Black tank dump question.

[Rgpracer]

Ok, something I haven't even thought of......we have only used our camper once, just a shake down, and it was only for a few days.
We did not have sewage at our site, but after the trip, went to dump station to empty tank.

We are going for a week this coming Monday and will have sewage at our site. Do we leave the tank open to flow as we use it, or keep it shut and empty now and again?

I am embarrassed to ask, but I really just don't know.
Thanks

[livinthelife]

Ok, something I haven't even thought of......we have only used our camper once, just a shake down, and it was only for a few days.
We did not have sewage at our site, but after the trip, went to dump station to empty tank.

We are going for a week this coming Monday and will have sewage at our site. Do we leave the tank open to flow as we use it, or keep it shut and empty now and again?

I am embarrassed to ask, but I really just don't know.
Thanks

It's best to keep it closed and empty every few days. Keeping the line open can cause what's in the tank to dry out (and become like concrete). Letting the liquids build up (use lots of water when flushing) keeps things moving better. And leaving the line open can cause sewer gasses to back up into your tank (yuck). Always drain and flush - black tank first, then grey. That helps keep sewer hose clean.

[Rgpracer]

Thanks livin, makes sense.....i thought that way, just wanted to verify.
Life is good.

QUOTE=livinthelife;366481]It's best to keep it closed and empty every few days. Keeping the line open can cause what's in the tank to dry out (and become like concrete). Letting the liquids build up (use lots of water when flushing) keeps things moving better. And leaving the line open can cause sewer gasses to back up into your tank (yuck). Always drain and flush - black tank first, then grey. That helps keep sewer hose clean.[/QUOTE]

[NB Canada]

I always add 10 gallons of water through the tank flush when we first set up and after each time the tank gets emptied Plus lots of water when using
And like has been said always keep the tank closed


2021 Imagine 2400 BH
2018 GMC Sierra 4x4 crew

[Hokensalem]

I always add 10 gallons of water through the tank flush when we first set up and after each time the tank gets emptied Plus lots of water when using
And like has been said always keep the tank closed


2021 Imagine 2400 BH
2018 GMC Sierra 4x4 crew

Ditto's on that

[Wileykid]

I always try to let the black tank get around 3/4's or a little more before I dump it. Easy way to tell is every couple of days, as you are flushing, look into the tank. The tank gauge is usually reliably inaccurate. After several trips, you will get a feel on how much is in the tank, and when you need to empty.

Also let your grey tank fill up, as that is your hose flush after emptying the black tank.

[Rgpracer]

Thanks guys for all the input. I feel better now.
Ray

[el Rojo]

I always add 10 gallons of water through the tank flush when we first set up and after each time the tank gets emptied Plus lots of water when using
And like has been said always keep the tank closed


2021 Imagine 2400 BH
2018 GMC Sierra 4x4 crew

10 gallons is way too much for boon dockers, but ok if you have hook ups.

[WhittleBurner]

Another reason to leave the black tank closed is those little sewer flies will take the opportunity to set up a home in your trailer.

Also after you dump and flush leave about 5 to 10 gallons of water in the tank with some borax and water softener added. This will slosh around during travel and help keep things clean inside the tank. With the added bonus of it being ready for the next outing. Don't ever leave the tank empty to dry out, as good as that may sound it is not a good idea, it's one way on how those dreaded mounds get started. As other have said (it can't ever be stressed enough to new to rving people) water is your friend.

[Rgpracer]

Excellent advise Whittleburner....will do.

QUOTE=WhittleBurner;366536]Another reason to leave the black tank closed is those little sewer flies will take the opportunity to set up a home in your trailer.

Also after you dump and flush leave about 5 to 10 gallons of water in the tank with some borax and water softener added. This will slosh around during travel and help keep things clean inside the tank. With the added bonus of it being ready for the next outing. Don't ever leave the tank empty to dry out, as good as that may sound it is not a good idea, it's one way on how those dreaded mounds get started. As other have said (it can't ever be stressed enough to new to rving people) water is your friend.

[/QUOTE]