How to Clean Out an RV Septic Tank

Why Regular RV Septic Tank Maintenance is Important

Emptying and cleaning your RV’s septic tank is essential for several reasons:

• Prevent Odors: Failing to empty your septic tank regularly can lead to unpleasant smells inside the RV and around the campsite.
• Keep Plumbing in Good Condition: Regular cleaning ensures that your RV’s plumbing system doesn’t become clogged or damaged.
• Maintain Proper Function: Keeping the septic tank clean and empty ensures that it functions properly, reducing the likelihood of backups or failures.
• Avoid Environmental Contamination: Wastewater and sewage should always be disposed of properly to avoid contaminating the environment, particularly when you’re in remote or wilderness areas.

By maintaining your RV’s septic tank, you can avoid costly repairs, maintain a comfortable living environment, and keep the system functioning as it should.

Step 1: Know When to Empty Your RV’s Septic Tank

Just like your home septic system, your RV’s tank needs to be emptied regularly. However, the timing is different since RV septic systems are smaller and used less frequently. Here’s how to know when it’s time to empty your RV’s tank:

• Tank Level Indicators: Many RVs are equipped with a waste level sensor that will tell you when the black and gray tanks are full. These sensors are often built into the RV’s monitoring panel, which you can check to monitor the levels of the tanks.
• Visual Signs: If you notice slow draining in the toilet or sinks, this is often an indicator that the tank is nearing full capacity.
• Unpleasant Odors: When the tank starts to fill up, you may begin to smell sewage odors. If you start noticing these smells inside or around your RV, it’s time to empty the tank.
• Backups: If you experience sewage backing up into the toilet or sink, it’s an immediate sign that the tank is full and needs to be emptied.

In general, most RV owners will need to dump the tank every 3-5 days, depending on the number of people using the RV and the size of the tank. Be mindful of the warning signs so that you don’t end up with a full tank and potential issues.

Step 2: Gather the Necessary Equipment

Before you begin emptying your RV septic tank, you’ll need to gather the right equipment. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need to complete the process:

• Septic Dumping Hose: A hose specifically designed for dumping waste is essential. Ensure it’s long enough to reach the dump station’s sewer connection from your RV.
• Waste Water Adapters: Different RV dump stations may have different types of sewer connections. Make sure you have the proper adapter to connect your RV’s hose to the station’s sewer system.
• Gloves: To protect yourself from bacteria and germs, always wear gloves when handling the septic system.
• Disinfectant: Have a disinfectant on hand to clean your hose and gloves after the dumping process.
• Bucket or Gloves: In case of spillage, it’s good to have something to collect excess wastewater.
• Personal Protection Gear: Consider wearing a mask if you’re handling waste in a poorly ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.

Make sure your equipment is clean and stored properly to ensure it’s safe for future use. Keeping everything in good condition will make the dumping process smoother and more hygienic.

Step 3: Find an RV Dump Station

The next step in cleaning your RV’s septic tank is to find a dump station. RV dump stations are located in campgrounds, RV parks, rest areas, truck stops, and some gas stations. Many national and state parks also offer dump stations for travelers. To find the nearest dump station, you can:

• Use RV Dump Station Locator Apps: There are several apps available for smartphones, such as “Sanidumps” and “RV Dump Stations,” which can help you locate the nearest stations.
• Ask at Campgrounds: If you’re staying at a campground, check with the management to see if they have a dump station or if there’s one nearby.
• Check Online Directories: Websites such as Sanidumps provide an online directory of RV dump stations across North America.

Some RV parks or campsites may charge a small fee for using their dump stations, but others offer free access for registered guests. Always make sure you have a valid place to dump your waste before you start the process.

Step 4: Empty the RV’s Black and Gray Tanks

Once you’ve reached the dump station, it’s time to begin the actual cleaning process. There are two main tanks you need to empty in an RV: the black tank (which holds waste from the toilet) and the gray tank (which holds wastewater from sinks, showers, and dishwashers). Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to empty each tank:

1. Empty the Black Tank

The black tank is the most important one to empty regularly to prevent odor and clogging. Here’s how to do it:

• Secure the hose to the RV’s waste outlet and the dump station’s sewer connection.
• Slowly open the valve on the black tank, allowing the waste to flow into the sewer system.
• Let the tank empty completely. Don’t rush the process. If the flow seems slow, gently tap or shake the hose to encourage the waste to flow.
• Once the black tank is empty, close the valve and secure the hose.

2. Empty the Gray Tank

Next, empty the gray tank. This tank contains wastewater from your sinks and showers. It’s generally cleaner than the black tank but should still be emptied regularly:

• Open the valve to the gray tank and let the water drain into the system.
• Let the water flow completely. It’s not as crucial as the black tank but still important to avoid buildup.
• Once the gray tank is emptied, close the valve and secure the hose.

It’s a good idea to empty the black tank before the gray tank. This helps to flush out the hose with cleaner water from the gray tank, keeping the hose and connections cleaner.

Step 5: Clean the Dumping Equipment

After you’ve emptied both tanks, it’s essential to clean the dumping equipment to avoid any lingering odors or bacteria. Here’s how you can do that:

• Flush the hose: Run clean water through the septic hose to flush out any remaining waste. Some RVs are equipped with a built-in flushing system to help clean the hose.
• Disinfect: Use a disinfectant to clean the outside of the hose and any gloves you’ve used. This will prevent bacteria from growing on the equipment and ensure it’s ready for the next time you need it.
• Store properly: Once cleaned, store the hose in a designated compartment to keep it separate from other camping gear. Be sure it’s dry to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Step 6: Add Tank Treatment

After cleaning your RV’s septic tank, it’s a good idea to add a tank treatment to help maintain the tank and control odors. Tank treatments are available in liquid or tablet form and contain enzymes or bacteria that break down waste in the tank. Here’s how to use them:

• Black tank treatment: Pour the treatment into the black tank according to the instructions on the packaging. This will help break down solids and control odors.
• Gray tank treatment: Some treatments are also available for gray tanks to help keep them odor-free and prevent grease buildup.

Using tank treatments regularly will ensure that your RV’s septic system remains in good condition and free from odors.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and cleaning of your RV’s septic tank are crucial for a pleasant and hygienic travel experience. By following these steps—emptying the tanks when needed, finding proper dump stations, and keeping your equipment clean—you can ensure your RV’s plumbing system remains in good condition. Whether you’re traveling full-time or taking occasional road trips, proper care of your septic system will prevent issues and enhance your comfort while on the road.