How To Plumb A Septic Tank For Motor Home? (Solution found)

• Find the main sewer pipe for your RV. Step 2 Connect a 5 to 10 ft PVC pipe piece on the plumbing emanating from your RV. This is the pipe that horizontally extends and is secured by a clamp. Step 3 Use a tape measure to find the distance between the tank bottom and the inlet hole. Find the hole depth from the pipe bottom.

Can you hook up an RV to a house septic tank?

Many people who have an RV and a septic tank wonder if they can use the two together. The RV is the perfect place to allow visitors to stay while having their own space. The short answer is that yes, it is possible to connect your RV into your septic tank, but you need to make sure that you do it correctly.

How big of a septic tank do I need for an RV?

In a small RV, you can expect at least 15 gallons for the black water and a gray water tank of 30 gallons. A larger RV might easily have tanks as large as 50 gallons each.

Can I dump my RV black water into my septic tank?

In summary, yes you can dump RV waste water into house septic systems. Don’t use chemicals in your black water tank that may destroy your tank’s natural ecosystem. When dumping from an access port, try to make sure you’re on the correct side of the baffle.

Are RV toilet chemicals safe for septic tanks?

Camco TST Clean Scent RV Toilet Treatment, Formaldehyde Free, Breaks Down Waste And Tissue, Septic Tank Safe, Treats up to 8 – 40 Gallon Holding Tanks (32 Ounce Bottle) – 41502, TST Blue.

Where is the main sewer line in a mobile home?

Manufactured homes will have drain lines that extend under the home from below the bathroom to the sewer line that goes into the ground.

Do mobile homes have sewer vents?

Yes, all mobile homes have ventilation systems. A ventilation system is part of the drain-waste system but it’s still considered to be a separate system. Vents do 2 things: maintain pressure in the drain lines and help wastewater to drain smoothly.

How do RV septic systems work?

A camper septic system works by simply acting as a holding tank for your sewage. It’s not a SEPTIC TANK that works like at a house. With an RV septic system there are no leach fields, no breaking down needed (not really), none of that. It holds your sewage until you dump it.

Can you pee in an RV shower?

In general, you should not pee in the RV shower. The water from the shower goes straight to your gray water tank, and urine should go to the black water tank. However, sometimes urine ends up in the greywater tank.

Can you put a composting toilet in an RV?

An RV composting toilet is a great alternative to a traditional RV toilet and is frequently used on boats and in off-grid cabins as well. In short, a composting toilet composts waste rather than flushing it with water and plumbing. Using a composting toilet in an RV means no more dumping the dreaded black tank.

Can you hook up your RV to a Septic Tank?

Many people who own both an RV and a septic tank are unsure as to whether or not they may utilize the two together. The RV is the ideal spot to accommodate visitors while yet providing them with their own space. You may connect your RV to your septic tank, but you must do so in the proper manner. First and foremost, it is necessary to comprehend the operation of a septic tank before discussing how you might link the two.

How do Septic Tanks Work?

Sewer septic tanks are divided into two sections, each of which filters through wastewater while separating it from the liquid. As the wastewater is broken down by the natural bacteria in the septic tank, it is spread into the soil, where it sinks and is filtered by the soil. Septic tanks must maintain a precise equilibrium between bacteria and wastewater in order to function effectively. Cleaning products, toilet wipes, and even coffee grinds have the potential to be harmful. It is possible to extend the life of your septic tank by ensuring that you are not dumping excessive volumes of these.

How to Connect to your Septic Tank

Typically, you will find a clean out is the easiest way to connect your RV to your septic tank. This will be a PVC pipe that comes out from the ground with a screw cap. You can simply remove the cap and attach the sewer hose from your RV into this clean out. make sure that the hose is properly secured to the pipe opening, you may have to weigh this down so that it doesn’t create a mess. You can choose to leave this hooked up all the time so that any wastewater automatically goes into the septic system or you can choose to wait and empty the tank all at once.

Because septic tanks work using natural bacteria to breakdown wastewater it’s important to keep balances in check.

Although you can do this it’s dangerous as exposure to too much air can kill the natural bacteria in the tank and the gas trapped in the tank can actually be fatal to humans.

You want to dump into the side that keeps the solids separate from the wastewater or the one that’s closest to the house.

Keeping your Septic Tank Working Well

When you connect your RV to your septic tank, you’ll need to take a few extra steps to ensure that the system continues to function properly. Make sure you’re not putting too many more chemicals down your pipes; even goods marketed as septic tank cleansers might deplete the natural bacteria levels in your system. These will only provide a temporary improvement in the overall cleanliness of the system. Make sure you don’t overburden the system with too many requests. As wastewater is introduced into the system, it is forced out through the outlet.

When using the RV plumbing system on a regular basis, be prepared to have the system cleaned more regularly.

If you need more room and solitude, renting an RV as a guest home is a fantastic alternative.

By ensuring that your RV is properly connected and that you are not overloading your system, you may gain more living space while also keeping your septic tank in good operating order. Posts from the recent past

How to Plumb the Septic Tank for a Mobile Home

Home-Diy Many mobile homes are located in rural locations where there are no municipal sewer systems, which makes them particularly vulnerable. Mobile homes are required to use an individual sewer system, sometimes known as a septic system, to dispose of their waste. Waste materials are processed and removed from the residence through the use of a septic tank and drain pipes in this type of system. if (sources.length) then this.parentNode.removeChild(sources); then this.onerror = null; this.src = fallback; )(, arguments.target.currentSrc.replace; )(, arguments.target.currentSrc.replace; )(, arguments.target.currentSrc.replace; (//$/, “), (//$/, “), ‘/public/images/logo-fallback.png’) is a fallback logo image.

