Ballam-Waterslot supplies a full range of water storage tanks tailored for South African conditions. Whether you’re harvesting rainwater, storing municipal supply, or holding process water, our tanks provide reliable storage for domestic, agricultural, or commercial applications.

We offer three main tank types:

• Vertical Water Tanks – Ideal for stationary storage in most settings
• Horizontal Tanks – Great for mobile or space-restricted installations
• Slimline Tanks – Designed for urban homes or tight spaces

All tanks come in a wide variety of colours, including beige, brown, green, olive green, blue, and white, allowing you to choose a solution that fits seamlessly with your property aesthetics. No matter the colour or style, each tank carries an 8-year warranty and is built for strength and durability.

Vertical water tanks are the most commonly used water storage solution for residential, commercial, and agricultural needs. Their tall, cylindrical design allows for efficient water storage using minimal ground space, making them ideal for properties with limited footprints. Vertical tanks can range in capacity from small household units to large commercial systems storing thousands of litres of water. Because they rely on gravity for water pressure, vertical tanks are often mounted on concrete slabs or sturdy steel stands to improve water flow to outlets or irrigation systems. Their shape also makes them easy to clean and maintain, as the narrow base helps collect sediment for periodic flushing. Ballam-Waterslot vertical tanks are manufactured from high-grade polyethylene, ensuring long-term durability and UV resistance under harsh South African sun. They are available in multiple colour options and come with an 8-year warranty. Whether you’re looking to support household rainwater harvesting or supplement municipal supply in a drought-prone region, vertical water tanks offer a dependable and cost-effective solution for any setting.

Horizontal water tanks are ideal for use in mobile applications or where vertical space is limited. These tanks are designed with a broader, flatter footprint and are often strapped onto trailers, truck beds, or placed under elevated structures. Their low centre of gravity provides stability in transport, making them perfect for delivering water to off-grid locations, farms, or construction sites. Horizontal tanks are also commonly used in areas where overhead obstructions like trees or roofing make vertical tanks impractical. Despite their shape, they retain the same durable polyethylene construction as vertical models and are UV-stabilised for longevity in outdoor conditions. Ballam-Waterslot offers horizontal tanks in a variety of capacities and colours, all backed by an 8-year warranty. Installation is straightforward, though proper support is crucial—horizontal tanks must rest on level beams spaced correctly to prevent bowing or sagging. With the right base and fittings, these tanks are just as capable as vertical models and provide the flexibility required in dynamic or remote environments. Their compact design and transport compatibility make them an essential option for clients needing a versatile, mobile water storage solution.

Slimline water tanks are the go-to solution for properties with limited space or strict aesthetic requirements. Designed to fit into narrow passages or alongside exterior walls, slimline tanks offer generous water storage capacity without consuming large ground areas. Their rectangular, upright form factor makes them ideal for urban homes, townhouses, and buildings with small yards or courtyards. Despite their narrow design, slimline tanks are structurally reinforced to withstand full loads and remain stable when installed correctly. Ballam-Waterslot’s slimline tanks are crafted from durable polyethylene and are UV-stabilised for long-lasting outdoor use. They are available in a range of sizes and colours to complement architectural styles or blend into the background. As with all our water storage solutions, slimline tanks are supported by an 8-year warranty. Installation should always be on a level concrete base to ensure proper weight distribution. These tanks can also be fitted with booster pumps or connected in series for increased storage. For customers who need reliable water access without sacrificing space or style, slimline tanks deliver a smart, discreet, and efficient solution.

In light of Southern Africa’s extended drought conditions and increasing water restrictions, rain water harvesting has become not just practical but essential. For property owners who’ve invested time and money into creating a beautiful garden, losing that investment to dry spells is a growing concern. Fortunately, Ballam-Waterslot offers a smart and sustainable solution.

Our rain water harvesting systems are designed to capture rainfall that would otherwise be lost as stormwater runoff. By installing a harvesting tank on your property, you preserve precious water for future use—especially in those critical dry periods between rainfalls. Over time, this also translates into significant savings on municipal water costs, making the system both environmentally and financially wise.

