- If you are in search of a formaldehyde-free treatment for an RV holding tank, then you will never go wrong by choosing Walex TOI-91799 Deodorizer. It comes in prep-packed water-soluble packets that aid in controlling odor, lubricating seals, and valves, and breaking down wastes and paper. It dissolves quickly, thereby treating the tank fast.
How can I make my RV septic tank smell better?
How to Get Rid of RV Holding Tank Odor
- Refill the Water to Keep Things Flowing Smoothly.
- Add Water With Each Flush and Black Water Tank Chemicals.
- Preventing and Cleaning Clogs.
- Scour and Clean Your Tank.
- Clean the Toilet and the Flapper.
- Repair Work Needed.
Is Ridex safe for RVs?
RID-X RV Toilet Treatment is safe for RVs, portable toilets, and portable marine toilets. Use our toilet chemicals once a week to combat odors and break down waste.
What is the best RV toilet tank treatment?
Best Overall: HAPPY CAMPERS Organic RV Holding Tank Treatment. Editor’s Pick: Aqua-Kem RV Holding Tank Treatment. Best Pod or Capsule Treatment: Camco TST Ultra-Concentrated RV Toilet Treatment Drop-In. Best Liquid Treatment: Camco 41197 TST Ultra-Concentrate RV Toilet Treatment.
What can I put in my RV septic tank?
You can put three things into your RV septic tank (black water from the toilet): Poo, pee, and septic-safe toilet paper. Putting anything else into your toilet is ill-advised, such as tampons, baby wipes, diapers, etc. The gray RV waste water tanks will hold what you put down the shower or sinks.
How do you deodorize an RV black water tank?
How To Get Rid Of Awful Black Tank Smells
- Start with fabric softener. Begin your troubleshooting by simply adding two capfuls of liquid fabric softener to the tank.
- Fill the bowl.
- Close the valve.
- Check the vent.
- Pull out the water hose.
- Try ice and soap.
- Dump in some water softener.
- Resort to bleach.
Can you put fabric softener in RV black tank?
Use two cups of softener for each wastewater tank in your RV. The tank’s drain valve should be closed otherwise the softened water will just drain out. Then use the tank(s) normally until it is full and drain it normally. Add a cup of laundry detergent to the black (commode) water tank at the same time.
Can you use RIDX in rv holding tank?
A: RID-X RV Toilet Treatment is safe for RVs, portable toilets, and portable marine toilets. A: For each 40 gallons of tank capacity, add 3 oz of RID-X through the toilet into the holding tank. Follow with one gallon of water.
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.
Is Pine Sol safe for RVs?
for the gray tank, just like you did when you used rv holding tank chemicals. Pine-sol is for odor and the Bath Beads are to keep the tanks slippery as well as to lubricate the seals. You can also mix the water and bath beads in the gallon jug and only add pine-sol in the tank if needed for odor.
Is Borax good for RV holding tanks?
Rather than buy nasty and expensive chemicals for the waste tanks try using a 1/2 cup of good old Borax laundry detergent and 1/4 cup of water softener. The Borax detergent helps control odor and cleans the tank. The trick is to use plenty of water when flushing and only dump the tank when it is nearly full.
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.
Can you put bleach in RV black water tank?
Cleaning your black water holding tank is best done when you’re fully hooked up and have both a water and sewer connection. Avoid using bleach or antifreeze for your deep clean, as both of these can dry out rubber seals and ultimately ruin your sewage system.
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 the best black water tank treatment?
5 Best RV Black Tank Treatments Reviewed (1 Clear Winner)
- Happy Campers Organic RV Holding Tank Treatment.
- Walex BOI-11530 Bio-Pak Natural Holding Tank Deodorizer.
- Walex TOI-91799 Porta-Pak Holding Tank Deodorizer Drop-Ins.
- CAMCO TST Ultra-Concentrated Orange Citrus Scent.
- TankTechsRx – RV Holding Tank Treatment & Cleaner.
Can you dump RV GREY water on the ground?
Generally, as long as your gray tank contains water that was used for washing, it’s legal to dump it on the ground.
Best RV Holding Tank Treatment (Review & Buying Guide) in 2022
No one really likes to speak about it, but dealing with your holding tank is one part of RV ownership that no one wants to discuss. When it is quite handy to have the privacy and cleanliness of your own private, clean restroom while camping, if you do not use an RV holding tank treatment, you may find yourself in the midst of a stinking, filthy mess. An RV holding tank treatment will help clean out and avoid blockages in your waste tank, keep your RV odor-free, and save you all of the time and effort associated with filthy sensors and an extremely disgusting holding tank.
We’ve gathered all of the most effective RV holding tank treatments in one convenient location.
Our Methodology
As part of our research to determine which RV holding tank treatments were the greatest match for any RV owner, we looked for solutions that satisfied three essential criteria: were simple to use, effective in preventing and fighting blockages, and were odor-eliminating. Each of the products on our list included a safe combination of waste- and odor-fighting chemicals that were effective in completely dissolving the primary causes of most RV sewage line jams. To establish which products had the greatest overall success and which may assist save time and effort when it comes to waste tank cleaning, we looked at the comments and reviews left by consumers about each product.
Best RV Holding Tank Treatment ReviewsRecommendations
A product like Thetford Campa-Fresh Ocean Breeze Holding Tank Treatments is our top recommendation for the finest RV holding tank treatment since it is efficient at removing solid waste and toilet tissue from your tank while also fighting smells and helping you effectively empty up your tank. If you’re searching for a cost-effective alternative that also has waste-dissolving capabilities, we recommend the Happy Campers RV Holding Tank Treatment, which is available in a bulk box that gives great value.
What to Consider When Buying RV Holding Tank Treatment
Are you confused about how to tell the difference between the numerous RV holding tank treatments you’ve seen in stores and on the internet? We’ve compiled all of the information you’ll require. Discover what elements and features you should consider, what constitutes a high-quality waste treatment system, and how to find answers to your most pressing problems.
