Ri-Treat Waste Water System Helps Save Drinking Water

by Ri Industries
Ri-Treat – Waste Water Treatment System

Ri-Treat – Waste Water Treatment System

 

Think about how much water you use each day. Chances are, much of the water you use in the house and garden is potable (drinkable), but do we use it in that way? The answer is simply, no. We are wasting our drinking water.

You may have read articles or experienced water shortages. You may make an effort to take shorter showers or turn off the water while brushing your teeth. Thank you for that. Every effort helps. To make an even larger impact, how about reusing waste water?

By using waste water as a resource rather than a waste product you can:

  • reduce water bills
  • use fewer water resources
  • irrigate the garden during drought or water restrictions
  • cut down the amount of pollution going into waterways
  • help save money on new infrastructure for water supplies and wastewater treatment
  • decrease demand on infrastructure for sewage transport, treatment and disposal, allowing it to work better and last longer.

The Ri-Treat Waste Water Treatment System separates and digests solid wastes and uses natural processes to purify waste water. This odourless, clean, disinfected water is then recycled through garden sprinklers. To learn how this system works, please follow this link to the Ri Industries website or call us at 08 8444 8100.

 

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Why is Water Conservation So Important?

by Ri Industries

Water is one of the most important natural resources we need, but it is also a resource we have misused and wasted. To better understand the growing importance of water conservation, let’s look at a few facts.

First, the average adult human body is 50-65% water, averaging around 57-60%. The percentage of water in infants is much higher, typically around 75-78% water, dropping to 65% by one year of age. To remain healthy, we must replenish the water we lose through sweat, tears, urine, etc. We need drinkable water supplies in abundance.

Second, the Earth has a finite amount of water. The water we have now is all we get, it is recycled over and over. The water cycle can help understand why this is.

Solar energy evaporates water from the ocean, lakes and rivers. Millions of litres of water rise into the atmosphere as an invisible gas – water vapour. This process is called evaporation.

As the water vapour is pushed over the land by winds and rises over mountains, the water vapour cools and turns back into tiny water droplets, forming clouds. The droplets joining together is termed condensation. These droplets fall to earth as rain (precipitation).

The rain runs into streams and rivers, which eventually flow into lakes or the sea and the cycle begins all over again.

Third, water is required for our food. It grows our fruits and vegetable and it is consumed by cattle.

Fourth, water is necessary for plant life which is necessary to keep us healthy. Plants re-oxygenate the air. Plants are used to make medications. Trees are used for housing, paper, and so much more.

The above are just a few tidbits to help explain why Ri Industries is so committed to water conservation efforts. To learn how our products can help with conservation, call us at 08 8444 8100.

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Where Does Water Come From?

by Ri Industries

How many sources of water do you know? There may be more than you realize, which is why the theme for this years’ National Water Week (19 -25 October 2014) is Water Sources.  The concerns of water shortage in Australia is well known, so it is vital that we understand where our water comes from and how we can make it last.

Here is a basic list of water sources:

  • Surface water – water on the Earth’s surface which can be found in a stream, river, lake, wetland, ocean or a dam.
  • Groundwater – water that occupies the spaces between particles of soil (sand, silt and clay) or rock beneath the earth’s surface.
  • Desalinated water – Desalination is the removal of salt, especially from sea water.
  • Stormwater – rainwater that has run off roads, roofs, paved areas etc. and is usually conveyed by constructed drains.
  • Wastewater – mostly from showers, baths and washing machines. After you’ve used your water, it enters a wastewater pipe, and then into the sewer mains (if you’re on mains) and eventually it reaches a wastewater treatment plant.
  • Groundwater replenishment – an innovative concept where treated wastewater is further treated to drinking water standards and recharged into groundwater supplies. The water is then stored and taken out some time later for further treatment and supply to a drinking water system. This source is currently only available in WA.
  • Recycled water – the use of treated wastewater or appropriately treated drainage water.  Before being recycled, wastewater is treated, according to stringent health regulations, to meet the appropriate standard for its intended use.  When reused for a beneficial purpose, this water is known as recycled. Increasing the amount of water we recycle is vital to maintaining a reliable, safe and sustainable water supply and becoming climate resilient. Recycled water can be used for a range of purposes such as:
  1. Irrigation of sports grounds, golf courses and public open spaces
  2. Industrial processing
  3. Groundwater replenishment
  4. Toilet flushing / clothes washing / garden watering
  5. Environmental benefits (e.g. maintaining wetlands) Irrigation of food crops. Irrigation of non-food crops (e.g. trees, woodlots, turf, flowers)
  6. Construction / dust suppression

