What would cause a camper toilet not to flush?

There are a few common reasons why a camper toilet may not flush properly:

Clogged toilet

One of the most common issues is a clogged toilet. This can happen from overuse without enough flushing in between, or from putting the wrong items down the toilet that don’t break down well. Some common culprits for clogging include:

– Too much toilet paper at once
– Paper towels or napkins
– Feminine hygiene products
– Food waste and scraps
– Excessive toilet chemicals/treatments

Over time, these materials can build up in the holding tank and cause obstructions that prevent proper flushing. The toilet may start flushing slower and slower as the clog gets worse over time.

Improper toilet chemicals

Camper toilets require specific RV/marine toilet chemicals to help break down waste and paper. Using the wrong chemicals or putting too many in can actually cause more clogs and flushing issues. Make sure you are using the right toilet chemicals and not overdoing it. Too many chemicals can cause the waste to get sticky and coagulate into a mass.

Running out of water

Most camper toilets require some water to help flush waste into the holding tank. If the fresh water tank runs low, then there won’t be enough water volume to properly siphon out the bowl contents. Make sure the fresh water tank has sufficient water before use.

Issues with the water valve

Faulty water valves are another common culprit for poor flushing. The valve controls water flow into the toilet bowl for flushing. If it gets stuck and can’t open all the way, low water volume can lead to an incomplete flush. Valves may need occasional cleaning, lubrication, or replacement.

Damaged or worn seals

Toilets have rubber seals at the bottom of the bowl that make a tight connection when closing the cover. If these get cracked or worn out, it can cause leaks and poor flushing power. Any damage or deterioration will need to be repaired.

Holding tank problems

Sometimes the issue is not with the toilet itself, but with the waste holding tank. If the tank is cracked or has a damaged valve, it can cause back pressure that prevents proper flush flow. The holding tank may need to be inspected, repaired, or in a worst case replaced entirely.

Diagnosing the Specific Problem

If your camper toilet won’t flush properly, start by diagnosing the specific cause. Here are some steps you can take:

Check water and chemical levels

– Ensure the fresh water tank is at least 1/3 full, re-fill if needed
– Check and replenish toilet chemical levels if running low
– Add toilet chemical as needed, but don’t overdo it

Dump and clean holding tank

– Empty the black water holding tank completely
– Add tank deodorizer and cleaning chemicals
– Rinse with fresh water several times

This will eliminate any waste buildups and help clear obstructions.

Check bowl water flow

– Press the flush pedal and check water spray
– All jets should have good water pressure
– If weak, may be valve issue

Check seals and connections

– Inspect bowl seals for any cracks or gaps
– Make sure water valve is connected properly
– Check drain pipe to holding tank for blockage

Test flush several times

– Flush the toilet 3-4 times in a row
– Check for improvement after multiple flushes
– See if bowl empties completely each time

Doing multiple test flushes can help clear any partial clogs.

Inspect inside holding tank

– Requires temporarily detaching toilet
– Check inside tank for any stuck debris
– Look for cracks or holes causing leaks

This step is messier but can detect tank issues.

Fixing Common Camper Toilet Flushing Problems

If you’ve diagnosed the specific issue, here are some steps to fix the most common camper toilet flushing problems:

Clearing Clogs

Partial clogs can often be cleared with the following steps:

– Use a toilet plunger to loosen clog
– Hand-crank black tank discharge valve open/closed
– Flush in short bursts, not continuously
– Repeat flushing several times
– Use a tank deodorizer and toilet treatment

For severe clogs:

– Partially fill bowl with very hot water
– Let sit for 15-20 minutes to loosen clog
– Flush

Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage plastic and rubber toilet parts.

Fixing Water Valve Issues

– Disconnect valve from water supply line
– Check and clean valve inlet screen filter
– Scrub valve opening with pipe brush
– Rinse thoroughly and reconnect

For persistent water flow issues:

– Replace flushing valve with new valve
– Apply thread seal tape to prevent new leaks

Replacing Worn Seals

– Remove old seals around bowl rim
– Clean seal surfaces thoroughly
– Apply plumber’s putty around new seals
– Press seals into place firmly
– Wipe away any excess putty
– Allow putty to fully cure before use

Be sure to get RV toilet-specific seals for replacement.

Repairing Holding Tank Leaks

For minor cracks:

– Drain tank and clean all surfaces
– Apply waterproof epoxy putty
– Smooth putty flush with surface
– Allow full curing time before use

For larger cracks or holes:

– Drain and remove tank
– Clean bonding surfaces
– Cut fiberglass patch larger than hole
– Apply RV-specific adhesive
– Clamp patch in place until cured
– Test for leaks before reinstalling

Major damage will require a new holding tank.

Preventing Future Camper Toilet Clogs

Here are some tips to help prevent clogging and flushing issues in your camper toilet:

Only flush biodegradable products

– Use RV-specific toilet paper
– Never flush paper towels, napkins, or feminine products
– Empty any containers before putting in toilet

Use the right chemicals

– Use RV/marine toilet chemicals
– Start with half recommended dosage
– Adjust as needed, don’t overdo chemicals

Conserve water when possible

– Turn off running water between hand washes
– Take shorter showers and shallow baths
– Fix any water leaks promptly

Flush regularly when in use

– Flush after every 1-2 uses
– Never let waste sit for long periods

Clean tank regularly

– Empty holding tank each trip or weekly
– Flush tank with water 3-4 times
– Use tank cleaning chemicals monthly

Inspect seals and valves

– Check bowl seals and water valve yearly
– Replace any cracked or worn parts
– Lubricate valves as needed

When to Call a Professional

While minor clogs and issues can often be fixed with some DIY troubleshooting, there are times to call in a professional:

– Persistent clogs not resolved with home remedies
– Leaks or damage to toilet base, seals or tank
– Inability to remove toilet or tank for inspection
– Major holding tank damage or leaks
– Malfunctioning water valve requiring replacement
– Visible cracks/holes/damage in tank or toilet

A qualified RV service tech has the expertise to fully diagnose problems and make any needed repairs. They can also legally dispose of waste if the holding tank needs to be removed.

Don’t continue using a toilet that isn’t flushing properly, as it can lead to worse clogs, unsanitary conditions, and damage. Call an RV repair company for assistance fixing tricky toilet issues.

Conclusion

A camper toilet that won’t flush can put a big damper on your next camping adventure. But in many cases, the problem can be fixed with basic troubleshooting steps. Clearing clogs, replacing worn parts, and cleaning the holding tank are fairly straightforward repairs an owner can tackle themselves. Just be sure to use proper RV-specific parts and chemicals.

For more stubborn issues, don’t hesitate to turn to a professional RV technician. They have the expertise and tools to fully diagnose and repair toilet malfunctions. With the right maintenance and repairs, your camper toilet will be back in flushing order before your next weekend getaway.