How to Clean a Black Water Holding Tank

RV tanks require maintenance and a little cleaning.

It sounds like a dirty job ... and it is. However, cleaning the black water tank in your RV is necessary. It reduces the build-up of scum and bacteria and allows the tank to flush and empty properly. Even though the job sounds unpleasant, you will discover that certain chemicals make it simple. The only challenging part is remembering to add them at the right time. Do this and your tank will last longer and perform better.

Things You'll Need

• RV black water tank cleaner

Instructions

1. Fill the black water tank (by flushing the toilet) three quarters of the way full. Refer to the black water tank valve located on the side of the tank to determine when it is three quarters of the way full. Only drain a tank that is at least two-thirds full.

2. Empty the black water tank at a designated waste disposal area by carefully following your RV manufacturer's instructions. Normally, there are designated waste disposal areas at RV campgrounds.

3. Connect a rinse wand to a hose and insert the wand into the toilet. Turn on the water and spray clean the sides of the tank.

4. Pour an RV black water tank cleaning solution into the tank using the recommended ratio of cleaner to water.

Tips & Warnings

• Driving the RV with the tank two-thirds full may also help clean the tank.

• If your RV has a black water flush input, simply connect a hose to this, fill the tank with water and close the slide valve. Then empty the tank after seven to 10 days.

References

• RV: Black Water Tank Cleaning
• Everything About RVing: Black Water Flushing
• RVEcafe: Caring for Black Water Tanks

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• GoRVTexas: Water Tank Maintenance and Care