Types of RV Holding Tank Treatment
Another type of RV holding tank treatment that you’ll come across is septic tank treatment. Liquid. They are simple to use since you can just pour the quantity you require directly into your toilet bowl, saving you time and effort. In your RV, they pass smoothly and fluidly via the drainage system to the holding tank. It’s the only possible disadvantage of liquid formulations that they may be messy; they spill and splash around a lot, and containers can leak if you aren’t careful while handling them.
Powder
The use of powdered RV holding tank treatments is less frequent, but they are a simple and effective alternative. You just scoop out the quantity of powder you require for your tank, then pour the powder into your toilet and flush it away.
When it comes to dissolving and degunking your septic system, these powder solutions can be equally as successful as their liquid counterparts. When in use, they can, however, generate a lot of dust. The powder might become rather messy if you aren’t very careful while you are pouring the powder.
Pods or Tablets
If you’re searching for something simple and hassle-free, then pod or tablet RV holding tank treatment products will be perfect for you. They’re the same as the pre-packaged dishwashing and laundry detergent pods that you’re used to using in your own house. In order to package small volumes of liquid or powder holding tank formulations, either hard tablets (for powder) or plastic pods (for liquid) are used (for liquid). Drop one or two tablets into the toilet of your RV and flush; the treatment will dissolve as it comes into contact with the water.
These really handy items, on the other hand, are typically the most expensive alternative.
RV Holding Tank Treatment Key Features
A vital component of any RV holding tank treatment’s formula is the inclusion of enzymes, since these are responsible for ensuring that the waste dissolving process is completed properly. While some products may include harsh and potentially hazardous compounds, such as formaldehyde, it is preferable to choose one that has strong enzymes instead. It is the enzymes that will react with and dissolve waste and toilet paper in your holding tank, and they will even dissolve difficult blockages if you use them correctly.
Odor Elimination
Is your selected RV holding tank treatment capable of effectively targeting smells and eliminating the source of the problem? What exactly does it accomplish? Does it do anything other than hide the terrible odors you’re experiencing? When it comes to RV holding tank treatment solutions, virtually all have a nice aroma, but some are only effective in masking odors when they are too strong. Instead, you should opt for a treatment that will eliminate odors exactly where they originate, which is in your waste stream.
Number of Treatments
Purchasing in bulk is a terrific way to save money, and it’s especially useful if you’re camping in an area where big box stores aren’t readily available. A smart tip is to get an RV holding tank treatment that has a large amount of product available at all times. Instead of purchasing a small package that will only last for a few treatments, consider upgrading to a larger package that contains a large number of treatments. This will allow you to save money while treating your waste tank as frequently as necessary to keep your RV smelling fresh and free of clogs.
RV Holding Tank Treatment Benefits
If there’s one reason to utilize an RV holding tank treatment, it’s to protect the pipes and hoses in your RV from becoming clogged. No one wants to discover the utter devastation that a clog may create, let alone have to deal with the unpleasant chore of clearing the clog out of their system. Using a holding tank treatment, you’ll be able to dissolve toilet paper and waste, as well as other sorts of clog-causing buildup, and prevent these issues from occurring in the first place.
Have you already experienced a clog? Existing blockages can be removed with the use of an extra-tough solution.
Easy to Use
It is really simple to dispose of trash in an RV holding tank with the use of RV holding tank treatments. Available in powder, liquid, and pod forms, you can simply pour or drop the treatment directly into your RV’s toilet, flush it down, and let it do its thing while you relax. Getting your waste tank clear and clog-free does not require you to go above and beyond the call of duty. When you flush these treatments down the toilet, they begin to react with the toilet paper, water, and waste, enabling you to sit back and relax.
Eliminates Odors
Having a full, heated waste tank is not something any RV owner appreciates the scent of. Because of this, applying an RV holding tank treatment can help to prevent bad odors from forming in the first place, as well as after they’ve already begun to permeate into your interior air. You’ll be able to dissolve the nasty waste that’s been building up in your holding tank if you use one of these items on a regular basis, leaving your RV smelling fresh. Furthermore, most holding tank treatment treatments have scents that can help to cover odors while they get to work dissolving your icky muck in your tank.
RV Holding Tank Treatment Pricing
It is quite inexpensive to maintain and clean your holding tank with RV toilet treatment chemicals, which are available at most hardware stores. For $10 to $20, you may get treatment solutions in the form of powder, liquid, or individually packed pods. Do you want to purchase in bulk? If you want gallons, pounds, or multi-packs of pods, you’ll spend anywhere from $20 to $30, which can help you get more value for your money.
Tips and Tricks
You learn a few tips and techniques along the road when it comes to picking the correct product, as well as when it comes to using it, when you’ve been doing something for decades upon decades. That’s exactly what happened with us and our RV holding tank treatment service. Here’s a sampling of what we’ve learnt along the way to assist you in bridging the knowledge gap.
- However, while strong chemicals are good in destroying trash, they are not necessarily the most efficient option for treating an RV holding tank. There are a plethora of ecologically friendly, biodegradable solutions available to you, all of which are effective in their respective fields. Even the greatest holding tank treatment will not be able to solve your waste problems if your sensors are contaminated. If you’re receiving wrong or unusual readings from your waste tank sensors, make sure to inspect them
- You may be able to clean them out with a powerful holding tank treatment. When utilizing an RV holding tank treatment solution, don’t forget to add water to the tank as well. Remember that you may require more water than the instructions recommend, so don’t be afraid to add fresh water before and throughout the process of adding the treatment itself to ensure that the cleaning solution passes through your sewage system thoroughly.
FAQs
You’ve got some inquiries. The Drive has the answers you’re looking for!