• A shovel, a tape measure, a level, PVC pipe, PVC pipe cleaner, PVC pipe cement, a hacksaw, and pipe couplers are all necessary tools.

1. Locate the septic tank at least 10 feet away from the exterior wall of the mobile home to ensure proper drainage. The tank should be buried at a depth of 2 to 4 feet
2. The deeper the tank is buried, the greater the ability of the tank to fit your drain lines. PVC pipe measuring four inches in diameter will be used to connect the septic tank to a distribution box, which will be positioned at the end of the drain line distribution system. From the distribution box to the drain fields, more PVC pipe will be installed to allow for the water to be absorbed back into the soil. Dig a trench from the inlet side of the septic tank to a depth of roughly 3 to 4 feet under the structure of the mobile home. In order to allow a 4-inch PVC pipe, this ditch should be broad enough to accommodate a modest inclination, with the lower end terminating at the entrance port of the septic tank. You want this slope to be steep enough to allow gravity to take the waste and waste water from your home, but not so steep that it interferes with your daily activities. If the gradient is excessively high, the water will actually race the other waste items, leaving them in the drain line rather than transporting them to the septic tank as intended. As the materials continue to accumulate in the drain pipe, it is possible that the line will get blocked. Determine the location of the main drain line that originates from the mobile home. A single drain line should be installed under your property that connects all of the toilets and other drains. Connect the PVC pipe that comes from the septic tank to this main drain line to complete the installation. Make an effort to keep the number of turns and connections in this part of the drain line to a bare minimum. Also, make certain that the couplings on the interior of the drain are smooth and free of debris. Items can become tangled in a rough or ragged coupling, resulting in blockages and system failure as a result. It is also important to ensure that the drain lines are constantly moving downward
3. Test the drain lines to ensure that all couplings and fittings are water tight and durable under normal operation. Refill the ditches and cover all of the septic system’s components once the test indicates that the system is in good functioning condition.

The Drip Cap

• This ditch must be wide enough to accommodate a 4-inch PVC pipe and should have a slight incline with the lower end culminating at the inlet port of the septic tank
• If the materials continue to build up, this can eventually result in a clogged drain line. Many mobile homes are located in rural areas where there are no municipal sewer systems. Figure out where the main drain pipe from the mobile home enters the house

Install Home RV Sewer Dump on Septic System

The most recent update was made on October 9th, 2019 at 01:48 p.m. If you keep your RV at your residence, having the ability to empty your RV holding tanks at your residence is a tremendous benefit. It is possible that you will wish to install an RV sewer dump on your house sewer line. Nonetheless, if your house is equipped with a septic system, you should have a thorough grasp of how it operates before adding an RV sewer dump to the mix. If this is not done correctly, it may result in the need for costly repairs to your septic drain field.

• The most important thing to remember is that sewage lines should not have sudden reductions in pressure since the water will leave sediments behind, causing them to accumulate in the drain pipe.
• One inch of drop in a one hundred foot line is nearly too much; you should aim for no more than a half-inch drop per hundred feet at the very maximum.
• NEVER connect your RV’s dump line to the drain field; instead, connect it to the septic system between the home and the septic tank.
• Other options include draining your RV dump directly into the top of your septic tank, preferably before the baffle if your tank has one, but after the baffle will work if that is the only alternative available.
• The baffle in a septic tank guarantees that sediments do not pass across the top of the liquid and out into the drain pipes, but rather that they do flow down.
• I usually make sure that the dump is about six inches below the surface of the water.
• When establishing new septic systems on properties large enough to accommodate RV parking, I always offered to add a free RV dump, which I connected between the house and the tank whenever practical.

I reasoned that installing one now would spare me the trouble of digging up the yard later, and the additional cost of the pipe was little.

How Your Septic System Works

In order to construct an RV septic system, a scaled-down version (or replica) of an existing full-size system must be built. A smaller septic system will suffice for an RV because to the lower volume of waste generated compared to a septic system designed for a house. You may put up a basic but effective system using items from your local hardware store, plumbing supply store, and stone yard, among other places. Check with your local zoning authority to see if any permissions are necessary.

Step 1

To do this, locate the main sewer line that comes from the RV.

Step 2

An 8- to 10-foot section of PVC pipe should be connected to the RV’s main plumbing pipe. (Optional) If the pipe is to be used horizontally, it should be fastened using a clamp that may be quickly removed when traveling by RV.

Step 3

The distance between the entrance hole and the bottom of the tank should be measured. This measurement must be taken from the bottom of the pipe and must be the depth of the hole.

Step 4

Make a hole in the ground and place the tank in it according to your specifications. This is the septic tank, which is responsible for separating solid waste from liquid waste.

Step 5

Using your fingers, gently press the intake from the RV drain into the tank until it is tight.

Step 6

Backfill the ground surrounding the tank once it has been levelled.

Step 7

Attach an elbow to the end of the drainpipe that is pointing down and toward the bottom of the tank with hot glue.

Step 8

Pitch down 1/8 inch each foot for a 10-foot ditch from the tank’s outlet hole to the end of the tank’s outlet pipe.

Step 9

Install PVC pipe from the outlet hole to the far end of the trench, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 10

Glue a PVC elbow to the outflow pipe in the tank, with the elbow pointing down and toward the tank’s bottom.

Step 11

At the end of the trench, dig a hole that is ten feet deep.

Step 12

Fill up the hole with stones. Fill the hole with water until it reaches the bottom of the pipe.

