How to use a motorhome? How does a caravan work?
These are some of the questions you've been asking us. We know that a motorhome is all about freedom, but we also know that to enjoy that freedom, there are some things to keep in mind. One of them is emptying gray and black water from the motorhome . We'll tell you everything you need to know about emptying water and how to avoid unpleasant odors. Keep reading!
Draining water is one of the issues that most concerns RVers when they begin a trip and don't plan to spend the night at a campsite. Fortunately, RV areas, both private and public, are increasingly incorporating designated spaces for draining RV water. However, much remains to be done.
Emptying grey water from the motorhome
Greywater comes from domestic uses, such as the shower, the washbasin, or the sink. It can be reused directly in the toilet to save water. It is stored in special tanks at the bottom of the motorhome and emptied using a valve or tap. The best solution is a sufficiently large concrete area, sloping to direct the water directly and quickly toward the drain grate. The grate should not be located on one of the sides, or near curbs or walls, as each model incorporates the drain in a different location on the bottom of the motorhome.
Emptying black water from the motorhome
Blackwater is contaminated liquid, or sewage, which therefore requires channeling systems and proper treatment in compliance with current regulations. Blackwater is discharged directly into a cassette or aseptic tank. The tanks or cassettes that collect blackwater have a rotating tube through which it is discharged into the corresponding drain, which must be connected to a septic tank or sewer. For cleaning purposes, it is advisable to have a running water tap nearby, separate from the clean water supply.
Although there are various options for disposal, a simple sink, a PVC drain, or a hole in the gray water grate itself or in a separate manhole near a tap is sufficient. Given the characteristics of black water in terms of odor and the presence of solid waste, it is advisable for the disposal site to have a properly adapted cover or grate, especially in areas with high temperatures. This is clearly marked at campsites and RV service areas.
How to avoid bad odors in your motorhome
There are currently a wide range of products on the market that will eliminate unpleasant odors from our RVs. Here are some of them and the link to purchase them directly:
- Aqua San : is for the clean water tank and serves to purify the water.
- Tank Freshener : This is designed for the grey water tank. Over time, the tank will develop an odor because waste will end up in the tank. It's more commonly used in caravans.
- Cassette Tank Cleaner: This is for the toilet tank. If there are unpleasant odors, we add the product to very hot water, and the smell will disappear.
- Dometic Greencare tabs : Sanitary additive for holding tanks, 16 tabs. Be environmentally friendly without sacrificing potency or effectiveness. GreenCare tabs are mess-free, fast-acting, and highly effective in holding tanks. These pre-measured tabs come in a convenient container that saves storage space and money.
- Dometic Powercare Tabs: A mess-free, spill-free, fast-acting, and highly effective additive for your waste tank. A convenient container containing 16 pre-measured tablets saves storage space and money. The additive breaks down waste, turning it into liquid and preventing unpleasant odors.
At autocaravanasDM, we advise and explain everything you need to know when purchasing your secondhand motorhome in the Canary Islands.
Have a good trip!