Camper toilets require manual flushing and cleaning to keep them operating properly. Unlike home toilets that refill automatically, camper toilets have a fresh water tank that must be refilled and a waste tank that must be drained by hand. Learning how to manually flush a camper toilet is essential for keeping things hygienic and odor-free on your camping trips. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to flushing and cleaning various types of camper toilets. We’ll also offer tips on RV toilet maintenance and troubleshooting common issues. Read on to learn everything you need to know about manually operating your recreational vehicle’s toilet!
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Types of Camper Toilets
There are two main types of toilets used in RVs and campers:
Cassette Toilets
Cassette toilets are completely self-contained and portable. The toilet itself contains a fresh water tank for flushing and a waste tank to collect sewage. To flush, you simply push a pedal or button to release water from the fresh tank into the bowl. The waste tank is removable for easy dumping and rinsing out. Cassette toilets take up minimal space and allow quick removal of waste. However, they have smaller tanks than some other toilet styles.
Black Water Toilets
Black water toilets are permanently plumbed into the RV’s fresh water and sewer systems. They flush using fresh water from the onboard water tank. Waste travels to the black water holding tank. Black water toilets resemble residential toilets and provide increased flush power and tank capacity compared to cassettes. However, the waste tank must be drained via a sewer hose.
How to Flush a Camper Toilet
While flush mechanisms vary slightly between models, the general process is the same:
Cassette Toilet Flushing
- Make sure the cassette waste tank is securely attached below the toilet.
- Push the flush pedal or button to release fresh water into the bowl.
- Allow the waste to drain into the tank and close the pedal/button to stop the flow of water.
- Add toilet chemicals to the tank to control odors and break down waste.
- Repeat as needed between empties.
Black Water Toilet Flushing
- Make sure black tank valve is open to allow waste to drain out.
- Push the flush pedal or side lever to release water from the fresh tank.
- Allow the bowl to refill and close the pedal/lever to stop the flow.
- Add RV toilet chemicals as needed through the bowl.
- Repeat flushing steps each use.
Some key tips when flushing any camper toilet:
- Avoid flushing unnecessary items like wipes or paper towels which can clog tanks.
- Let the bowl refill fully between flushes for the most effective rinse.
- Go easy on the toilet paper – use RV friendly single ply.
- Use a wand to clean bowl thoroughly between flushes.
Emptying the Waste Tank
The waste tank will need regular draining to avoid overflow. Follow these steps:
Cassette Toilet Waste Tank
- Slide latch on waste tank to disconnect from toilet.
- Carry tank to an approved dump station.
- Remove dump cap on bottom of tank.
- Tilt tank to pour out waste.
- Rinse tank thoroughly with water.
- Replace cap and return tank to RV.
- Slide back into place under toilet.
Black Water Toilet Waste Tank
- Connect sewer hose to outlet on RV exterior.
- Place other end in dump station inlet.
- Open black tank valve to allow waste to drain out.
- Close valve when tank is empty and remove hose.
- Use tank deodorizers and black tank flush as needed.
Empty tanks when they are 2/3 full at most. Be sure to wear gloves and follow dump station guidelines.
Adding Water to the Fresh Tank
To continue flushing, you’ll need to refill the toilet’s fresh water supply:
Cassette Toilet Fresh Tank
- Remove cassette waste tank from RV.
- Locate fresh water fill inlet on back of toilet.
- Use clean potable water and a funnel to add water to fill line.
- Replace waste tank and resume flushing.
Black Water Toilet Fresh Tank
- Connect drinking water hose to input on RV exterior.
- Turn on water supply valve to allow fresh water to flow in.
- Check monitor panel to see when internal fresh tank is full.
- Turn off water supply and disconnect hose.
Refill fresh tanks when needed between trips to the RV dump station. Use a water filter to fill tanks with clean drinking water only.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Camper Toilet
Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your camper toilet functioning properly. Follow these tips:
- Clean the bowl regularly with RV toilet cleaning wands and non-abrasive cleaners.
- Use a soft brush to scrub the toilet seals, valves, and other hardware.
- Check valve blades and other moving parts for wear and replace as needed.
- Use enzyme-based tank deodorizers to control odors and break down waste.
- Inspect hoses, gaskets, and connections for leaks/damage.
- Pump waste tanks to improve drainage and sanitize as needed.
Deep clean all toilet parts at least once a year or after heavy use seasons. Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning products and maintenance procedures specific to your model.
Troubleshooting Camper Toilet Issues
Some common camper toilet problems and solutions:
| Issue | Potential Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Weak or no flush | Low fresh water tank, clogged jets, valve issue | Refill fresh tank, clean jets, check valves |
| Leaking water | Loose connections, cracked component, valve failure | Tighten connections, replace part, replace valve |
| Leaking odors | Full waste tank, dried out seals | Empty waste tank, lubricate seals |
| Toilet backing up | Waste tank valve closed, clogged tanks/pipes | Open valve, use tank treatment, pump tanks |
Consult manufacturer guides for other troubleshooting tips. Have a professional repair any complex toilet issues.
Conclusion
While it takes some extra effort compared to household toilets, manually flushing and maintaining a camper toilet is straightforward once you know the steps. Perform regular cleaning, emptying, and additions of water/chemicals. Also monitor for leaks, odors, clogs, and other problems. Follow the toilet, tank, valve, and connection guidelines provided in owner’s manuals. With proper care, your RV toilet will work reliably during your camping adventures. Consistent maintenance flushing procedures will keep your black and gray tanks hygienic. Take time to flush and clean your camper toilet properly at each step along the way.