How To Pump Out Rv Septic Tank? (Best solution)

Now that we have a clear understanding on how a septic system works, the easiest way to dump your tank is through the septic system’s cleanout. This is a PVC pipe that is above ground with a screw cap. This can be found between the house and the tank. Simply remove the cleanout’s cap and attach your sewer hose to your RV and the cleanout.

How do I empty my RV septic tank?

Hook up one end of your sewage drain hose to the black tank valve on your RV. Secure the other end of the hose to the valve at the sewer line or dumping station. Pull the valve to empty the black tank, allowing it to drain completely. Flush the black tank with water to clean it.

How often do you empty a septic tank in RV?

In simple terms, if you have lots of people on board, you might need to empty the tank daily. But if you are just traveling alone or maybe with one more person, your tank would need emptying less frequently – maybe even once a week. The rule of thumb is to empty the tank before it fills up.

How much does it cost to empty an RV septic tank?

Dumping your black water tank can cost anywhere from Free to $35. Some public campgrounds, waste water treatment plants, rest stops and RV stores will allow free dumping. Private business and campgrounds will charge between $10 -$35 with an average of $20 for dumping the tanks.

How much does it cost to have your RV pumped out?

You’re looking at $20 to $25 with some campgrounds. Members at Flying J or Love’s will usually only pay about $5. However, public RV dump stations near you often charge higher prices. Read Also: Regular Toilet in RV?

How do you get rid of the poop pyramid in RV black?

To eliminate a poop pyramid, you need to get water into your black tank. The first thing you should do is close the black tank valve and get as much water into the black tank as possible. If the poop pyramid prohibits you from putting water into the tank, get some tank cleaner to pour down into the sewer drain.

How long can black water stay in RV tank?

How long can you leave waste in a black tank? Our research shows that most camping experts maintain that you can safely leave black water in the tank for up to ten days. Most, however, state that you should empty it out after no more than a week.

What is GREY water and black water in RV?

A gray water tank collects water that goes down the drain of your shower and sinks. The black water tank holds the wastewater from your toilet.

How do I know if my RV black tank is full?

There is another way to know your tank is full (or close to it) besides using sensors or sound. “Sound” is also a good indicator, but in addition to that method, the closer to full, the more it smells (even if you use chemicals). You’ll want to dump for sure when you can’t take the smell any longer.

How much does it cost to pump a camper septic?

RV Septic Tank Pumping Cost You will pay anywhere between $150 and $300 to clean out an RV septic tank. RV septic tanks also referred to as holding tanks, are part of your RV’s plumbing system. The septic tank holds any waste water that goes down your sinks, toilet, and shower.

How often do you need to dump RV waste?

By dumping your tank every 3-5 days, you can ensure that you’re using enough water to both hydrate the bacteria and form a water barrier, which will help keep odors in check!

Is there an app for RV dump stations?

Overview: Sanidumps is an online platform and Android app created to help RVers locate dump stations throughout the United States and Canada. Why it’s great: Sanidumps is a comprehensive collection of RV dump stations found at RV parks, private campgrounds, public campgrounds, and municipal parks.

How do RV toilets work?

An RV toilet works primarily on gravity. The waste from the toilet goes through a pipe to your black water holding tank. The tank holds all of the waste until it is emptied out through a flexible hose into a proper dump station receptacle.

How to Dump An RV Waste Tank – A Quick and Easy Guide

When it comes to septic tank pumping, replacement, and new installation, Jerry and Molly at The Drain Doctor’s take the worry and uncertainty out of the process. They will answer all of your questions, explain the procedure, and provide you with an estimate of the costs. For more than three decades, they have assisted customers who have had their septic systems fail or whose drain fields have been damaged as a result of improper maintenance. We have a lot of experience with septic system problems.

Types of RV Tanks

Before we get started, let’s take a short look at the various types of RV water tanks. According to general definitions of tanks, there are three main types of tanks, each of which serves a specific purpose:

The RV black water tank retains wastewater and sewage from your RV toilet
The gray water tank keeps filthy water from your shower and sinks

And the freshwater tank holds pure water from your faucets and faucet fixtures. That’s the RV water tank, which is responsible for supplying water to your RV kitchen and shower.

How to Empty the Tanks and What to Buy at the RV Parts Store

Following your understanding of the operation of each individual RV waste tank, you should learn about the procedure for emptying them.

First, put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Connect one end of your sewage drain line to the black tank valve on the back of your recreational vehicle. the hose’s other end is connected to the valve at the sewage line or disposal facility Pulling the valve to empty the black tank and letting it to drain entirely is recommended. To clean the black tank, fill it with water and flush it. According to your arrangement, you may be able to accomplish this with water from your gray water tank. Completely drain off the tank’s water supply

Steps 2-4 should be repeated with the gray water tank. Close the valve on your RV’s water tank and remove the hose from the tank
Before detaching the hose from the sewage connection or dumping station, thoroughly rinse the interior of the hose. Remove the sewage hose and put it in a safe place

Investing in a flush valve such as the Flush King, for example, may help you keep things extra clean (and who wouldn’t want that?). Solidified trash from the bottom of your black water tank may be easily removed with the help of these devices. If you’re having problems dumping your RV waste tank despite the fact that it appears to be fully stocked, this is the device for you. (Image courtesy of Virginia State Parks through FlickrCC)

Cleaning Your Tanks and Other RV Maintenance

If you own an RV, it’s not enough to simply empty your tanks at the conclusion of each trip; you must also maintain it. You’ll also want to do routine maintenance on your RV’s waste tank to ensure that it remains in peak operating shape. Pour a tank treatment such as RV Digest-It into your toilet on a regular basis after you have emptied your tanks to help remove smells and digest waste as fast as possible. It is beneficial to use a treatment product on a semi-regular basis in order to prevent blockages and buildup.

Finding Honey Wagon RV Service

Perhaps, after reading this, you will have no desire to fiddle with your RV’s waste tank at any point in time. If the prospect of purchasing and traveling in an RV is becoming increasingly unappealing, don’t give up on your road-tripping aspirations just yet. A growing number of campsites are now providing “honey wagon service,” in which someone comes around to empty your holding tanks for you, usually for a charge. Although this is still considered a relatively new service, it is becoming increasingly popular.