Q: Does an RV holding tank treatment clean the tank’s sensors?
The majority of today’s RV holding tank treatments are meant to clear out the trash that has accumulated in your holding tank as well as to wipe off the sensors, allowing you to receive a more accurate reading on when it is time to empty your holding tank. However, not all treatments are effective enough to completely clean and clear the sensors of their contaminants. Such as the products on our list above, you’ll want an all-in-one formula that is powerful enough to deal with anything from toilet paper and waste to odor and your sensors.
Q: How do I get rid of holding tank odors?
While there are several RV holding tank treatment solutions available that can break down waste, not all of them are capable of eliminating residual bad aromas. However, if you have found a potent treatment that is effective for your waste, environment, and holding tank, it should be able to eradicate smells while it is in operation.
You should opt for a solution that claims to be effective against scents if you are serious about eliminating them. You may also want to consider a treatment that works on a molecular level to dissolve and eradicate scents from your home.
Q: How often should I use an RV holding tank treatment?
Just as there are no hard and fast rules regarding how often you should empty your black water tank, there are no hard and fast rules about whether or not you should use a holding tank treatment. Your RV’s bathroom frequency, the number of people that are in your RV, and the rate at which the tank becomes soiled all determine how often you should flush your toilet. Depending on how much time you have on your hands, you may be able to go up to a week without treating your holding tank. However, if you’re with friends and family and your bathroom is getting a lot of usage, you might want to use a treatment every other day instead of every day.
RV holding tank treatments: What’s best for the environment?
Russ and Tia De Maris’s artwork Take a stroll around the aisles of your favorite RV accessory store, or even Walmart, for inspiration. The following is what you will see when you reach the RV holding tank treatment shelf. Bottles and cartons were stacked one on top of the other. Every one of those concoctions promises to make your “outflow” smell less bad and to produce the greatest results possible. As RVers, we like the outdoors, and it is inevitable that when we dump tanks, we will have an impact on the ecosystem.
It’s a question that affects everyone, not just RVers.
Furthermore, if you dispose of your wastewater at home, or if you have a septic system, you should be really concerned about the situation.
That might be an expensive error, since it has the potential to completely destroy your leach (drain) field.
State park RV sewage raises – not a stink – but questions
What is considered safe for septic systems and the environment is a good question. According to experts at the University of Minnesota’s Onsite Sewage Treatment Program, the subject has been raised. Another is Dr. Sara Heger, who is both a member of the program’s faculty and a teacher. Dr. Heger released an analysis of RV holding tank treatment products in the fall of last year. We examined the study and spoke with her about the results, which took up a significant amount of time. Dr. Heger’s team conducted an investigation into the septic systems at two Minnesota state parks in 2019.
When scientists compared the wastewater from the disposal station with average home wastewater, they discovered that the differences were significant.
A little bit of a chemistry lesson
The ability to keep the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) of a septic system and the surrounding environment under control is critical (BOD). A large amount of oxygen is required for the breakdown of solid wastes. When there is insufficient oxygen, the waste material does not degrade. A high biological oxygen demand (BOD) results in environmental damage at the other end of the treatment system. If a large amount of treated effluent makes its way into, for example, a lake, river, or stream with insufficient dissolved oxygen, it can be harmful to aquatic life.
- Most households generate sewage that contains between 140 and 200 milligrams per liter of BOD, which is sent to a sewage treatment plant for treatment and disposal.
- Other indications were also significantly higher.
- When phosphorus is present in the environment, algae development is increased, resulting in low oxygen levels in water, which is detrimental to aquatic life.
- Heger, the increased amounts of BOD and phosphorous (as well as other chemical and biological variables) in the wastewater might have been produced by the concentration of materials flowing out of the RV holding tanks, among other things.
However, the group began to question if there was anything more at work. Were there any indications that RV holding tank treatments were having a negative impact on RV wastewater?
Four popular brands compared
As a starting point for his investigation, Dr. Heger selected four common RV holding tank treatment solutions. They were as follows:
- Using Happy Campers Organic RV Holding Tank Treatment, you can rest easy. Thetford Aqua-Kem Original is a trademark of Thetford Corporation. Walex Porta-Pak Holding Tank Deodorizer with Sunglow Scent (TOI-91799)
- Walex Porta-Pak Holding Tank Deodorizer with Sunglow Scent (TOI-91799)
- In addition, Walex Bio-Pak Natural Holding Tank Deodorizer, Alpine Fresh Scent (BOI-11530) is available.
These four products were selected based on their Amazon.com customer review scores, which indicate that they are popular among RV enthusiasts. A simple but effective test was carried out in order to determine whether or not the various RV holding tank treatment chemicals will have an impact on sewage treatment systems. A single “dose” of each of the chemicals was introduced to a five-gallon bucket of water at a time, and samples were obtained from each bucket. These samples were forwarded to a third-party testing laboratory for examination.
For comparison purposes, researchers calculated what the concentration of the treatments would be in a 40-gallon tank as opposed to the five-gallon test batch using a dilution calculator.
And the results?
CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO ENLARGE. Program for On-Site Sewage Treatment at the University of Michigan So, what were the outcomes of the study? a copy of the graph that depicts the results is given. The findings of the tests conducted at the two state parks described previously are included in the chart. Then, in the third results column (from the left), a reference value is provided — in this case, it is for average household sewage. Finally, the findings from each of the four tested goods are displayed in the final four columns on the right.
- Aqua-Kem includes formaldehyde, which is prohibited in several jurisdictions due to its toxicity.
- Specifically, the chemical in question is known as a formaldehyde releaser, which is a chemical molecule that gradually releases formaldehyde as it decomposes.
- As stated in Dr.
- According to the article, there were fears that it was acidic and may disturb microbes that were necessary for waste treatment.
