As an RV owner, you’re likely aware that the freshwater holding tank supplies potable water. However, once this water is used for tasks like washing dishes or taking showers, it becomes less pristine and is directed to the graywater holding tank.
Conversely, what goes down the toilet finds its way to the blackwater holding tank. Given its contents, it’s no surprise that this tank tends to accumulate grime rapidly, making it the top priority for regular cleaning due to its unsanitary nature.
Now, let’s delve into the process of cleaning and unclogging your blackwater holding tank. This article will provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide covering various scenarios of dealing with a backed-up tank. Additionally, we’ll explore the common causes of clogs and offer strategies to prevent them in the future.
Understanding the Causes of Blackwater Tank Clogs
To uncover the reasons behind blackwater tank clogs, it’s akin to investigating what leads to a toilet blockage.
Admittedly, the topic might not be the most pleasant, but it’s crucial to address.
Typically, two main factors contribute to the gunk buildup in your blackwater tank: human waste (yes, feces) and clumps of toilet paper.
In some newer, high-end blackwater holding tanks, you might find a system of sensors embedded within. Positioned vertically throughout the tank, these sensors monitor its filling levels. This enables you to receive timely alerts when the tank requires cleaning.
However, if these sensors encounter obstructions due to waste or toilet paper accumulation, they may provide inaccurate readings, causing unnecessary inconvenience.
Even without sensors, the accumulation of human waste and toilet paper remains a significant concern. The severity of the issue often remains unknown until the tank is inspected firsthand.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clearing a Clogged Blackwater Tank
Diagnosing the root cause of a clog is often the initial step in resolving issues with your blackwater tank. Without understanding the source of the problem, addressing it becomes challenging.
Now, while I may have drawn a comparison between your blackwater tank and a toilet earlier, unfortunately, grabbing a large plunger won’t solve the issue. As much as it would be convenient, there simply aren’t plungers big enough for this job. Apologies for the disappointment – maybe innovation will catch up someday.
You might have entertained a few DIY ideas to tackle the job, but let’s steer clear of methods that could potentially damage your blackwater tank or, worse, leave you covered in waste. For your safety and the preservation of your tank, AVOID the following approaches:
- Using a pressure washer or power washer: Despite some suggestions from supposed RV “experts,” avoid the temptation to power-wash your blackwater tank. The high pressure could lead to tank breakage or cause harm to yourself. Not worth the risk!
- Employing pressurized air: Any form of pressure should be avoided. Introducing pressurized air into the tank can exacerbate the problem by lodging waste in inaccessible areas and potentially damaging the tank.
- Attempting to use a toilet snake: While useful for clearing household pipes, toilet snakes are ineffective for removing waste buildup in blackwater tanks. Save yourself the hassle and bypass this method altogether.
Now that we’ve ruled out what not to do, you’re probably wondering, “What’s the solution?” Let’s explore that next.
Step 1: Cleaning the Tank
A clean blackwater tank spells trouble-free travels. Therefore, the initial step in unclogging your blackwater tank is to give it a thorough cleaning. Before you proceed, make sure to avoid the ineffective methods outlined earlier.
What you can do is invest in a septic system powder treatment and administer it into the tank. Rid-X stands as a favored choice among RV and camper owners. You can conveniently purchase several months’ worth from Amazon. The pricing is as follows: $6.88 for a month’s supply, $13.88 for three months, and $73.66 for a year’s worth of Rid-X.
But why stock up? For optimal maintenance of your blackwater tank, regular use of Rid-X or your preferred product is advisable, even if the tank isn’t currently clogged. This preventive measure is likely to thwart future clogs (and fret not, as I’ll share more tips on this later).
For effective results, your blackwater tank should hold a minimum of 1,500 gallons to ensure a thorough clean with Rid-X. Each month’s supply typically comprises approximately 9.8 ounces of powder containing enzymes and natural bacteria. From grease and oils to proteins and yes, even toilet paper, Rid-X tackles it all.
To guarantee a pristine blackwater tank, adhere to the instructions provided on the Rid-X packaging or your chosen powder cleaner.
Step 2: Cleaning the Line
The line connecting your toilet to the blackwater tank is crucial in managing waste flow. Without regular cleaning, this line can develop stubborn blockages known as pyramid plugs, hindering the connection.
Wondering how these pyramid plugs form? Neglecting to maintain the blackwater tank is the primary culprit. However, if you’ve encountered pyramid plugs, there are two options to address the issue.
The first involves using an auger. Yes, it’s a form of toilet snake, but in this case, it’s suitable for the task as the line contains pipe. Opt for a hand-operated auger to minimize the risk of damaging the blackwater tank. Gently guide the auger down the pipe to break up the pyramid plugs. If possible, flush the remaining plugs away with a hose or a long spray wand.
