Fresh water and sewer

[sledhead77]

New camper newb here! Anywho, we used the camper for the first time this past weekend. The campground we stayed at did not have water hook up (did not know this at the time) so we had to use fresh water tank and filled it up before we parked. I did not sanitize the tank before use but we did not use the water for drinking, just dishes, washing up and toilet. What is the process for sanitizing? Is it required on a new coach? Also is there some chemical or whatever that I should be adding to the sewer tanks? Our rig did come with a black tank flush with which you connect a hose to and let it run. I did notice it took a while to get "clean" water coming out of flex pipe. It says you need to have the valves open to use the flush system? Any info would be helpful as this is my first ever coach.

[sledhead77]

Also, what about the drain hoses? It appears there are three drain hoses, a red hose (hot water heater I'm assuming) next to a white hose and then another hose by itself away from the other two. All three had a little screw in type plug. I took the plugs out to drain the water. Is there any reason why I couldn't add a valve to these drain pipes instead of messing with the plugs?

[TURBS]

Use bleach 1/4 cup to 15 gallons to sanitize.

Red and blue hoses are low point drains. Only drain these for winterizing.
Other hose is fw tank drain.

[sledhead77]

Originally Posted by f1100turbo

Use bleach 1/4 cup to 15 gallons to sanitize.

Red and blue hoses are low point drains. Only drain these for winterizing.
Other hose is fw tank drain.

I have a red and white hose. I would imagine they are the same, use for winterizing?

[camper007]

To winterize drain both line's and water heater. Then blow air through line's (with compresser) to get all water out. Pour a bit of anti-freeze down each drain (sink's, shower, toilet) No anti-freeze goes in water heater.

[jonnys_walkers]

We use vinegar to sanitize, Then follow with baking soda. Then flush with clean potable water.

[sledhead77]

So since I have a black tank flush do I still need to add something to the tank for smell?

[trudinator]

We use the Geo method for our black and gray tanks. Do a search on these forums. Involves no nasty, expensive chemicals and we haven't had any problems with odor. Didn't your dealer go through any of this during your PDI?

[sledhead77]

Originally Posted by trudinator

We use the Geo method for our black and gray tanks. Do a search on these forums. Involves no nasty, expensive chemicals and we haven't had any problems with odor. Didn't your dealer go through any of this during your PDI?

See that's the thing. It was just delivered, dropped off and guy was gone! So nope, no PDI. I have basic knowledge of RV's but never have owned one myself so it's all a learning experience.

[TURBS]

Originally Posted by sledhead77

See that's the thing. It was just delivered, dropped off and guy was gone! So nope, no PDI. I have basic knowledge of RV's but never have owned one myself so it's all a learning experience.

Who did you buy it from ?
Let me guess internet wholesaler?

[Jiggy]

I have the same flush for the black water tank as you do and i also have that little sticker that says keep valves open. I don't keep them open. I run some water in there so that the water level rises and cleans the tank pretty good. I have a clear piece that goes on right before the flex hose so I can see when the water coming out of the black tank is clean. Then I just call it a day.
Hope it helps. Just don't leave that valve closed and over fill your black tank.

[sledhead77]

Originally Posted by f1100turbo

Who did you buy it from ?
Let me guess internet wholesaler?

Well they are a dealer but I got a really good deal on it and they delivered it from 300 miles away for free! The guy was supposed to go over it with me but he was in a hurry and dropped it and ran. It's OK, I have google! lol I'm a quick learner and not totally clueless to RV's. I like to find out as much info as I can however before I use stuff just to be sure.

[Rusticbob]

To sanitize... Add 1/4 Cup of clear Bleach to the potable water tank(if 30 gal). Fill all lines. Run all faucets to get the mix into the lines. Let stand for about 1/2 to 1 hour. Then drain and flush with fresh water. Usually several times.
We also use the Geo method for tank control. Look it up. It really works.

[sledhead77]

Yeah I like the Geo method! Even bookmarked the site! It does state that on new rigs that the Geo method shouldn't apply except for the potable water situation.