If you’re new to RVing, or just want to make sure you’re properly caring for your RV’s waste tanks, you’ve come to the right place! Dumping your grey and black water tanks is a crucial part of RV maintenance that keeps your system running smoothly. It’s essential to understand how to do this safely and correctly to avoid unpleasant smells, damage to your RV, and fines for improper disposal.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the entire process of dumping your grey and black water tanks, including how a macerator pump can make the job easier. We’ll discuss the correct setup, things to be aware of, possible issues you might encounter, and how to fix them. We’ll also recommend some products to make the process easier and safer, along with where you can find them. So, let’s get started!

What Are Grey and Black Water Tanks?

Before we dive into the how-to, it’s important to understand the difference between the two types of waste in your RV.

1. Black Water Tank: This tank collects the wastewater from your toilet. It contains human waste and toilet paper.
2. Grey Water Tank: This tank collects wastewater from sinks and showers. It doesn’t contain human waste but can still have soap, food scraps, oils, and other debris.

Both tanks need to be emptied periodically, and the process is pretty straightforward, but you do need to take certain precautions.

Step-by-Step Process to Dump Your Grey and Black Water Tanks using regular connectors

1. Find a Dump Station
First things first, you need to find a designated dump station. Most RV parks and campgrounds have dump stations available, and there are also public stations or gas stations that offer this service. Websites like Sanidumps.com can help you locate nearby dump stations.

Once you’ve found one, make sure to check if there are any fees and their hours of operation. Some places may require you to register or get a code to access the dump station, so be prepared.

2. Gather Your Supplies
To dump your grey and black water tanks, you’ll need some specific tools. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:

• Sewer Hose: This is the most essential piece of equipment. A good sewer hose is durable, flexible, and easy to store. The Valterra Dominator Sewer Hose is a highly rated option that comes with strong fittings and is resistant to odors. You can buy it from RV supply stores or Amazon.
• Gloves: Always wear gloves to protect your hands. Rubber gloves are perfect for this job, as they can handle the mess and are easy to clean.
• Tank Rinser: A tank rinser helps clean out your tanks after dumping. The Flush King Tank Rinser is a popular choice and can be purchased at most RV stores or online.
• Sewer Hose Support: A hose support ensures your hose is sloped correctly for proper drainage. You can use the Camco 43011 Adjustable Hose Support, which can be bought online or in RV stores.
• Waste Digester: If you want to keep your black tank clean and prevent odor buildup, using a waste digester like the Thetford Tank Cleaner can help. It’s a liquid that breaks down solids and keeps everything fresh.

3. Position Your RV at the Dump Station
Once you arrive at the dump station, carefully park your RV so that the sewer hose can reach the dump inlet. Your RV’s waste tanks are typically located near the rear of the vehicle, so try to park your RV with the back end closest to the dump station. This ensures that your hose will have the proper incline for efficient waste disposal.

4. Attach the Sewer Hose
Connect one end of the sewer hose to your RV’s waste outlet and the other end to the dump station’s inlet. It’s important to make sure the connection is secure to avoid leaks or spills.

5. Dump the Black Water Tank First
Start by dumping the black water tank. This is because the waste in the black tank is usually thicker and heavier, and you want to use the grey water (which is cleaner) to help flush out any remaining solids in the hose.

To do this:

• Open the valve for the black tank and allow the waste to flow into the dump station’s sewer system.
• Keep the hose secure and avoid touching it while it’s draining. This will prevent any messes or contamination.

6. Dump the Grey Water Tank
Once the black tank is emptied, you can open the grey water tank valve. The grey water will help rinse out the hose, leaving it cleaner. Let it drain completely.

7. Flush and Clean the Tanks
After dumping the tanks, it’s a good idea to flush out your black water tank with a tank rinser. Insert the rinser into the waste outlet and let the water flow to clean out any remaining waste.

You can also use a Sewer Hose Elbow (like the Camco 39743 Elbow), which helps maintain a secure connection and prevents leaks. Make sure to let the rinsing process run for a few minutes to ensure everything is cleaned out.

8. Clean the Sewer Hose
Before packing up, it’s crucial to clean your sewer hose. You can use a specialized hose cleaner or rinse it with clean water until it’s clear of any debris.

Once you’ve cleaned everything, properly store your hose. Some people prefer to store their hose in a dedicated compartment on their RV, while others may use a special hose carrier to keep it separate from other equipment.

Potential Issues and How to Solve Them

Even though dumping your tanks is a relatively simple process, there are a few issues you might encounter. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:

1. Clogs in the Tank:
   Clogs can happen when waste builds up and doesn’t break down properly. This can lead to backups and unpleasant odors.
   Solution: Use a tank treatment product like Thetford Aqua-Kem to break down waste. Regularly dump your tanks before they get too full to prevent clogs.
2. Odor Issues:
   Odor can be a problem if you don’t keep your tanks clean.
   Solution: Use a waste digester or deodorizer like Camco TST 100% Natural RV Toilet Treatment to control odors and keep your tanks fresh.
3. Leaking Hose or Connection:
   A leaking sewer hose or connection can create a mess.
   Solution: Always check the connections for tightness before opening any valves. If the hose is cracked or damaged, replace it immediately.
4. Improper Waste Disposal:
   Some dump stations are picky about what can be disposed of.
   Solution: Never dispose of anything besides human waste and toilet paper in the black tank, and make sure only water, soap, and other biodegradable materials go into the grey tank.

