RV Tips - Use Tank Treatments Smartly

Using tank treatments smartly in your RV helps you avoid odors, clogs, and costly repairs — and keeps your setup running clean and easy. Here's how to do it right:

1. Use Enzyme or Bacterial-Based Treatments

• These break down solids and toilet paper naturally.
• Look for products labeled "RV-safe" or "septic-safe."
• Avoid harsh chemicals like formaldehyde — they can damage your tank and harm the environment.

2. Don't Dump Too Early

• Keep the black tank valve closed until the tank is at least 2/3 full.
• This allows solids to break down and flow out properly.
• Dumping too early leads to the dreaded "poop pyramid."

3. Flush With Enough Water

• After each flush, hold the pedal down for 5–10 seconds to ensure enough water enters the tank.
• When you dump, follow it up with a good rinse using a tank flush system or external hose.

4. Add Treatment After Every Dump

• After emptying and rinsing the tank, close the valve and add:
  • A few gallons of fresh water
  • A fresh dose of tank treatment
• This keeps your tank lubricated and helps start the next cycle of breakdown.

5. Don't Forget the Gray Tank

• Yes — your gray tank can smell too.
• Use a gray tank cleaner or deodorizer, especially if food, grease, or soap builds up.
• Run hot water down the drains and treat it monthly.

6. Watch What You Flush

Only flush:

• RV-safe toilet paper
• Human waste
• That's it. No wipes, no feminine products, no food — unless you want plumbing issues.

7. Sanitize Seasonally

• A few times a year, sanitize both your fresh water and black tanks.
• For the black tank: Fill, add 1/4 cup of bleach, let sit, then rinse thoroughly.
• Make sure all lines are flushed well before reuse.

8. Monitor With a Sensor (But Don't Fully Trust It)

• Sensors often get gunked up and give false readings.
• Keep them cleaner with regular use of tank treatments and occasional deep cleanings.
• Some RVers use ice cubes + detergent before a drive to help "scrub" the tank as they go.

Bonus Tip:

If you're parking your RV for a while, store your tanks clean and dry, or with a small dose of water + treatment to keep seals moist.