Aside from the phosphorous of the Bio-Pak, which measured 57.5 mg/L, they “were quite low in other pollutants studied, suggesting that it will contribute a significant amount of phosphorous load to a wastewater treatment system if utilized by the vast majority of RV users at a certain dump station.”
“Holding tank” or “septic tank”?
Regarding the numerous types of RV holding tank treatments, we’ve heard from a handful of different viewpoints on the subject. One believes that adding a bacterial/enzyme treatment in an RV holding tank will aid in the breakdown of sediments in the tank. The opposite side argues that they are “holding tanks,” not “septic tanks,” and that the concept is thus irrelevant. Dr. Heger was questioned about this by us: Is it possible that an enzyme-based RV holding tank treatment would be advantageous?
Which of the following is the best in her opinion when it comes to RV holding tank treatments: According to Dr.
This immediately brought to mind an advertising for a popular holding tank treatment product from some years ago.
Is it true that everyone has a stinking RV “loo”?
Do you really need it?
Here’s what we’ve learned from our experience: We are full-time residents in our travel trailer. In Arizona, those 24/7s encompass many weeks with temperatures over 100 degrees. We’ve had zero odor problems in the previous two and a half years – and we haven’t used any form of solution at all throughout that time. That is, until we decided to pull up stakes a few weeks ago after being stuck in place for a number of months and move. We then got a couple whiffs of a horrible black water stench, which was unpleasant.
- In any case, the stink has been progressively diminishing in recent weeks.
- “I have a feeling it’s not going to happen.” I’m more inclined to assume that the revolving roof vane atop my black water tank vent is performing a better job than I was previously certain it was.
- Otherwise, the toilet bowl seal has most likely failed, permitting those noxious vaporous emanations to attack your nostrils and lungs.
- Mother Earth will tank – er – thank you.
Related
Keeping holding tank odors out of the RV is part of RVRV Education 101: Keep holding tank odors out of the RV.
RVT1012 360 Siphon Roof Vent Cap is available on Amazon.
The Magic Of Microbes Holding Tank Treatments
Despite the fact that your excrement may smell like flowers, all feces stinks. The stinky reality of RV living cannot be avoided, but after twelve years of full-timing, I’ve finally discovered a terrific solution to reduce its irritating scents. For the foreseeable future, my RV wheels will never turn again unless the magic of bacteria holding tank treatments is there. A lot of people say that their tanks do not smell, but I am not one of those individuals. I’d like to get down to business and relate the gruesome facts of how our holding tanks’ scents became offensively unpleasant as soon as the temperature rose or the tanks were almost full, whichever occurred first.
How microbes invaded my home
I was under the impression, like many others, that holding tanks operated in the same way as household septic systems did, by breaking down solid waste. However, wastewater holding tanks have traditionally been little more than a container in which liquid and solid waste were collected and held until the RV was transported to a sanitary disposal site. The contents of the RV holding tank are emptied and dumped into a real septic system after being connected with a hose. If you don’t have an efficient holding tank treatment, towing all that feces around may be a nasty endeavor.
- I’m envious of their olfactory deafness.
- Despite our meticulous attention to holding tank upkeep, on warm or windy days, black tank scents can occasionally sneak into our living room area and cause discomfort.
- Another issue is that one of our ceiling vents is located exactly next to the sewage vent, which is a source of concern.
- Since becoming full-time RVers twelve years ago, we’ve had lots of opportunity to experiment with various holding tank treatments.
- Nothing, however, has been able to totally eliminate the stink emanating from our black tank after seven days of use—that is, until bacteria made their way into RVing and altered everything.
The science behind bacteria eating bugs
After investigating Amazon for highly rated goods that RVers use, we came upon the miracle of microorganisms holding tank treatments and were blown away. “Caravan Full-timers Holding Tank Treatment” caught my eye because it had a huge amount of unsolicited wonderful reviews. It was the perfect name for this product. I decided to give it a shot because of the enthusiasm. The product breaks down solid waste with the use of a “natural, environmentally friendly, probiotic bacteria enzyme mix,” which eliminates the smells that might accumulate in holding tanks.
- Caravan does not wish to divulge its trade secrets, thus you will not find any further information on their microbial-based technique on our website.
- Image courtesy of Pixabay user Gerd Altmann.
- According to an article published in the South China Morning Post newspaper in 2010, I discovered the following regarding the microbial odor removal method.
- Lactobacillus consumes human waste and excretes lactic acid, which prevents the formation of the majority of odor-causing bacteria in the environment.
- Of course, they consume anything else that happens to be in your tank, such as muck that has accumulated on the tank walls and is causing sensors to malfunction.
- After a few of weeks, I found that it lived up to the claims made by the manufacturer.
- Since learning about the wonders of odor-eating bacteria, we’ve tested two different RV holding tank treatments, and we’ve settled on the Caravan Full-timers Holding Tank Treatment as the best so far.
It’s possible that other goods will work better for your rig than this one. The following are a number of highly rated products to help you get started on the road to an odor-free RV adventure:
Caravan Full-Timers Holding Tank Treatment
This was the antimicrobial product that we found to be the most effective.
- Convenient, as there is no mixing or rinsing required
- Non-toxic, non-odor, non-plugging, non-digestible waste Maintain the functionality of the sensors. People, pets, septic tank, and the environment are all safe.
Unique RV Digest-It Holding Tank Treatment
These tiny bacteria feed on the trash from holding tanks!
- Your tanks will empty readily and never back up because of the environmentally friendly formula’s rapid liquefaction of trash. You may even be able to discontinue the use of pricey 1-ply toilet paper. Utilizes the ideal bacteria-enzyme combination to eliminate odors without concealing them. It also cleans and lubricates sensors as well as seals and valves. Non-toxic and environmentally friendly solution incorporates innovative cleansers that guarantee your level gauges continue to function correctly and that your valves and seals are lubricated and in perfect operating order.