Step 13

Fill up the hole with stones by stacking them. In order for the pipe to function properly, it must be completely filled with water.

Step 14

Stones should be used to cover the perforated pipe. Ideally, stones should be placed around the pipe and at least 4 inches above the pipe’s surface.

Step 15

Apply rosin paper on the stones to help remove the dirt from the stones and keep them clean. Once the earth has been compacted, the rosin paper will gradually disintegrate, and the dirt will no longer mix with the stones.

Step 16

Replace the tank’s lid on top of the tank.

Step 17

Backfill the earth into the trench and grade the surface of the dirt.

Easy 17 Steps – How To Build A RV Septic System?

It’s not everyone’s favorite subject, but if you spend a lot of time in an RV, learning how to establish a septic system is essential. Simply put, you won’t be able to convert your RV into a motor home unless you first install a septic system.

Basic Componentsof theRV Septic System

RV septic systems may be as basic or as complex as you want them to be, but they all have some components in common. Most recreational vehicles have at least some of the following features.

1. Gray water tank– This tank is used to store the liquids that drain from your sink or shower. It does not include any of the waste that is generated by your garbage disposal or bathroom toilet. It is not drinkable, but it may be used to wash your recreational vehicle
2. All of the waste from your RV’s toilet and all of the waste from your shower and sink are collected in the black water tank, which is also known as the waste water tank. However, the fundamentals remain the same regardless of the arrangement of the dump system from RV to RV. You connect a sewage pipe to the gray or black tanks and empty them into a disposal facility
3. You clean the tanks.

HowtoClean RV Black Water Tank?

A great deal of trouble with septic systems may be prevented by performing routine maintenance and planning ahead of time.

1. EnzymesandWaste Tank Solutions

The chemical solutions for waste tanks are available to break down the wastes in black water tanks. Whatever they are, active cultures or synthetic, it doesn’t matter as long as they are acceptable for use in recreational vehicles. It is not recommended to use poisonous solutions since they may cause harm to the tank.

2. Clean Your Tanks

There is disagreement about whether to empty the tanks when they are completely filled or when they are 3/4 of the way full. When I’m three quarters of the way through, I like to empty them since letting the tank to build up can be dangerous. When cleaning both tanks, make sure to use gloves at all times. The black water tank should always be cleansed first, followed by the gray water tank. Maintain the health of your RV septic system by flushing, cleaning, and sanitizing it on a regular basis.

HowtoBuildaRV Septic Systemin17 Steps?

You may construct a septic system for your RV by patterning it after a conventional septic system, with the exception that it will be smaller. Before you begin, be sure you are in compliance with all applicable zoning rules and that you have obtained all necessary permissions. What You’ll Need in Terms of Tools and Materials

• A shovel, paper rosin, a tape measure, pipe adhesive, and perforated PVC pipes are all required.

Step 1

Locate the main sewage pipe for your recreational vehicle.

Step 2

An 8- to 10-foot length of PVC pipe should be connected to the plumbing coming from your RV. Specifically, this is the pipe that extends horizontally and is fastened by a clamp.

Step 3

Calculate the distance between the tank’s bottom and the entrance hole with a tape measure and a ruler. Determine the depth of the hole measured from the pipe’s bottom.

Step 4

Grab a shovel and dig a hole, then position the tank according to the measurements you obtained. Essentially, this will serve as your septic tank, and it will separate liquid waste from solid waste.

Step 5

The entrance from your rig drain should be placed in the tank. Check to see if it is a tight fit.

Step 6

After the tank has been leveled, cover the space surrounding it with earth to conceal the leveling.

Step 7

Obtain an elbow pipe and glue it to the end of the drainpipe. The elbow should be positioned such that it faces down in the direction of the tank’s bottom.

Step 8

Dig a trench 10 feet deep along the length of the tank’s outflow hole at the end. Pitch is approximately 1/8″ per foot.

Step 9

Install a PVC pipe from the outlet hole all the way to the end of the trench.

Step 10

Locate the output pipe and connect a PVC elbow to it with a hose clamp. The elbow should be positioned such that it points towards the bottom of the tank.

Step 11

Excavate a ten-foot-deep hole at the other end of the trench.

Step 12

Fill the holes with stones, and then fill the hole along the pipe’s bottom with more stones.

Step 13

Remove the solid end of the PVC pipe and insert a 4″ perforated PVC pipe. Make certain that the perforated PVC pipe terminates in the center of the hole that has been filled with rocks. Slope it down at a rate of 1/8 of an inch each foot.

Step 14

Place stones on either side of the perforated pipe.

The stones around the pipe must extend four inches above the pipe’s surface.

Step 15

Place rosin paper over the stones to prevent them from becoming mixed with the dirt. After you’ve packed in the earth, the rosin paper will disintegrate, and the dirt will not mix with the stones as it would otherwise.

Step 16

Place the tank’s lid on top of it.

Step 17

The final step is to backfill the soil in the trench with dirt.

RV Black Water Tank: 6 Things You Need to Know

Even though this is one of those subjects that no one wants to talk about, if you don’t know how to clean an RV black water tank, you’ll wind up with a huge mess on your hands. In order to live in a mobile home, you will have to confront the realities of waste management and disposal, which are not pleasant. Some RVers do not bother with the black tank, and this is understandable. They just park their RV where there is access to a public restroom. The question becomes, what happens if your RV breaks down in the middle of nowhere?

And who doesn’t prefer the privacy of a private bathroom over the public restroom?