Whether you’re a homeowner, landscaper, or eco-conscious developer, adding water security through harvesting is a forward-thinking choice.

At Ballam-Waterslot, we supply rain water harvesting tanks in a variety of sizes and colours to match your specific needs and property aesthetics. From compact urban systems to larger rural storage, we cater to every setup.

Key features include:

• Leaf Catcher: This prevents leaves, seeds, and debris from entering your tank and rotting, which could otherwise cause odours or blockages.
• Dirty Water Flushing Device: A clever mechanism that flushes away the first flow of dirty rainwater—containing dust and roof residue—so only clean water enters your tank.

These features improve water quality and reduce maintenance. Combined with the tank’s sealed construction, they ensure the stored water remains clean and ready to use for extended periods.

To complete your rain water harvesting setup, a small booster pump can be added to your tank system. This allows you to efficiently use the stored water throughout your property. Whether you prefer a hand-held spray nozzle or need to run a garden sprinkler, the pump provides adequate pressure for smooth operation.

Thanks to its simple components and low-maintenance design, installation is quick and long-term performance is dependable. Your garden—and your wallet—will thank you during the next dry spell.

The VIP polypedestal is a uniquely engineered solution that redefines pit latrine performance. Designed for hygiene, ease of use, and odour control, this pedestal is widely recognised as the superior choice among ventilated improved pit (V.I.P.) latrine systems available globally. It’s ideal for rural communities, schools, camps, and government sanitation projects in South Africa.

What sets the polypedestal apart is its innovative ventilation system and effective fly trap design. Flies naturally attracted to the latrine are guided by instinct toward the seat area. The seat assembly, elevated 4mm above the rim, creates a consistent air gap. Through this gap, a natural airflow is pulled downward by a vacuum created via a north-facing black vent pipe, which is raised 200mm above the highest point of the toilet block.

As air travels downward through the funnel into the pit, flies that enter the pedestal follow the light up the vent pipe. However, once inside, they become trapped behind a gauze screen and die from exhaustion—including those hatched within the pit. The complete system remains dark at the entry point, disorienting flies and reinforcing its effectiveness as both a sanitation and pest control solution.

The VIP polypedestal is manufactured from high-grade virgin polyethylene, offering exceptional durability and an indefinite lifespan. It features a traditional W.C.-style outer casing, enhancing user familiarity while maintaining robustness in outdoor and rural environments.

Installation is simple: the unit fits into a 160mm circular aperture in the concrete slab, and no load is ever transferred to the funnel. Two coach screws and Fischer plugs, supplied in the kit, securely fasten the pedestal to the floor. This ensures stability and reduces the risk of displacement or vandalism.

The steep, smooth rear funnel design ensures self-cleaning. Any faecal matter that may stick to the surface flakes off naturally, keeping the system clean with minimal maintenance. The toilet lid must always be closed after use to preserve airflow and fly trap functionality.

This well-considered design ensures that users benefit from an odour-free experience, making it an ideal choice for rural sanitation projects focused on health, dignity, and ease of use.

The VIP polypedestal offers significant advantages:

• Hygienic and odour-free usage
• Passive fly-trapping system to reduce insect-borne disease
• Long-lasting polyethylene construction
• Easy-to-clean funnel interior
• Minimal maintenance and simple installation
• No reliance on external power or chemicals

Installing a grease trap for septic system setups is one of the most important and cost-effective steps you can take to protect your French drain or soakaway from blockage. With so many opinions and technical variations across septic system literature, it’s easy for property owners to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we offer a simple, proven solution based on decades of experience in South Africa.

Grease traps—also called fat traps—are designed to capture greasy substances that enter wastewater systems via kitchen sinks, dishwashers, showers, washing machines, and hand basins. Over time, these fats and oils can cause severe blockages in the soakaway, reduce the efficiency of your septic system, and result in costly repairs and emergency call-outs.

By installing a basic, low-maintenance grease trap under a gulley head, homeowners and facility managers can prevent the most common reason septic tanks and soakaways fail. In fact, we consider the grease trap to be the single most essential component in ensuring the long-term functionality of any on-site sanitation system.