If you’re going on vacation in a camper, you’ll have even less to worry about.

Having read this article and successfully disposed of your RV garbage, it’s time to locate an RV Dump Station near you.

We hope you find it useful. We hope you found this information to be useful! Have a safe journey and a wonderful camping experience! Looking for additional helpful hints and advice for your next RV adventure or purchase? Look no further. Take a look at these articles:

5 Steps to Using and Understanding RV Toilet Chemicals
The Ultimate RV Holding Tanks Guide – Read This First

5 Steps to Using and Understanding RV Toilet Chemicals
State-by-state breakdown of dumpstations

How To Dump RV Tanks At Home (The Right Way)

How to Use and Understand RV Toilet Chemicals in 5 Easy Steps; The Ultimate RV Holding Tanks Guide – Read This First; 5 Steps to Using and Understanding RV Toilet Chemicals in 3 Easy Steps; State-specific dumpstations;

Is It Legal To Dump RV Tanks At Home?

The Ultimate RV Holding Tanks Guide – Read This First; 5 Steps to Using and Understanding RV Toilet Chemicals; The Ultimate RV Holding Tanks Guide – Read This First; State-by-state listing of dumpstations

Is It Legal To Dump RV Tanks Into My Septic System?

In the event that you are not connecting your RV tanks to the main municipal sewage line, you do have the option of directly connecting your RV tanks to your septic tank. Think about if you’re using ecologically friendly detergents and soaps, because harsh chemicals in the wastewater might kill beneficial microorganisms in your septic tank, which is something to keep in mind. Some environmentally friendly choices may be found by reading our evaluations of the top RV black tank treatments.

How To Dump Your RV Tanks At Home – 4 Practical Methods

The option of directly draining your RV tanks into your septic tank exists for those who are not connected to the municipal sewage system. Keep in mind that utilizing harsh chemicals in your wastewater might cause beneficial microorganisms in your septic tank to die, so make sure you’re using eco-friendly detergents and soaps. Some environmentally friendly choices may be found in our reviews of the top RV black tank treatments.

The Residential Sewer Line and Septic Tank Methods

The majority of individuals have access to a sewage disposal system, whether it be public or private. In contrast to a private sewage disposal system, which is similar to a septic system, a municipal sewage disposal system is similar to a residential sanitary line or main sewer line. Both sewer systems are equipped with a cleanout, which is a tiny pipe that protrudes from the ground and connects to the main sewage line or septic tank and is sealed with an end cap. Following are the procedures to be followed when dumping your holding tanks into any of these sewage systems:

Locate the access point for the septic tank or sewage line. This procedure may necessitate the use of a heavy wrench and the assistance of others. Set up your RV next to the access port and attach the garbage disposal line to the black water tank. Protective face and hand gear should be worn to ensure that you remain protected and clean. Connect the other end of the output line to the access port on the septic tank. When removing sewage end caps, take your time since potentially dangerous gasses may escape. Ascertain that the output hose is pointing downward into the access port and that it is sufficiently secure to prevent waste from shooting out of the sides. Before you begin emptying your black water tank, double-check that you are on the solid waste side of your sewage system and not the storm drain side to prevent pouring potentially hazardous trash into a storm drain. Activate the valve to completely drain the black water tank, making sure it is entirely empty

Clean out the black water tank with fresh water, and then completely drain the tank. After you’ve finished with the black tank, you may go on to the grey water holding tank and repeat the process described above. Because the soap and detergent residue in the graywater will clean the dumping hose, it is recommended that you always empty the black tank first, followed by the grey tank. Before detaching your dumping hose from the sewage connection, thoroughly rinse the inside of the hose. Remove the sewage hose and store it in an appropriate location.

Check out our step-by-step instruction on how to connect and utilize an RV sewage hose for a more in-depth explanation of the procedure. Please note that you should only use the septic tank approach if you are confident that your grey and black water do not include strong chemicals or soaps that might kill the important bacteria found in your septic tank. Before beginning the process, always double-check that you are permitted to dump into your septic tank or public sewage line in your region of residence.

If you want to improve hygiene standards and keep things extra clean, we recommend that you invest in a flush valve for your toilet.

The Bucket Method

Following these procedures will allow you to dump the tanks in your RV using the bucket method:

Following these procedures will allow you to dump the tanks in your RV using the bucket technique.

To empty the tanks of your RV using the bucket technique, follow these steps:

The Macerator Method

This technique of dumping is a little more involved, but it makes the work of emptying your holding tanks a lot more manageable in the long run. Unlike a standard pump, a macerator pump will not simply push away waste. Moreover, it aids in the churning of solid waste, making it easier to dispose of and letting you to utilize virtually any size hose. This video demonstrates how to utilize the macerator pump technique at home in step-by-step detail. Do you need to empty your RV’s black tanks at home?

To summarize, the macerator pump approach looks somewhat like this:

It is a little more difficult to use this way of dumping, but it makes the work of emptying your holding tanks a lot more doable. In addition to pumping out garbage, a macerator pump may also pump out water. Moreover, it aids in the churning of solid waste, making it easier to dispose of and allowing you to utilize virtually any hose diameter. It is explained in detail in this video how to operate the macerator pump at home. Do you have RV black tanks that you need to empty at home? Certainly, it’s attainable! The macerator pump approach can be summarized as follows:

Use a clear elbow so that you can see when the flow is interrupted. You don’t want to take the chance of damaging the macerator pump by leaving it running empty. If you choose for this option, be prepared to invest a significant amount of money on a macerator pump set, which may run into the hundreds of dollars.

BenefitsRisks Of Emptying Your RV Tanks At Home

The most major advantage of emptying your RV tank at home is that it is more cost-effective than using a dumping station, and you will not be charged any fees. This is not to say that it is really convenient! For those times when you have visitors staying over, you may turn your RV into an extra room or permanent home addition. The most significant downside of emptying your RV tanks at home is the danger of leaking raw sewage, which is especially true if you employ the bucket technique of dumping your tanks.

However, this is true regardless of whether you are disposing at home or at a dumping site.

Consequently, be certain that you are adhering to all applicable regulations or you might face a significant punishment.

How Often Should You Dump the RV Black Water Tank?

