RV Holding Tanks A First Timer's Guide

Whether you’ve just bought your first RV or rented one to test the waters, your introduction to RV camping is an exciting experience. Some maintenance aspects of your camping vehicle may be daunting, especially the concept of water holding tanks. It’s a part of camper living that most people like to avoid thinking about, especially the dreaded black-water tank. But, with a few tips and helpful items, tank maintenance and dumping can be a breeze and you can focus on the rest of your camping adventure.

Types of Tanks and Their Care

For starters, there are three water holding tanks to worry about on an RV: your fresh water, grey water, and black water tank. 

1. Fresh Water Tank

The one we will start with is the easiest.  Any water that you use in daily life, from faucets, showers, and toilets comes from your fresh water tank.

2. Grey Water Tank

The grey water holds any water that has been used from sinks or your shower.

For first timers it’s important to note that the pipes in an RV are smaller than the average house, so even the smallest food particles from a sink have the chance of clogging a drain.

3. Black Water Tank

This holds water that has been used in the toilet. In turn, the inhabitants of this tank are considered hazardous waste and need to be dealt with in the proper ways. Thankfully, it isn’t nearly as bad as it may first seem. 

 When it’s time to empty the RV tanks

• The fresh water tank doesn’t need as much care as the other two. It is best to make sure if you encounter any inclement weather to react accordingly with extra insulation for the cold or cycling your water after a period of time in the heat to avoid water stagnation.
• When dumping the Black Water it is best to follow the two-thirds rule when considering this tank. Once it is two-thirds full, it's best to dump it. That way you avoid the unfortunate case of it overflowing. Plus, it's just easier on the tank and your hoses this way.
•  At first, it may seem like the black water tank should be best saved for last but there is actually an easier order. By dumping the black water tank first and then following up by dumping the grey-water, the hose you use will have extra water running through it at the end to help clean it out any remnants from the black water tank. 

Not to mention the residual soap from the grey water will help clean the hose as well. After this, sticking a garden hose down the toilet and running fresh water though it is another way to make sure your hose and tank are completely clean. Follow this up by adding some disinfectant to the black water tank.

  Supplies

Pre-make a list of items you need for proper maintenance and it may be a good idea to sketch out a list of steps for your first time. Make sure to use toilet paper made for RV systems or simple single-ply works as well. 

1. Box of gloves
2. Clear storage bins for sewer hose, and caps
3. Black water tank hose
4. Fresh water tank hose will help avoid any cross contamination
5. Cleaning supplies to sanitize and disinfect

 

 

Only dump your tanks at marked dumping areas, that way camping areas stay clean and beautiful for everyone.

Relax, and enjoy your journey.