The grease trap for septic system that we supply is manufactured from high-quality plastic and built to last for decades with minimal attention. Positioned strategically below a gulley head, it intercepts fat before it enters your drainage infrastructure. This not only reduces the need for frequent septic tank emptying but also significantly extends the life of your soakaway.

Unlike some systems that require intensive installation or complex maintenance, our grease trap is intentionally simple. It can be installed quickly with minimal disruption, and once in place, it performs its job without fanfare—quietly and reliably protecting your entire system.

Best of all, it comes in four different sizes, making it easy to choose the correct model for residential or commercial applications. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to improve your current septic system, or a contractor working on a new build, we have a grease trap solution to match your needs.

Using a grease trap offers numerous advantages for anyone relying on a septic tank and soakaway combination:

• Prevents grease and fats from entering the soakaway
• Greatly reduces the risk of soakaway or French drain blockages
• Cuts down on costly plumbing call-outs and septic tank pumping
• Enhances the overall efficiency of your on-site sanitation system
• Low-maintenance and cost-effective
• Available in multiple sizes for tailored use

Installing a grease trap is not just a preventative measure—it’s a core part of any well-functioning sanitation strategy. It turns a vulnerable system into a robust, reliable solution with fewer surprises and lower long-term costs.

A properly constructed French drain soakaway system is essential for effectively dispersing treated wastewater from a septic tank. While there is no universal size or standard, modern French drain design has evolved to prioritize horizontal dispersion and soil permeability. Our system offers a high-performing solution, especially when paired with the Poly-Rib septic tank range.

Unlike older methods that relied on digging large pits and filling them with random rubble, our system focuses on maximizing wall surface area. This allows fluid to exit horizontally in all directions, greatly enhancing percolation into the surrounding soil. A 3x3x1 metre excavation in our design can achieve 35 square metres of percolation wall area, compared to just 12 square metres in traditional systems—an improvement that is both more effective and easier to build.

This makes our French drain system a preferred option for residential, agricultural, and commercial installations where consistent water dispersal is essential and where the soil has a high percolation rate or is supported by strong root systems from evergreen or water-demanding vegetation.

Because no two sites are exactly the same, our French drain soakaway system is designed with flexibility in mind. We provide suggested specifications as guidelines—best used in conjunction with our copyright sketch plans B-W 73/1 and B-W 73/2, which were developed specifically for integration with the Poly-Rib septic tank systems.

Key variables include:

• Soil permeability and water table depth
• Expected wastewater output from the septic system
• Site topography and vegetation
• Drainage layout preference (e.g., herringbone configuration)

Where possible, drains should be located in areas with high percolation soil and year-round vegetation, such as under gardens or lawns. This not only supports optimal fluid absorption but also promotes ecological reuse. During the design phase, our experts consider all these factors to determine optimal layout, size, and depth.

The flexibility of the system also means it can be installed on a wide variety of property types—from private homes to lodges, farms, and construction sites—wherever on-site sewage treatment is required.

Modern French drain soakaway systems are far simpler to install and maintain than the outdated soak pits of previous decades. With the increased surface area from our design, water disperses more evenly and with less chance of clogging, allowing for longer system life and fewer maintenance interventions.

These systems work exceptionally well in tandem with our Poly-Rib septic tanks, forming a complete, gravity-fed sewage treatment solution for properties not connected to municipal infrastructure. The result is a cost-effective, eco-friendly setup that leverages nature’s own capacity for filtration.

Furthermore, for property developers or builders, this system provides a reliable, standardised solution that can be replicated across multiple sites while allowing for site-specific adjustments. And for homeowners, it provides peace of mind that their wastewater is being handled responsibly.

The Poly-Rib conservancy tank is a sealed, maintenance-friendly solution for on-site sewage storage, especially in areas where ground conditions or infrastructure limitations require fully-contained waste systems. Though identical in external appearance to the standard 1,200-litre Poly-Rib septic tank, the conservancy model contains no internal pipes or fittings, with only an inlet for waste and no outlet—making it a true closed system.

