Posted by Rocky on 12/20/2013 to
RV Parts
RV enthusiasts often boast about the open road and the freedom it brings to them, but caring for the vehicle itself is a critical part of daily life. Along with engine care, you must keep the plumbing clear of obstructions and working safely for health and sanitation reasons. When you wash dishes or flush the toilet, you do not have the ease of a municipal sewage treatment facility nearby. It is up to you to trap and drain the waste water safely, without harm to the environment.
How Waste Water Is Trapped
Your RV is equipped with at least two holding tanks. A gray tank holds all the waste water from showers, sinks and bathtubs. Black tanks hold all liquids and solids flushed down the toilet. These two liquid sources are kept separate for sanitation reasons and ease of removal.
Find An Outlet
Always find an approved waste station on the road. RV rest stops and overnight facilities typically offer these receptacles for paying customers. Never release waste water into the environment. It is illegal and significantly harms plants and animals.
Proper Draining Procedure
Inspect your sewer hoses for any cracks or holes. Once you begin draining, you do not want to have any waste spills. The tanks should be almost full to encourage complete draining of all liquid and solid materials. Attach the hose to the waste station receptacle. Lock the hose levers down securely. Connect the opposite hose end to your black tank. Release the tank's valve and allow the waste water to flow into the receptacle.
Once the black tank is empty, close the valve. Connect the hose to the gray tank and release the valve. Allow this waste water to drain until the tank is empty. It is critical to start with the black tank and end with the gray tank. If any solids are lodged in the sewer hose, the gray water quickly flushes it out, effectively cleaning the hose of particulates. This strategy saves you time and a messy cleanup.
After Care
Check that all valves are closed on the tanks and remove the sewer hose. For an easy draining process next time, pour five gallons of water and a deodorizer into each tank. Along with a clean scent, the extra liquid prevents solid buildup on the tanks' base.