Due to the fact that the frequency with which you need to empty your tanks varies depending on how frequently you use your toilet and the size of your black water tank, there is no general solution to this topic. If you travel by yourself most of the time, you might be able to go for a week or longer without having to dump. However, if your RV has smaller holding tanks or if you are camping with a big group of people, you may need to empty your black tank every other day or more frequently. Most recreational vehicles are equipped with a sensor that indicates how full your grey and black water tanks are.

Allowing the tank to get overflowing might result in your black tank leaking and other problems.

This will guarantee that any solids have adequate time to decompose, and the weight of the trash will make it simpler to empty the waste container.

Camper FAQs is made possible by donations from readers. It is possible that purchasing through links on our site will result in us receiving an affiliate commission. Because I am an Amazon Associate, I receive money when people make eligible purchases.

How to Empty your RV Holding Tank

The vast majority of travel trailers, fifth wheels, and RVs are equipped with onboard storage tanks of various sizes. These tanks collect the water from the sinks and showers, as well as the sewage waste from the toilets (s). The grey water tank and the black water tank are the names given to these two tanks. In most cases, the combined volume of the two holding tanks is approximately the same as the entire capacity of the freshwater reservoir. The grey represents approximately 60% of the total quantity, with the black representing 40%.

When these tanks grow full, they must be emptied on a regular basis.

This applies to both holding tanks and greywater, which must be disposed of in the same manner as the blackwater.

How to Dump Your Tanks

Please don’t make this any more complicated than it already is. Before you begin, double-check that you have the appropriate RV sewage hoses and attachments. Let’s have a look at the steps involved in emptying the tanks at a designated RV disposal site.

Step 1

This isn’t going to go much worse than it already has. Make certain that you have the appropriate RV sewer hoses and attachments before you begin. Check out this video to see how to empty your RV’s tanks at a designated disposal site.

Step 2

Open the gate valve on the black tank. That’s the “T” handle that’s located on one of the sides of the unit where the discharge pipe is significantly bigger. To avoid confusion, always keep in mind that the black tank must be drained first, and ideally while there is grey water present in the grey tank. Many RVs have a black tank that drains better when they are closer to full rather than when they are just partly full. The increased volume has the effect of increasing the pressure as it left the tank, which aids in the better evacuation of the tank.

However, a large portion of your dumping requirements will be decided by your unique application.

Step 3

Once the black tank has been entirely emptied, it is preferable to flush the tank with fresh water if at all feasible. This cleans the tank walls and washes away material that may have accumulated in the corners of the tank due to poor drain turbulence. A hose from a water supply tap can be connected to the appropriate input port on your RV’s tank cleansing system if it is equipped with this feature. If your device does not have a built-in flushing circuit, you can install a simple “Back Flush” rinse adaptor to make up for this shortcoming.

This may be used not just to flush the black tank, but it will also perform wonders for cleaning the grey tank as well.

The tank level sensor can only function properly if the tank walls are substantially free of debris.
The Flush King is comprised of a separate 3′′ gate valve and a 45-degree clear elbow with a standard hose input port, as well as a separate 3′′ gate valve.
If you see clear, non-opaque water pouring out of the drain pipe, this means that the tanks need to be flushed.

In this case, if your RV is equipped with internal tank flushing, I strongly advise you to get a clear plastic elbow so that you can see the status of the draining water while you are driving.

Step 4

Ideally, once the black tank has been entirely drained, it is recommended to flush the tank with fresh water to ensure that the tank is totally clean. Tank walls are cleaned as well as material that may have accumulated in the corners of the tank where drain turbulence is minimal. A hose from a water supply tap can be connected to the proper input port on your RV’s tank cleansing system if it has such a facility. A simple “Back Flush” rinse adaptor can be installed if your machine does not have a built-in flushing circuit.

Using this method, you may not only flush the black tank, but you can also clean the grey tank, which is really beneficial.
It is only when the tank walls are substantially clean that the tank level sensor will function properly.

In addition to a 3′′ gate valve and a 45-degree clear elbow with a standard hose input port, the Flush King has a second 3′′ check valve.
If you see clear, non-opaque water pouring out of the drain pipe, it is time to cleanse the tanks.

Setup at a Full-Service Campsite

The next section will discuss the setup when you are connected to a fully maintained site.

Step 1

The black valve should be in the closed position, and the grey valve should be in the open position. Just as at home, this will enable for quick drainage of the shower and the sink water.

Step 2

It is just necessary to keep an eye on the black. It is recommended that the grey water valve be closed when the black water tank is about three-quarters full.

Step 3

The black can be discharged and drained once the grey has accumulated a sufficient volume of water from showering and basic everyday usage, which may occur the following day or the day after that.

Step 4:

Once everything has been flushed, the black may be closed and the grey can be opened once more. The hose will be washed once more by the grey water drainage system. What if your black tank has never been completely cleaned out and the level sensor is no longer functional, or is only intermittently operating properly? So, here are some recommendations for cleaning with a heavy hand.

Additional Tips

Normally, I would recommend completely emptying your holding tanks before hitting the road for a road trip or vacation. This contributes to the reduction of the vehicle’s weight, which in turn improves fuel efficiency. This approach, on the other hand, necessitates the use of a black tank that is at least half filled. Prepare to take the road with at least a half-full black sewage tank in your vehicle. Purchase two or three bags of ice and place them directly into the RV toilet, making sure that they are completely flushed down into the holding tank.

A mechanical cleaning will occur as a result of the floating ice in the holding tank, which will scour the walls and remove any build-up that may have developed over time.
Once flushed into the holding tank, this assists in the removal of buildup as well as the maintenance of a clean tank and the creation of a less adherent surface for the development of bacteria.
Macerators are now standard as an option on many popular RVs, and they are becoming increasingly popular.

So, what precisely are the primary benefits of having this feature?
First and foremost, you have the option of emptying your black tank, as well as your grey tank, in a domestic toilet, provided that it is within reach of the discharge line.
It pushes it and has the ability to propel its output above its own altitude.

Because I have personally used this product, I can attest to the validity of many of the manufacturer’s claims.
Naturally, there is more to RV toilets than simply altering the holding tank’s capacity.

Take a look at our suggestions for properly maintaining your recreational vehicle’s toilet. You’d like to keep your RV more organized, right? Learn about the six RV organization hacks you should use to keep your RV in order.

