Black Water Odour

[BIBIS]

Hello:

Late last season I purchased a Nonsuch 30C #24 and in the short time that I've had her I've noticed a feignt black water odour coming from the holding tank. The tank was not full, there is no leakage and all the hosing has been recently replaced by the previous owner.

I'd really appreciate any input as to what may be the cause and how I can eliminate it.

Thanks

 

[Peggie Hall HeadMistress]

What are you using in the tank...if anything?

What is the tank made of--aluminum or plastic?

Is the odor inside the boat? If so, where--in the head, in the compartment where the tank is? All over the boat? Or do you have odor out the tank vent, especially when the toilet is flushed? Or odor inside the boat AND out the tank vent?

Is there a macerator pump to dump the tank the installed? If so, how old is it?

 

[CalebD]

Listen to Peggy. She knows her sh**, er stuff.
I only add that you should attempt to pump out your holding tank and rinse it several times with fresh water. Pump it out after each fresh water fill up.
Only use the 'KO' (or similar) type of tank treatment that she recommends in her book (which is available through the link in her signature).
Better yet, get her book and you will not have to ask about head issues as much in the future.
Good luck.

 

[caguy]

Peggy, can KO be used in the holding tank of a Porta-Potti? If not what do you recommend?

 

[Peggie Hall HeadMistress]

Yes and no

The bacteria in K.O. need oxygen to function aerobically (which is necessary to prevent odor), so it'll work in the vented tanks in permenantly installed "MSD" portapotties, but won't work in sealed portable tanks. I've never known anything except toxic chemical products to work in sealed tanks .