The last thing anyone wants while camping or traveling down the road is a pungent spell erupting from their holding tank. I can attest that you feel like you are pitching camp inside of a porta-potty and that is the last thing we need to bring the fun to a screeching halt. So, What is the best black tank treatment for eliminating holding tank odors?
Best way to eliminate unwanted RV holding tank odors
For the best results try Happy Campers with 5-star reviews and thousands of well, happy campers. Happy campers are the most effective and cost-efficient treatment we have found to date. We will talk a little about what causes the smell, holding tank treatments, and the best ways to minimize odors before they begin. At around $.62 cost to treat 40 gallons, it’s very friendly on the wallet.
What is that smell?
Let’s first talk about what causes this odor
That lovely smell migrating from your RV toilet is a result of anaerobic bacteria that comes from your stomach to help break down the urine and solid waste. This combination creates that rotten egg smell you get which is the release of hydrogen sulfide gas from your black holding tank.
What is holding tank treatment?
These treatments are products used to cover or remove odors rising out of your tanks into your RV. They can either eliminate the primary cause by speeding up the breakdown of waste or just mask the smell with pleasant aromas. Enzyme treatments can accelerate the digestion of organic materials in waste and neutralize odors at the same time.
Why do I need an RV holding tank treatment?
The best practice is to assure tanks are properly cleaned regularly and a good RV tank treatment is used. I make sure we have the best RV tank treatment onboard as we head out on every journey. By doing so, you ensure the septic tank can efficiently break down toilet paper and waste while also making your nose happy.
Should the black tank be open or shut while at the campsite?
When hooked up you should never leave your black tank open. To begin with, this allows solids to build up and they have no way to begin the breakdown process without needed water/treatment. secondly, campground sewer gases can back up into your RV and make life very unpleasant. Your P trap should prevent this, but if enough back pressure it can still make its way in.
If you are new to the RV lifestyle but want to learn more, Check out the 20 most asked questions answered
What is Happy Camper RV tank treatment?
There are nine trace elements and two heavy elements that make up a highly concentrated blend of minerals and micronutrients. In layman’s terms, it is the good bacteria doing away with bad bacteria to eliminate odor and accelerate the natural decomposition of the waste. It has the ability to work longer and stay odor-free in over 100° temperatures. All of this and it is still friendly to all holding tank systems!
Eliminate odors with Happy Camper
- ODOR FREE: Eliminates odors in the RV holding tank. Absolutely no chemical or sewer smell.
- Septic tank friendly
- EFFECTIVE: In extreme hot & cold temperatures ( over 100°)
- EXTENDED DUMP INTERVAL: Keeps on working ( don’t have to add more before dumping )
- LIQUIFY: Waste solids & most ordinary household tissue ( no expensive special tissue needed )
Tips to Keep Your RV Toilet from Smelling
- Keep the black tank closed
- Use plenty of water when flushing
- Add chemicals to your tank after every dump
- Refill the Water to Keep Things Flowing Smoothly
- Clean toilet and flapper regularly
- Prevent and clear clogs as soon as you notice
- Flush out the black tank after every dump
- Check the vent pipe regularly
If you are new to the RV lifestyle but want to learn more, Check out RV life beginning the process
Frequently asked questions
Can I put bleach in my RV toilet?
You should avoid using bleach as it can dry out and speed up the deterioration of the rubber gaskets/seals. Dumping, cleaning, and using a quality treatment such as Happy Campers is a much better option.
Can you put vinegar in an RV toilet?
Yes, Vinegar and baking soda are a good way to clean and whiten the toilet bowl, but they will not be effective with the breakdown of waste in your holding tanks.
How long can you leave the black tank full?
Most camping veterans state that black tanks can be left full for 7-10 days without any negative results. I like to dump after each outing, but if you keep your system in good working order and fill it with the proper water levels you should be fine moving to your next location before dumping.