How To Dump Your Holding Tanks At Home

The following are the most important points:

Do not dump your tanks at your residence unless you are on an on-site septic system, unless you have exclusively used septic-safe cleansers in your RV’s wastewater tanks, or unless you are connected to a city sewage system with a properly built cleanout. Always double-check local ordinances and your homeowner’s association (if you have one) to ensure that dumping your RV’s waste water tanks is permitted in your neighborhood. There are three primary techniques for emptying the tanks of your RV at home: If you don’t have a bucket, you can dump directly into a cleanout port without having to use a macerator pump. If you simply have a few gallons of waste in your tank and you need to get rid of it, the bucket approach may be your best option for getting it out. See down for further information. It is possible to macerate your RV’s waste before emptying it into your septic tank, but this is a more difficult and expensive solution. See the details below for further information. It is critical that you do not overload your tank by putting in an excessive amount of waste at once while using this option. Possibly the most straightforward alternative is to connect your RV directly to your home’ septic system, without the need to macerate the waste first. It is critical to avoid overloading your tank by dumping an excessive amount of waste into it at the same time while using this option. See down for further information. Caution should be exercised when discharging garbage straight into your home’s septic tank or cleanout valve. It is possible to breathe in hazardous fumes from sewer pipes and wastewater, which can be lethal if inhaled. Additionally, keeping the lid off of your septic tank for an extended period of time might cause the microorganisms in the tank to die. More information may be found in the section below. Hazardous substances have a negative impact on septic systems. The use of dangerous chemicals in conjunction with your black or gray water tanks should be avoided at all costs if you’re dumping into a septic system. Learn more about what materials are acceptable in RV holding tanks in this post.

Before you begin, make sure to verify all applicable local rules and regulations to ensure that you may lawfully dispose of garbage at your residence. Disclaimer: If you are unable to dispose of your tanks at home, please refer to this article, which provides information on alternative disposal sites. RVers frequently inquire whether they may dispose of their RV garbage at their residence. The quick answer is, of course, yes! You may dispose of the garbage generated by your RV at your residence, and there are numerous options available.

Perhaps you have one of these justifications, or perhaps you prefer to do things on your own.

Now, before we get started, we want to be clear that dumping your tanks at home will need a significant amount of time, work, caution, and responsibility.
In the event that you are new to RVing and/or if you aren’t entirely comfortable emptying your tanks at home, we recommend that you empty your tanks at a dump station.
For information on finding a disposal station in your area, please contact us or click here.

Whatever your system type (septic system or city sewer), you’ll need cleanouts in order to properly dispose of trash.

3 Ways to Dump Your Tanks

Before you begin, be careful to verify all applicable local rules and regulations to ensure that you may lawfully dispose of garbage at your residence. Disclaimer: You may find information about additional places where you can dump your tanks here if you are unable to dispose of your tanks at home. RVers frequently inquire about the possibility of disposing of their garbage at their place of residence. The quick answer is, of course, “yes.” There are various options for disposing of the garbage generated by your RV at your residence.

Perhaps you have one of these justifications, or perhaps you prefer to complete things on your own time and without assistance.

Now, before we get started, we want to be clear that dumping your tanks at home will need a significant amount of time, work, caution, and accountability.
In the event that you are new to RVing and/or if you aren’t fully comfortable emptying your tanks at home, we recommend that you empty your tanks at a dump station.
For information on finding a dump station in your area, please contact us or click here to learn more.

Whatever your system type (septic system or city sewer), you’ll need cleanouts to dispose of trash properly. We’ll make the assumption that you’re either on a septic system or on municipal sewer with a cleanout for the purposes of this essay.

Making use of a bucket. (This method is most effective for lesser amounts of garbage.) By crushing or macerating the fruit
Dumping directly into your home’s septic tank or cleanout without first macerating the waste
And

The bucket is being used. When dealing with lesser volumes of garbage, this method is most effective. This can be accomplished by maceration or mashing. Discharging waste directly into your home’s septic tank or cleanout without first macerating it;

The Bucket Method

This method of emptying your RV holding tanks is most effective when there is just a little quantity of waste in your RV holding tanks to begin with. Because of this, it is probably not a good idea to try this procedure if you are dealing with a huge lot of garbage! If you just have a few gallons of waste in your tanks, we strongly recommend that you employ this strategy. Because many RVers will not want to make a journey to the dump station to dispose of a few gallons of trash, we anticipate that this will be the home dumping option that the vast majority of RVers will use at some time in their travels.

Get yourself a bucket. (A 5-gallon bucket is generally the most practical size.) Installing the bucket under either your gray or black water tank, opening the valve very slowly and gently, and filling the bucket with waste is recommended. When you’re finished, close the valve to seal it off. Opening the valve very slowly will prevent the waste from splashing around too much, but you may still wish to seal your nose, wear a facial covering, and/or wear gloves to protect yourself from the waste. Dump the pail of rubbish into the cleanout port with care to avoid damaging it (septic or city sewer). With a screw cap on the end, the cleanout is a PVC pipe that is located above ground (typically between your house and the tank or between your house and the sewer). It’s as simple as unscrewing the top and pouring the garbage into the cleanout. Continue to follow the instructions outlined above until your gray or black water tank is completely depleted. Remember to rinse and disinfect the bucket after each use.

It is also possible to employ an access port in the event that your septic tank lacks a cleanout. If you decide to continue with this route, go with caution. Internal to your septic tank are highly toxic gases that can be lethal if ingested by the wrong person. Make sure you choose the access port that is the most convenient for you at your residence. A baffle is located in the center of your septic tank, and it prevents sludge (solid waste) from obstructing your discharge outlet. As a result, if you pour on the incorrect side of the baffle (the side that is furthest away from your home), you run the danger of blocking your tank.

This can result in the death of the bacteria that aid in the breakdown of trash in your tank.

It has the potential to generate terrible blockages in your plumbing system, which will ultimately result in costly and stressful repairs and replacements.

The Macerating Method

For those who find the bucket approach too nasty, there is another alternative available, although one that is perhaps somewhat difficult to understand! This method includes macerating (which is just a fancy word for smashing!) the waste with a special macerator pump, which chops the trash up into a smoothie-like consistency (yum delicious!). The waste is then composted. Once connected to a garden hose, the macerated waste may be sent to your home’s septic tank or cleanout port. Once again, several publications propose that you pour the macerated feces into the toilet and flush it down the toilet.