Because it is emptied entirely through the 450mm manhole lid via “honeysucking,” the conservancy tank is ideal where there’s no natural or mechanical effluent dispersal method. Despite its higher long-term operational cost due to regular pumping, its simplicity and flexibility make it indispensable for certain residential, industrial, or remote use cases.

Importantly, multiple tanks can be linked together in series or parallel configurations depending on the available space and waste volume. This makes the system easily scalable, whether you are managing the waste output of a family home or a high-occupancy lodge or camp.

Constructed using rotationally moulded polyethylene, the Poly-Rib conservancy tank is engineered for strength. Its ribbed structure withstands soil pressure and eliminates the need for concrete slabs. Thanks to its intelligent design, excavation is simple and does not require refined backfilling techniques. The recommended dimensions are 2.0m (length) x 1.8m (width) x 1.2m (minimum depth).

During installation, the tank should be filled with water as backfilling occurs, ensuring it is firmly positioned without floating. Its robust manhole lid includes integral double handles and a cavity for adding up to 15kg of concrete ballast, keeping the system secure.

The system also features easily accessible inspection eyes and internal components like scum and sludge barriers and dip pipes, providing reliability similar to traditional masonry systems but with greater convenience. This makes the Poly-Rib conservancy tank both practical and compliant.

The Poly-Rib conservancy tank is best suited for properties where municipal connections aren’t possible or practical. This includes:

With a capita support capacity ranging from 1 to unlimited users (variable), sizing is determined by expected daily flow. For example, with a 150-litre daily output per person, one tank supports a 6-person household. At 100 litres per person, the same tank can accommodate up to 10 people. Expanding capacity is easy—just add more tanks in parallel or series.

While conservancy systems can be more expensive to maintain due to regular emptying, they offer unmatched reliability in areas where drainage, soakaways, or sewage treatment isn’t an option.

Poly-Rib septic tank: South Africa’s trusted on-site sewage solution. Durable, easy to install, and ideal for homes and businesses.

The Poly-Rib septic tank has earned a solid reputation as a household name in the field of on-site sanitation. Since its introduction in 1982, demand for this tank has grown steadily among private homeowners, developers, and commercial operators across South Africa. Designed to be entirely maintenance-free, the Poly-Rib system offers a dependable alternative to traditional masonry septic tanks.

Because of its unique double-chamber, ribbed polyethylene design, this tank supports a variable capita load—from one person to unlimited use cases, depending on waste flow. According to standard calculations, if a person disposes of 150 litres per day, a standard tank easily supports a family of six. On the other hand, if waste disposal is 100 litres per day per person, the system comfortably handles 10 individuals.

Moreover, the Poly-Rib’s superior engineering ensures the retention of sewage for a minimum of 24 hours, as required for effective settling and sludge separation. As a result, it’s a top choice for homes, businesses, and remote sites needing long-lasting, no-fuss waste management.

What makes the Poly-Rib septic tank truly revolutionary is its structural integrity and ease of installation. Manufactured through rotational moulding, this tank withstands ground pressure far better than traditional alternatives. Its ribbed walls eliminate the need for a concrete slab, making installation simpler, faster, and more cost-effective.

Excavation dimensions are straightforward: 2.0 metres in length, 1.8 metres in width, and a variable depth starting at 1.2 metres. Even better, the tank can be installed without refined excavation or complex backfill procedures. During installation, the tank is filled with water while being backfilled, securing it in place with minimal effort.

In addition to structural advantages, the system features a 450mm diameter manhole for easy access. This allows maintenance personnel to enter the system if cleaning is required—for example, in cases where the system has been poisoned or heavily impacted.

Clearly, this tank sets a high benchmark in performance, durability, and installation efficiency for septic systems across the country.

Unlike anaerobic digesters or aqua privies, the Poly-Rib septic tank conforms to the traditional standards of a well-constructed masonry tank while improving on many of its weaknesses. The design includes multiple reliability-enhancing features that benefit long-term users.

