Snowbirds & RV Travelers
Actually, it isn’t that dirty, but yes, someone has to do it. There’s not a lot of glamour involved in waste management of an RV but if left unattended for too long things will definitely get ugly. Maintenance is definitely the key to making sure the task doesn’t get too daunting.
Before you start, please make sure to wear rubber gloves to prevent contact with any dangerous pathogens. (Either bleach or throw them out after you are done - no one needs to keep those!)
Make sure you know the difference between the grey water holding tank (the one that holds the water from your sink and shower) and the black water holding tank (the one that collects water and waste from the toilet).
Dumping the tanks
The best practice is to dump the black water tank first – then the grey water will help flush out anything left behind. It's also best to wait until the tanks are about 2/3 full – gravity and pressure are your friends at the dump station.
- Pull up to the dump station and make sure your drains are as close as possible. Don’t be the guy/gal that misses.
- Get the sewer hose out. Remove the cap from the holding tank and make sure both the grey and black water valves are closed.
- Attach the hose to the dump station hole. Make sure it is securely clamped. Pull open the black water tank first and wait for it to empty.
- After the black tank is empty it is a good idea to do a fresh water rinse – pour water with a dedicated hose or a bucket down the toilet. If your RV has it, use the rinse system, and then do the last step. Solids can still get left behind and flushing water through until the water runs clear doesn’t take too long.
- Now open your grey tank valve. Once it’s empty make sure to close the valve.
- Check that all the valves are closed and disconnect the sewer hose from the RV. Make sure to drain the hose into the dump station and try to give it a rinse. Store the hose in a segregated area.
- Clean up. Throw away gloves. Sanitize any areas that may have been touched. Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Treat your tank. Try to use an environmental product that won’t affect the sewer system.
- Leave the dump station how you found it!
The single most daunting task for the RVer may be having to deal with waste. But with these tips (and some gloves and bleach) it will seem a lot easier. You’ll be back on your RV journey in no time.