Instead, we propose that you discharge your macerated trash into your cleanout port to save yourself the trouble of having to haul it away.

You can follow these steps if you wish to macerate your waste before disposing of it in your septic tank (doing so will assist in the waste breakdown process, while it is not strictly essential). You’ll need the following supplies:

An RV waste macerator pump is used to dispose of RV garbage. (They usually cost between $100 and $200, depending on where you live.)

An adapter for connecting a hose to your RV
An adapter for connecting your macerator pump to your garden hose
A garden hose, to be precise. (It’s definitely a good idea to set aside one hose specifically for this purpose! )

If you’d want to empty your tank utilizing the macerator pump approach, follow these steps:

Make use of the hose adapter to connect your macerator pump to the waste exit on your RV
Make a connection between your macerator pump and your garden hose by using the CDFJ adaptor. The other end of your garden hose should be inserted into your home’s septic tank. Shortening the distance that trash must travel via the garden hose will aid in the speeding up of the process and will reduce the pressure placed on your pump. Connect the macerator pump to the power source. Open the waste output valve on your RV and turn on the macerator pump to remove the waste. Continually flush your RV’s system with clean water until it is clean

When the water pouring out of your RV is clear, you’ve completed the process of emptying your tank! Remove everything from the system, and you’re finished

Although this approach requires a little more effort and will cost you a little more money to complete, it is quite successful for dumping at home if you are ready to put in the necessary effort.

The Dumping Without Macerating Method

If you want to dump your tanks at home, the last alternative is to dump your gray or black water tanks without macerating them beforehand. You will be dumping into your home’s cleanout or access port, just like you would with the other alternatives (on septic systems or city sewers). Because it simply needs connecting your RV’s black or gray water tanks to your cleanout port and flushing the waste out, this is the quickest and most straightforward approach thus far. In the event that you want to employ this option, you should slowly drain waste into your home’s cleanout port.

If you are entering your septic tank through the access lid, take care not to disturb the scum layer as much as you possibly can.

Using the Right Products

We must emphasize that you should not throw caustic chemicals into your septic tank as a precautionary measure for any of the procedures described above. Because caustic chemical treatments, such as bleach or ammonia, have been used to clean the toilet bowl and disguise odors in your holding tanks (which is not a fantastic idea, let us be honest!) it is not recommended that you dump the contents of the RV’s holding tanks into your house’ s septic system. The bacteria in your septic system work to break down waste, which is how it works.

Caustic chemical compounds such as these are particularly harmful to septic systems and can result in serious difficulties down the line.

If you want to dump into a septic system, we recommend that you use non-hazardous and septic-safe holding tank treatments.

In addition, our thorough treatment method, The Unique Method, defines the appropriate wastewater treatment techniques to be followed, as well as the appropriate materials to be used in your tanks!

Conclusion

We hope that this post has assisted you in learning everything you need to know about dumping your RV holding tanks at home! Once again, if you are at all uncomfortable with any of the procedures listed above, we recommend that you simply empty your RV at a dump site rather than continuing with them. For information on finding a disposal station in your area, please touch or click here.

Again, please be sure to adhere to all applicable local rules while disposing of your tanks, and if you have any questions or issues, please do not hesitate to contact us. Every stage of your RVing trip is important to us, and we want to be there for you.

Adopt The Unique Method

You purchased your recreational vehicle so that you may enjoy life and spend time with family and friends on the road. The last thing you want to do is squander valuable time and resources attempting to resolve wastewater holding tank complications. It is not necessary to spend a lot of time or money on keeping your tanks in optimum functioning condition if you follow our tried and true process: The Unique Method. After years of talks with actual clients who were dealing with genuine difficulties, we developed The Unique Method, which is a complete tank maintenance plan.

Try it for yourself and learn why thousands of campers rely on TheUnique Method to keep their RVs running well every day.

Get in Touch With Us

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Try it for yourself and learn why thousands of campers rely on TheUnique Method to keep their RVs running well every day.

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How to Unfreeze RV Pipes and Tanks

The 8th of December in the year 2021 In addition to being preventative measures, many of these thawing techniques are also preventative measures, and the tools used to prepare for cold weather should be staple items in your RV if you plan to camp through the winter, and even if you plan to camp in the fall or very early in the spring when the weather in many areas can surprise you with freezing temperatures at unexpected times.

Throughout this post, we’ll go over what sections of your RV’s water system are at risk of freezing, what equipment you’ll need to defrost frozen tanks and pipes, and some practices to use when using those items to prevent causing harm during the thawing process.

A Beginner’s Guide To RV Holding Tanks

Liz Wilcox contributed to this article. RVing may take you to some breathtaking destinations and provide you with the opportunity to make lifelong memories. However, not every aspect of RVing is visually appealing. It’s an unglamorous — but vital — aspect of any RV excursion to keep up with and empty your septic system on a regular basis.

And if this system is not properly maintained and cared for, things may get rather unpleasant. Whether you’re a first-time RV owner or you’re planning to rent an RV via Campanda, it’s crucial to understand how to properly maintain your RV tanks. This helpful guide will assist you in getting started:

What does an RV septic system look like?

Recreational vehicles are often equipped with three tanks, which are positioned on the underneath of the vehicle to ensure that everything runs properly.

1. Fresh Water Tank

An RV typically has three tanks: one for fresh water, one for gray water, and one for black water. This tank is used to store fresh water, as the name implies. This is the water that comes out of your faucets and showers.

2. Grey Water Tank

The grey tank is responsible for storing the waste water from your RV shower and kitchen sink. It is possible that some secondhand campers and older RVs may not have this tank.

3. Black Water Tank

For novice RVers, this is the one that gives them the creeps. The black tank is responsible for storing waste water from the toilet. This tank is used to collect all filthy water if your RV does not have its own separate gray tank. Any one of these tanks, if not properly maintained, might pose difficulties for the owner.

How often should I empty my RV tanks?

