Forum Discussion

Explorer

Aug 20, 2014

Black tank odor in RV when dumping

Went on maiden trip with our new KZ Spree 329 IK. We were in full hook up site. On departure our black tank was 3/4 and grey tanks 3/4 full. I've RVed for a number of years (being our 3rd RV) and think I know how to properly dump. Opened black tank valve dumped great, then closed valve when empty, opened grey dumped fine and closed valve. Proceeded to hook up factory installed black tank flush system. Opened black tank valve and turned on water hose to flush line.

Wife immediately yelled there in bad sewer odor in our travel trailer. I tunrned off water to black tank flush and went inside and boy it was a horrible smell. Confirmed on panel all tanks read empty too.

No leaks anywhere, no evidence of any problems, but highly unsusual for the smell to be so pronounced when using the factory installed flush.

Any advice out there on why this happened?

dan-nickie
Explorer
Aug 20, 2014
Did you have any fantastic or ceiling fans running with no windows open.
That's what happened to us a few days ago.

While the dump vlave was open for a few minutes, the fan sucked the smell up through the sinks.
2oldman
Explorer II
Aug 20, 2014
I think it's normal. After 12 years of this, I find it's hard to escape odor.
NCKZ_Camper
Explorer
Aug 20, 2014
HappyKayakers wrote:
Maybe your backflow preventer blew off the line. Mine was not installed properly from the factory but didn't notice until there was water pouring out of the underbelly.

Checked the backflow preventer also as it is on a closet and very accessable. No leaks there. There is only the odor issue.
HappyKayakers
Explorer
Aug 20, 2014
Maybe your backflow preventer blew off the line. Mine was not installed properly from the factory but didn't notice until there was water pouring out of the underbelly.
popeyemth
Explorer
Aug 20, 2014
Overhead vents open will draft stink from sewer into/through camper.
Really pronounced if an exhaust vent fan is blowing.
Good Luck, Mike