Properly disposing of recreational vehicle (RV) waste is an important, yet sometimes overlooked, responsibility of RV owners. Keeping up with the maintenance of an RV can be a challenging and time-consuming task, and managing RV waste is no exception.
This is why we’ve put together this detailed guide to help RVers ensure that their wastewater and gray water are disposed of in a safe and responsible manner. This blog post will cover the steps necessary to properly dump RV waste, from the preparation and supplies needed, to the proper disposal methods, to the best and safest locations for the task.
With this guide, you’ll be able to keep your RV running smoothly and manage your waste in an eco-friendly way. So read on to find out all you need to know to properly dump RV waste.
1. Locate a dump station
The first step in properly disposing of RV waste is to locate a dump station. Most dump stations are located in campgrounds, public parks, and service centers for recreational vehicles. You can also check online for a list of dump stations and their locations. Generally, the cost of dumping your waste is minimal, but check with the dump station before you arrive to be sure. Be sure to bring a hose to connect your RV’s holding tank to the dump station so you can effectively empty your waste.
2. Connect the RV to the dump station
After you have parked your RV at the dump station, it’s time to start connecting it to the station. To do this, you’ll need to find the sewer hose end of the station. You can spot it by its diameter and length. Once you have located it, attach it to the RV’s sewer hose. Once you have successfully connected the hose and the RV, you can open the RV’s black tank valve and the tank will start draining. Make sure to keep a close eye on the tank levels and once it is empty, close the valve, and disconnect the hose.
3. Flush the RV’s black tank
Dumping your RV’s black tank is the most important step in any RV maintenance routine. After you’ve done the necessary dumping, it’s time to flush the black tank. This is done to help keep the tank clean and free of debris. To flush the black tank, connect your RV to a water source and open the black tank valve. Once the tank is full, then turn on the black tank flush valve and allow the water to run until it is clear. This will help keep the tank clean and help prevent clogs and odors.
4. Flush the RV’s gray tank
After the black tank has been emptied, it’s time to move on to the gray tank. The gray tank collects used water from sinks and showers. You’ll need to flush the gray tank with water—usually from a hose—in order to get rid of any solids. Connect the hose to the RV’s city water inlet and turn on the water. This will allow water to flow through the tank and out the sewer hose. When the water runs clear, turn off the water and disconnect the hose. Your gray tank is now empty and ready to be dumped.
5. Disconnect the RV and rinse the hose before storing it
After you have finished emptying the RV’s waste tanks, be sure to disconnect the RV from the waste hose and rinse the hose before storing it. This is an important step in keeping the hose in good condition and reducing any risk of bacteria growth. Make sure to rinse the hose with a garden hose or a safe non-toxic drain cleaner before storing it away. This will ensure that any residue or material left behind during the dump process is completely removed and won’t cause any issues when you use the hose again in the future.
In conclusion, disposing of RV waste is a necessary part of RVing. While it may seem daunting at first, it can be an easy and affordable task with the right preparation. By taking the time to research local dumping facilities, following safety protocols, and planning ahead, you can ensure that your RV waste is disposed of properly and efficiently. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy your RVing adventures without worrying about how to get rid of your waste.