Returns and Refunds

At Ripple Effect Aquatics, we’re proud to offer a variety of high-quality aquarium products and live fish. However, sometimes the unexpected can happen. Please read below for our return and refund information.

 

1. Dry Goods – Dropshipped Items (Accessories, Food, etc.)

We do not accept change of mind returns for dry goods.

However, if your item arrives damaged, defective, or incorrect, please contact us within 7 days of receiving your order with:

A brief description of the issue

Clear photos showing the problem

Your order number

Once assessed and approved, we’ll arrange a refund or replacement depending on the situation. In most cases, you will not need to return the item.


2. Manufacturer Warranty

All dry goods (such as equipment, food, and accessories) that are covered by a manufacturer warranty are through our suppliers. If your item develops a fault during the warranty period, please contact us with the details above, and we’ll lodge a warranty claim on your behalf. Returns, repairs, or replacements will be handled according to the supplier’s instructions.

Please note: All dry goods (such as equipment, food, and accessories) are shipped directly from our trusted third party Australian suppliers. As a small family run business, this helps us offer a wider range of high quality products without needing the warehouse space, this also means that we are unable to accept returns for these items, but can be replaced or refunded if the item arrives damaged, faulty or incorrect.


3. Refunds: 

If the fault is due to our error (e.g., faulty product, incorrect item sold/shipped), and has been deemed our fault after being assessed, we will refund both the product cost and any applicable shipping charges.

If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method within 10 business days. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too. 

If more than 15 business days have passed since we’ve approved your return, please contact us.

 

4. Damages and issues:

Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.

 

5. Exceptions / non-returnable items:

Certain types of items cannot be returned, like perishable goods (such as food, flowers, or plants and live animals).. We also do not accept returns for hazardous materials, flammable liquids, or gases. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item. 

 

6. Changes of Mind Refunds: 

For refunds due to a change of mind or other reasons not attributable to Ripple Effect Aquatics, the order and shipping fees will not be refunded.

Refunds will be processed promptly after reviewing and approving the refund request based on information and evidence provided, once assessed refunds will be processed and received typically within 7-10 business days.

 

7. Dead On Arrival

Please note: that live fish are sold directly through our store although they are excluded from returns but are covered under our (D.O.A.) -Dead on Arrival policy, ensuring replacements or refunds for live fish orders.

 

8. Additional Information:

For more detailed information about our policies, including our terms of service and privacy practices, please refer to our Terms and Conditions page.

 

9. Need Help?

If you have any other questions about our policies or need assistance with a damaged item, were here to help. Feel free to contact us by using the chat bubble in the bottom right or by using our contact form.