There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to how often you should empty your tanks; it all depends on how frequently you use them. The frequency with which you should empty your tanks is a matter of personal preference. If you are traveling with a large group of people, it is possible that you may need to empty your tanks every two days. If you and your spouse are the only ones in the house, once a week may be plenty. As a general rule of thumb, you should wait until your tanks are approximately two-thirds full before empties them.

Some recreational vehicles are equipped with devices that allow you to see exactly how much fuel is left in your tanks.

This type of sensor begins to malfunction after a few years of use.

Keeping track of how much water waste you generate is critical to staying on top of the situation.

How do I empty my RV tanks?

Your recreational vehicle’s holding tanks should be prominently labeled. If you’re renting an RV, make sure you obtain a tour from the RV owner before leaving. Before you start your first waste water dump, make sure you have a sewage hose and some gloves to keep your hands safe from the chemicals. Next, make a note of the valves that are located on the outside of your RV. These will be prominently labeled with the words “grey” and “black.” Connect your sewage hose to the RV’s waste water shutoff valve.

Before pulling the valves, double-check that it is securely attached on both ends.
It’s important to remember that the toilet waste water empties straight into this tank.

Dump stations are always prominently labeled and easily identifiable.
When you can no longer hear any liquid coming through the line, turn off the valve and remove the hose.
This is critically crucial.

It will force all of the liquid to drain out, leaving no route for the particles to drain out as a result.
Pull the grey tank valve once you’ve made sure the valve is completely closed.
Some RVers choose to keep the gray tank valve open outside the RV and allow it to drain continually to save time.

Flushing the gray tank after flushing the black tank can assist in flushing any sediments that have been caught in your sewage pipe.

When removing the sewage pipe, go cautiously to avoid creating a mess. When the hose is not in use, many RVers store it in a bucket or tub to keep it contained.

How do I maintain my RV septic system?

Starter kits like this one are available at places like Walmart and RV retailers. Once you’ve gotten the hang of emptying the tanks in your recreational vehicle, the task can be completed fast and efficiently. However, there is more to properly operating your tanks than simply emptying them – upkeep is just as vital and will help you avoid problems down the road if done correctly. In general, flushing your system on a regular basis, as well as cleaning and sanitizing your tanks, will keep your system up and running relatively trouble-free.

Other things to know about your RV holding tanks:

The fresh water tank, however it is the least frightening of the three tanks, nonetheless need care from time to time. When connected to water or filling the tank, only use a potable water hose to avoid contaminating the water. Because of their white tone, they are simple to distinguish. When using this tank, it is critical to pay close attention to the weather. Insulate your hose during freezing weather and drain your fresh water during periods of excessive heat to avoid water stagnation and evaporation.

It’s the least frightening of all of the RV holding tanks.

To clean the tank, use regular household bleach.

Pour 14 cup of bleach into your tank for every 15 gallons of water it holds. Continually run the water until you detect the fragrance of bleach Continue to run the machine until all of the bleached water has been removed. Allowing your tank to rest for 24 hours is recommended. Ensure that your tank is fully refilled and that the water is running until the bleach smell is gone. Use as you normally would

Gray Water Tank

Once again, here is the location where the water from your sink or RV shower is collected. Large travel trailers and fifth wheels may have two gray tanks to accommodate the additional space. It’s vital to notice that the drain into this tank is rather modest in diameter. Take all necessary precautions to guarantee that food particles do not end up in the sewer. Even something as little as a pea has the potential to block a drain.

Black Water Tank

You should only ever empty your tanks at a dumping site that has been authorized for that purpose. There are a few basic rules of thumb to follow in order to keep the dreaded black tank from causing problems:

Single-ply toilet paper should be used. Two-ply might cause a blockage in the tank. Flush the toilet on a regular basis, always adding water to the bowl before flushing
After you’ve dumped your tank, disinfect it. Special chemicals for this may be found in the RV area of any large box shop
However, they are not inexpensive. Pouring a garden hose down the toilet is a good way to keep this tank clean. This should assist in flushing your system and clearing out any buildups that have occurred.

Although draining sewage may not be a part of your RVing dreams, it is a very real and necessary element of the RVing experience. Ideally, it should be a short and painless process if everything is done correctly. Follow the instructions above, and after a few trips to the dump station, you’ll be an expert at dealing with your RV’s septic system! Even though emptying your RV’s tanks is not a pleasant task, it is an essential aspect of RV life. Are you apprehensive about the prospect of emptying your own recreational vehicle tanks?

By clicking on the following link, you may view Campanda’s variety of trailers, motorhomes, and campers: To Rent, Please Click Here.

An RVDo you want to experience the delights of RVing — black water tank and all — with other RV enthusiasts? Consider purchasing an RV. You may rent out your RV on Campanda and convert your investment into a second source of income! To List Your Recreational Vehicle, Please Click Here.

How to Dump RV Tanks at Home – Complete Guide with Video!

Wouldn’t it be convenient if you could empty the holding tanks of your RV at your residence? On a Sunday morning, it would be far more convenient than waiting in line at the campsite dump station, which would be a hassle. Guess what? It’s true. You’ve got good fortune! You may empty your RV tanks at your residence! You may surely empty the black and gray water holding tanks from your RV at your residence. And it isn’t all that tough to accomplish. To do this operation, there are various conventional approaches that may be used, and this article will discuss four of them.

As a bonus, at the conclusion of this post, you can watch our instructional videos on how to empty your RV tanks at your house!

However, it is one of those subjects that has to be talked openly whether you are living in an RV full time or even if you are a weekend warrior type camper.

Why Dump RV Tanks At Home?

My quick response is that it is more convenient and cost-effective to dump your RV tanks at your residence. Please do not reenact the scene from Chevy Chase’s National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation movie, in which the Griswald’s cousin Eddie dumps his RV garbage into the city’s streetside sewage, since this would be inappropriate. Don’t ever do something for the same reason that you see in the movie. The best element, apart from the fact that it is cost-effective, is how simple it is to complete at home.

The obvious consequence is that the environment will be polluted.

Because it is not difficult to empty your RV tanks at home, it is important to remember to always utilize proper disposal procedures when disposing of waste water from your RV.

Is it Legal to Dump My RV Tanks at Home?

