How to find and use an RV dump station

When you first begin RVing, there is a lot of information to absorb. From learning how to drive a bigger vehicle than normal to understanding the proper maintenance schedule for your rig, the world of owning an RV takes some time to navigate.

One task that can feel overwhelming for first-time RV owners is finding and using an RV dump station. The good news is that both tasks are relatively simple and with a little bit of practice, you can be an RV dump station pro.

Check out the following guide to finding and using RV dump stations with some bonus tips for alternative RV toilet types.

Finding an RV dump station

Black and greywater are an ugly truth about RV travel. As you use your RV, the black water and greywater tanks will slowly begin to fill. The size of your tanks as well as how much you use your toilet, sinks, and shower will dictate how often you need to locate a dump station to empty them.

When you need to empty one or more tanks, your first task is to locate a dump station.

There are a few easy ways to find an RV dump station.

• Choose campgrounds with dump stations. This is a simple way to ensure that you never face an overflowing tank. Many private and state campgrounds offer dump stations or even sewer hookups as an amenity.
• Use an app. Numerous apps are available that make locating a dump station simple. A couple of good apps to start with include Campendium and iOverlander.
• Visit a website. These two websites make it super easy to locate a nearby dump station:
  Sanidumps.com
  RVdumps.com
  
• Check a nearby rest stop. Many interstate rest areas contain dump stations.
• Look for travel stop gas stations. Often, travel stop gas stations will contain dump stations. In some cases, you have to pay to use them, but in many cases, they are free of charge.

Step-by-Step guide for using an RV dump station

Once you have located a dump station, the work begins. While you may feel overwhelmed and squeamish at first, using a dump station will soon become a simple and fast task.

First, gather your gear

• A sewer hose and fittings: Your RV will usually come equipped with a sewer hose and fittings. However, you can also opt to upgrade to a nicer hose and a clear fitting. A clear fitting will allow you to see when your tank is empty and when the pipe is flushed clean.
• A pair of gloves: Because you will be dealing with raw sewage, purchase a pair of gloves specifically for this task.
• A non-potable water hose: After dumping your tank, you will need to clean your sewer hose and the area. Never use your water hose for this task, as you can risk cross-contamination.

Next, follow these steps

Start with your black water tank. Follow with your grey water tank(s).

1. Pull up and line up your RV to the dump station. You want to be close enough to make it easy to reach but not right on top of the dump connection.
2. Put on your gloves.
3. Connect your sewer hose to the RV.
4. Connect your sewer hose to the dump station.
5. Secure the end of the sewer hose. In some cases, the dump station will allow you to secure the hose with an attachment. In other cases, you’ll need to hold the line in place or use a rock to keep it in place.
6. Double-check your connections. Make sure everything is extremely secure, as the black and greywater will create a large amount of pressure when released.
7. Open the black or greywater tank valve.
8. Allow the tank to drain completely.
9. If desired, flush the tank with water to remove any residual debris.
10. Close both valves and replace the cap.
11. Rinse out your sewer hose and clean up the area using your non-potable water hose.
12. Be sure to wash your hands after completing this task.

Other toilet types and how to empty them

While many traditional RVs are equipped with a flushing toilet that empties into a blackwater tank, smaller Class Bs and campervans may feature different toilet types that are emptied in varying manners.

The following are other common toilet types and how they are emptied:

• Cassette or cartridge toilets: These compact toilets capture waste into a removable cartridge. The toilet remains in place, and you simply slide the cassette out. This cassette can be emptied at a dump station or in a bathroom. Because these toilets can be emptied in any bathroom, they are a popular choice for boondocking.
• Composting toilets: These toilets separate solid and liquid waste. The liquid waste enters a container, which can be removed and emptied into a bathroom or dump station. The solid waste is composted using peat, sawdust, or another material. A fan dries the compost. Once the composting area is filled, the compost can be disposed of.
• Portable toilets: Another compact toilet choice, when a portable toilet fills, the entire toilet is removed from the campervan or RV. The waste is then emptied into a dump station or bathroom.

Dump stations are a necessity when spending time in an RV, and being knowledgeable about the way they work will be an asset in your future adventures. To learn about other common RV problems and how to avoid them, check out these tips on how to seamlessly set up once you’ve arrived at your chosen campground. 

Visit Transwest to shop for the RV of your dreams

While visiting a dump station might not be your favorite part of RVing, having the convenience of a toilet, shower, and sink on the road is loved by many RVers. If you are ready to enjoy the comforts of home on the go, come visit our team at Transwest.

We carry a quality selection of RVs ranging from large Class A RVs to small Class B RVs. No matter what type of bathroom you desire, we can help you find the perfect rig for your needs.

In addition, our team can assist you with financing along with ongoing services for your RV. We will be happy to help you explore all the options available to be sure you are satisfied with your purchase. Come visit us today!