It’s been said that, “All roads lead to Rome.” In a motorhome, all drains lead to holding tanks. Holding tanks are the built-in tanks that hold any waste coming from your RV.
Tanks that hold wastewater coming from sinks and showers are called “gray” tanks. Tanks that hold sewage are “black” tanks. Typically, there is one “black” tank and one or more “gray” tanks. The easiest way to know if the tank is “gray” or “black” is to look at the waste valves. They are located near the holding tank exit where the sewer hose is attached. The “gray” valve is the smaller valve (typically 1.5 inches). The “black” valve is the large valve (typically three inches). There should be one waste valve for each tank. All the pipes connect together after the waste valves to exit at one location.
Since “gray” tanks hold all wastewater, you need to be careful what you put down the drain. Often times, food or other large items end up in the “gray” tank, and may not come out. These items can stick together, and if the RV is sitting still for a long period of time, the items may not break up and flush out when the tanks are dumped. This can cause odor or can interfere with the waste valve operation.
It’s important to always have water in the tanks before dumping. I would recommend not leaving waste valves open while camping. A build up of water in the tank will help flush out all items when dumping. This is especially important with “black” tanks. Solids will be at the bottom of the black tank. Water build up will help remove the solids from the tank when it’s dumped.
When you’re ready to empty your tanks, open only the “black” tank waste valve. Allow a few minutes for the tank to empty. Go inside the RV and flush the toilet. Allow water to run down the toilet to help flush the tank.
Next, with the sewage drain valve still open, drain the “gray” water tank/s. The “gray” wastewater exiting will help wash out the “black” tank valve and lower piping. When the tanks finish draining, close all waste valves. Be sure to wash your hands!
Final Touch Coach Works is located at 28532 Livingston Avenue in Valencia. For more information, please call 661-775-8375 or visit www.FinalTouch-USA.com.