Traditional RV holding tank deodorizers in the past are little in compared to microbial holding tank treatments nowadays. Please share your findings with us in the comments section below. Rene Agredano and her husband, Jim Nelson, began traveling the country in an RV full-time in 2007 and have been on the road ever since. The ins and outs of full-timing living are chronicled on Rene’s blog, which also takes readers on a journey through the intriguing people and breathtaking landscapes they encounter along the way.
Keeping Your RV Septic Tank System Happy (Must-Have Supplies)
It’s one thing you don’t want to mess up when it comes to your RV’s sewer system. (Sorry, no pun meant!) If there is one aspect of your RV where you want to take extra particular care to ensure that you are careful with maintenance, it is the septic system. We have your back on this one. Here are the absolute must-haves for keeping your camper’s septic system in good working order. Oh. We could tell you some amusing anecdotes about RV sewers. However, the trip in which we used regular toilet paper in our camper toilet is probably the one that has stayed with us the longest in our memories.
- In addition, the cost is almost half of what it was previously.
- The term “clogged toilet” does not do credit to the extent of the harm that conventional toilet paper caused to our camper’s septic system.
- Seriously, though, people.
- Do yourself a favor and get the necessary items for your RV septic system on the same day you purchase your camper.
RV Septic Tank Must-Have Supplies
Using anything other than RV Toilet Paper in your camper toilet– I believe I have covered this point above, but just in case there is any doubt, never, ever use anything other than RV Toilet Paper in your camper toilet. Just don’t do it! It is possible to get clogged even when you use the right toilet paper. Flexible Swivel Stik with Shutoff Valve– Clogs can occur even when you use the proper toilet paper. Your RV septic tank will remain clean and unscented with the aid of this handy cleaning stick.
- The fact that I had one made a significant impact!
- Not only does this assist to keep it safe from punctures (from rocks, for example), but it also helps to angle your camper hose from the RV output into the sewage outlet at your campground, which is quite convenient.
- The translucent acrylic makes it easy to see whether the tank is clean, which is very important when dealing with hazardous materials.
- Campa-Chem is a chemical that liquefies waste and aids in the reduction of odor in your RV septic tank.
It is recommended that you always have a drain blockage removal stick with you in your camper at all times. Drain clogs occur, and the last thing you want to do is have to search for a place that offers a drain stick.
Non-Critical RV Sewer Supplies
These goods should be included under the “not required, but nice to have” category. The rubber gloves are perhaps the most important item on our list since they protect our hands from the elements. You are free to make your own decision. We strongly advise that you have a package of disposable gloves in your camper along with your sewage hose and other equipment. Septic Toter– In an ideal world, every campsite at every park where we visit would have complete connections, including sewer. However, this is not always the case.
- It’s the last thing you want to be doing if you’re staying for more than a couple of nights: unhooking your RV every other day so you can drive it to the dump station!
- Pulling or towing the toter to the dump station and emptying it is recommended.
- PIN THIS ARTICLE TO YOUR PINTEREST BOARD!
- Motion Sensor for RVs is a simple and effective hack.
Best Homemade RV Holding Tank Treatments: Deodorize & Kill Bacteria!
This group of products should be classified as “not absolutely necessary, but pleasant to have.” The rubber gloves are perhaps the most important item on our list since they protect our hands from sharp objects. You have the authority to make that decision. Keeping a package of disposable gloves in the camper along with your sewage hose and other equipment is strongly recommended by our staff. An ideal world would have every spot at every park where we stay with full amenities, including sewer.
- Several older (or more distant) campgrounds do not have full hookup sites, but they do include a campground dump station, which is a feasible option.
- Utilize a toter and drain your black and gray tanks into it straight.
- A LOT less difficult!.
- Here are some more posts you might find interesting:.
What Is An RV Holding Tank?
With the exception of certain extremely small RVs, all recreational vehicles are equipped with holding tanks. Simply said, these are the tanks that carry all of the liquids for your recreational vehicle. Holding tanks, as the name implies, are designed to store liquids in your RV so that you can travel without being connected to a power source. Holding tanks can range in size from 10 gallons to 100+ gallons in capacity for bigger recreational vehicles, depending on the size of your RV. RV connections provide a convenient way to empty your holding tanks, but if not, you’ll have to find RV dumps along the way if your holding tanks fill up while on the road.
Homemade RV holding tank treatments become necessary so that you can maintain the proper balance of your holding tanks, which will help to keep odors down and filth from accumulating in them.
Types Of RV Holding Tanks
All recreational vehicles are equipped with three main types of holding tanks:
- Fresh water holding tank: This tank stores all of the water used for showering, bathing, and washing dishes so that you may use it when you are not connected to municipal water. The black (sewer) holding tank is responsible for storing all of the “black waste,” which is the unpleasant stuff that goes down the toilet. This tank collects all of the wastewater that drains from your toilet, shower, and sink
- It is also known as a greywater holding tank.
Some bigger recreational vehicles (RVs) will actually feature two black tanks and/or two grey tanks. This is especially true for campers who have two restrooms on their property.
Why Should I Put Homemade Tank Treatment Into My RV Holding Tanks?
Because they contain both water and waste, RV holding tanks are prone to stinking up the place. It is also possible for the grey tank, which only stores water from your shower and sink drains, to get smelly because to the food detritus that invariably finds its way into that tank from your kitchen sink. Moreover, tanks can accumulate filth over time, which can cause them to get clogged and make it impossible for the sensors inside them to accurately determine how empty or full the tank is. It becomes vital to utilize holding tank treatments since they assist in keeping the odors down and the filth from forming in the tank.
