What chemical breaks down toilet paper in RV?

When living in an RV, one of the most common issues that can arise is clogged or slow draining toilets. This is often caused by toilet paper not properly breaking down in the RV’s black water tank. Understanding what chemicals break down toilet paper can help RV owners prevent and solve this pesky issue.

Why Does Toilet Paper Clog RV Toilets?

Toilet paper is designed to break down slowly in home plumbing systems, which have much more water flow and stronger flush pressure than RVs. Most RVs have 3-inch or 4-inch pipes and low flush pressure. This means toilet paper moves through the system slower, allowing it to accumulate on pipes and fittings.

Standard toilet paper is also thicker and more durable than RV toilet paper. It does not dissolve or disintegrate as quickly. Over time, wads of toilet paper can build up in the black tank and clog valves, seals, and drain pipes. Using large amounts of regular toilet paper is one of the most common causes of toilet issues in RVs.

What Chemicals Break Down Toilet Paper?

The right chemicals can quickly break down toilet paper, keeping it from clogging RV plumbing. Here are some of the most effective options:

Enzymes

Enzymatic chemicals work to break down the fibers in paper products. Popular RV enzyme treatments include:

  • Bio-Active – Contains amylase, protease, lipase, and cellulase enzymes
  • Happy Campers Holding Tank Treatment – Bacterial and enzyme blend
  • Valterra Pure Power Blue – Enzymes and bacteria

These enzymes dissolve the cellulose fibers that make up toilet paper. They liquefy paper so it flows easily through pipes. Most enzyme products also include helpful bacteria that further digest and degrade waste.

Caustic Chemicals

Caustic chemicals like lye or sodium hydroxide break down toilet paper through a chemical reaction. Some RV toilet paper digesters with these ingredients include:

  • Camco TST – Contains sulfuric acid and sodium bisulfate
  • Thetford Aqua-Kem Blue – Sodium hydroxide-based
  • Dometic Aqua Rinse – Sodium hydroxide formula

These caustic chemicals break down paper and also help degrease pipe walls. They can be harsh on plumbing fixtures, so should be used sparingly.

Acids

Certain acids can dissolve toilet paper. Some common ones found in RV treatments are:

  • Citric acid – Found in homemade blends
  • Hydrochloric acid – In RV Digest-It
  • Sulfamic acid – Used in Ramsay’s Water Puck

Acids break the hydrogen bonds in paper fibers. They also help remove scale buildup. Strong acids need to be diluted before use to avoid damage to seals and pipes.

Biological Digesters

Biological digesters use bacteria and enzymes to liquefy toilet paper. The bacteria feed on and break down the fibers. Popular RV biological treatments include:

  • Happy Campers Bio-Active Treatment
  • Unique Bio Dissolver
  • Dry Flush Bio-Active Treatment

The enzymes start dissolving the paper right away. Then bacteria continue digesting any remaining particles. Biological cleaners provide a gentle, effective approach to prevent clogged pipes.

How To Use Toilet Paper Digester Chemicals

To properly break down toilet paper, use digester chemicals in the right ratios and at the right times:

  • Follow product label instructions carefully. Under-dosing may not dissolve all paper.
  • Treat the tank each time it is emptied and refilled.
  • For severe clogs, use at double strength to clear the backup.
  • Enzymes work best if the tank is warmed to at least 60°F.
  • Acids and caustic digesters require more dilution with larger tanks.
  • Always add digestion chemicals through the toilet, not direct to the tank.

Be sure to use a tank deodorizer as well, to control odors and enhance breakdown. With regular use of quality chemicals, toilet paper will dissolve completely, keeping tanks and valves clear.

Alternative Ways To Break Down Toilet Paper

In addition to commercial digesters, there are a few other tricks for breaking down TP:

  • Vinegar – The acidic nature of vinegar eats away at paper fibers. Use 1-2 cups per treatment.
  • Laundry Detergent – Detergents help break down oils and grease that coat paper particles.
  • Composting – Letting paper compost in a separate container liquifies it before adding to your tank.
  • Water Softener – Add 1/2 to 1 cup to the tank to soften fibers.

However, enzyme and bacteria digesters tend to work significantly better than home remedies like these.

Best Toilet Papers For RVs

Choosing the right toilet paper can prevent clogs and simplify digestion. Look for RV specific TP designed to rapidly dissolve. Some top brands include:

Brand Details
Thetford Aqua-Soft 2-ply, septic safe, formaldehyde-free
Camco RV Toilet Paper Specially designed for RVs, fast dissolving
Scott Rapid-Dissolving Disintegrates 4X faster than regular TP
Charmin Ultra-Soft RV Clog-guard additive prevents jammed tanks

Avoid standard household TP brands, which can swell and cause even worse clogs. Pay a little more for specialty RV toilet paper that quickly breaks down chemically and biologically.

How To Unclog An RV Toilet

If you are already dealing with a clogged black tank or toilet, try these remedies:

  • Use a tank wand to vigorously plunge the toilet and break up paper.
  • Fill the tank with very hot water and let soak for several hours.
  • Attach a garden hose to the outlet valve and backflush the tank.
  • Use a commercial drain cleaner like Liquid-Plumr or Draino.
  • Manually dig out and remove wads of TP from the tank at dump stations.

For severe toilet clogs:

  • Disconnect the tank valve and physically clear out debris.
  • Snake a drain cleaning auger into the pipe to break up paper.
  • Remove the black tank and spray clean with a pressure washer if needed.

Once unclogged, begin using digester chemicals regularly to avoid future issues with accumulating toilet paper.

Conclusion

Toilet paper breakdown is a common headache for RV owners. Enzymatic chemicals, caustic digesters, acids, and biological cleaners can all dissolve TP rapidly. Use an RV-specific brand of fast dissolving toilet paper. Adding the right chemicals to your black tank regularly, along with plenty of water, will prevent toilet paper buildup and clogged pipes.