For instance, the double-chamber setup includes a baffle with a centre transfer hole that allows fluid to pass through while keeping solids in place. This is paired with a scum and sludge barrier to prevent clogging and odour problems. The tank is also equipped with two precisely located inspection eyes that make regular monitoring easy and efficient.

Dip pipes submerged beneath the fluid level promote effective flow and prevent backwash. A gas release duct helps vent methane and other gasses safely away from the structure. Finally, the manhole lid includes integral double handles and a cavity for filling with up to 15kg of concrete ballast, ensuring the lid remains secure under all conditions.

Because of these well-thought-out design choices, the Poly-Rib septic tank is more than a product—it’s a dependable solution for residential and commercial on-site sewage needs.

Eco-friendly on-site sewage treatment for homes, lodges, and eco-sensitive areas.
Trusted by municipalities across South Africa.

If you’re living or working in an area not connected to municipal sewerage systems, the GEM sewage treatment plant offers a powerful, environmentally responsible alternative. Designed specifically for areas with dolomite, clay, or decomposed granite, this system excels where traditional septic tanks fail. Unlike anaerobic-only systems, GEM combines both anaerobic and aerobic processing to significantly improve effluent quality.

Moreover, this sewage treatment plant is not only highly effective—it’s also widely accepted. Many municipalities and building inspectors across South Africa recognise GEM as a reliable solution, especially for eco-sensitive regions. Therefore, whether you’re setting up infrastructure for a rural home, a game lodge, or a remote conference centre, GEM delivers peace of mind.

The system is modular and scalable. The standard domestic setup, comprising four tanks, efficiently handles up to 3,000 litres of sewage and grey water daily. This makes it suitable for households of up to 15 people. Larger configurations—5, 6, and even 8-tank systems—can manage 4,000 to 6,000 litres per day. For instance, the 8-tank model on a dual-pipeline system can support up to 75 people, making it ideal for commercial setups.

In short, for any South African property needing a clean, efficient, and sustainable waste management system, the GEM sewage treatment plant stands out as a top choice.

The GEM sewage treatment plant consists of either 4, 5, 6, or 8 tanks, all buried 1.2 metres underground—so only the manhole covers are visible. At the heart of its engineering lies a clever dual-process system: it begins with anaerobic tanks, where waste undergoes preliminary breakdown. These tanks feature a “snubbing” design that controls volumetric flow, helping to manage temporary overloads of 1,000–2,000 litres without compromising performance.

Because of this, the wastewater that moves into the secondary anaerobic tanks is already significantly processed. The second tank completes anaerobic digestion before the effluent enters the aeration phase. Here, the aerobic treatment tank—with its integrated airlift sludge return pump—continually circulates partially treated waste to ensure thorough breakdown.

After the aeration process, the effluent passes through an in-line ozone generator to neutralize harmful organisms before entering the final holding tank. This tank contains a submersible pump with a float switch, providing a controlled discharge for safe and effective water reuse.

Clearly, this step-by-step process highlights why the GEM sewage treatment plant is trusted for its reliable, low-maintenance design. Every element is engineered for optimal performance in challenging South African soil and environmental conditions.

Although the effluent from the GEM sewage treatment plant does not meet DWAF General Standards for potable water, it is still safe for a variety of non-drinking applications. For instance, many homeowners and businesses use this treated water for irrigation—watering gardens, lawns, crops, and trees. As a result, not only is waste disposed of responsibly, but water is also recycled in a way that supports sustainability.

In drier regions across South Africa, users often take it one step further by creating artificial wetlands. These systems act as natural filters and lead into retention ponds, enhancing biodiversity and water conservation. This dual benefit—of water reuse and zero contamination of underground reserves—makes GEM an especially valuable solution in semi-arid zones.

Moreover, by using water more than once, this plant actively contributes to household or commercial water savings. For every litre treated, one litre becomes available again for beneficial reuse. Given rising utility costs and ongoing drought challenges in South Africa, this is a compelling reason to consider GEM.

In conclusion, for any property needing a robust, eco-conscious, and municipally-approved alternative to septic tanks or French drains, the GEM sewage treatment plant delivers outstanding results.