How Often Should You Drain Your Camper Sewage Tank?

The black water tank in an RV is used to collect wastewater from the toilet. It is one of two waste tanks, the other being the grey water tank, which collects wastewater from sinks and showers. The black water tank is the nastiest and scariest of the two. It collects both liquid and solid waste, so it requires more maintenance than the grey water tank.

There is no hard and fast rule about how often to empty your black water tank. It depends on how much you use it, the number of people using it, and how conservative you are with water usage. However, it is recommended that you empty your black water tank every 3-5 days or when the tank is two-thirds or three-quarters full. This is to prevent waste buildup, which can cause clogs, odours, or sensor malfunctions.

How often you need to empty your camper sewage tank depends on how much you use it

The size of your tank will also determine how often you need to empty it. RV black tank sizes range from 4 gallons to 150 gallons. A 4-gallon tank will need to be emptied much sooner than a 150-gallon tank.

The general rule of thumb is to wait until your tank is about two-thirds full before emptying it. This creates a better "flow" when dumping, making the process much more efficient. However, you should never let your tank get too close to full to avoid an overflow situation.

If you are boondocking and don't want to keep driving back to civilisation to empty your tank, you can buy large, aftermarket tanks or portable sewer totes that can store additional wastewater until you get to a dump site.

If you are hooked up to a sewer, you can dump whenever you choose. However, it's important to keep your black water valve closed until you're ready to dump to prevent odours and clogs from developing.

You should empty your tank every 3-5 days or when it's two-thirds or three-quarters full

It is recommended that you empty your tank every 3-5 days or when it is two-thirds or three-quarters full. This is because frequent dumping limits waste buildup, which could cause clogs, odors, or misreading sensors.

The time it takes for your tank to reach this level will depend on the size of your tank, the number of people using the toilet and sinks, and how much water is used in the kitchen and shower. For example, a 40-gallon black tank will last two people about 10 days before needing to be emptied, but this can vary depending on toilet paper usage and water usage.

If you are boondocking and don't want to drive back to civilisation to empty your tank, you can buy large, aftermarket tanks or portable sewer totes to store additional wastewater.

It's important to note that you should always use RV-friendly, single-ply toilet paper to avoid clogs. Additionally, you should never put anything other than toilet paper, human waste, water, and holding tank maintenance additives into your blackwater tank. For grey water tanks, only water and soap residues should be going down the drain as the outlet valve can be as small as half an inch in diameter, making it easy for food particles to cause a clog.

To empty your tank, you'll need to use a sewer hose and some protective gloves

The black tank valve is for your black tank, which holds wastewater from the toilet. The grey tank valve is for your grey tank, which holds wastewater from your shower and kitchen sink.

Now, let's get started with the process:

Step 1: Put on Protective Gloves

It is important to wear protective gloves to keep your hands clean and sanitary. Disposable latex gloves or reusable rubber gloves are recommended.

Step 2: Connect the Sewer Hose

Take your sewer hose and connect one end to the valve on your RV. Make sure the hose is securely fastened before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Locate the Sewer Hookup

Locate the sewer hookup and ensure that your sewer hose can easily reach it without being overstretched. The sewer hookup is usually on the right side of the parking pad at campsites.

Step 4: Open the Black Tank Valve

Once everything is connected and secure, you can start by opening the black tank valve. Make sure you open it all the way to ensure proper drainage. You will know the tank is draining by the sound of water flowing and the pulsing of the hose. This process can take several minutes, so be patient.

Step 5: Close the Black Tank Valve

Once you can no longer hear any liquid coming through the hose, close the black tank valve completely. It is very important to ensure that the valve is shut tight.

Step 6: Open the Grey Tank Valve

Now that the black tank is empty, move on to the grey tank. Open the grey tank valve and let the tank drain. Again, this process can take a few minutes, depending on the volume of wastewater.

Step 7: Close the Grey Tank Valve

When the grey tank is empty, close the valve. Make sure it is completely shut to prevent any accidental leaks.

Step 8: Clean and Detach the Sewer Hose

For easy cleanup, slowly detach the sewer hose and use a bucket or tub to contain it when not in use. You can also rinse the sewer hose with clean water to remove any remaining waste.

Step 9: Store the Sewer Hose

After the hose is clean and dry, store it back in its designated compartment. Make sure to put on the end caps before storing the hose.

Step 10: Wash Your Hands

Finally, remove and discard your gloves, and thoroughly wash your hands. Remember to always prioritise safety and sanitation when handling wastewater.

You should only ever empty your tank at a designated dumping station

It's important to remember that you should only ever empty your tank at a designated dumping station. This is because society prohibits dumping sewage or otherwise dirty water anywhere, especially on public lands.

Dump stations are clearly marked and can be found at campgrounds, gas stations, and other similar places. When emptying your tank, always use separate water hoses for getting clean drinking water in your RV and for dumping your waste tanks.

It's also worth noting that dumping grey tank waste outside is sometimes illegal, depending on where you are and what the local laws are. However, tossing a bin of water that you've used to wash your hands or a plate in is usually acceptable, similar to using an outdoor shower on the side of your RV.

