Forum Discussion

dcmac214's avatar
dcmac214
Explorer
Feb 22, 2019

? Scouring Powders/Cleansers & RV Septic System

What effect, if any, does scouring powder/cleanser have on RV septic systems?

I'm thinking there's no effect on the pipes or holding tanks, but that gritty stuff could well effect an RV's holding tank valves.

Lunch time discussion brought to mind the way my mother used scouring powder (and boy did she ever use the stuff!) which got me to wondering about its effect on RV septic system valves.
Seeking Advice
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Feb 22, 2019
    I would not use any grit scouring powder, that could eventually end up in the crevices of the rubber valves. These valves seem to collect grit on their own, without adding any. Mine always work best in Spring, due to the lubricating value of the antifreeze I use.

    I doubt it would harm the pipes/tanks. In any case, I would change my LUNCH time discussion, away from RV septic tanks.

    Jerry
  • PastorCharlie's avatar
    PastorCharlie
    Explorer
    Feb 22, 2019
    MFL wrote:
    I would not use any grit scouring powder, that could eventually end up in the crevices of the rubber valves. These valves seem to collect grit on their own, without adding any. Mine always work best in Spring, due to the lubricating value of the antifreeze I use.

    I doubt it would harm the pipes/tanks. In any case, I would change my LUNCH time discussion, away from RV septic tanks.

    Jerry


    Other than a little tissue paper and water there should not be anything in his holding tank than what he has already eaten and enjoyed.
  • beemerphile1's avatar
    beemerphile1
    Explorer
    Feb 23, 2019
    RVs do not have septic systems, they have holding tanks, big difference.

    I imagine an extremely large amount of abrasive could damage seals over time. Since the sinks and shower in my RV are all plastic I've never had the urge to scratch them with abrasive cleansers.
  • bid_time's avatar
    bid_time
    Nomad II
    Feb 23, 2019
    Why do you want to "scour" your black tank? You planning on hauling your drinking water in it? It's a black tank, pull the valve, empty it, a quick flush with a 5 gallon pail of water and you're good to go.
  • Cummins12V98's avatar
    Cummins12V98
    Explorer III
    Feb 23, 2019
    "RVs do not have septic systems, they have holding tanks, big difference."

    YUP, YUP

    I am assuming OP is referring to cleaners used to clean the walls of the shower and toilet?
  • larry_barnhart's avatar
    larry_barnhart
    Explorer
    Feb 23, 2019
    To clean the water stain off a fibler glass shower is Easy off (no fume) in the blue spray can. You won't believe how easy it is.

    chevman
  • CavemanCharlie's avatar
    CavemanCharlie
    Explorer III
    Feb 23, 2019
    bid_time wrote:
    Why do you want to "scour" your black tank? You planning on hauling your drinking water in it? It's a black tank, pull the valve, empty it, a quick flush with a 5 gallon pail of water and you're good to go.


    X2
  • TechWriter's avatar
    TechWriter
    Explorer
    Feb 24, 2019
    dcmac214 wrote:
    What effect, if any, does scouring powder/cleanser have on RV septic systems?

    I'm thinking there's no effect on the pipes or holding tanks, but that gritty stuff could well effect an RV's holding tank valves..


    Those valves are probably made of Santoprene, not rubber, which is a very rugged material. I doubt any normal use of scouring powder/cleanser would harm Santoprene.

    However, I think it's more likely that your scouring powder/cleanser will do harm to the surface you're trying to clean.

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,102 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 17, 2025