Are you an avid RV traveler? Do you love hitting the open road with your home on wheels? If so, then you know that one of the less glamorous parts of RV life is dumping your black and gray tanks. Yes, we’re talking about the unsavory business of getting rid of your waste. But fear not, dear RVers! Dumping your tanks doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In fact, it can even be a little bit…fun? Okay, maybe not fun, but at least manageable. So, grab a pair of gloves and let’s dive into what you need to know about dumping your RV black and gray tanks.
Why Dumping Your Tanks Is Important
Let’s start with the basics. Why is it important to dump your tanks regularly? Well, for starters, nobody wants to be stuck in a tiny space with a tank full of waste. Trust us, the smell alone is enough to make you want to hit the road and never look back. But beyond that, not properly dumping your tanks can lead to serious issues down the line, like clogs, backups, and even damage to your RV’s plumbing system. So, unless you want to be knee-deep in sewage, make sure you stay on top of your tank dumping duties.
Understanding Your Tanks
Before you can start dumping your tanks, you need to understand what you’re dealing with. Your RV has two types of tanks: black and gray. Your black tank holds your toilet waste, while your gray tank holds your sink and shower water. It’s important to keep these tanks separate because the gray water can be dumped at most RV parks, while black water needs to be dumped at a designated dump station.
The Dumping Process
Now that you know the basics, let’s talk about the actual dumping process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you through it:
Step 1: Find a Dump Station
The first thing you need to do is find a dump station. Most RV parks and campgrounds have one, but if you’re out in the middle of nowhere, you might need to do a little digging to find one. Pro tip: there are a number of apps and websites that can help you locate dump stations, so do your research before you hit the road.
Step 2: Prepare Your Tanks
Once you’ve found a dump station, it’s time to prepare your tanks. Start by turning off your RV’s water supply and disconnecting your sewer hose from your RV. Then, open your black tank valve and let it drain completely. Once it’s empty, close the valve and repeat the process with your gray tank.
Step 3: Rinse and Repeat
After your tanks are empty, it’s a good idea to rinse them out to make sure all the waste is gone. Most dump stations have a rinse hose you can use for this purpose. Simply attach the hose to the rinse valve and let the water run until it’s clear.
Step 4: Close Up Shop
Once you’ve emptied and rinsed your tanks, it’s time to pack up and hit the road. Make sure you disconnect your hose, close your valves, and stow everything away properly.
Tips and Tricks
Now that you’re a pro at dumping your tanks, here are a few tips and tricks to make the process even smoother:
- Invest in a clear elbow for your sewer hose. This will allow you to see when your tanks are completely empty, so you don’t accidentally leave any waste behind.
- Use plenty of water when you flush your toilet. This will help keep your tank clean and prevent clogs.
- Dump your black tank first, then your gray tank.