about the
importance of water conservation and sustainable practices. Homeowners can learn

about the benefits of rainwater harvesting, the water cycle, and how their actions can
contribute to environmental sustainability.

By considering the aspects above, homeowners can enhance the sustainability of their homes
while reducing their environmental footprint.

As a manufacturer of pre-cast concrete products, Ri-Industries can provide you with below
ground concrete rainwater tanks. Designed and manufactured in Adelaide to the highest
standards, our underground rainwater tanks are superior quality, with a range of sizes available.
Our team has the perfect rainwater tank for you. Call 08 8444 8100 to learn more. We look
forward to hearing from you!

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Concrete Rainwater Tanks – What are the Benefits?

by Ri Industries

Get your rainwater tank in time for the ‘rainy season’ in South Australia. We get most of our
rainfall during the winter months of June, July and August, so now is a great time to get
prepared. Let’s look at some of the benefits of using a Ri-Industries concrete rainwater tank.
Rainwater harvesting is a technique used for collecting, storing and using rainwater for
landscape irrigation and other uses. It’s popular in South Australia due to its numerous benefits
such as:

● Reduces water bills
● Provides an alternative water supply during water restrictions
● Helps maintain a green and healthy garden
● Depending upon the tank size and climate, rainwater harvesting can reduce mains water
use by 100%
● Decreases storm water runoff, thereby helping to reduce local flooding.
● Rainwater causes less erosion to household appliances due to their low salinity content
● Rainwater is softer than mains water which may mean you use less soap, detergent, and
shampoo.

What are the benefits of our concrete rainwater tank? Concrete rainwater tanks offer a number
of advantages:

● The water stays cooler.
● No algae develops.
● The water has no after-taste.
● They are vandal-proof and fire-proof.
● Being underground means they are out of sight and don’t take up much of your valuable
real estate.
● Concrete is stronger and more durable.

How much water can be saved using our concrete rainwater tanks? A family of four with a
100m² roof catchment area and a 1000L tank can capture enough rainwater in one year to:

● Flush a toilet 2X/day per person
● Fill a 150L tub to provide a bath for one person per week

● Run a sprinkler system for one hour 5X/week
● Use dishwasher every day
● Give a 5 minute shower to each person 2X/week

Good for the environment + saves money = a great investment! Call us at 08 8444 8100 to
speak with one of our experts and learn about installing a concrete rainwater collection tank at your home.

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Lawn Care and Gardening Tips for Summer in Adelaide

by Ri Industries

Now it’s summer, we thought we would round up some lawn care and gardening tips to share with you. The summer growing season is, generally speaking, from December to February. In some Australian climates, it may begin as early as November or end as late as March, so checking your local climate is a great place to start. 

Why does ri-industries.com.au write articles about lawn care and gardening? Because we want to help everywhere we can! Our tips can help you reduce water bills and properly care for your septic system. 

Let’s talk about conserving water and reducing bills. 

  • A simple step to take is to water early in the morning or overnight. Watering while the temperature is relatively cool allows the lawn and garden the chance to fully absorb the water. Watering late in the day can produce humidity overnight which can lead to the development of fungus.
  • Water the garden only when it needs to be watered. How will you know? Stick your finger about 4 cm into the soil, and if the soil is not moist, it’s time to water.
  • Be thorough when watering the garden. Flower beds can do just fine when watered just once or twice per week as long as it’s a good, thorough soak. 
  • Did you know that you can reuse waste water to water the lawn via sub surface irrigation and garden? The surface irrigation disposal area must be dedicated to the sole use of effluent disposal. The area must be landscaped, preferably with salt tolerant shrubs and trees and should be designed to discourage pedestrian and vehicle access. The Ri-Treat Waste Water System works to clean and reuse your waste water from the toilet, kitchen, and laundry to irrigate your garden. This system is a cost-efficient and environmentally friendly way to keep your garden looking green and healthy.
  • Collect rainwater and use it to water the lawn and garden. Our article How to Water Your Garden With Water Collected in a Rainwater Tank talks about the benefits of using a rainwater tank and how to use it.

Now let’s talk about lawn and garden tips to help protect the septic system.

  • Be mindful of the septic tank soakaway. A septic tank soakaway is a series of underground, perforated pipes that allow septic tank effluent to soakaway over a large area. A lawn is the best cover for the soakaway. It will help prevent soil erosion while adding beauty to the landscape. When planting, do not dig too deep and be sure to wear gloves to protect against bacteria that may be in the soil.
  • Know what/what not to plant around a septic tank. First, do not plant anything with deep roots or anything that will be super thirsty. Second, don’t ever plant fruits or vegetables over the septic tank! Third, it’s recommended to plant the right kind of vegetation over the septic tank such as perennials, annuals, and grass. Willow Myrtle trees, Swamp Oak trees, River Red Gum trees, Papyrus shrubs, and Oleander shrubs make particularly good choices to plant near the septic tank. Learn more in our articles Tips for Planting Around a Septic Tank and Tips for Planting Over Septic Drain Fields.