Alternatively, if you prefer a less hands-on approach, consider adding water to the blackwater tank, filling it halfway, and mixing in liquid soap. Next, drive your RV or camper on rough terrain to agitate the water and dislodge any blockages. Allow the tank to sit for a few hours before flushing the line. With luck, this method should eliminate the pyramid plugs.
Step 3: Testing Tank Valves
With your blackwater tank and line now thoroughly cleaned, it’s time to troubleshoot potential issues. First on the list: checking your tank valves to ensure they’re properly open and functioning. While this may seem straightforward, oversights during vehicle setup are not uncommon. Have you confirmed if the sewer line is connected? Are all valves switched on?
If any oversight is detected, take a moment to double-check and rectify the situation. Sometimes, this simple step can resolve the issue, saving you both effort and expenses. If your blackwater tank remains clogged, don’t worry – there are still several troubleshooting options available.
Step 4: Experiment with Chemical Solutions
Nobody enjoys delving into their toilet, so if there’s a chemical solution that can tackle the task swiftly and effectively, it’s an appealing option, isn’t it? The sentiment applies to your blackwater tank as well. If you can avoid excessive manual labor, why subject yourself to the ordeal?
Chemical treatments are widely available, with a plethora of options saturating the market.
Step 5: Experiment with the Water Hose Method
While chemical treatments are typically effective, if you’re in a hurry or prefer to avoid chemicals altogether, there’s an alternative. The water hose method offers a chemical-free approach to eliminating odors and waste from your blackwater tank.
To employ this method, you’ll need:
- A drill
- A water hose
- A water piping connector, preferably at least five feet in length
- An RV sewer hose
- A clear hose connector
Begin by attaching the clear hose connector to the blackwater tank securely. It’s crucial that the hose is transparent so you can monitor the method’s progress.
Ensure the connector is firmly in place before using the drill to create a hole at the top. The hole should be large enough for the water line to pass through but not so large that leaks occur.
Once the drilling is complete, feed the five-foot water line through the connector and turn on the blackwater tank’s valve. This allows the water line to access the tank. Now, run water through the line.
Typically, water will begin flowing, but occasionally, the line may become backed up. In such cases, waste should start moving through the water line instead of water. Allow this process to continue until the interior of the blackwater tank is thoroughly cleaned.
Step 6: Consider the Ice Cube Method
If the idea of drilling seems like too much hassle (completely understandable), there’s still another option worth exploring: the ice cube method. While it might sound unconventional, it has proven effective for numerous RV and camper owners.
Here’s how it works: Pour water into your blackwater tank until it’s roughly one-third full. Then, fill the remaining space with ice. Yes, it might require a substantial amount of ice, so it’s wise to stock up beforehand.
As you drive your RV or camper around, the movement should help the ice dislodge stubborn waste and toilet paper that’s clinging to the walls of your blackwater tank. Afterward, simply drain the tank, and with any luck, it should be noticeably cleaner.
Step 7: Seek Professional Assistance
Introduction: If none of the aforementioned methods yield satisfactory results, your final recourse is to pull over and enlist the help of a professional repairperson. While this option may incur costs, it ensures that your blackwater tank is thoroughly cleaned of all waste and residue.
Tips for Preventing Future Clogs
Introduction: With your blackwater tank now clean and free of waste, it’s essential to implement preventive measures to maintain its cleanliness and functionality. Regular maintenance of your blackwater tank is an unavoidable aspect of RV or camper ownership, albeit a tedious one.
Here are some steps you can take to prevent future clogs and ensure your blackwater tank remains in optimal condition:
- Clean the tank frequently: Regular cleaning prevents the accumulation of gunk. If your blackwater tank has sensors, follow their recommendations for cleaning frequency. Otherwise, aim to clean the tank weekly or every few weeks. Don’t overlook maintenance of your graywater and freshwater tanks.
- Clean the sensors: Regularly clean the sensors to ensure accurate readings, preventing unnecessary tank cleanings.
- Use RV-specific chemicals: Only use chemicals and products designed for RV or camper toilets and blackwater tanks. Avoid using household drain cleaners, as they can degrade drain valve seals and impede waste breakdown.
- Empty the tank promptly: Avoid leaving the blackwater tank full for extended periods. After a road trip or during breaks, dump the tank at a designated dumping station, followed by the graywater tank.
- Opt for biodegradable toilet paper: Invest in biodegradable toilet paper designed for RVs and campers to prevent blockages in the tank and sensor malfunctions.
- Maintain a minimum level of water in the tank: Never leave the blackwater tank completely empty, as waste and solids may adhere to the tank’s bottom and walls, causing odors. Maintain the tank at least halfway full with water.
- Flush the toilet frequently: Flush the RV or camper toilet multiple times per use to ensure waste and toilet paper are adequately flushed away.