There may come a time when you need to dump your black tank, but there’s no sewer hookup. Failing to find one could leave your toilet out of commission until you do.
In this day and age, YouTube is the first place people run when they have a problem. Luckily, some famous YouTubers provided their viewers with a solution to this problem.
Today, we’re sharing their solution and offering additional solutions to consider.
Let’s get started!
Famous RVers Dump Their Black Tank With No Sewer Hookup
Grateful Glamper is a YouTube channel run by Ben and Charity DeVries. The couple shares their adventures, tips and tricks, and other helpful information with over 150,000 subscribers. Recently, they tackled a messy situation that many in the community face occasionally.
The DeVries demonstrated how to dump a black tank with no hookup. They had previously used an alternative method and equipment, which was a nightmare. Thankfully, the couple gave it a second try, but this time with more experience and better equipment.
They used a macerator pump and 50 feet of hose to dump sewage into a nearby toilet. The final result was a much cleaner scene than their previous attempt, which ended with a “poopsie.” This method allows more flexibility for disposing of waste with no hookup
In their video, Grateful Glamper details the tools, gear, and process to complete the job. If you follow their steps, you don’t have to fear making a mistake.
What Is an RV Black Tank?
A black tank is one of the repositories found in many recreational vehicles. It stores any solids or liquids flushed down an RV toilet. Unlike residential plumbing, the waste sits in this hidden compartment until the user can safely dispose of it. Because the continents contain raw sewage, it’s essential to dispose of it in a sanitary manner.
In addition to a black tank, most RVs have gray water reservoirs.
This typically includes any solids or liquids that go down a sink drain. While it’s primarily a mixture of soap and water, it contains food particles, oils, and other gunk.
Don’t underestimate it; gray and black tanks can be intense.
Most modern campers also come with a freshwater reservoir. The size will depend on the type and size of the rig. Smaller travel trailers and Class B motorhomes can store 10 to 30 gallons. However, larger fifth wheels and Class A motorhomes can carry anywhere from 60 to 100 gallons or more. You’ll use this water for sinks, toilets, and showers.
How Do You Empty Your RV Black Tank With No Sewer Hookup?
The easiest way to dump your black tank is to use a sewer hookup. Unfortunately, there’s not always going to be one readily available. Here are a few methods you can try when you find yourself in this predicament.
Macerator
A macerator is an effective method to empty your RV black tank when there’s no sewer hookup. As Grateful Glamper demonstrated, it’s easy to do, especially with the proper supplies and equipment.
To understand the process, think of the macerator as a garbage disposal for your waste. It crushes the waste and forces it out through a standard garden hose. You can place the other end of the hose in a nearby toilet to dispose of the sewage.
It’s essential to have a designated hose for this task. While a typical garden hose can do the job, you don’t want to contaminate your hose. Never use a contaminated hose for any other charges.
Portable Waste Tank
A portable waste tank is another convenient option you can use. These products come in various sizes, typically between 15 to 35 gallons. They connect to your RV’s plumbing using standard camping sewer hoses.
Once secured, you can open the sewer valves and transfer the contents from your RV into the portable waste container. You can attach the tote to your vehicle and haul it slowly to a nearby dump station.
This is a fantastic option for those in campgrounds that have them. You can avoid packing up camp to head to the sewer station. Instead, you can tow this tiny tote, requiring less time and effort. However, keep an eye on the progress and avoid overfilling it. You could end up with quite a mess on your hands.
5 Gallon Bucket
This is a last resort, and we don’t recommend it.
We’ve heard of other campers using this method.
Connect your sewer hoses to your rig’s waste drain like you would at a dump station. However, place the end of the hose into a sturdy bucket. Slightly open the sewer valve to allow liquids to drain slowly into your bucket.
Avoid overfilling the bucket, and ensure you’re strong enough to lift the bucket. You can then haul it to dispose of it properly in a toilet or septic cleanout connection. Depending on the size of your tanks, you may need to repeat this process several times.
This method is hazardous, unhealthy, and highly unrecommended.
What Are the Alternatives to a Black Tank That Require No Hookup?
Some owners turn to alternatives to avoid needing a sewer hookup. Bucket, cassette, and composting toilets are just a few options. Are they perfect? Absolutely not. However, they are worth considering.
The first option, a bucket toilet, is what you think. It’s a bucket with a makeshift toilet seat on top of it. You do your business in the bucket and then dispose of it properly. These typically contain a layer of cat litter to reduce odors. Individuals use bags each time they go to the restroom and dispose of the bags.
A second choice to consider is the cassette toilet. These portable toilets contain compartments to transport them to an appropriate disposal facility.
Many users will find an easily accessible toilet when needed. This method can be a sanitary choice when done correctly.
Our third and final solution for you is to use a composting toilet. These systems separate the liquids and solids. Fluids go into a portable container, and solids mix with organic matter like peat moss.
It expedites the decomposition process and helps to reduce odors. If done correctly, there should be minimal odors, and you can safely dispose of waste in the trash.
Give One of These a Try!
We’re thankful for content creators like the Grateful Glampers. Their educational and informational content benefits the entire RV community. They’ve shined light onto a topic many aren’t overly comfortable discussing.
If you’re struggling to empty a black tank with no hookup, give one of these methods a shot.
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