The wastewater system in your RV can be described as two separate systems. A gray water system, consists of the drain lines and holding tank for wastewater from the sinks and tub, and a black water system, which includes the holding tank and drain for toilet wastes. Each system is self-contained and allows the disposal of wastewater at designated dump stations at your convenience. Due to the vast array of floor plans and the necessary rearranging of plumbing systems, locations will alter, but in general, the holding tanks are located approximately beneath the bathroom and kitchen areas. Drain valves and drain hose storage are usually located on the drivers or off-door side of the unit.
Components of the gray water system have drain traps and all tanks are vented to equalize air pressure and disperse odors to the outside. Residue in the drain water lines and black waste tank can also produce odors. To combat water holding tank odors, an RV-approved deodorizing agent should be used. An agent that dissolves grease and fats and contains a detergent will help keep the tanks and lines clean and free-flowing. You can obtain the deodorizer at most campgrounds and at stores that carry camping supplies.
Each holding tank has a drain line and dump valve, which permits dumping tanks individually or together. Each tank should be emptied often and ONLY at dump stations designated for this purpose. Dump stations can be found at most campgrounds and truck stops. Many service stations, particularly along interstate highways, also have these facilities. Campground directories list dumping station locations across the nation. If possible, dump holding tanks before a trip to reduce the gross vehicle weight. It is very important that you keep enough water in the black water tank to cover the bottom to prevent hardening of any waste residue that may remain. Never dump the black water tank until it is 3/4 full. (Check the tank level on your monitor panel.) This practice ensures that enough water is in the tank to flush all wastes into the sewer line. If necessary, fill the tank to the 3/4 mark with additional water before draining. Never put anything in the holding tanks other than normal drain water, body waste, and biodegradable products. Paper wrappers, gum, cigarettes, etc., no matter how small, should NEVER be placed into either the gray or black tanks as doing so could cause damage to your plumbing system and/or tanks.
If connecting to a campsite dump station sewer inlet:
To empty your holding tanks:
NOTICE
If your RV has a Macerator System, the steps for emptying your holding tanks will vary. Please refer to the Macerator System section for complete instructions.
Solid waste often will not flush directly into the sewer system. Liquid waste typically drains the best. Therefore, you must allow water to accumulate in the black tank and give the chemicals time to break down the solids before emptying the tank. Always keep enough water in the waste tank to cover the bottom. Doing so will help prevent waste from solidifying, which will prevent the waste from being flushed from the system. If draining the gray water tank directly into the sewer inlet while parked, be sure to close the termination valve for a period of time before leaving, allowing water to accumulate in the tank for use in flushing the drain line and flexible hose.
Caution
Keep the drain valve closed to minimize the presence of sewer gases. Sewer gases can be present when RV is connected to the campground sewage hookup. May lead to illness or personal injury.
NOTICE
Remove the waterless trap before using mechanical drain-cleaning devices. A waterless trap can be damaged
BASIC TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
Black tank will not drain:
The holding tanks on your recreational vehicle, if equipped, are heated with a 12VDC heating pad to prevent freeze-ups during cold weather. These pads monitor and maintain the holding tank fluids once powered ON with the switch typically found in the RV’s control panel. The built-in sensor in the heat pad, when the switch is in the ON position, will activate the tank heater as soon as the contents in the tank drop to an approximate temperature of 45°F. When the liquid within the holding tank is heated and rises to approximately 64°F, the tank heater will automatically deactivate, awaiting the fluids to again drop to 45°F and repeat the cycle. If the ambient outside temperature rises and remains above freezing, or when the tanks are empty, switch the power to OFF.
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