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Using Toilet and Tank System
When camping you should always have 4 to 6 inches of water in the
toilet bowl. The toilet system performs better when you run water 10
to 20 seconds after flushing to ensure wastes will proceed to the
bottom of the tank. Unlike your toilet at home which uses four to
seven gallons per flush, the average recreational vehicle system
uses two to three quarts. If there is not sufficient water used during
flushing, waste materials may not evacuate properly from drain line
to tank. Tank and pipes could eventually become clogged.
Vents
A very important part of your sanitation system is the vent system in
your coach. These vents release air from holding tanks allowing
water to enter. Vent pipes are attached to the holding tank, go
through the walls and cabinets to the roof. On some models a
portion of vent pipe may be part of the drainage system referred to
as a “wet vent”. As air flows upward, water will be draining
downward
On several floor plans a side vent for grey holding tank replaces the
normal “mushroom” vent cover on the roof. A louvered vent covers
the opening in the sidewall. Piping for vent is attached from holding
tank directly to vent opening in sidewall, not using a “wet” vent.
By keeping valves closed in holding tank (s), sewer gases are
prevented from escaping through side opening. Absence of
cabinetry from floor to ceiling is cause of side vent usage verses roof
vent.
Holding Tanks
The final parts of your sanitation system are the holding tanks for
waste materials and water. These are located below the floor of
your coach.
Gray Tank.
Waste water from the bath tub, shower and sinks will
drain into this container. No special preparation is required,
however, you may wish to add baking soda or a Thetford chemical
to reduce odors from food particles in the system.
Waste Tank
. The toilet drains into the waste or “black” holding tank.
For correct preparation follow the listed steps:
1. Release two quarts of water into the toilet bowl.
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