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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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What Happens When a Septic Tank is Pumped?

by Ri Industries

What happens when a septic tank is pumped? What is the process and where do the contents go? If you own a property that has a septic tank, you may be curious.

First, let’s quickly recap how a septic tank works. Simply put, septic tanks allow for the safe disposal of certain household waste products. Wastewater flows down through the sewer pipes in your home and enters the first chamber of the tank, allowing solids to settle (sludge layer). A crust then forms on the surface of the effluent, known as the scum layer. The settled solids are anaerobically digested, reducing the volume of solids. The liquid component flows through the dividing wall into the second chamber, where further settlement takes place, with the excess liquid then draining in a relatively clear condition from the outlet into the soakage field. To learn more, see our articles How a Septic Tank Works and How Do Sewage and Effluent Move Through Septic Systems?

Soil, sludge, excrement and solid waste will build up in the tank over time, eventually requiring the tank to be pumped to make room for more waste to be added. Waste disposal companies begin the pumping process by emptying the tank and removing all the solid waste that has been collected. A tank truck with suction gear, called a gully sucker, collects the waste by sucking the wastewater and sludge from the tank. Once the tank is emptied, the contents will be transported for disposal.

The South Australian government dictates how the contents are to be disposed of. “Septage must either be taken to a facility licensed to receive septage or where this is not reasonable or practicable, applied to land only if for beneficial reuse (for example, in regional locations or small townships).”

We know talking about waste products is not a fun topic, but for those who use septic tanks, this information is important. Knowledge can help keep the septic system running smoothly. For more information on our septic tanks or any of our products, please call 08 8444 8100.

https://www.epa.sa.gov.au/files/8427_guide_septic.pdf
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Why Rainwater Tanks are Popular and Important in South Australia

by Ri Industries

Rainwater tanks are popular and important in South Australia because they help us conserve water. Let’s look at how they are used and how much water they can save.

In South Australia, rainwater tanks are used in communities without access to reticulated water sources, in communities where good quality water supplies are limited, in areas where local regulations require rainwater storage be provided for bushfire prevention, and in urban areas, such as Adelaide and regional communities, which have access to mains water but owners want to conserve water. 

Some advantages of rainwater tanks include:

  • The use of rainwater costs less than mains water
  • Rainwater causes less erosion to household appliances due to their low salinity content
  • Protects water supplies by conserving mains use
  • Rainwater is softer than mains water which may mean you use less soap, detergent, and shampoo

To read more about the benefits of rainwater tanks, please see our blog, What are the Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting.

One of the main benefits of rainwater harvesting is the ability to conserve to water. So, how much can you save? Put into everyday terms, a family of four in Adelaide, with a 100m² roof catchment area and a 1000L tank can capture enough rainwater in one year 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)

If we’ve piqued your interest in rainwater harvesting and you would like to learn about our rainwater tanks, please see information on our website or call us at 8444 8100.

 

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.

Commercial trade waste arresters

Ri-Industries Trade Waste Arresters

by Ri Industries

What is Trade Waste? It is 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 arresters are used to stop harmful trade waste entering the drainage system where it may affect people or the environment. The arresters 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.

Commercial trade waste arresters

Ri-Industries makes several trade waste arresters which meet a variety of needs and offer a multitude of benefits:

  • Made from precast concrete with a strength of 50 MPa at 28 days.
  • A number of different trade waste arresters are available including silt, grease and detention tanks.
  • All inlets suit HDPE pipes for easier connection.
  • Gas-tight lids set in precast concrete can also be supplied, as well as extension risers.
  • Increments and trafficable, gas-tight, heavy duty cast iron/concrete covers are available.
  • Units are lowered into the excavation site providing the site is level, firm and accessible.
  • All units are SA Water approved.

Maintenance is simple as our trade waste arrestors are particularly strong and built to last. The arrester is designed to trap all fats and oils contained in the washwater. Therefore, it should be completely cleaned out at three-monthly intervals or more frequently if necessary, following SA Water recommendations. Tank waste must not be discharged to the sewage system.