It is convenient and costless to dump your RV tanks at your residence, to give you a brief response. Please do not reenact the scene from Chevy Chase’s National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation movie, in which the Griswald’s cousin Eddie dumps his RV garbage into the city’s streetside sewage, since it is considered inappropriate. Never do something like that for the same reason you see in the movie! Another advantage is that it is simple to complete at home, which is a plus in terms of cost savings.

Obviously, this will contaminate the environment, and it is possible that some municipal fines will be assessed.

Can I Dump My RV Tanks Into My Private Septic System?

My quick response is that it is more convenient and cost-effective to dump your RV tanks at your house. But let’s not duplicate the scenario from Chevy Chase’s National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation movie, in which the Griswalds’ cousin Eddie dumps his RV garbage into the city’s streetside sewage. Never do something like that for the same reason you see in the movie! The best aspect, apart from the fact that it is more cost effective, is how simple it is to do it at home. However, emptying the grey or black tanks into the ground is strictly prohibited.

Obviously, this will harm the environment and will very certainly result in some municipal fines. Because it is not difficult to empty your RV tanks at home, it is important to remember to always utilize safe disposal procedures when disposing of waste water.

Types of RV Tanks

Before we get into how we may empty our RV water tanks at home, I’d want to talk about the numerous types of RV water tanks that are available. Many of you are novice RVers, and you may be wondering what the difference is between black water, grey water, and freshwater tanks, among other things.

Your RV’s black water tank holds the filthy sewage and waste water that comes from your toilet. The grey water tank in your RV collects waste water from your shower, sinks, and other sources such as when you wash dishes or brush your teeth. Fresh Water Tank– This is, without a doubt, the cleanest tank in your home, and it is responsible for supplying fresh water to your faucets and shower.

Check read our post What Are RV Holding Tanks and How Do They Work for a more in-depth explanation of the many types of RV tanks.

What Is Black Water?

As previously stated, RV black water is the waste water that is discharged from your toilet sewage system (also known as human waste). Make sure to empty your RV’s black water tanks first! Why? Because you will be able to utilize the gray water tank to semi-clean and wash out your hose at that point.

What Is Grey Water?

Grey waste water is generated by the drains of your kitchen sink, shower, and bathroom sink. Almost all of the recreational vehicles are equipped with all three types of water tanks: grey, black, and fresh water. There’s a chance that you’re driving a vintage trailer camper that doesn’t have a grey water tank. If this is the case for you, you may actually purchase and install a grey water tank in your house.

Do I Really Need to Use RV Safe Toilet Paper?

You can use any of the four most frequent ways listed below to complete the chore of emptying the wastewater tanks in your recreational vehicle. Two of these may necessitate the acquisition of specialist equipment. Another thing you will just require is a bucket. Possibly a clothespin, or a dab of Vicks Vapor Rub for your nose, to be more specific. Here are the four most frequent techniques for emptying the holding tanks of your RV at your residence:

1. Dump You RV Tanks into the Cleanout Pipe

The vast majority of people have access to a sewage disposal system, whether it be private or public. A private sewage disposal system is commonly referred to as a septic system, whereas a public sewage disposal system is referred to as a domestic sanitary sewer or a residential sewer system, respectively. Cleaning out is something that nearly always occurs with both sorts. In the image on the right, you can see the results of a cleanout. It may seem similar to a sewage cleanout that you have seen at a campsite, and the concept is precisely the same as well.

In the case of a septic system, you are permitted to dump without first confirming that it is permitted in your jurisdiction.
As a good neighbor, I recommend informing your neighbor that you have examined your sewer tank and that you will be dumping it on a regular basis in the near future.
When we go away for the weekend, however, there are no connections available, so we end up dumping at our residence instead.
It is also strongly recommended that you get a RhinoFLEX Rhino Blaster that has a gate valve to make cleaning your black water tank more convenient.
After that, we purchased a RhinoFLEX Rhino Blaster.
The amazing thing about the Rhino Blaster is that we can connect a garden hose directly to it, which allows us to fill the black tank in record time.

The answer is to get a Rhino Blaster that includes a gate valve. When the gate valve is closed, it keeps water in the tank, allowing you to open the black tank valve and fill the tank with clean water, which then flushes out the black tank. It is a time saver and really convenient at the same time.

2. The Bucket Method

The bucket approach is the quickest and most straightforward, but it should only be utilized if you have no other option for emptying your tanks. However, you will be in direct contact with raw sewage if this is the case, and you should exercise caution while using the bucket approach. It is fairly straightforward:

The bucket approach is the quickest and most straightforward, but it should only be utilized if you have no other option for emptying your holding tanks. Using the bucket approach is a possibility if this is the case
However, you may be exposed to raw sewage, so exercise caution. Essentially, it is as follows:

Clearly, this is a simple method of emptying your tanks at home. While it may not be pleasant to empty the black tank, if you only have a little amount of gray water to dispose of, it isn’t that unpleasant. Additionally, as with any dumping procedure, it is essential that you wear gloves during the operation. The finest gloves I’ve discovered so far are the Heavy Duty Orange Nitrile 8 Mil Disposable Gloves with Diamond Texture, which are available at Amazon. The majority of disposable gloves are just 4 to 6 mm thick, and they frequently rip or tear.

However, the 8 mil rubber gloves are considerably more durable, and the diamond grip is wonderful as well.

3. The Macerator Method

When it comes to sewage treatment, the macerator technique can be the most difficult, but it is also the most effective for people who do not have a septic system but still want to be able to empty out the entire tank at home. When you use this approach, everything in your tank will be ground up and converted into sludge, thanks to the use of a tool known as a macerator. The sludge will then be funneled into your toilet with the help of a garden hose. This procedure does necessitate the acquisition of a small amount of specialty equipment.

Items that are required:

Hose adapter
CDFJ adapter
Garden hose (it is advised that you use a separate garden hose for this and not the same garden hose that you use for your lawn and garden)
RV waste macerator pump

Instructions Provided in Step-by-Step Form In order to gain a better angle and better monitoring of the contents of the tank, you may attach the hose adapter to your RV’s waste outlet. 2.After that, connect the macerator to your waste outlet. 2.Connect your pump to a power source (These can often be connected to your RV batteries). 3.Connect the garden hose to the macerator with the help of the CDFJ adapter. 4. 4.Connect the yard hose to the toilet at your residence. The use of a larger-diameter hose and a more powerful pump is advised for traveling long distances.

