Your Black Tank may Actually be Empty!

There are a myriad of reasons why your black water holding tank won’t drain. First, consider the fact that it actually may be empty. What!? That’s right, your sensor may be giving you a false reading. This happens because toilet paper or waste can get attached to the sensor leading to false results. Whether a false reading or clogged tank, both require a blank tank flush. So, how is this done?

Built in Flush/Tank Rinse

Hopefully your RV has a built in black tank flush or rinse receptacle. Whatever you call it, it’s likely a water hose receptacle on the outside wall of your RV. Typically it’s located above the blank and grey tank valves. Some rigs have a system that looks more like an outdoor shower with traditional knobs. These, systems serve the same purpose of course, but the nice part is, you won’t require a separate water hose. For this article, we’ll focus on the type where you’ll need to hook up a water hose.

It’s best to use a separate water hose, preferably a different color, as you don’t want to contaminate your drinking water hose. We use this one from Camco. First step is to ensure your sewer hose is hooked up to your RV and the sewer drain. You can leave the black tank closed if you wish. Doing so is good to get the sensors rinsed off, especially above the 1/3 level. Be very careful not to overfill as you do NOT want a black water mess inside your RV! Pull your black tank valve when the water reaches the desired level. Repeat as necessary until your tanks are reading empty. Of course, this is is all good, but what if you don’t have a built in tank flush?

Use Black Tank Flush Accessories

There are many other ways you can still fix your clogged black tank. Some have found the use of a wand very handy. This wand is used from the top side by opening your toilet flush valve and rinsing out the tank. Another method is to use an RV holding tank flusher. We use the one in the link provided. For us, it’s the best flusher on the market! A bonus for this device has a that it can rinse out your grey tank as well.

They make this product without the gate valve, for a cheaper price. However, I’ve found that the gate valve is very handy, as it allows you to fill your holding tank to a desired level in order to rinse off sensors at a higher level. WARNING: Ensure your RV tank valve is open when using this device, failure to comply will cause damage to your flusher accessory. We’ve had this happen, but we were able to reassemble the device (not easy).

I’ve used the wand, and it helps but there’s some cons. With the wand, you have to route a hose into your RV. I found it to be a hassle and it just doesn’t work as well as the holding tank flusher. Also, you are limited as it’s only for your black tank. So, how do you prevent an RV black water tank clog?

Solutions are Good but Water is Best!

There are numerous treatment solutions in liquid or packet form available. These aid in breaking down waste while trying to combat the awful smells. Some RVers have recommended using liquid dishwasher detergent in your tanks. We’ve tried both with limited success. So, what works best?

Good old fashioned water. With enough water and lots of patience, your RV black tank clog will be no more! It’s important to remember the 5-second rule. Not the one your thinking of, but this one refers to flushing. Every time you use the toilet, flush for at least 5 seconds. This will help ensure the appropriate amount of water reaches your black tank, which will reduce your chances of developing the dreaded poop pyramid.

A few tips to consider:

• You can dump your dehumidifier in your toilet or even pots full of water from your sink. If your like us, your grey water tank will fill faster than your black. So, it’s a win/win!
• Always leave blank tank valve closed, until you’re ready to dump the black tank. This gives the waste time breakdown with the water, before it’s time to dump.
• Dump your RV black tank around every four to five days, even if it’s not full. From our experience, the black tank will begin to smell very bad when flushing after five or six days.

Black water holding tank won’t drain, and have questions? Or want to share your experiences? Please use the comment section below.

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