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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.

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Tips for Healthy Septic Tanks

by Ri Industries

There are few things more unpleasant than non-functioning septic tanks. The cost of repair, the inconvenience, and oh …. the smell! No need for excessive worry because maintaining healthy septic tanks can be fairly simple once you are armed with some knowledge. Ri Industries has gathered such knowledge to share with you:

  • Do not overload your septic system
  • Use water sparingly
  • Do only full dishwasher loads, and full washing machine loads, at off-peak times if possible
  • Do not put kitchen grease down the drain
  • Do not flush cigarettes, feminine products, disposable nappies, or other inorganic materials down the toilet
  • Do not put petrol, oil, anti-freeze, paint, paint thinner, pesticides, etc., down the drain
  • Do not flush medicines
  • Only use cleaning products approved for septic tanks
  • Check all plumbing fixtures for leaks.

Learn more about maintaining healthy septic tanks by calling Ri Industries on 08 8444 8100.

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Septic System Start Up Suggestions

by Ri Industries

Congratulations on installing a brand new septic system! You’re ready for things to flow smoothly, but if you are like many of our customers you may be wondering if there are any special steps you should take when first using the septic system.

People talk about priming, prepping, or kick starting a new septic system. Since bacteria in the septic system naturally breaks down organic waste matter and slows the accumulation of the sludge layer, there is a common belief that materials should be introduced to kick start the growth of bacteria. People have been known to place a dead possum or sheep in the septic tank as well as buttermilk.

You may be happy, and relieved, to learn that this is not a necessary step. The natural sewage which flows into the septic system as soon as it is installed provides plenty of nutrients for the bacteria to do its job.

After Ri Industries installs a new septic system, we do recommend one little extra step be taken. Fill the tank with clean water and then add a cupful of lime to the toilet once per day for seven days. The lime prevents odours and increases the pH or alkalinity which encourages the growth of the good bacteria wanted in the septic system.

Call Ri Industries at 08 8444 8100 and we will be happy to answer all of your septic system questions.