1. Background

The black water tank in an RV functions as a holding tank for everything that is flushed down the toilet while traveling. In addition, most RVs are equipped with a gray water tank, which stores water from the kitchen sink and shower. This water does not include any of the garbage that has accumulated in your RV; it only contains water. It is referred to as a gray tank because the soap residue gives it a gray appearance. Because the black water tank includes both solid and liquid waste, it must be disposed of in a correct manner.

2. Startwith theRight Base

Check to see that there is enough water in the tank as a starting point for your procedure. The water is used for two different reasons. It does two things: first, it inhibits odors from spreading throughout your RV, and second, it keeps solid waste from clinging to the sides and bottoms.

3. RV Black Tank Chemicals

Adding black tank chemicals to the water once it has been obtained can help to minimize the odor even more and prevent trash from clinging to the water. RV black tank chemicals are widely accessible, and they come in a wide range of fragrances and designs to choose from. If the chemical has been developed expressly for use in black water tanks, you may be confident that it is environmentally benign. By pouring the chemical into the tank, it will dissolve the waste and prevent an odor from accumulating in the tank.

The volume varies from bottle to bottle, but a couple of ounces is generally sufficient for 3 to 4 days’ worth of use.

4. Emptying Your RV Black Tank

You can fill your tanks with water and dump them at the station if you’re about to leave the campsite but your tanks aren’t yet completely full. In order to properly dispose of your garbage, look for a campsite or other appropriate area. When you’ve located a dump station, attach your waste hose to the rig and secure the other end to the dump station’s dumping station. You’ll empty both the gray and black water tanks, however the black tank must always be the first to be emptied. Close the black water valve after the tank is completely depleted.

To empty the gray water tank, turn on the valve and turn it off as well. Because the gray tank is not as unclean as the black tank, you must empty the black tank first. This manner, you may utilize the cleaner gray water to flush out any residue that may have accumulated in the black tank.

5. RV Black Tank Flushing

Emptying the black water tank on a regular basis is only one piece of the whole maintenance process. You’ll also need to wipe out the black water tank in a more thorough manner than before. The accumulation of tissues and garbage can block your toilet, making regular maintenance a must. There are two different methods for flushing a black water tank. The black tank flush valve is the most commonly seen kind. This is something that almost all RVs have, therefore it’s definitely the best option.

1. Just flush it down the toilet and you’re done.
2. If your RV does not come equipped with a flush, you may purchase an aftermarket black valve to replace it.
3. In most cases, you will just need to drill a tiny hole in the black water tank to accommodate the valve installation.
4. In order to accomplish this, you’ll need a garden hose extension or an RV tank rinser that can jet water in various directions in the tank to remove tissue and other debris.
5. Once you’re certain, turn on the RV toilet flush valve and insert the tank rinser so that it enters the black water tank of the vehicle.
6. Make sure the rinser is turning and twisting so that it can reach all areas of the tank.

6. Portable RV Waste Tanks

If you plan to camp for a lengthy amount of time in an area where there is no sewer connection, a portable RV waste tank will be quite useful. Essentially, these allow you to empty your black and gray water tanks through an external tank, as the name indicates. After you have emptied the tanks, you may dispose of them at a dump station. These tanks are equipped with a handle and wheels for simple movement, allowing you to drag the tank to the station in a matter of minutes. Even though there are many different types of RV portable waste tanks, they still require the same maintenance, flushing, and cleaning as a standard black water tank.

Additional TipsforRV Septic Management

Make certain that you only use legal disposal stations. There are a few free dump stations that are either badly kept or contain chemicals that are dangerous to your RV hose and tank. Any chemical that contains formaldehyde should not be used since it may cause harm to the tank. Purchase only from trustworthy sources to ensure that the substances you’re purchasing are safe. After you’ve finished using the dump station, make sure to clean up. Remove any remaining residue and leave the area in the same condition as you found it.

1. On a regular basis, check the tanks for damage.
2. Preferably, you should plan this as part of your RV maintenance so that you can clean everything in one go.
3. Check to see that there is enough for your tanks, and bear in mind that there may be instances where you will need to connect a few of hoses in order to reach the sewer connection.
4. As a result of the decrease in cost, you don’t want to be trapped with an inoperative hose when emptying a black water tank in your home.
5. No matter what sort of hose you are using, never drag it over the ground since this might cause punctures or rips in the hose.
6. This should not be done with the black water hose, though.

It’s a topic that, for obvious reasons, no RVer can afford to ignore. Despite the fact that it is an unpleasant activity, you will need to understand how to maintain it and ensure that the septic tank is in excellent working order. Recommendation for Further Reading:

1. 29 Important Factors to Consider When Preventing RV Pipes From Freezing Cleaning an RV is simple if you follow these guidelines. How can you determine whether an RV’s water tank is clean?

Can I Dump My RV Holding Tank In My Residential Septic System?

a list of 29 critical factors to consider in order to keep RV pipes from freezing Cleaning an RV is simple if you follow these steps: Is it correct to assume that the RV’s water tank is clean?

RV Holding Tanks

To ensure that your RV waste is properly disposed of, you should be familiar with your RV holding tanks and plumbing system. The majority of recreational vehicles include three holding tanks: one for freshwater, one for blackwater, and one for greywater. Freshwater is defined as “clean” water that is utilized within the RV for purposes such as cooking, bathing, and other activities. Even when the RV is not connected to a water supply, this delivers water to the occupants. The difference between blackwater and greywater is that blackwater is wastewater (think toilet), and greywater is “used” water from all other activities (other than waste), such as showering, cooking, running the dishwasher, and so on.

