Cleaning the tank

[Tim R.]

Hi Peggy, great book. I have a question I could not find an answer for in it though. I have removed the holding tank and physically seems to be in good condition. I will rebuild the potty and replace all hoses with Odorsafe. What is the best way to clean the tank and get rid of any odors now that it is out of the boat? It is a plastic tank that I think was made by Ronco. I will also add a Beckson cleanout/inspection port.ThanksTim R.

 

[Peggie Hall HeadMistress]

No need to clean the tank...

The plastic hasn't permeated. Just flush it out very thoroughly with plenty of clean fresh water. If you just want it to LOOk new, use some liquid laundry detergent and bleach followed by a very thorough rinse.Why do you want to add an inspection port?

 

[Tim R.]

For future cleaning/maintenance

Should I not?Tim R.

 

[Peggie Hall HeadMistress]

Unless you expect to have to clear clogs manually

There's no need to access the inside of a waste holding tank. Holding tanks aren't toilet bowls, they don't require scrubbing...all fittings are on the outside of the tank, so what kind of maintenance would a tank need that requires access to the inside of it? Teach your guests not to flush anything they shouldn't and thoroughly flush it out several times a year.Otoh, "no need" doesn't mean "shouldn't do." If you want an inspection port, by all means install one. Put a rubber gasket under the flange to seal it. Sealant won't seal as well or last very long.

 

[Tim R.]

Ok

Good to know. I guess I had it in my head to run a hose directly into the tank while pumping out to really get it clean. I usually flush the tank 3 times from the pumpout every time I pump out. The Beckson port comes with a high quality gasket and has a clear lid which may make it easier to determine tank level. I don't know of any reliable gauge for a holding tank or I would install one.I agree about the guests, in fact I try not to have any guests, but I have heard horror stories about "things" getting stuck even though people were informed. I think it may come from habit. People who live in cities with public sewer are used to tossing anything in the bowl. When they get on the boat, they toss something they should not have and they don't feel compelled to reach in when it is much easier and cleaner to just pump it out of site.ThanksTim R.

 

[Peggie Hall HeadMistress]

This is a reliable tank gauge

The Profile Sensors from Ferriello Sales: http://ferriellosales.com/default.php

 

[Dan]

Peggy, What kind of cleanout do you recommend??

There is a threaded plug in the top of my tank. It sits up so high that the locker lid hits it. I was wondering how to get a shorter plug but couldn’t find anything. However, this post has me thinking a cleanout would be just the ticket. I'm just looking for clearance. But I certainly don’t want the wrong cleanout. Would just a Beckson work if I use a gasket? Thanks everyone.