Finding an RV dump station to empty your tanks isn’t always convenient. If you’re using your RV, you will eventually have no choice.
You may have to track one down or wait in a long line when leaving the campground. However, you could consider making an RV dump station at home.
Is that even possible? Let’s look and see!
What Is an RV Dump Station?
An RV dump station is where RVers can connect their RV to a sewer system and empty their black and gray water tanks. You’ll commonly find these conveniently at campgrounds for RVers to use at the end of their trips. They typically include a sewer connection, non-potable water, and a trash can.
However, you’ll find some offering potable water nearby for those needing to fill their freshwater tanks.
Can You Make an RV Dump Station at Home?
It is possible in many situations to make an RV dump station at home. However, you need to check with the local rules and regulations before you start the process. Some areas have specific code requirements or standards you must follow for your at-home RV dump station to be legal.
If adding an RV dump station to your home is legal, you want to do it right the first time. You could cause issues with your plumbing system if you don’t know what you’re doing. When in doubt, contact a plumbing professional to help with the project.
You could waste time and money if you don’t do it correctly. Trust us; this is one project you don’t want to mess up. You could have a mess on your hands, literally and figuratively.
How Do I Connect My RV Sewer to My House?
Most modern homes have everything you need to connect your RV sewer to your house. However, it may not be convenient to access with your RV. Look for a clean-out port near the foundation of your home.
These white caps typically stick out of the ground a few inches. Most people don’t notice them until they or a professional plumber needs to use a plumbing snake to remove a clog in the system. If your sewer clean-out port is easily accessible, you can unscrew the cap and connect your sewer hose like you would at a standard dump station.
Pro Tip: If you must dump your tanks at a dump station, make sure to not commit any of these 7 Deadly Sins of Dump Stations.
What Are the Benefits of an RV Dump Station at Home?
Having an RV dump station at home can make it straightforward to dump your tanks and maintain your plumbing system. More crucially, an at-home dump station means skipping long lines at the campground’s dump station when everyone simultaneously leaves.
Many RVers with a dump station at home often take advantage of their RV when friends or family come into town. Instead of guests checking into a hotel or sleeping on an uncomfortable air mattress, they can open their RV. This can provide a comfortable space for them to sleep in privacy.
Are There Disadvantages to an RV Dump Station at Home?
While there are many reasons to consider adding an RV dump station to your home, there are some disadvantages. First, it can be costly if you cannot do the work yourself. Hiring a professional, licensed plumber with insurance isn’t cheap. Depending on your situation, adding an RV dump station at home can cost anywhere from $250 to $2000+.
Another disadvantage to having an RV dump station at home is that it could cause issues if you’re on a septic system. Some homeowners are already pushing their septic systems to their limits. Depending on how often you dump your tanks, you could cause issues for your septic system or need to make improvements to handle the load.
Pro Tip: No RV dump station at home? No problem! We discovered Where to Easily Find RV Dump Stations?
Is It Legal to Make an RV Dump Station at Home?
If you’re on a septic system, there’s typically nothing stopping you from using it to dump your RV tanks. However, regardless of whether you’re on a city sewer or septic system, you should check the legal requirement where you live.
Some areas have strict rules regarding the disposal of human waste. This is one of those situations where it’s better to ask for permission than for forgiveness. Fines for improperly disposing of sewage can be extremely steep. Any penalties you pay mean less money you have for future adventures.
How Much Does It Cost to Put in an RV Dump Station at Home?
Costs to put in an RV dump station at home will vary considerably depending on your situation. It can typically cost anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to $2,000+ in most cases. If you have some DIY skills and your home has an ideal setup, you can save a tremendous amount of money by doing the work yourself. The crucial thing is to ensure it’s legal, all your connections are solid for any piping you lay, and everything is installed at a slope so gravity can help you empty your tanks. When in doubt, hire a professional.
Would you install an RV dump station at your home? Why or why not? Tell us in the comments!
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