My oldest granddaughter bought a used travel trailer and parked it on our land when she was going to college. We hooked her into our septic system, water, and electricity. Two years later she moved for her new job and I helped her clean out and up the camper. The tank sensors were not working properly so I bought that swizzle stick sprayer and cleaned the black tank for over two hours. Couldn’t believe what came out of that tank but the product worked. Great video.
That thing really gives the black tank a good scrub. You’re right. You might think the tank is empty, even with built in tank scrubbers. But that Swivel Stick blasts all the crud out that builds up over time.
I'm living in an RV full time for my last year of college, this video and product are going to be lifesavers. Thanks so much for taking the time to make it!
You sir have an energy to your personality that is just so refreshing and magnetic. Wonderful video and the information you shared will serve me well. Thank you. Cheers from a second year full timer.
Thank you Jerry for this cleaning video. I have been fighting a black tank that would read 1/3 when empty for about 3 years. Less than 5 minutes with this wand did the trick. Keep up the great videos.
I cleaned out my black tank with the Camco Swivel Stik today and it worked great! Since purchasing my RV one month ago, the black tank always showed three lights, even after draining. Now it show one light. Thanks!
Been using happy camper & Scott’s since we purchased our camper 2 years ago. This year I started to notice more chunks (for lack of better term) coming from my black tank. Was talking to my wife about it and found she switched toilet paper on me. We are switching back to Scott’s but I was hoping a wand would help with a deep clean and this was the exact type of confirmation I was looking for. Excellent video.
Great video Jerry. Short and to the point but yet entertaining. Im a full time RVer and I use the spinner hose about every 6 months. I also use dollar store TP. I find that a two-ply product from the dollar store does as well as the more expensive RV type. Good tip on the powder. I may get a bucket of that stuff. For now I have a big bottle of cleaning product (Fabuloso) with a spray nozzle. After I flush I give the bowl a couple of sprays and everything smells good and stays sanitary and clean. Thanks again for the video.
I am about to enter the boondocking world. I am getting a large settlement and am retired anyway, so I plan to buy a older, mid-sized Class C. I have some experience living on the road. I was a long haul trucker. I lived in my rig 28 days a month. And I was homeless for ten years, so I learned a lot about self-sufficiency there. I am bursting with a book, so I would like to write it in beautiful places. As I go into this new lifestyle you can bet I will be looking in on your channel a lot. I have watched a lot of videos by a lot of people, but I find yours easier to understand and I enjoy your positive attitude.
Thanks so much Michael for the very kind comment. Joan and I enjoy the RV lifestyle. We’ve found you can splurge or budget, regardless, there’s much to experience. So glad you found our channel and hope you find our RV travels and tips helpful.
@@iLoveRVlife Although I have a lot of experiences as I have noted, I am now a 62 year old, 50% disabled veteran with leg and ankle damage. I can't walk straight around the house. I think I can drive four to six hours a day before the ankle makes me stop. I had a four way bypass last year. I am generally strong, but take things slow these days. I feel the trade off to the extra difficulties, like getting down to connect hoses when needed and other things that may come up, is worth the benefits, that I do not need to list here. I can get down to do these things, just with a LOT of pain. Especially since my sternum is just wired together. So, I CAN get by. One of the reasons I want to do this is because both, I got the settlement of a suit and have the money, and the way my disability has been increasing, about 10% every year to a year and a half, I think I may not be able to do it very well in a couple more years.
Thanks for the video! Wife and I are new owners of a 5th wheel so the whole idea of black and gray tank management is new to us. Based on your video we're ordering the HC. We are Charmin fans for home use but tried the glass test on it and it failed miserably. Bought and will continue to use Scott RV and Marine. We too find it to be a soft paper.
Hi Jeff. Welcome to RV life and glad you found the video helpful. That little bit of black tank maintenance will help a bunch in the long run. Safe travels. Jerry...
Because of your video we tried the Happy Camper treatment in a word, WOW! no odor and hubs said the black water was actually dissolved. thx for this product recommendation
Jerry-you hit the nail on the head with both paper and Happy Camper. I would recommend all tanks get a scoop. (yes-shower too) Also if you mix it with hot water before adding to tank it "Activates" the enzymes.
We avoid black tank issue by never going #2 in the toilet and never putting any paper products in the tank. We use happy campers chemical and tank valve lubricant from time to time. We haven’t had any issues with odors or sensor issues. Of course we don’t boondock and if we decided to I would probably go with a composting option. This works for us being retired and with no children. As for grey tanks we use happy camper in them as well. We wipe our dishes, pots and pans down with paper towels to remove food residue and grease before washing them in the sink. I’m sure this seems extreme for most people but for the two of us it’s worth the time and effort to avoid black and grey tank issues.
Agree no Clorox or other bleach. Rots seals and is a health hazard and stinks as bad. We use Borax powder and the liquid form of dawn soap and fill tank to about 1/3 full before driving. Thanks for the video. Good information.
Preparing to go full time solo in a truck camper rig has been my focus for the last year, and visiting the plethora of RV TH-cam channels has occupied a good amount of time. I'm just sorting power and sewer now, but Jerry, this vid was super informative, well presented and funny to boot! Subbed!!
Very ingenious testing, and education system! Who would think of a black water simulator? It looks like a lot of work on your part, and I think your ideas and methods are pretty close to the real state of affairs in a real black water tank. You are covering a lot of problems that occur in an RV! Nice job!
Think you're pretty cool Jerry, thanks for keeping the videos up here for those of us that were wondering is that hose cleaner thingie was was worth keeping.. (came with my RV, EVERYTHING x'3 came with my RV.)
