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Old 04-11-2019, 06:11 PM   #1
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Black Water Tank Question

All,
I usually put enough water in the black tank to get 1/3 full reading on the gauge. I do this at the beginning of camping and after dumping the black tank before storage. I figured it helps break down the crud between camping trips and gives more time before it evaporates off.

However, we're going to a state park next month for a week and I want to get maximum time between setup and breakdown on the black water. I have a blue tote, but I prefer not to dump black water in it if I don't have to. Only gray water.

Is there a good way to calculate the minimum amount of water to start with in the black tank, say 3" depth or so on the bottom of the tank? If so, what should the minimum depth be? I'd have to get the dimensions on the tank anyway, but I need a good starting point.

I'd drain the tank completely, set up at camp, and then pour in a measured amount through the throne.

I don't know if this is worth trying, but I figured some boondockers should have an idea or two.

Thanks.
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Old 04-11-2019, 06:22 PM   #2
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I would start with a completely empty tank and put maybe a couple gallons of water and your favorite tank mix only.
No need to fill up 1/3 if you are going to dump within a week and need the space.
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Old 04-11-2019, 06:43 PM   #3
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I would start with a completely empty tank and put maybe a couple gallons of water and your favorite tank mix only.
No need to fill up 1/3 if you are going to dump within a week and need the space.
5 gal will do it. Along with a fill bowl before siting down.
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Old 04-11-2019, 06:48 PM   #4
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First night we dump the wash and rinse after down the toilet. Good and soapy.

Plus an enzyme tablet.

Likely 2-3 gallons.

Seems to work.
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Old 04-11-2019, 06:59 PM   #5
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thanks all
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Old 04-11-2019, 07:19 PM   #6
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I think you are over thinking this. For one trip that you want max capacity on the black tank - start with it empty. The tank won't have enough time to dry out during one stay.

Your normal process will more than clean up any remnants on future trips. Especially if you put 1/3 tank of water in the tank when you leave for the ride home.
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Old 04-11-2019, 07:27 PM   #7
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We have dry camped for years and NEVER had to use our tote tank for black water, only gray water.
Unless you have a small black tank or staying for weeks, I don't see the need to use the tote tank for black water. Definitely gray water though.
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Old 04-12-2019, 04:15 PM   #8
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After dumping the black tank, I put 2 toilet fulls of water into the black tank, add the chemical (I use Kronen)
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Old 04-12-2019, 04:26 PM   #9
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I put in just enough to slosh a bit while you drive, to keep things from drying out (a quart or two.) I also put in a packet of chemicals then. You will then add plenty later with your regular flushing.
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Old 04-12-2019, 04:37 PM   #10
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Black Tank

I like to empty black tank, then add 2-5 gallons of water and enzyme treatment. Right before we leave for CG, add about 10-20 pounds of ice cubes. Travel movement, water, helps break up any left over solids on the way to CG.
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Old 04-12-2019, 05:12 PM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by tomkatb View Post
First night we dump the wash and rinse after down the toilet. Good and soapy.

Plus an enzyme tablet.

Likely 2-3 gallons.
We always camp in electric only Provincial Parks and this has always worked for us. We can go a week on the black tank without dumping.
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Old 04-12-2019, 09:33 PM   #12
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What CedarCreek and tomrob said. No sense filling the BW tank when you're going to be there a week. We seldom put more than a couple flushes and chemicals down at the beginning of a stay. Just use enough water when flushing solids and you should be fine for a week.
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Old 04-14-2019, 11:52 AM   #13
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Thanks again to everyone.
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