Ri-Industries concrete rainwater tanks and Ri-Treat waste water treatment systems are exceptional tools to help reduce water waste. Call us today on 08 8444 8100, to learn more about our products.

 

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Tips to Save Water in the Bathroom

by Ri Industries

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

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

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

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

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

 

Rainwater Tanks Make Water Conservation Simple

by Ri Industries

ri rainwater tanks

 

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

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

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

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

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

How Much Water Can a Rainwater Tank Save?

by Ri Industries

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

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

  • Flush a toilet twice per day per person

OR

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

OR

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

OR

  • Wash dishes in the dishwasher every day

OR

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

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

10 Facts about Rainwater Tanks

by Ri Industries

Ri Rainwater Tanks

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

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

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

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4 Unique Uses for Precast Concrete Tanks

by Ri Industries

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

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

1. Storage

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

2. Shelter

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

3. Sculpture Base 

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

4. Plunge Pool

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

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

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5 Ways Ri-Industries Can Help You Recycle Water for Your Home

by Ri Industries

About one-third of the world’s population is affected by water scarcity. Thankfully, your septic tank is just one of the many environmentally-friendly ways to recycle water around the home. Recycling water using a septic tank and other methods can be a way to revitalize your local environment while conserving precious resources for the community at large. Here are some quick and easy ways Ri-Industries can help you recycle water and take advantage of the water table surrounding your home.

Water Recycling Tip #1: Use the Ri-Treat System to Reuse Water to Your Best Advantage

The Ri-Treat waste water treatment system discharges household waste into a controlled area and aerobically decomposes waste. This system is a way for homeowners living in a non-sewered area to reclaim their waste water and reuse it around the home.

Water Recycling Tip #2: Use a Ri-Treat Waste Water Treatment System on Your Garden

The on-site Ri-Treat waste water system allows you to reuse and recycle your water resources and make great savings, all at the same time. Ri-Industries supplies a surface garden irrigation kit with every Ri-Treat system, meaning you can recycle household waste water to keep your yard looking fresh and healthy.

Water Recycling Tip #3: Let Ri-Industries Collect Your Rainwater

Reclaiming and reusing your water isn’t limited to waste water; take advantage of every step of the water cycle by using concrete rainwater tanks to collect and filter the rainfall in your backyard. Rainwater tanks have the advantage of being a natural alternative to treatment plants that use chemicals to filter water, and can be used for a number of different domestic and rural purposes.

Water Recycling Tip #4: Reuse Your Bathwater

Consider upgrading an existing septic in your home by asking your plumber to install a separate Ri-Industries septic tank to catch the water you wash down your bathroom sink, shower or bath. While this water isn’t fit for drinking, it can be used for irrigation, watering the houseplants, or simply flushing the toilet.

Water Recycling Tip #5: Use Your Water Wisely

With the Ri-Treat waste water system, along with Concrete Rainwater Tanks and Septic Tanks, Ri-Industries makes it easy for you to conserve and reuse water to your best advantage in and around your home. But the next step is up to you—when you wash fruit in your sink, save the rinsed water to use on your lawn afterward; instead of tossing out the water that you used to boil your vegetables, use it to make soup instead. Every little effort can make a big difference.

By taking advantage of these five tips, as well as the other services Ri-Industries has to offer, you can use the water in your home to the best of its potential. Not only that: recycling water around the home is a natural and environmentally friendly way to give back to your local eco-system. For more information on how to reuse and recycle the water supply in your non-sewered area, please check out our website or call 08 8444 8100.