Cleaning out the tanks and keeping them from freezing are particularly critical jobs when it comes to RV ownership and maintenance.

Fortunately, there are several simple techniques for cleaning out your tanks, as well as heaters that may be fitted to keep your tanks from freezing.

The fact that you should never mix up your hoses between separate tanks (especially freshwater and blackwater) may seem like simple sense, but it’s crucial to remember!

How Does A Septic System Work?

It’s critical to understand how a septic system works before putting one in place. A septic system is a type of private sewage system that is placed beneath the earth. It is common for septic tanks to be in the shape of a huge box and to be constructed of a durable material such as plastic, concrete, or fiberglass. People install septic tanks on their properties generally if they live too far away from a central sewage system or if a central system is not possible or practicable for their situation.

• It also comprises pipes, a baffle to avoid blockages and to distinguish between solid and liquid waste sections within the tank, and a drain field, via which waste is discharged back into the environment.
• Chemicals are seldom employed in a septic tank; instead, the tank provides a natural environment for waste breakdown and makes use of microorganisms to accomplish this task instead.
• Septic systems must be emptied on a regular basis in order to eliminate solid waste that does not flow out into the drain field and into the drain field.
• Septic tanks, on the other hand, only need to be emptied every few years (depending on the system).
• In addition, septic tank owners must exercise caution when planting certain trees and bushes near the tank since the roots of these plants might cause damage to the tank and pipes.

They should also avoid placing anything too heavy on the ground where the tank is located. As a result of your newfound knowledge of a septic system, here are some things to keep in mind while considering putting your RV trash into a septic tank.

Is it Legal to Dump your RV Tanks in your Home?

The laws governing the disposal of RV waste in your septic system differ from state to state and from municipality to municipality. Some states and municipalities do not permit the establishment of a “home dumping station.” Check to see if the problem is simply a matter of language or if there are more serious difficulties. The legality may differ depending on the language you choose or the sort of tank you’re dumping in (black or graywater). The best course of action is to inquire with your local municipal or town office about rules.

Besides the possibility of causing environmental damage and/or introducing illnesses into a community, you might also be punished for illegal dumping.

A Word About Chemicals….

Septic tanks are designed to operate mostly without the need of chemicals. In order to survive, they must rely on aerobic and anaerobic bacteria as well as a careful equilibrium within the tank. As a result, it is not recommended that chemicals be dumped into your septic tank. This has the potential to drastically change the ecosystem within the tank, resulting in significant difficulties down the line. If you compromise your system, you may be forced to totally replace it, which would be an extremely expensive and time-consuming endeavor.

When dumping blackwater into a septic tank, it is necessary to avoid using toilet/tank cleaning solutions.

If you are also dumping your greywater tank, you must use goods (dish soap, cleaning products, shampoo, and so on) that are septic-friendly and will not harm the ecology in your tank when you are dumping your greywater.

What items are safe for septic systems may be found in abundance on the internet, according to the experts.

How To Dump Your RV In The Septic Tank

Before you can empty your RV tanks into a septic tank, you’ll need to acquire a few additional items. In addition to gloves, a hose and a waste pump will be essential tools for the job. A pump is not absolutely necessary, although it is better in many situations. You could also consider purchasing a transparent elbow pipe adapter. Having a water supply nearby (such as a garden hose) is beneficial since it allows you to flush out the system after you’re through.

2. Finding The Cleanout Pipe And Attaching Your RV Tanks

In order to properly dispose of your RV waste in your septic tank, you must first locate the “cleanout” line or access port to your septic system. The cleanout pipe is located on your property and is often composed of PVC. It is critical that you use the proper pipe, and it may be preferable to check with a professional prior to dumping your waste. Connect your waste pump to your RV’s electrical system, and then connect a hose that will attach to or run into the septic tank cleanout pipe. You may remove the cap and connect your RV sewage hose to this pipe by unscrewing it.

You should keep in mind that you may need to use blocks or other props to ensure that the waste is directed downhill into the cleanout pipe (particularly if you don’t have a pump) when you install the hose.

3. Pumping Waste

First and foremost, you must locate the “cleanout” pipe or access port for your septic system before you can deposit your RV trash into it. On your property is a cleanout pipe, which is commonly composed of PVC. When dumping, it is critical that you use the proper pipe, and it may be preferable to speak with an expert before starting. Connect your waste pump to your RV’s electrical system, and then connect a hose that will attach to or flow into the septic tank’s cleanout valve. You may remove the cap and use this line to connect your RV sewage hose.

Please keep in mind that, if you do not have a pump, you may need to use blocks or other props to position the hose so that the waste runs downhill into the cleanout pipe.

Alternative Option: Septic Tank Access Port

If the cleanout pipe is not an option, you can use an access port instead, which is the same procedure as using the cleanout pipe. The septic tank may be reached immediately through the access port. You must remove the access port’s cover in order to use it (but be careful- the gasses that are emitted are DANGEROUS). Examine your dumping location to ensure that you are dumping on the side of the baffle that prevents sediments from entering the septic tank. Dumping on the incorrect side of the fence might cause a serious problem and a leak.

When using either method, make careful to double-check your connections to prevent leaks!

Installing Waste Dump Into An Existing Septic System

Building a permanent dump system from your RV to a septic tank may be time-consuming and expensive. If you often camp on your property (or have visitors that camp on your land), this may be a better option for you than the previous one. One of the most serious possible drawbacks with this approach is that enabling access to your septic tank may harm the environment of the tank by allowing oxygen to enter. This is one of the most common problems with this method. Before trying this, consult with the manufacturer of your septic tank.