To empty your tank at a designated dumping station, follow these steps:

• Locate the sewer hookup before pulling into a campsite or dump station, as its location will dictate how you position your trailer.
• Connect one end of a water hose to a fresh water supply.
• Put on disposable gloves or reusable rubber gloves. If you are sensitive to smells, you may also want to wear a protective mask.
• Retrieve your sewer hose and check that the fittings on both ends are secure.
• Connect your sewer hose to the sewer hookup and your RV.
• Identify the black water and grey water handles, which may be colour-coded or differ in pipe size.
• Start with the black water tank and slowly open the handle until you hear waste flowing through the hose. Once it stops, open the handle fully and wait for the tank to empty.
• Repeat the process for the grey water tank.
• Perform a preliminary fresh water flush by running water in your sinks and partially flushing your toilet.
• Use your black tank flush, if equipped, to run water through your black water tank and sewer hose until they are clear.
• Close the handles and clear the hose by lifting it and shaking it gently to remove any remaining waste.
• Disconnect your sewer hose, rinse it, and pack it away.
• Rinse your gloves and hands with soap and water, then disconnect and store your fresh water hose.

You can use commercial chemicals and deodorizers to treat and clean your tank

Commercial Chemicals and Deodorizers for your Camper Sewage Tank

Using commercial chemicals and deodorizers is an effective way to treat and clean your camper sewage tank. Here are some tips and product recommendations to help you get started:

Understanding your Camper Sewage Tank

Before delving into the use of commercial chemicals, it is essential to understand the basics of your camper sewage tank. Typically, campers come with three types of tanks: a freshwater tank, a grey water tank, and a black water tank.

The freshwater tank stores potable water for your journey, and it is crucial to maintain and fill it with clean water. The grey water tank collects wastewater from sources like your shower and kitchen sink, while the black water tank holds wastewater from the toilet, which tends to be the most intimidating for new campers.

When to Clean your Camper Sewage Tank

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should clean your camper sewage tank. It depends on factors such as the size of your tank, the number of people using it, and your water usage habits. As a general guideline, aim to clean your tank when it is close to full, which is usually about once a week for a small group of people.

Commercial Chemicals and Deodorizers

Now, let's explore some commercial chemicals and deodorizers to keep your camper sewage tank in top shape:

• Happy Campers RV Holding Tank Treatments: This product is designed to eliminate odours and liquefy waste in both black and grey water tanks. It is effective even in extreme temperatures and has excellent reviews for its ability to control odours.
• Camco TST MAX Camper/RV Toilet Treatment Drop-Ins: This product helps control unwanted odours, break down waste, and maintain your septic tank. It comes in a convenient drop-in form and has a pleasant orange scent.
• Unique RV Digest-It+: This extra-strength black tank treatment is available in liquid or drop-in pod form. It eliminates odours, liquefies waste, and prevents sensor misreading. It is also CA compliant, ensuring it is safe for your tank.
• Liquified RV Toilet Treatment: This black holding tank digester effectively eliminates odours and liquefies waste. It has an orange scent and comes in a 32 oz bottle, providing multiple treatments.
• Walex Porta-Pak RV Marine Black Holding Tank Deodorizer Drop-Ins: This product is designed for black water tanks and helps keep your tank smelling fresh. It comes in a convenient drop-in form, and each pack contains ten treatments.
• Camco TST Camper/RV Grey Water Odor Control: Specifically formulated for grey water tanks, this treatment removes grease buildup and keeps your tank smelling fresh. It is safe for septic tanks and treats up to 40 gallons of water with just 4 oz of the product.
• Valterra Pure Power Blue Waste Digester and Odor Eliminator: This product is an effective waste digester and odour eliminator, ensuring your tank stays clean and odour-free. It comes in a 128-ounce bottle, providing multiple treatments.
• RV Black Tank Treatment Toilet Chemicals: This American-made product treats both black and grey water tanks, acting as a waste digester and deodorizer. It also helps clean your camper toilet sensor, keeping it functioning accurately.
• THETFORD AquaMAX Summer Cypress Scent RV Holding Tank Treatment: This waste digester and deodorizer is safe for septic tanks and leaves a pleasant summer cypress scent. It comes in an 8 oz bottle, and you can purchase it in packs of 6 or 8.
• Walex Bio-Pak RV Marine Black Holding Tank Deodorizer: This natural enzyme formula deodorizer comes in drop-in pod form and effectively eliminates odours. It has an alpine fresh scent, and each pack contains ten treatments.
• Unique Clean-It RV Black Tank Cleaner Liquid: This enzyme-based cleaner digests waste accumulation and eliminates odours. It is ideal for deep cleaning your black water tank and restoring its freshness.
• Thetford Waste Holding Tank Treatment: This one-gallon treatment is designed to treat both black and grey water tanks. It helps eliminate odours and break down waste, keeping your tanks in good condition.

Additional Tips for Maintaining your Camper Sewage Tank

In addition to using commercial chemicals, here are some extra tips to keep your camper sewage tank in good condition:

• Always use single-ply toilet paper to prevent clogs.
• Regularly flush your black water tank and add water to the toilet bowl before flushing.
• Sanitize your tank after dumping to prevent the buildup of waste and odours.
• Use a garden hose to clean your black water tank periodically, flushing the system and clearing any buildup.
• Only empty your tanks at designated dumping stations to comply with environmental regulations.
• Be mindful of food debris going down your sink, as it can contribute to clogs and odours in your grey water tank.

By following these tips and using commercial chemicals and deodorizers, you can effectively treat and clean your camper sewage tank, making your RV adventures more enjoyable and hassle-free.

Frequently asked questions