A portable RV waste tank, or a “blue tank,” stores and transports wastewater from an RV or camper while on the go. These tanks are typically made of plastic and come in various sizes to accommodate different RV models and usage patterns. They can be emptied at designated dump stations or by a waste removal service. They are useful for RVers looking to boondock or camp in areas without hookups, as it allows them to safely and conveniently dispose of wastewater.
Factors To Consider When Purchasing A Portable RV Waste Tank
When looking best portable RV waste tank for your camper, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose the right one for your needs:
Capacity: The capacity of the tank will depend on the size of your RV and how long you plan to be on the road. Look for a tank that has enough capacity to hold the wastewater from your RV for the duration of your trip.
Size and weight: Consider the size and weight of the tank when choosing one. You’ll want to ensure it’s easy to manoeuvre and transport, especially if you’ll be emptying it frequently.
Material: Look for a tank made of durable and lightweight materials, such as plastic or polyethylene. These materials are resistant to corrosion and will last longer than tanks made of other materials.
Drain valves: The drain valve should be easy to access and operate. Look for tanks with a built-in valve or a separate hose and elbow for emptying the tank.
Level indicators: Some tanks have built-in level indicators showing the amount of wastewater in the tank. This can help monitor the tank’s contents and know when it needs to be emptied.
Compatibility: Ensure the tank is compatible with your RV’s plumbing and waste system. Some tanks are designed to be used with specific RV models or plumbing systems, so check compatibility before purchasing.
Durability: check for the warranty of the product and its material. Some tanks are made of very thin plastic, which can be damaged easily.
A good portable waste tank should be easy to use, durable, and have enough capacity to meet your needs.
Emptying A Portable RV Tank
Emptying a portable RV waste tank is a simple process that can be done at designated dump stations or by a waste removal service. Here is the general process for emptying a portable RV waste tank:
Locate a dump station: Look for a designated dump station where you are camping. Many RV parks and campgrounds have dump stations on-site, or you can check online for locations of dump stations nearby.
Connect the hose: Connect the hose from the portable waste tank to the dump station’s sewer inlet using a bayonet fitting or a 3″ lug fitting.
Open the valve: Open the valve on the portable waste tank to allow the wastewater to flow into the sewer. If your tank contains a built-in valve, you can use the handle or lever to open it. If it doesn’t, you’ll have to use the separate hose and elbow that comes with the tank.
Empty the grey water tank: Start emptying the grey water tank, which contains the wastewater from the sinks and showers.
Empty the black water tank: Once the grey water tank is empty, move on to the black water tank, which contains the wastewater from the toilet. Be sure to use a chemical treatment like formaldehyde to break down the waste before emptying it.
Close the valve: When the tanks are empty, close the valve on the portable waste tank to prevent leaks.
Disconnect the hose: Disconnect the hose from the dump station’s sewer inlet and the portable waste tank.
Clean the hose: Clean the hose with water and mild detergent before storing it for the next use.
Rinse the tanks: Rinse the tanks with water and let them dry completely before storing them.
It is important to note that you should always follow the instructions for your specific portable waste tank and the local waste disposal regulations.
How To Transport A Portable RV Waste Tank
Transporting a portable RV waste tank is important to maintaining a clean and safe camping experience. Here is a detailed procedure for safely transporting a portable RV waste tank:
- Before transporting the tank, ensure it is properly secured in the vehicle. You can use straps or bungee cords to keep the tank in place during transport.
- Always transport the tank in an upright position to prevent any wastewater from leaking out.
- Ensure the tank’s valve is closed to prevent leaks or spills during transport.
- If your portable waste tank does not have a cover, use a tarp or other protective covering to keep it clean and dry during transport.
- Keep an eye on the tank’s weight during transport and ensure it does not exceed the capacity of your RV or towing vehicle.
- Use appropriate straps to tie the tank securely to the transporting vehicle.
- If you are transporting multiple tanks, be sure to distribute the weight evenly and avoid overloading your vehicle.
- Try to transport the tank only when it’s full and needs to be emptied; this can save you many trips and make the process more efficient.
- Follow the traffic laws and regulations when transporting your portable waste tank, including any laws specific to transporting hazardous materials.
Portable RV Waste Tank Options
Several good portable RV waste tank options can accommodate different RV models and usage patterns. Some popular options include:
Camco RhinoFLEX Portable RV Waste Holding Tank
This tank is durable, made with lightweight polyethylene, and comes in various sizes. It has a built-in valve and a bayonet fitting for easy emptying and comes with a level indicator.
Barker Tote-Along Portable RV Waste Tank
This tank is made of heavy-duty polyethylene and is available in various sizes. It has a built-in valve and a hose and elbow for emptying. Moreover, it has a handle for easy transport and a level indicator.
Thetford SmartTote2 Portable RV Waste Tote Tank
This tank is durable, comprises lightweight plastic, comes in various sizes, and has a handle for easy transport. It has a built-in valve and a hose and elbow for emptying. It also has a built-in level indicator and a pump-out accessory port.
Waste Master RV Sewer Hose System
This option is not a tank but a system of hoses and connectors that make it easy to empty waste tanks at the dump station. It includes a flexible hose that can be easily stored, a swivel fitting for easy connection, and a clear elbow that lets you see when the tanks are empty.
These are just a few examples of portable RV waste tank options available, and you should always check the compatibility with your RV and the local regulations before purchasing.
Portable RV Waste Tank Accessories
Several accessories can be used with portable RV waste tanks to make emptying and transporting them more convenient. Some popular accessories include:
- Hoses: Additional hoses can be used to extend the reach of the tank’s built-in hose, making it easier to connect to the dump station.
- Elbows: Elbows can change the wastewater flow direction, making it easier to empty the tank into the dump station.
- Fittings: Bayonet and 3-inch lug fittings can connect the tank’s hose to the dump station.
- Level indicators: Some tanks come with built-in level indicators, but if your tank doesn’t have one, you can buy an aftermarket level indicator that will allow you to monitor the tank’s contents.
- Chemical treatments: Some chemical treatments can be used to break down the waste in the tank and make it easier to empty.
- Sewer Hose Support: A sewer hose support is a device that helps keep your sewer hose off the ground and prevents it from collapsing or kinking.
- Hose Storage: A hose storage solution can be used to keep the hose organized and protected when not in use.
- Tank Rinser: A tank rinser can clean the tank and rinse any remaining waste before storing it.
These accessories can help make emptying and transporting your portable RV waste tank more convenient and efficient.
Is A Portable RV Waste Water Tank Worth Buying?
Transporting a portable RV waste tank is an important part of maintaining a clean and safe camping experience, and it’s important to ensure that the tank is always secure, upright, and closed to prevent any potential hazards during transport.
There are several good portable RV waste tank options on the market and several accessories that can be used to make the process of emptying and transporting them more convenient. The RV waste tanks are convenient, self-sufficient, and space-saving in use. Hence, it is worth purchasing a portable RV waste tank.
Conclusion
A portable RV waste tank is a container used to store and transport wastewater from an RV or camper while on the go. It is useful for RVers looking to boondock or camp in areas without hookups, as it allows them to safely and conveniently dispose of wastewater. When looking for a portable waste tank for your RV, it’s important to consider factors such as capacity, size, weight, material, drain valves, level indicators, compatibility, and durability.
The process of emptying a portable RV waste tank can be done at designated dump stations or by a waste removal service, and it’s important to follow the instructions for your specific portable waste tank and the local regulations for waste disposal.
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