Every 100 feet, lower the line by a half-inch to get the desired effect.

You may hire a professional to professionally install an RV dump into your septic system.

Additional tips

A permanent dump system from your RV to a sewer system is time-consuming and expensive to install. When it comes to camping (or having visitors who camp), this option may be preferable for those who camp on a regular basis. This method has a number of potential drawbacks, one of which is that providing access to your septic tank may compromise the environment of the tank by allowing oxygen to enter it. Before trying this, check with the manufacturer of your septic tank. Elevation and drop are two other factors to consider.

This will aid in preventing a clogging of the system.

Installing an RV dump into your septic system may be done by a professional. It is necessary, however, to first investigate the legality of the situation and choose a trustworthy business, ideally the same one that installed and/or maintained your septic tank in the first place.

Why Use A Septic TankDumping An RV?

The most significant advantage of having a septic tank to dispose of RV waste is ease. Those who are not staying at a campground and do not have access to a community dumping location might consider this option. The ideal approach to use if you are camping on someone else’s land (or if you are hosting someone who is camping on your property). It is also less complicated to dump RV garbage straight into a septic system rather than attempting to dump RV waste into your interior house plumbing.

When you shouldn’t use a septic tank to dump RV or camper tank

As previously stated, if you utilize chemicals in your RV, you will have difficulties putting them into a septic tank. You should also avoid dumping in a septic tank if doing so is against the law in your region (see “legal problems”). Additionally, there are several instances in which dumping into a sewer system is not an appropriate solution. If you have to dump your RV on a frequent basis, this can put a strain on your septic system, causing it to become clogged and leaky. If you have a septic tank that is too tiny, you may also experience this problem.

Alternative Options To Dumping In A Septic System

If you are unable to dispose of your RV waste in a septic tank, there are alternative solutions available to you.

Holding Tank Dump Station

Using a dump station at a campground is one of the most effective and practical methods of disposing of waste. You won’t have to be concerned about any problems or potential compromises to your home system as a result of this. If you do this at a campsite, you are not required to refrain from using any chemicals. Another alternative is to find a dumping station that is close to you (or that is near where you will be camping). If your campsite does not have a dump station, or if you are not staying in a campground, this is an excellent option.

Dump Into A Municipal Sewer

You may also dump into a public sewer or straight into your toilet using a bucket, tote, and/or the macerator technique, or you can use a combination of the two methods (grinding and pumping through a hose directly into the toilet). Macerators are a sort of grinder that can be put in a bathroom and that breaks down waste so that it may be flushed down the toilet after being broken down. This procedure is only effective if you have a limited volume of wastewater to deal with. Putting garbage down the toilet of a home that is equipped with a septic tank will still need you to avoid the use of chemicals.

Dumping Into A Residential Sewer

Dumping into a home sewage system is done in the same way that dumping into a septic tank is done. On your property, you will connect to the municipal sewer system through a conduit known as a “cleanout pipe.” The advantages of this approach are that you don’t have to be concerned about chemicals as much as you would otherwise (like with a septic tank). Please keep in mind that you must verify your local laws before proceeding with this operation.

Added Tips And Suggested Items

It’s vital to emphasize once more that if you’re dumping into your septic system, you may need to have it emptied more regularly than usual. In the case of a blocked or overused septic tank, you may notice an unpleasant smell, sewage backing up pipes, water pooling, or spongy grass/moss in the vicinity of the tank and drain field. If your RV does not come equipped with a macerator pump, you may want to consider purchasing one to make dumping more convenient (this is helpful regardless of where or how you dump).

• TheFlojetis a nice alternative, as is this pump fromShurflois, which is somewhat less expensive.
• The use of clear elbow pipe connections may be beneficial in recognizing when your tanks are empty and when they are clean, as previously discussed.
• Here’s a low-cost alternative.
• Take into consideration choosing a long, thick hose, which will be more durable and will provide you with greater versatility.
• In addition, sewer hose supports are a smart idea for keeping your hose in position and going downhill.

Alternatively, if you must transport your RV trash in a tote, you may purchase a heavy-duty tote such as this one from Amazon. If you aren’t planning on using any of the direct connection techniques, this is a decent backup plan.

Final Thought

Septic systems are one of the numerous alternatives available for disposing of RV waste, and it is one of the dirtiest jobs you can do. Septic systems may be quite useful, especially if you are not staying in a campsite that has an on-site disposal facility. Also suitable if you do not have access to a municipal sewage system, such as in rural areas. When deciding whether or not to use a septic system, there are various considerations to consider. You’ll need to research the rules in your state and town, determine whether or not you’re utilizing septic-friendly chemicals, and locate the location of your septic tank.

Despite the fact that disposing of RV garbage is one of the most unpleasant aspects of RV ownership, there are several solutions for making this process as quick and effective as possible, allowing you to have the finest camping experience possible!

Is It Legal to Connect Your RV to a Septic Tank?

You’ve just returned from a long journey, and all you want to do now is rest. For the sake of maintaining harmony, you put up your travel trailer for your visitors while they were here to visit. The in-laws are staying on your property for a couple of months in their RV, which they brought with them. It doesn’t matter what circumstance you’re in; the same concern surfaces. The holding tanks on the bus need to be drained as soon as possible. While you have a septic tank in your yard, you’re not sure what it will do to your drainage system.

Is It Okay To Dump Your RV Waste Into Your Home Septic System?

The quick answer is that sure, it is possible. It is OK to discharge your RV waste into your septic system. Commercial-sized septic systems are actually installed on the grounds of a number of campers. It is not necessary to replace your RV’s holding tank as long as you make simple modifications to your holding tank maintenance schedule. Before you connect your RV to the electrical grid, you need understand how it works and what to look out for. RV holding tanks function in a different way than residential septic systems.

