Blackwater . Gray Water Tank Flush

[WESain]

Just finished first trip in RV. How do you make sure the blackwater and gray water tanks were flushed at the RV park ? Is there fluid / waste still in them ? If so, how do I check ?

RV Rookie

[RickO]

Hi and welcome to the forum.

I'm not sure I understand your question. Did you dump both tanks before you left? Are you asking how you can tell if they've actually emptied or not?

If your gauges are operating properly, they should empty following the dump.

Many of us think it's good practice to add some fresh water to the tanks just to keep "stuff" in the bottom from hardening and to keep the seals moist.

Best of luck.

Rick

[BFlinn181]

I know when my tanks are empty because with the valve open, (and slinky still attached) nothing more comes out. I have a section of clear pipe to see what's coming out. I also have built in sprayers that I turn on and watch what's coming out. After closing valves I turn sprayer on to put a couple of gallons in the black tank to keep things from building up.

Your gauges that show levels in the tank are notoriously inaccurate, I only use them to get an idea when to dump, I don't rely on them for any real information.

[lanerd]

Originally Posted by WESain

Just finished first trip in RV. How do you make sure the blackwater and gray water tanks were flushed at the RV park ? Is there fluid / waste still in them ? If so, how do I check ?

RV Rookie

Hummm.. are you saying that someone else at the rv park emptied your tanks?

Best way (other than the gauges) is to install a clear connector between your drain pipe and your stinky slinky. That way you can "see" if anything is coming out. These connectors can be purchased at any rv store and sometimes even at Walmart (rv section).

Go to Campingworld.com and search on "clear drain connector" and you'll see several different types.

Ron

[roncrul1]

Originally Posted by BFlinn181

I know when my tanks are empty because with the valve open, (and slinky still attached) nothing more comes out. I have a section of clear pipe to see what's coming out. I also have built in sprayers that I turn on and watch what's coming out. After closing valves I turn sprayer on to put a couple of gallons in the black tank to keep things from building up.

Your gauges that show levels in the tank are notoriously inaccurate, I only use them to get an idea when to dump, I don't rely on them for any real information.

I agree, the guages are inadequate. Today I read (in RVtravel.com) a link to Horst Miracle Probes for Wastewater Tanks in Recreational Vehicles RVs. The video on the link shows why the levels in our tanks read the way they do (inaccurately) and they recommend their product... which does involve drilling holes in the black water tank but the comments have been remarkably positive, and the readings are accurate. Has anyone had experience with those probes?

[pasdad1]

If you want accuracy in knowing how much is in your holding tanks, many swear by this retrofit kit.

Here is a blog which details how this person made the switch
http://www.rvcruzer.com/seelevel.php

[RanCarr]

After DH dumps the tanks he sticks a hose down the commode and turns the water on full pressure. I watch the clear plastic connector until the water runs clear. Not all the waste leaves the black tank just because you opened the dump valve. You wouldn't believe what's left behind even with the built in flusher our NorthTrail came with.

[jdoran1973]

Agree with the clear connector as well. I always dumped black first, the. Grey to flush the line. Would then fill the black tank about 1/2- 3/4 of the way a few times until the water ran clear and there was no odor when I opened the toilet valve