Winter sanitation

[frank arndorfer]

Hi Peggy...Unfortunately the reality of midwest seasons is taking place and we're hauling out this Monday. Question regarding holding tank cleaning:We're going into indoor/heated storage. My plan was to pump, flush, pump, flush. After that, just leave it sit. Is there any additive you recommend to sit in the tank over the winter to break down any possible residue.????Also, we have the vacu flush head system. Anything unique about this system that would require attention prior to putting up.?????Very much enjoy your book.

 

[Peggie Hall/HeadMistress]

I would winterize

Heated storage is only as safe as the power to heat it...and midwest blizzards have been known to knock out power for days at a time, so better to be safe than sorry. If your boat is close enough to home that you could get there to do it if/when a blizzard is predicted, it might be worth risking...just remember though, that when blizzards are on the way you're likely to have other priorities.It's no big deal to winterize a holding tank..just flush antifreeze (non-toxic "pink stuff" only!) down the toilet after you've done what you plan to do anyway. You'd want to flush it out again in the spring anyway, so nothing lost then either. The V/F toilet needs no special treatment...just turn off the breaker and the fresh water pump.However, if you're willing to risk it, just add Odorlos to the tank after you've flushed it out thoroughly. Don't use the head while you're doing any winter projects or you'll have to treat the system the same way you do during the season.