Using a Macerator Pump. What is it and When Do You Need One?

A macerator pump is a device that helps break down waste in your black and grey water tanks into a much finer consistency, making it easier to pump out. It essentially grinds the waste down into a slurry, which can then be pumped through a smaller, flexible hose to the dump station, instead of relying on gravity alone.

You might wonder why you need a macerator pump instead of just using a standard sewer hose. Here are a few reasons why:

• Easier to Dump in Tight Spaces: If you’re parked in an RV site or location where your RV is far from the dump station, a macerator pump can help you pump waste over long distances or uphill, even if you don’t have a gravity-fed sewer setup.
• Smaller Hose, Less Mess: The waste is broken down into smaller particles, so you can use a smaller, more flexible hose, which can be easier to store and maneuver. This means less mess when setting up and cleaning.
• Faster and Cleaner: A macerator can speed up the dumping process. It helps you avoid clogs, and because it uses a fine slurry, it’s less likely to get stuck in the hose or tank.

How to Use a Macerator Pump

Using a macerator pump is similar to using a standard sewer hose, but with a few key differences:

1. Position Your RV at the Dump Station
   Just like with the gravity dump method, park your RV so that the waste outlet is accessible to the pump. The beauty of a macerator pump is that it can work with a hose that doesn’t need to be angled for gravity to do its job, which means you have more flexibility in where you park.
2. Connect the Macerator Pump to the Sewer Hose
   Attach the macerator pump’s hose to the RV’s waste outlet and the other end to the dump station’s inlet. Make sure the hose is securely attached to avoid leaks.
3. Turn on the Macerator Pump
   Once everything is connected, turn on the macerator pump (For detailed instructions on how to connect the pump, please follow the instructions from the seller where you bought it). You’ll hear it grinding and pumping the waste into the dump station’s system. This can take a bit longer than using gravity, but the waste will be more finely ground and easy to flush.
4. Flush the Tank and Hose
   After you’ve dumped both the grey and black water tanks, you can use a tank rinser or simply rinse with clean water to flush out any remaining waste from the tanks and the hose.
5. Clean the Macerator Pump and Hose
   Just like with a standard sewer hose, it’s important to clean everything after you’re done. Use a dedicated RV hose cleaner or flush with water to ensure no waste is left behind.

Where to Buy a Macerator Pump

Macerator pumps can be a bit pricier than standard sewer hoses, but they are worth the investment if you find yourself in situations where a regular sewer hose isn’t cutting it. Here are a few macerator pumps you can consider:

• Thetford 40026 Macerator Pump: This pump is one of the best on the market, offering a 12V motor that’s efficient and durable. It can handle pumping waste through longer distances, making it perfect for sites where gravity won’t work. Available at most RV supply stores or online at Amazon.
• Flojet 18555-000A Macerator Waste Pump: Known for its reliability, this macerator pump has a 12V motor and is highly rated for RV use. It’s easy to install and use. You can find it at RV supply stores or on Amazon.
• SewerSolution Macerator Pump: This is another solid choice if you’re looking for a pump that can handle long distances and steep angles. It’s available from Camping World and other RV retailers.

Potential Issues and How to Solve Them

Even though using a macerator pump simplifies the process, there are still potential issues you may encounter. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

1. Pump Malfunctions:
   If the macerator pump stops working or gets clogged, it could be due to debris or buildup inside.
   Solution: Regularly clean your macerator pump and inspect it for any blockages. Make sure to use a waste digester product to break down waste and avoid buildup in the pump.
2. Leaking Hose Connections:
   Leaking hoses are common, especially if they aren’t properly secured.
   Solution: Double-check all hose connections before using the macerator pump, and make sure the hoses are in good condition. Replace any damaged hoses or seals immediately.
3. Odor Problems:
   Just like with gravity dumping, odors can occur if your macerator pump isn’t properly maintained.
   Solution: Use a tank treatment or deodorizer like Camco TST to help neutralize odors and keep your system fresh.

Conclusion

Dumping your grey and black water tanks is a necessary part of RV ownership. While it might seem a little intimidating at first, with the right equipment and a clear process, it becomes a simple and manageable task. Always be prepared, use quality products, and follow the right steps for a clean and efficient dump.

By keeping your tanks clean and following proper disposal practices, you’ll help ensure that your RV experience is both pleasant and trouble-free. So next time you’re at the dump station, you’ll be ready to tackle the task with confidence! Happy travels, and remember to always dispose of your waste responsibly!