Addressing a clogged camper toilet can be an unpleasant task, but it’s a necessary one to ensure a pleasant camping experience. Here, we’ll discuss practical ways to unclog a camper toilet and offer preventive measures to keep it from happening again.
Understanding Camper Toilet Functionality
Camper toilets operate similarly to household toilets, but there are key differences. Most camper toilets empty directly into a holding tank, bypassing a trap. Additionally, the flushing mechanism often involves a foot pedal instead of a hand lever.
Read More: How Much Does a Small Camper Weigh
How to Unclog a Camper Toilet
Dealing with a clogged camper toilet requires identifying the type of clog – either above or below the seal. Follow these steps to address the issue:
Tools and Materials:
- Three- to eight-foot length of 3/4-in. Pex pipe (length depends on direct mount or piping)
- RV black tank clearing fluid (two or more bottles)
- Flexible water wand designed for RV tanks
- Eye protection, gloves, and any necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
Steps:
- Identify your flushing system: Determine if you have a direct-flush or piped-flush system.
- Prepare for unclogging: Turn off the freshwater supply and ensure the blackwater tank valve outside is closed.
- Use tank clearing fluid: Pour one bottle of RV tank clearing fluid into the toilet. Observe movement; if none, wait 24 to 48 hours.
- Insert Pex pipe: Insert the flexible Pex pipe into the toilet opening, moving it around to break up the blockage.
- Flush with water: Pour water slowly into the toilet. If drainage improves, turn on water and flush. If still clogged, repeat with more tank clearing fluid.
- Repeat if necessary: Add a second bottle of tank clearing liquid if needed. Continue flushing until the clog clears or wait 24 to 48 hours.
- Rinse the tank: After emptying the tank, use a flexible RV tank spray water wand to rinse the blackwater tank thoroughly.
Preventive Tips to Avoid Future Clogs
- Close black tank valve when hooked up: Avoid leaving the blackwater tank valve open when connected to an RV park sewer system to prevent pyramid plug clogs.
- Use RV-specific toilet paper: Opt for toilet paper designed to biodegrade rapidly to prevent blockages and protect in-tank sensors.
- Maintain water levels: Ensure sufficient water in the blackwater tank by flushing an extra time or two when necessary.
- Treat the tank regularly: Add odor and waste-controlling chemicals to expedite solid waste breakdown.
- Empty before storage: Never store the camper with waste in the blackwater tank. Keep a little water inside with odor and waste-control additives.
The Ice Cube Method – Does it Work?
While some may suggest the ice cube method, in our experience, it hasn’t proven effective.
Conclusion
Unclogging a camper toilet is an inevitable task for RVers, but with the right approach and preventive measures, you can maintain a hassle-free and pleasant camping experience.