3 Best Homemade RV Holding Tank Treatments
Homemade RV holding tank systems are available in a variety of configurations. Listed below are the several sorts of DIY holding tank treatments to assist you in determining which is the finest tank deodorizer for your recreational vehicle:
1: The Geo Method: Homemade RV Holding Tank Deodorizer
Homemade RV holding tank techniques are available in a variety of configurations to suit different needs. Listed below are the several sorts of DIY holding tank treatments to assist you in selecting the finest tank deodorizer for your recreational vehicle:
- 1 gallon of warm water
- 2 cups powdered water softener
- 1 cup natural washing detergent
- (Optional since it is not environmentally friendly, but it will control odor)
- Bleach or chlorine (because it is not environmentally friendly, but it will control odor)
How to clean your RV holding tanks with The Geo Method
Cleaning your RV tank with The Geo Method is more than just a cleaning, rather is continuous care that maintains your tanks fresh and clean so you don’t have to undertake large cleanings or suffer with RV holding tank stink. To utilize The Geo Method to naturally keep your RV tanks clean, follow these steps:
- You should get rid of your black and grey holding tanks. Make sure your holding tanks are closed so that they can hold the tank treatment. 2 cups of powdered water softener dissolved in 1 gallon of water is the recipe. Add a few drops of laundry detergent to your water mixture. Fill your tank with fresh water from your sinks, showers, and toilets once you’ve dumped the mixture down the drain. Hold off on dumping your tanks for a few days to give the Geo combination a chance to do its job
- It is optional to flush the chlorine or bleach down the toilet. Keep in mind that while this helps to keep smells down, it also kills the good bacteria that aid in the breakdown of waste in your tanks. It is also not environmentally friendly, although it may be essential if you have a very foul stench coming from your holding tank.
By proactively continuing with The Geo Method, you will be able to guarantee that your RV holding tanks remain clean and that no significant muck accumulation occurs.
2: DIY Citric Acid RV Holding Tank Cleaning Bombs
If you think dropping a “bomb” into your RV holding tanks is a little excessive, consider that the ones we’re going to discuss will keep your RV’s toilets smelling fresh and clean. The acid present in citrus fruits is actually a mild acid that won’t damage your tanks but will do a number on odours. Due of its effectiveness, this rv tank deodorizer procedure has been incorporated into a variety of commercial RV tank cleaners. Citrus bombs may be used as a DIY holding tank treatment, and the following is how to produce and utilize them: Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon pure water
- 13 cup baking soda
- 13 cup Borax
- 13 cup citric acid
- 1 tablespoon pure water
Make Your Own Citrus RV Black Tank Cleaning Bombs
- In a small plastic baggie, combine the baking soda, borax, and citric acid
- Set aside. Slowly pour water into the baggie to ensure that the contents are thoroughly mixed. In a silicone mold, press the mixture firmly in place. Allow for a one-day drying period. Remove the citrus bombs from the mold and place them in an airtight container until required
The final step is to employ your homemade citrus bombs, which involves first dumping your holding tanks and then re-closing your valves. Afterwards, flush a couple of liters of fresh water down the toilet and drop a cleaning bomb into the toilet bowl.
Inside the water, you should be able to hear the bomb fizz. If at all possible, flush your citrus bombs down the toilet immediately before you leave so that the water and your homemade RV holding tank treatment may swish around while you travel through the countryside.
3: The “Unique Method” Of Homemade RV Holding Tank Treating
The “Unique Method” is more of a handmade process than it is a specialized treatment for your RV’s holding tank, according to the manufacturer. Basic principles include utilizing large volumes of water and establishing an environment in your holding tanks that encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria (the type that breaks down waste and avoids blockages). To put The Unique Method into action in your RVing home, follow these steps:
- Keeping your black tank closed until it’s at least 1/12 tank full will guarantee that everything is broken down
- Adding loads of water with each flush will help to accomplish this. Before each use, fill the toilet bowl in your RV with water — While this may appear to be a waste of resources, the reality is that it is one of the most effective DIY methods for keeping your holding tank fresh, clean, and unclogged. Apart from that, an RVing household consumes far less water overall than the normal home, thus you’re already making a significant contribution
- Every time you dump, make sure to treat your holding tanks. Making use of a product such as Happy Campers Organic tank treatment to season your tank after each and every dump Never flush your RV toilet bowl without a little amount of water in it, as this will prevent odours from escaping your tank. Attempt to keep holding tank temperatures lower than 85 degrees Fahrenheit on a consistent basis. Using only mild cleansers in your tanks can help you to keep odors to a minimum (avoid using chlorine and bleach, for example). Ensure that you empty your tanks every 4-5 days to avoid odor accumulation. Remember to use lots of water when you flush
- Deep cleaning your RV holding tanks twice a year is recommended to prevent buildup.
When it comes to keeping your holding tanks clean and free of odors, even while the Unique Method does not involve entirely handmade substances, it does rely on a homemade recipe of proactive perseverance to achieve success.
Which Homemade RV Holding Tank Treatment Is Best?
In the case of dry camping, the Citrus Bomb method is the most effective DIY RV holding tank treatment since it does not necessitate the use of a large amount of fresh water. You may also create the citrus bombs in advance of your camping trip, which means you won’t have to do any preparation on the road. But if you plan on being connected to city water and sewer for an extended length of time, the Unique Method will be the finest rv tank deodorizer since it is the most proactive RV holding tank treatment you can undertake, according to the manufacturer.
), it is still one of the most effective methods for treating your RV holding tank.
It’s just that we favor the two approaches described above since they appear to be the most effective in general, depending on how you’re RVing.
By following the recipes listed above, you may determine which DIY RV holding tank treatment is best for you and your family when traveling by RV.
How to Get Rid of RV Holding Tank Odor
Making plans for an RV vacation is thrilling because of the wide road, the many stops along the way, and the opportunity to explore the nation in comfort and luxury. However, there is one component of RVing that may not be enjoyable to discuss, but it is critical – the RV waste holding tanks. Despite the fact that it is a less-than-glamorous subject, you cannot overlook your RV sewage tank. If you do, you may come to regret your decision. If you want to be a successful RVer, you have two alternatives.
