Guidelines For Proper Black Water Care

Every tank is a little different, but there are a few things that every RV'er should know and do consistently regardless of your specific system. Doing these 5 things will dramatically decrease your chances of foul tank odors and backups. That means you can travel in comfort without embarrassing odors and gross repairs.

Rule 1: Keep your valve closed

Leaving your black water tank valve open can result in your liquid wastes draining into the sewer while the solid waste gets left behind to clog your tank. This is known as a pyramid plug and will lead to backups and odors. It may also lead to costly repairs.

Rule 2: Don't allow caustic chemicals or anti-bacterial products in your tank

Your holding tank remains clog and odor-free from naturally occurring bacteria that are present in your tank. Killing those beneficial bacteria will increase your chance of odors and backups.

Rule 3: Treat after each dump

Treating your system with more beneficial bacteria after each dump will greatly lower your risk of odors and backups.

Rule 4: Clean your toilets with an RV toilet cleaner

Cleaning your toilets with bleach or chemical toilet cleaners will kill the beneficial bacteria in your tank and increase your likelihood of backups and foul tank odors.

Rule 5: Watch your tank temperatures

The beneficial bacteria that keep your tanks clog and odor-free are inhibited by extreme heat and cold. Regulating your tank temps will allow those bacteria to flourish.The beneficial bacteria that keep your tanks clog and odor-free are inhibited by extreme heat and cold. Regulating your tank temps will allow those bacteria to flourish.