Page 28
Page 28
SECTION
5
Plumbing
some water to accumulate in the tank to use for flushing
drain line and flexible hose.
HOLDING TANKS
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 area. Drain valves and drain hose storage are
usually located on the driver’s side.
The storage tanks are constructed of strong, light-weight
polyethylene, which minimizes both weight and maintenance.
Some models may have two gray water tanks and one black
water tank.
Each tank has a separate drain line and dump valve, which
permits dumping tanks individually or together. Each tank
should be emptied often, at dump stations designated
for this purpose. These dump stations are found at most
campgrounds and are well marked. 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. Enough water should be kept in the
black water tank to cover the bottom to prevent hardening of
any residue that may remain. Never dump black water tank
until it is 3/4 full. This practice insures that enough water is
in the tank to flush all wastes into 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, wastes and biodegradable products. Paper
wrappers, gum, cigarettes, etc., no matter how small, should
NEVER be placed into either the gray or black tanks.
NOTE:
YOU CAN FIND BIODEGRADABLE PAPER
PRODUCTS AT MOST STORES THAT SELL CAMPING
SUPPLIES AND AT CAMPGROUNDS THAT HAVE A STORE
ON THE PREMISES. YOU CAN ALSO FIND CHEMICAL
SUBSTITUTES FOR DEPOSIT INTO THE WASTE TANKS, IF
YOU PREFER.
NOTE:
IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT HARMFUL
AND TOXIC MATERIALS CAN ACCUMULATE IF THE
HOLDING TANKS ARE NOT REGULARLY DRAINED AND
THOROUGHLY RINSED. IT IS ALSO IMPORTANT TO USE
HOLDING TANK DEODORIZING AND CLEANING AGENTS
IN THE WASTE WATER TANKS TO REDUCE ORDERS AND
KEEP THE LINES OPEN AND FREE FLOWING.
To Empty the Holding Tanks
1.) Remove the sewer drain hose from its storage
compartment on the side of the coach.
2.) Remove the cap from the RV drain and connect the drain
hose to it.
To Sanitize the System (continued):
• Allow the solution to stand in the tank, undisturbed, for at
least 3 (three) hours.
• Drain the system by opening all faucets and the fresh water
tank drain valve, while flushing the system with fresh water
of drinking quality.
• Continue flushing the system, allowing the water to flow for
several minutes.
• Close the tank drain valve and all faucets. Refill the system
with water of known drinking quality.
WASTE WATER SYSTEM
The waste water system in your recreational vehicle can be
described as two separate systems. A gray water system that
consists of the drain lines and holding tank for waste water
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 disposal of waste
water at designated dump stations at your convenience.
Components of the gray water system have drain traps, and
both tanks (black tank for toilet waste, and gray tank for
sinks and showers) are vented to equalize air pressure and
disperse odors caused by drain water and wastes outside.
Sometimes, the rocking movement of the recreational vehicle
while driving may empty the drain traps of their water and
allow odors of the gray water tank to enter the RV.
Residue in the drain water lines can also produce odors.
To combat gray water holding tank odors, an approved
deodorizing agent should be used. An agent that dissolves
grease and fats and contains a detergent will help keep
tanks and the lines clean and free flowing. You can obtain
the deodorizer at most campgrounds and stores that carry
camping equipment.
NOTE:
IF CONNECTING TO A CAMPSITE SEWER INLET,
• DO NOT OPEN TERMINATION VALVES UNTIL TANKS ARE
3/4 FULL.
• DO NOT KEEP BLACK WATER VALVE OPEN WHILE
PARKED.
Waste is NOT flushed directly into the sewer system. Only
liquid waste is drained, therefore water must accumulate
and chemicals in tank need time to break down solids before
they can be released.
If draining gray water
tank directly into
sewer inlet while
parked, be sure to
close termination
valve for a period
of time before
leaving,allowing
Terminator Valves