One, do not use the toilet while traveling in your RV.
The other approach is to become familiar with your RV toilet and how your black water tank functions.
Because of this, you’ll need to become familiar with the realities of emptying and cleaning the holding tank.
In addition, you’ll need to know how to deal with any unpleasant scents that may occur. With that in mind, here are six techniques for getting rid of the smells associated with RV black water.
1. Refill the Water to Keep Things Flowing Smoothly
Even if you empty your black water tank on a regular basis, you must make certain that you replenish it with enough water to keep it functioning properly. All waste that is flushed down the toilet must be mixed with liquid in order to prevent the tank from drying out. If just the dry solid material is left, it will begin to smell and may possibly cause damage to the holding tank’s inside. When replenishing your tank with water, a reasonable rule of thumb is to add enough to completely cover the bottom of the tank.
2. Add Water With Each Flush and Black Water Tank Chemicals
If you want to prevent having a dried-out tank, you can add water to it every time you flush the toilet. This will guarantee that there is always adequate liquid in the holding tank to aid in the management of undesirable scents in the building. You will also need to supply specialist holding tank chemicals to your system on a regular basis by flushing some down the toilet. This ecologically friendly liquid aids in the breakdown of toilet paper and waste, as well as the management of aromas in the restroom.
Before putting any chemicals to your RV, make sure you read the owner’s handbook first.
3. Preventing and Cleaning Clogs
A significant focus should be placed on preventing blockages from occurring in the first place. When it comes to clogging in black water tanks, toilet paper is a regular culprit. Regular toilet paper was not intended to be used in RV tanks. Using this method can result in blockages, which are a certain way to cause your holding tank to begin to smell. Instead, use biodegradable, RV-grade toilet paper to keep your RV clean. An obstruction occurs, and it is typically rather clear when it happens.
At that point, you can call a professional to clear the clog for you, but it may be more cost-effective and time-efficient to tackle the situation yourself – even if the results are less than appealing.
4. Scour and Clean Your Tank
Despite the fact that it is an unpleasant task, maintaining a properly cleaned holding tank is critical to keeping your waste system odor-free. However, the tank will need to be fully cleaned, particularly on its sides, where any stuck-on stuff may be found. You may hire someone or do it yourself, but the tank will need to be thoroughly cleaned. After that, you can use a cleanser that has a pleasant scent. If you keep up with your black water tank maintenance, you should only need to clean it once or twice a year at the most.
5. Clean the Toilet and the Flapper
You may need to clean your toilet or your flapper if you’ve emptied and cleaned your waste holding tank but are still experiencing a noxious odour. It is important to properly clean both surfaces since there may be unpleasant residue adhered someplace. Due to filth on the flapper, it may not close correctly, enabling the odor from the waste tank to enter your RV.
To clean around and under the flapper, wet a towel in warm water and rub it around and under the flapper to ensure that nothing has become stuck. If the flapper continues to refuse to shut, you may need to consult with an RV maintenance professional.
6. Repair Work Needed
After trying everything and the stench is still there, it’s possible that there is a more significant problem with your black water tank or with your toilet. When one of them leaks or becomes broken, you will require the services of a professional to do the repair job.
RV Sites at KOA
Many of our RV Sites at KOA are provided with sewer hookups, making it simple to dispose of garbage. The holding tank does not need to be emptied until the end of your vacation, as previously stated. In addition, we provide several conveniences such as hot showers, laundry facilities, and more. KOA parks are conveniently located throughout North America, so reserve your RV site now.
Amazon.com: Rid-x Holding Tank Deodorizer Pacs, for Rv, Boats, & Portable Toilets, Fresh Scent, 8 Count : Automotive
On February 7, 2021, a review was published in the United States of America. I’ve been using Ridex in my recreational vehicle for more than 20 years. “Back in the day,” I used the original Ridex in my holding tanks on my 41-foot RV – a capful for a 40-gallon holding tank was plenty. It lasted for more than ten days! It got rid of the stink, and the bacteria took care of any solid stuff that was left behind. I was pleasantly happy to discover that Ridex had developed a recipe specifically for recreational vehicles, and I have continued to use the product (in spite of some of the naysayers).
- The fragrance of this product is pleasant.
- If you’re using it in a portable toilet, drop one package in and fill the rest with water.
- Cleaning everything out again before opening the lever, adding 1 packet plus water and waiting for it to crack open, which didn’t happen even after around 5 minutes of waiting.
- It would be beneficial to have an RV since it would immediately become agitated from traveling.
- On May 12, 2021, a review was published in the United States, and a verified purchase was made.
- When we retired in our RV, we tried a slew of different tank additives, but none of them seemed to perform what they claimed.
- Since making the transition, we’ve noticed a significant improvement in the simplicity with which we can maintain our tanks.
Purchase that has been verified The product is excellent; I’ve been using CampaChem for years and was disappointed to discover that it was no longer available.
I’m a truck driver, and I have a little 5 gallon toilet on the back of my vehicle, therefore fragrance is quite important to me.
Purchase that has been verified Packets have a tendency to stay together.
Ensure that the packaging is properly sealed after each packet is removed.
The product is excellent.
Since utilizing the product, the indicator lights have performed better.
It is completely effective against smells.
It’s fantastic.
RVs and boats have been a part of my life.
The chemical and cover scents of most products irritate my sinuses to the point where it was nearly as bad as using nothing at all.
Rid-X eliminates offensive odors while leaving a faint citrus aroma in its wake. On August 9, 2021, a review was published in the United States of America. I’ve tried a lot of other brands, and this one is by far the best.