6.Always be prepared to flush the toilet as frequently as necessary.
It is at this point that the transparent adapter is beneficial.
9.
Upon completion, switch off the pump and unhook all of the wires and connections.

4. The Septic Tank Method

When it comes to dumping your holding tanks into a septic system, the best technique is probably the simplest.

If you have a cleanout, it’s also the quickest. The cleanout is a PVC pipe that is above ground and has a screw cap on the end to keep out debris. There’s a cleanout between the home and the septic tank where you may go.

Using the Cleanout

The cleanout on your septic system is the most convenient way to gain access to your septic system. Remove the screw-on cap and connect your RV hose to the cleanout in a secure manner. Make certain that it is properly fastened. Having the connection come loose when you’re emptying your wastewater tanks is not something you want to happen! Once you have everything connected, you can opt to leave it connected in the same manner as you would in any RV park. You can also take it down after you are through.

Using the Septic Tank’s Access Port

If utilizing the cleanout isn’t an option, you may alternatively utilize the access port on your septic tank to drain the tank. This strategy, on the other hand, is not nearly as appealing. Carefully remove the lid from the container. It is possible that two persons will be required to lift the lid. Make a point of staying away from any of the gases that are produced. They have the potential to be lethal. Be careful to dump into the access port on the side of the baffle that takes solids when utilizing the access port to discharge solids.

It is important to note that you should not keep your RV plugged in when using the Access Port due to the fumes and the danger of harming the beneficial bacteria in your septic system.

When using your septic tank, it is critical to avoid breathing the toxic gases that come from it, and to always utilize the side of the tank that gathers solids (the side nearest to the house).

How Often Should I Empty My Black Water Tank?

If you believe that you will only have to empty your RV’s black water tank once throughout your vacation, you are mistaken. When your RV’s black tank is at least two-thirds full, or more, it’s time to dump it. Using your tank sensors, you can keep a check on the levels, and then you can go ahead and empty your tanks.

Can I Leave My Black Tank Valve Open?

This is a question we are asked all the time, and the answer is no. When you are linked up to a water source when camping or at home, you should not keep your black tank valve open. Some of the waste in the black tank is solid, and the pressure created by a nearly full tank is necessary to drive the waste out of the tank and into the sewer connection, which is located nearby.

Can I Flush My Black Tank at Home?

Excellent question, and the answer is yes. After you have emptied your RV’s black tank, now is the ideal time to fill it with clean water and flush it out to verify that the tank is completely empty. In the long run, this will prevent trash from accumulating inside your tank. In all seriousness, you’ll want to do regular upkeep and maintenance on your RV waste tank to avoid running into difficulties later on that are both expensive and inconvenient to deal with if you’re in the middle of nowhere!

Just keep in mind that the plumbing in your RV is very different from the plumbing in your home, which is connected to the municipal sewer system.

Your RV holding tanks are undoubtedly one of, if not the most, crucial components of your camper since they are responsible for making it possible to use your bathroom and kitchen in an efficient and safe manner.

What to Do if You Don’t Have Tank Level Indicators?

Fortunately, the standard holding tank capacities for RVs are very enough. As a result, if you have a 15-foot canned ham camper, your tanks will be smaller in comparison to those of a large Class A recreational vehicle. No matter what size holding tanks you have, your owner’s handbook or RV dealer will be able to provide you with the necessary information. Every RV spouse or family will utilize their holding tanks in a somewhat different way than the next. Because it is based on your individual usage, the amount of time you may go between dumping your black and gray water tanks will vary from person to person, depending on your circumstances.

Very tiny and outdated trailers, on the other hand, are unlikely to have a tank sensor system built in to them.

A very essential guideline to remember is that no matter how tempting it may be to dump before the containers are totally filled, you should always wait, especially during the cold winter months when smaller volumes of waste water are more likely to freeze and cause a backup.

BenefitsRisks of Emptying Your RV Tanks At Home

The advantages of emptying your RV tanks at home include convenience and cost savings (some dump stations do charge a small fee). One of the hazards of doing so is that you will inappropriately dispose of your RV garbage and will wind up having to pay a fee to the city or will cause damage to your property. Nevertheless, if you follow our recommendations, you should not have this problem.

How to Stay Safe While Dumping RV Tanks at Home

The prospect of disposing of your RV’s black water, grey water, and fresh water tanks may be enough to make you want to throw up in your mouth. If this is the case, don’t give up on your RVing dreams just yet. There is yet a ray of hope! The most effective method of staying safe is to avoid coming into touch with any waste water at all. In order to avoid the sewer hose from popping out of the sewer connection, make sure all of your connections are tight, use gloves, and wash or sterilize your hands once you are through working.

Check out our post on “What are RV Sewer Hose Weights?” for more information.

What About Dumping Gray Water at Home?

Yes! You may also dispose of your grey water tank at home! Here are some pointers on how to properly dispose of grey water at home.

Always empty the grey tank first, followed by the black tank. By doing so, you will be able to fully rinse and flush the black water and any residual particles via the hose. Taking the time to fill and flush your grey tank is also recommended.

Another thing to keep in mind is that you can leave your grey water tank valve open while you are connected to a sewage system. Because grey water does not contain any solid trash, it will drain freely and without causing any obstacles. You only need to stop the grey valve at the conclusion of your journey to allow the grey water to fill the tank and be used to flush the black water via the sewage line.

What if I Can’t Dump My RV Tanks at Home?

Dump stations are frequently available on the grounds of campgrounds, state parks, and national parks where people are staying for extended periods of time. As a result, you may have to wait in line to empty your tanks. However, I have stayed at some locations where there was no dump station, although this is quite unusual.

Another alternative is to download the RV Dump Station Finder App, which allows you to identify dump stations near you no matter where you are and to empty your tanks before you return home after your trip.

Conclusion

As you can see, emptying the waste tanks of your RV at home is not a difficult task, and there are various options for accomplishing the task. Also obvious is that if your property is equipped with a septic system that has a cleanout access point, you are much ahead of the game. Keep in mind that there are several aspects, as well as some genuine risks, that must be taken into consideration in order to guarantee that the dumping procedure runs as smoothly and safely as it possibly can. For many RV owners, the possibility of emptying their RV’s tanks at home is a viable and attractive choice.

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