Tank Talk

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Most RVers worry about keeping their black tanks clean, and while that is important and importnt to have them professionally cleaned at least once a year the grey tanks are always overlooked and let me tell you they are way worse.

Unlike black tanks that only contain waste and paper the grey tanks contain everything else (food, grease, skin, hair, soap, etc..) All these materials mix together inside your tank turning into a warm, moist breading ground for bacteria, mold and bad smells. Over time sticky sludge can lead to clogged pipes, unpleasant smells and makes dumping a nightmare. Get all your tanks professionally cleaned yearly to avoid this. Between cleaning here are some tips to keep your tanks in working order.

1. Limit what goes down your drain.

       The easiest way to prevent buildup is to prevent what goes down the drain. A few simple hobbits can go a long way. 

Scrape food off into the trash

Wipe off grease and oil

Dispose of coffee grounds in the trash

2. Use a Sink Strainer

        Even after scraping food as you wash dishes smaller particles will make their way into the tank. This also goes for your shower to help prevent hair from going down the drain. Find the finest strainer possible and replace them as needed to prevent rust and buildup on the strainer.

3. Keep your Gray Tank Closed Until Dumping

       Treat your gray tank just like your black tank and keep the valve closed until your tank is ready to be dumped. Keeping the valve open allowing water to drain continuously can lead to two major problems.

Waste buildup- When the valve is open grease, soap scum settle along the tank walls. leading to sludge and odors. Keeping the valve closed allows water to build creating a flushing effect when dumping.

Bugs and Critters- Keeping the valve closed prevents sewer flies, maggots and other insects from entering and living in your tank. 

4. Treat your Gray tanks just like your Black tanks

        Use tank treatments to help brake down grease, soap scum and food residue. Tank treatments also will help manage odors and help keep pipes clear.