How Your Home Septic System Works

Answer: Yes, in the simplest form. Dumping RV waste into your septic system is perfectly acceptable under most circumstances. Commercial-sized septic systems are actually installed on the grounds of a lot of campers. It is not necessary to replace your RV’s holding tank as long as you make simple modifications to your holding tank upkeep. Be familiar with the operation of your RV’s system and be aware of any potential hazards before connecting it. Unlike house septic systems, RV holding tanks operate in a different way.

Things To Be Aware Of

If properly maintained, a septic tank can survive for several decades. Pumping the tank every three to five years will keep sludge from accumulating in the tank. Otherwise, it is possible to have a maintenance-free system. Dumping the contents of your RV into your septic system might throw the system’s delicate balance out of whack.

A single draining of your holding tanks is not as significant as a series of drainings on a regular basis. It is just as important to be mindful of what you are dumping as it is to be mindful of how often you are dumping.

Connect to the Septic Cleanout Pipe Correctly

Every septic system is equipped with a cleanout pipe that protrudes from the ground. Some of the more recent systems employ a white PVC pipe that is located near to the home itself. It’s only a matter of getting the correct length and fitting for your RV’s sewage hose to connect to this pipe. If the sewer hose from your RV does not fit through the cleanout pipe, sewer fittings can be purchased to fasten it. Storm drains should never be used to empty your tanks. First and foremost, it is against the law.

Putting tainted water into these drainage systems may result in severe fines if done intentionally.

Protect the Septic Tank Bacteria

Formaldehyde is included in some of the chemicals used in RV toilets to decompose waste and deodorize. In most cases, they are blue in hue. When it comes to microorganisms in your house septic tank, this chemical is toxic. The bacteria in your septic system must survive in order for it to function properly. Professional septic system professionals are the only ones who can restore normal operation to the system. It may take several weeks or months to bring the bacteria count back to a healthy level after an infection.

1. Septic system-safe tank treatments are being developed by RV toilet chemical producers.
2. Look for remedies that are both effective and safe to use.
3. Use premeasured pods or dry items instead of liquids.
4. Aerobic bacteria are used in bioactive goods, which means they may continue to operate after being drained.
5. Because they are non-toxic to people, you don’t have to worry about being exposed to them if you spill them.

Monitor Flow

The pipes that connect the septic tank to the drainage field are experiencing a mild deterioration. This allows the water to pass through and push the solids out. If the angle is sufficiently high, the water will skip the solid substance and flow directly through it. Make sure you don’t overburden your septic system when you empty the holding tanks of your recreational vehicle. Septic systems have a certain water-to-solids ratio that must be maintained. In order to keep the flow of waste water into your septic system under control while draining full tanks, it’s a good idea to only open your tanks halfway.

If you are experiencing low flow concerns, you should try an acerator pump.

They generate flow while also churning up solid debris in large quantities.

They will attach themselves near your holding tanks. The output may be connected to either a sewage hose or a standard garden hose. These electric pumps are also capable of cleaning up the build-up that has accumulated in your tanks.

Adjust Your Septic Pumping Schedule

If you are regularly emptying your holding tanks into your septic system, you are effectively expanding your living space. It is possible that your septic system will need to be cleaned sooner than anticipated. Pumpings are performed on a regular basis every three to five years. The majority of individuals who have septic systems hire a company to keep their system in good working order. This service firm comes out every few years to pump out the septic tank, which is maintained by the homeowner.

It is always advisable to contact your septic service contractor for advice.

They can change your pumping schedule so that they come out more frequently to pump out your tank as needed.

Alternatives to Dumping Your Tanks At Home

If you do not have a septic system, several septic service cleaning companies offer “Honey Wagon” vans that can clean your septic system. When they go out to empty a house septic tank, they pump the contents of the tank onto a truck that they have brought with them. Some of these service companies will come to you in order to empty your recreational vehicle. It’s still a pretty new service, so bear with me. This is not a service provided by all septic providers. This is a service that larger campsites, such as KOA, provide to its customers.

Travel Centers

Pilot/Flying RVs are catered to by J, Love’s, and TA Travel Centers of America. Many of them feature specific RV lanes and services. They provide holding tank dumping services at the pump for your convenience. These services are not free, however their pricing are in the range of $10 to $15 per hour. Their rewards programs provide discounts to anyone who join up to participate. Some RV discount clubs also partner with these service centers to provide savings to their members. You may discover their locations all throughout the country by visiting their website or downloading their mobile device applications.

• This 30 gallon water tank measures 34″ x 18″ x 12″ (not counting the lid)
• All tanks come with (1) 1.25″ water fill entrance and (3) 3/8″ NPT
• All tanks come with (1) 1.25″ water fill inlet and (3) 3/8″ NPT
• There are no seams to rupture because it is a one-piece structure. These rotational molded fresh water tanks are constructed of high-quality materials. Because of their stain, corrosion, and rust resistance, they are perfect for a variety of applications.

Other Websites and Apps

RV Dumps.com and Sanidumps.com are two more internet resources you may use. Both websites can assist you in locating dump stations all around the United States of America. They specify the location, the address, and whether or not there is a fee. They allow customers to post ratings after selecting a specific disposal place. As a result, other RVers will be able to learn more about that particular dump station from you and from them. Product information was last updated on February 10, 2022, at 04:12.