More information regarding the Ri-Industries Trade Waste Arresters can be found on our website.  A product catalogue is also available for download for your convenience. Of course, the best way to learn about our products is to call us at 08 8444 8100 and speak to one of our experts. We look forward to hearing from you!

Rainwater Tanks Make a Difference to the Australian Climate

by Ri Industries

“In Australia water is a valuable commodity. Rainwater can provide a renewable supply of natural, soft, clear, and odourless water that can be used for a range of purposes including drinking, washing, bathing, laundry, and gardening. In some areas, it may represent the primary source of household water while in others it can supplement existing mains water supply.” – Government of South Australia

rainwater_tanks

The government of South Australia recommends the use of rainwater tanks to help conserve water. Ri Industries manufactures above ground or below ground concrete rainwater tanks for both residential and commercial use.

What are the benefits to the Ri Industries concrete rainwater tanks?

  • The water stays cooler.
  • No algae develops.
  • The water has no after-taste.
  • They are bullet proof, vandal-proof and fire-proof.
  • Being underground means they are out of sight and don’t take up much of your valuable real estate.
  • Above ground tanks can be spray painted to fit in better with your surroundings.
  • Concrete is stronger and more durable.

Give us a call at 08 8444 8100 to learn about our rainwater tanks and other products as well.

 

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What To Look For In A Rainwater Tank

by Ri Industries

South Australia is Australia’s driest state, and predictions say that it will only become hotter and drier as years go on.

Do you ever wish you had some sort of magical machine that could make it rain every day, or at least when you wanted it to?

Ri-Industries can make your wishes come true with our pre-cast concrete rainwater tanks. Rainwater tanks can help you harvest and save precious rainwater for a variety of uses around your home.

Here is a list of things that you should look for, so you can tell whether or not your rainwater has that magic touch.

Safety

At Ri-Industries, we believe in safety first. When purchasing and installing a rainwater tank, it is important to have a tight-fitting cover so that no children or animals can get access. A cover is also crucial so that water cannot be lost through evaporation and light cannot enter, which would promote harmful algae growth. Steel mesh is cast into all of Ri-Industries’ tanks and lids, and all fittings are made from brass so you can have peace of mind that everything fits together tightly and securely.

Discreteness

Even though a rainwater tank is efficient and environmentally friendly, it does not have to be an eye sore. With Ri-Industries, you can choose between an-above ground or underground rainwater tank, and both options offer aesthetically pleasing features. The underground rainwater tanks are out of sight and won’t take much space from your valuable real estate, while the above-ground tanks feature attractive conical or flat roofs. If you are building a new house, it can be especially easy to install a rainwater tank out of the way under the house, or at gutter level. Appearance is important when buying a rainwater tank, and discretion is key; that’s why Ri-Industries also offers to paint above ground tanks to fit in better with your surroundings.

Location

When installing your rainwater tank, you need to pay special mind to where you are placing it. For example, you should put your tank out of the path of the midday sun in order to avoid evaporation from the inspection holes. Thankfully, for those of us who are not rainwater-tank-placement experts, Ri-Industries is here to help. All Ri-Industries tanks are manufactured in our South Australian factory, and all inlets and outlets can be custom inserted at any required position to fit your specific needs.

Durability

This one is fairly self-explanatory. You want a reliable product that will last a long time without needing replacement. Ri-Industries’ concrete tanks are made from high frequency reinforced concrete, made from only the highest quality materials. All Ri-Industries rainwater tanks also come with a 10-15 year warranty, meaning you can be sure that your tank will go the distance.

Versatility

Did you know that some customers have used Ri-Industries rainwater tanks for a variety of uses, including installing them into the ground as cellars? You can install an underground rainwater tank and build a house or shed over the top. This can serve as a cheap, effective alternative to building a cellar out of bricks or pouring on onsite.

Keep these five features in mind when looking for your new rainwater tank, and you can’t go wrong. If you have any questions about your current or future rainwater tank, please do not hesitate to contact us!