As you can see, we care about providing quality products which benefit the environment as well as you. Our experts will be happy to speak with you and the products that can best suit your needs. Please call us at 08 8444 8100.

 

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Rainwater Harvesting Will Help Conserve Water and Lower Costs

by Ri Industries

Rainwater harvesting is an excellent way to conserve water and lower expenses. The rainfall we’ve been seeing in South Australia makes this a great time to learn about rainwater harvesting and see if it’s something you’d like to do. 

First, let’s answer the question, ‘What is rainwater harvesting?’. Simply put, it’s collecting and storing rain for later use. So now, let’s take a look at how the water can be used and how it is collected. 

Harvested rainwater provides clean water where water is scarce or polluted. It can be used to flush toilets, do laundry, water the garden, wash cars, and more. However, if you want to be able to drink the water, the system must be designed, operated, and maintained to ensure the water quality is suitable. 

It’s often thought that rainwater harvesting is only done in rural areas. In fact, many urban households harvest rainwater to significantly lower mains water usage. According to www.sa.gov.au, “South Australian building rules require that new dwellings and some extensions or alterations, have an additional water supply to supplement mains water. The most common way to meet the additional water supply requirement is to install plumbed minimum-sized rainwater tanks.”

Is harvesting rainwater more costly than only using mains water? No! Once the tank is installed and your water use is supplemented by the harvested rainwater, your water bills should be lower. After all, rainwater is free!

Harvested rainwater is collected from various hard surfaces such as rooftops and/or other man made above ground hard surfaces. The water is stored in a tank. The below diagram (credit: treehugger.com) shows how rainwater harvesting works.

Ri-Industries manufactures underground concrete rainwater tanks. Concrete rainwater tanks offer a number of advantages:

  • The water stays cooler.
  • No algae develops.
  • The water has no after-taste.
  • They are vandal-proof and fire-proof.
  • Being underground means they are out of sight and don’t take up much of your valuable real estate.
  • Concrete is stronger and more durable.

Our rainwater tanks are built to stand the test of time. They’re made from high frequency vibrated reinforced concrete using the highest quality of materials. Steel mesh is cast into the rainwater tanks and lids, and all fittings are made from brass – to give additional peace of mind. We also have full engineering approval for below ground tanks. This means you can rest easy knowing that a Ri-Industries rainwater tank will serve you well, wherever it is installed. We can also custom make inlets and outlets to suit your specific requirements. 

Are you ready to conserve water and save money? Call us at 08 8444 8100 and let know how we can help you!

 

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Rainwater Tanks for Homes in South Australia

by Ri Industries

Rainwater tanks are the most common way to meet the additional water supply requirements that South Australian building rules need for new dwellings and some extensions or alterations. So, what should you look for in a rainwater tank and what can the collected water be used for? Ri-Industries has the answers.

What to look for in a rainwater tank:

  • Covers are essential to help avoid children and/or animals from getting inside the tank. They also help reduce water evaporation and deters algae growth which can result when sunlight enters. 
  • Underground or Above ground? The choice is yours! Above ground tanks can be easier to install because you don’t have to excavate a space for them first. However, they can take up valuable room. Underground rainwater tanks can save a lot space and can be installed in smaller properties where the size of the property would otherwise prohibit the use of a tank. They are often installed underneath driveways and are a popular choice for new home developments.
  • Where will it go? Ri-Industries are experts in underground rainwater tanks and our experts can help you determine the ideal location to install your underground rainwater tank. 
  • Rainwater tanks definitely fall into the category of something you want to last. Our concrete tanks are designed and built to do just that. They also come with a  manufacturers warranty to give additional piece of mind. 

How to use the water collected in rainwater tanks:

  • Hot water systems
  • Laundry
  • Toilets
  • Irrigation

One of the most frequently asked questions we hear is whether or not it’s safe to drink water from the rainwater tank. The answer is no, unless a filtration system is added to first purify the water. The collected water may contain emissions from vehicles/industry and the cleanliness (or lack thereof) of the gutters it flows through also play a factor. 

When you are interested in learning more about rainwater tanks or are ready to purchase, please give Ri-Industries a call on 08 8444 8100.