• Connecting Your RV to a Septic Tank: Unsplash
• How a Septic System Works: Unsplash

A Beginner’s Guide to RV Holding Tanks

Please be aware that this content may contain affiliate links for your convenience. This means that if you make a purchase after clicking on one of our links, we will get a small compensation at no additional cost to you. This cash allows us to keep this blog and its free material up and running for you all! When you move from a traditional home to a recreational vehicle, you become acutely aware of your water, electricity, and sewage use. For first-time campers, we’ve put together this fast and easy beginner’s introduction to RV holding tanks, which we hope will clear up some of the confussion.

• To begin, there are three varieties of water: fresh, gray, and black.
• Fresh water is defined as water that is pure and safe to consume.
• The sewage from the toilet is contained in black water.
• Fresh|Gray|Black|Emptying|Cleaning|Storage A normal garden hose may be used to connect a campground spigot to your city water connection or to the fresh water tank on the side of your RV.
• When we arrived to a couple of state parks where the water and power hookups were at different ends of the campsite, we realized we had made the wrong decision in purchasing the 25-footer.
• This Zero G flex hose with a length of 50 feet is an excellent choice.
• Protect your hoses and pipes from damage caused by high-pressure city water with a water pressure regulator that connects to the spigot.

An RV water filter, a connector splitter adaptor that allows us to utilize the outside spigot in the event that we need to use it, and a 90-degree hose elbow that connects directly to the RV connection were also acquired.

Gray water

Water from sink and tub/shower drains may include food particles and other microorganisms that are harmful to human health. As much residue as possible from dirty dishes is caught in the sink drains, in an effort to maintain the sink drains as clean as possible. Dishes are scraped thoroughly, and the drain trap is used to capture the majority of the remaining particles that might cause blockages in the future. Some RVers, on the other hand, are far less cautious. The RV has two holding tanks, one for gray water and the other for black water, both of which are accessible from the bottom of the vehicle.

It is possible to quietly (and legally) remove small volumes of gray water directly on the ground when camping or boondocking in rural places, depending on where you are camping or boondocking in remote locations.

Please bear on mind that we leave the gray tank open until a couple of days before we are due to leave a campsite.

Although it may seem unpleasant, dealing with septic tanks is not as as unpleasant as it may appear at first glance.

how often to empty RV holding tanks

The frequency with which you must empty your black tank will vary depending on how frequently you use it. For us, it usually comes down to 1-2 times a week. Several RVs are fitted with digital sensors that may be used to monitor the levels of water in your freshwater, graywater, and blackwater tanks, among other things. Unfortunately, you can’t always rely on them since the black water contents of the tanks frequently become trapped on the edge of the tanks, causing the sensors to malfunction.

how to prevent rv septic clogs

Make Use of Enough Water To assist avoid toilet clogs, make sure that the toilet bowl has a proper quantity of water before flushing it. It also doesn’t hurt to be frugal with your toilet paper usage. Make use of Liquid Fabric Softener. We use the tank rinser every time we empty the black tank on the day we leave the campsite, which is about once a week. Beyond that, we periodically pour a tiny quantity of liquid fabric softener into our tank through the toilet, which makes the contents of our tank more slippery, which helps to remove any contents that become caught on the edges of the black tank.

Take Advantage of the Movement of Travel Days to Your Advantage Before leaving, you may add some water to the black tank and let it to splash around inside the tank, breaking up any solid waste that has become lodged.

STORing your rv septic supplies

We keep all of the sewage materials (hoses, fittings, tank rinser and backfill hose, and so on) in a storage container in one of the compartments, which is accessible from the rest of the compartment. Our storage containers are manufactured by Sterilite, and we purchased them from Walmart. We have a container for freshwater products and a second container for materials for the black tank. Do not keep them together in the same place! The size of the storage boxes you pick will be heavily influenced by the number of storage compartments you have, so be careful to measure the available space before buying.

However, you should avoid flushing the toilet while the fan is operating.

Yes, we had to learn that lesson the hard way straight away, soon after we started.

This is the quickest and most convenient method. In contrast, other campsites (such as state parks) may just provide water and electricity. Check websites or phone beforehand to make sure what you want is still available. A large number of campgrounds feature on-site wastewater disposal facilities.

how to empty the rv septic tanks

Steps-by-step:

1. The day before you want to empty your black tank, close the grey tank valve. When you’re ready to empty the bathroom, ensure sure the fan is turned off. Release the valve on the outside of your RV that controls the black tank. Wait until it has completely emptied. Using the Rhino Blaster tank rinser, back-fill the black tank (leave the rinser valve closed). Activate the Rhino Blaster valve. Continue until the water runs clear
2. If necessary, add more water. Ensure that the black tank is closed. Open the grey water tank, allowing the grey water to drain and, in effect, cleaning out your sewage pipe. Keep the grey water tank open. Optional: In order to prevent black tank odours and blockages, place a sewer tank pod or some liquid fabric softener in the toilet tank and flush the toilet a couple of times. When you need to empty the black tank again, simply repeat the process from the beginning.

*Keep in mind that when you are backfilling your black tank, you should keep an eye on the water level. A timer or having a spouse monitor the level from the inside have been suggested by various RVers I’ve spoken with about. I wouldn’t base my decision on the RV sensors. Since purchasing our camper, ours has been inconsistent at best. It has been brought to my attention that some tourists have had disastrous results after leaving their campers unattended throughout this process.** Bonus tip: Close the gray tank valve a couple of days or so before you plan to empty your black tank to give the gray tank enough time to fill up before you empty your black tank.

However, while it is not a substitute for consistently cleaning your black tank, it does assist to reduce the odor.