How to Add an Additional Black Water Tank to an RV
The black water-holding tank of a recreational vehicle accommodates waste water from the toilet until it can be dumped into a sewer system. RVers can extend remote camping times by increasing the amount of such waste that can be stored. An additional portable tank is the only way to achieve this because the complex systems installed beneath RVs do not allow space for fitting a permanent additional tank. A portable tank attaches to the holding tank's dump valve. Once filled, the tank either stores the waste or can be used to transfer it to a dump station.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Choose a portable additional holding tank sized to suit your purposes. Made of blow-molded polyethylene, those sold complete with a sewer hose and travel/storage brackets are most convenient. The dealer may call it a "blue tank" or "tote tank."
-
2
Check that the sewer connection fittings are the same as those on your RV.
-
-
3
Buy a tank with a float valve, which precludes overflow when filling. This is particularly desirable when dealing with black water.
-
4
Consider what wheels will be adequate for the terrain you intend it to cover. Buy a tank with larger, more robust wheels and rubber tires if the roads between your camp and the nearest dump station are likely to be heavily rutted or muddy.
-
5
Determine what handle hitch you will need to tow the additional tank to a dump station. If using a road vehicle or a four-wheeler, choose a handle that fits the tow ball. If towing by hand, choose a handle with a cushioned grip.
-
6
Practice with clean water before using the tank to store or transport effluent. Dump and rinse your black water tank as normal, then thoroughly rinse it with a 10 percent bleach, 90 percent water mix. Empty the on-board tank into the additional tank, tow the additional tank to a dump station and empty it. Learn how the additional tank handles when filled and how to avoid nasty splashes when filling and emptying it.
-
7
Flush your additional black water tank regularly. Use the same bleach/water mix. Wear protective eyewear and clothing, as well as a long-sleeved shirt.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Additional black water tanks come in sizes varying between 10 and 35 gallons. You must be able to manage the weight of a full tank, but the larger sizes require less frequent emptying.
Never dump black water into the environment. The EPA mandates that illicit black water discharge result in citation and prosecution. Only dump into a functioning sewer system.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit motorcoach,motorhome,rv image by Greg Pickens from Fotolia.com
