black tank odors after storage

[JimNH]

we have a small hybrid TT with small tanks - a "weekender" really.

Last time we were at a site with full hook ups (which was fortunate, since I got some kind of stomach bug and took full advantage...)

This time we are back at Chocorua with no sewer hook up. Everything went fine for set up, but we have some black tank odor to deal with. We added more water to the tank and one of the one-time use enzyme balls, and that has helped.

I think the issue was maybe not adding water after emptying the tank last time, and the smell occurred while the trailer was sitting in the driveway in the hot sun for a week or more.

My plan (we're home today during the day, heading back up late tonight or early tomorrow) is to get a flushing wand and hose, and clean the tank then dump into my portable tank, then fill with a few gallons of water and some enzyme.

Sound right?

JIM in NH

[JimNH]

Thanks. Off to the RV store for some Aqua Chem Dri I guess...

I also plan to check the vent stack up on the roof - just to be sure.

JIM

[the_bear_II]

After dumping the black tank and closing the dump valve I always use a packet of Thetford Aqua Chem Dri mixed in a gallon of water. I dump it down the toilet and let it slosh around as we head back home.

There's never a bad smell even if the trailer has been stored for months.

[llowllms]

I use a flush king to back flush the black tank until it runs clear, add 1gal of water after rinsing and liquid rv toilet chemical purchased at Wal Mart. Never have odor issues.

[Old-Biscuit]

Well.......
That won't hurt to clean tank

BUT real question is WHY you smell ANYTHING inside the trailer????


Does toilet bowl hold water?
Is toilet floor flange not sealing?

Grey tank can smell as bad as a black tank (body oils, hair, food particles etc)
Are the sink/shower 'P' traps holding water?
Is the Air Admittance Valve(s) under sinks closing?

You see.....all of the above are vapor barriers that keep waste tank smells out of inside of RVs

So find source that is allowing smell inside and cure that problem.

Make sure 'P' traps have water and then pour some veg. oil on top of water.....for storage/periods of non use. Keeps water from evaporating.
Same for toilet bowl.

I use olive oil. Keeps toilet bowl seal lubed also.