Newbie, probably a stupid question

[powhatanone]

I just ordered a new TT. During my search, I had looked at a used trailer and the owner indicated the toilet was only used for liquid waste if you know what I mean. He suggested not using it for more then that because of permanent odors that will develop and hygiene etc.

Is that credible? One of the attractions for my wife and I having a TT is not having to use the public restroom.

Thanks for your advice.

Rich

[BurbMan]

There are a number of folks that either don't use the toilet in their RV or restrict use to #1 only. Personally, I feel that the sanitation system was designed to handle both types of waste and we use it as such. There are chemicals (at any Wal-Mart) that deodorize RV holding tanks, and as long as you have sufficient water, the tank will dump fine. Don't leave the black tank valve open when connected to full hook ups, or the liquids will drain and the solids will set on the bottom of the tank. Ideally you wait until the tank is 2/3 full to dump, or if dry camping, dump your extra fresh water in the toilet at the end of the weekend. Plenty of water creates enough flow to sweep out the solids.

Solid waste can be an issue if you don't manage it right, but with a few quick tips it's not an issue.

[Oasisbob]

Congrats on the new trailer. No stupid questions here. Asking is how we all learned. The RV toilot is made to be used for both. As previously stated take care to dump and flush properly and all is well. In my fifty years of RVing have never needed chemicals either. Happy trails

[kyhawk]

My grandfather always said there are some things you should never do in the same house you eat in. That's why he had an outhouse, and never would let anyone install an indoor toilet.

[2oldman]

powhatanone wrote:
.. permanent odors that will develop and hygiene etc.Is that credible?

No. I guess some folks just can't stand living with a tank of poo.

[colliehauler]

sdianel wrote:
With proper maintenance using the toilet is not a problem. We use chemicals in our black tank. Camco or Aqua Chem. Some people don't use chemicals. Don't leave the valve open. Dump when the tank is over two-thirds full. Flush with water. Use toilet tissue that dissolves quickly. We use Scott that says "septic safe"
http://stephaniehenkel.hubpages.com/hub/RV-Plumbing-Tips-for-Keeping-RV-Waste-Tanks-Clean

I quit using chemicals several years ago. I found that if I used plenty of water and dumped once a week order was not a problem. After I dump I fill the black tank 1/3 full with water. I use Scott tissue as well, never had a problem and my gauges on the tank still are correct. I make sure before I head home and after I dump to fill the tanks 1/3 full and let the water slosh around to clean the tank. I dump before I park the trailer. The city has a dump station less then a mile from my house at the fair grounds.

[Nutinelse2do]

Here are 9 pages of interesting reading for you

[FrankShore]

Just make sure that you use toilet paper that breaks apart and breaks down good, and never throw Kleenex or those bum wipes down there!

[rockylarson]

Did he also insist that everyone sit when using the toilet? Was his name Adrian Monk?

[midnightsadie]

all these post are right. BUT remember this the gauge that tells you how full the tank is LIES .very few are accurate. so look down the hole and guess. the tanks hold a lot of poo.

[donn0128]

Obviously the fella you talked to did not understand his systems. They are not septic tanks. They are holding tanks. Poo does break down in there as long as there is sufficient water, a septic safe toilet paper is used and dumping the tank is done about once a week, or when it is at least 75-80% full. Use chemicals, dont use chemicals is another debate. Personally we use chemicals, and dump once a week. Never had a problem in 30 years.

[Dog_Folks]

That owner knows not what he speaks of. Properly maintained, the toilet in your TT was designed, and will work for both "types" of waste.

If it wouldn't, we would be in real trouble after using it that way for nine years now. :B

Welcome to the forum. By the way the only "stupid" question is one that is not asked.

[sdianel_-acct_c]

With proper maintenance using the toilet is not a problem. We use chemicals in our black tank. Camco or Aqua Chem. Some people don't use chemicals. Don't leave the valve open. Dump when the tank is over two-thirds full. Flush with water. Use toilet tissue that dissolves quickly. We use Scott that says "septic safe"
http://stephaniehenkel.hubpages.com/hub/RV-Plumbing-Tips-for-Keeping-RV-Waste-Tanks-Clean

[LynnandCarol]

We got to the neighbors 🙂

[kimbo1]

use it as you would at home! just make sure to put plenty of water in, every thing moves better with water! use rv chem's in tank if it stinks, follow inst.

[tropical_ron]

You are sure to get many responses.....you bought the trailer to have personal comforts that are yours...please enjoy your trailer and all aspects of it. The environmentally safe chemicals that are available and routine maintenance should handle any issues or odors that arise..Bottom line is enjoy your NEW trailer.