Amazon.com: Rid-X Holding Tank Deodorizer : Health & Household
Q: Can I use RID-X RV Toilet Treatment in any environment? A: RID-X RV Toilet Treatment is completely safe for use in recreational vehicles, portable toilets, and portable marine toilets. In the case of utilizing RID-X RV Toilet Treatment, how often should I empty my holding tank? A: Holding tanks and portable toilets should be emptied once a week, or more frequently if necessary, for the greatest results. If tanks are kept for more than a week, an extra dose should be supplied on a weekly basis to keep them healthy.
- RID-X should be added through the toilet into the holding tank for every 40 gallons of tank capacity.
- Add 3 oz of RID-X to a holding tank or small portable toilet that holds less than 15 gallons of water, and then follow with 12 gallon of water.
- A: Each bottle of RID-X RV Toilet Treatment may give up to 16 treatments for holding tanks containing up to 40 gallons of water.
- A: RID-X RV Toilet Treatment has a strong citrus aroma that lasts for a long time.
Controlling RV Holding Tank Odors In High Heat
The following are the most important points:
- When it is really hot, odors are created by a lack of water and an excessive number of anaerobic (or nasty) bacteria. A lack of water and an excessive number of anaerobic bacteria can result in a variety of problems, many of which contribute to foul smells. When you use sufficient of water in your RV holding tank, treat your tank with a high-quality holding tank treatment, and avoid overheating your tank, smells in even the toughest settings will be eliminated
Strong RV toilet scents may quickly deteriorate in the presence of high temperatures, causing them to become unbearable. Dealing with these scents is not only inconvenient, but it can also quickly derail an RV vacation. We realize how inconvenient this may be, and how solutions seem to be few and far between at times like this. Although there are methods that allow you to camp in extreme temperatures without being surrounded by nasty bathroom scents, they are not widely available. Here, we’ll go through why scents are worse in high temperatures and provide you with some tried-and-true strategies for dealing with high heat concerns.
What Causes Odors to Increase in High Heat?
There are a variety of reasons why scents get worse under high temperatures, but the majority of them reduce down to two factors: (1)
- A number of factors contribute to the worsening of scents in high heat, but the main ones are as follows: (1)
It is critical to investigate why evaporation and the bacterial habitat within your tank are so significant in the development of tank smells as soon as possible.
Evaporation
Because of the high heat, liquid will evaporate from your tank. Evaporation contributes to the formation of scents in your tank for a variety of reasons:
- Mounds of excrement and other waste accumulate above the water line, resulting in very pungent odors. This is referred to as the “porta toilet problem.” If there isn’t a water barrier between the waste and your RV, sewer gas might sneak in. Beneficial bacteria cannot live in the absence of enough water. Strong odors might be exacerbated by high tank temperatures.
However, as previously stated, evaporation is not the only factor contributing to the increased danger of strong scents in hot situations. The imbalance between good and harmful bacteria is also a factor in the production of scents.
Bacterial Environment
Having a thriving colony of bacteria in your holding tank is always a good thing since bacteria will break down solid waste and avoid blockages as well as misreading sensor readings. If, on the other hand, your objective is to minimize odors (and who wouldn’t want to do that? ), you’ll want to make sure your tank is supplied with bacteria that are especially adapted to reducing aromas. Keeping your tank’s temperature at a comfortable level to allow aerobic bacteria to grow is essential. Anaerobic bacteria will create methane and hydrogen sulfide gas (the gas that gives sewers their distinctive odor).
- In addition to the increased production of odors by anaerobic bacteria, the hot weather will make these odors considerably more offensive than they would be under normal circumstances.
- Additionally, because of the high temperatures, Aerobic bacteria are unable to break down waste as effectively, resulting in even more smells being produced.
- However, as we previously stated, we have solutions for you to consider.
- Keep in mind that, although rare, anything might be wrong with your tank’s ventilation or valves.
- In the event that you are experiencing problems with ventilation or leaking valves, it will be considerably more difficult for you to cope with excessive heat scents until everything is operating properly.
We strongly advise that you address any underlying concerns. Continue reading for more information.
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Solutions
Contrary to popular belief, the techniques to reducing smells in extreme temperatures are actually rather easy! Examine how you may quickly and effectively eliminate the scents that are created by high temperatures.
- Make use of copious amounts of water. Every time you flush the toilet, we recommend that you keep your foot on the flush pedal for 10 seconds. We appreciate that while dry camping, this might be more difficult to accomplish. Please visit this post for additional information on dry camping tips and methods. Make sure you use enough water to completely cover the waste in your tank. Also, make sure that your toilet bowl has a few inches of water in it at all times. Holding tank treatment of superior grade should be used on your tanks.
Bacteria
We recommend that RVers use a high-quality bacteria-based treatment such as RV Digest-It for the vast majority of their needs. When combined with The Unique Method, this sort of treatment is the most effective odor remover and waste digester on the market.
Zinc
We recommend that campers who camp exclusively in high heat and limited water circumstances use a zinc-based solution that has been properly packed. In these harsh conditions, this will aid in the elimination of smells.
No Magic Bullets
We remind folks all the time that there is no such thing as a magic bullet when it comes to tank treatment. Proper holding tank maintenance is a 50/50 chance situation, according to experts. Fifty percent of the correct treatmentproduct, and fifty percent of the correct treatmentprocess The Unique Methodis the procedure you must follow in order to ensure that your high-quality treatment will be effective in the long run. Maintain control over the temperature of your tank. Aerobic bacteria thrive at temperatures between 45°F and 85°F, with the optimal range being 45°F to 85°F.
Final Thoughts
Taking on smells in extreme temperatures can be difficult, but by following the methods given in this tutorial, you’ll be able to spend more time enjoying the warmth of the sun and less time worrying about what the heat is doing to your holding tank. If you have any questions, please get in touch with our customer service staff. We would be delighted to assist you!