Thanks so much! It is a handy hose cleaner thingie :) With our heavy travel schedule and black tank use it’s one of those every year or so tasks to get the sensors working again.
You bet Cliff and thanks for the kind comment. Can't imagine the mess of working from the other direction, even though there are several adapters sold for this purpose. The wand and good water pressure really gives the tank a good scrub. Jerry....
Thanks for sharing. I just purchased our becuase our sensor was stuck on full when completely empty and it fixed the problem in about 2 minutes. This unit is highly recommended. Didn’t use any other method by the way
OMG!!! JERRY YOUR SOO RIGHT!! I bought one of those also (before I saw your video) and yes it corrected my tank 1/2 tank lights also!! keep up the good work Jerry.
Great video. The Happy Campers treatment is the real deal. After a year of dumping the orange glug, and the little packets, and still smelling horrible, we found the Happy Campers treatment. Great Stuff. As far as the toilet paper, we were using the lame RV stuff from the RV store, then the RV stuff at MegaloMart, then went back to our favorite home brand with no trouble. However, this doesn't mean YOU will have the same experience. We have the built-n tank flush, plus one of those Rhino back-flush fittings, and I occasionally have to do some work to get everything flushed out properly. But the Happy Camper stuff takes care of most of it. As far as adding the Happy Camper stuff, I fill the bowl about half full, start adding the powder, while letting it flow down the drain. This helps mix the powder with the water. HC says to use at least a gallon of water when adding to the tank.
Thanks so much and appreciate the comment. We’ve used these enzymes over 4 years. Skipped for a month of travel once. Bad move. Using a scoop after every dump liquifies everything.
My RV came with a tank flush valve. I use it during the dumping operation to help clean the black water tank. I would imagine using the snake sprayer you demonstrated in addition to the manufacturer supplied valve things should be very clean. Good video's Thx Don
I have a flush valve as well. It’s ok during the dump process, but gunk still has a tendency to build up over time. With good water pressure, the swivel stick knock that build up of the side and bottom.
I use the "poop" stick kn a regular basis....in the south during the summer it gets hot and the smell can get bad...this has eliminated smell when used every month! Great video!!
Thank You! This is a great suggestion and I'll be ordering the Flexible Swivel Stick & Happy Camper today! THANK YOU!!! Because, I am like you... those "colored" Black Tank additives I feel actually make the odors MUCH WORSE!!! Thank you..... been Full Time now for over 4 years! I Love RV Living!
Boy, Jerry, I damn near wore out my clicker; subscribe, like, bought everything from Amazon, after watching this video. You do realize, of course, everything RV applys to boats and I've got one of those ,too. So large quantities of these problem solvers have been purchased. Beleive it or not the most exciting purchase was was the tank scrubber! It was cheap, too! I'm new to RV-ing and this comunity is so friendly and helpful people from the northeast, like me, are not used to this! We need lessons. There is a whole lot of great help and information here on TH-cam. Thank you, mucho. Looking forward to more of your videos.
Hi 28cruzin. Wow! So glad you found the channel and our videos useful. And thanks much for the subscribe and purchases. Joan and I really enjoy the RV life and happy to share our travel experiences and a few handy tips we've learned along the way. We have a few more RV tip videos planned over the next couple for weeks, then a heavy travel season where we'll show the sites along the way. Jerry...
Great video! Just want to say…(and suggest) ~ We have a septic system at home and have NEVER put any toilet paper (TP) down the toilet. We have a separate container for the soiled TP and it is emptied regularly. We do the same thing in the camper trailer. We do NOT put any TP down the toilet. Saves space and headaches. Also, in regards to the gray tank stink due to food particles - purchase screen inserts from the dollar store for inside the sink drains. They work better than the provided slotted sink stops, and can easily be emptied in the garbage or compost bin. I mean, why push food particles down into the gray tank anyway? 😉
Making ready for upcoming trip in our new camper and this was super helpful....thank you sir. Bought the Camco swivel stick as a result. FYI...Happy Camper is not readily available in stock anywhere that I can find (even on Amazon). Not a huge deal if you plan ahead for 10 day delivery, but something to consider when recommending.
Hi JB. Thanks a bunch. I’ve been monitoring the Happy Camper supplier. Looks like the ran out of stock. There is an alternative if you want to use an unscented liquid. We evaluated RV Digest-It with good results. Here’s a link to the video if interested th-cam.com/video/hHPSm9x8YZA/w-d-xo.html
Thank you. A tip from an old couple I met 4 months ago for order control is using grape kool aid packets. It's been 4 months now and I HAVNT had any odor. I dump the black tank and ad 3 packets with about 5 gallons of water.
Hi Jerry! Suzan and I (Rick) really enjoy your videos and suggestions. So far we are planning a trip to Cloud Canyon and purchased several Amazon products based on your videos. I have been camping for many years with a travel trailer. This past October we upgraded to a 2017 Cedar Creek 38FLX. We are anxious to use it this Season. Too bad you can't get endorsed by the products you demo. For example, I just now purchased 12 rolls of the Scott TP and the Happy Camper product. Jerry, a couple of things I wanted to share with you and your viewers: 1) I did purchase a Barker model 30844 Blue boy/pooper truck (42 gallons). I find it constructed better than the Thetford models 💪🏼. It has heavy duty tires that are actually inflatable. Unfortunately, Amazon does not display an updated picture. It displays the cheap plastic wheels instead. 2) Please wear some latex gloves when handling those sewer parts! 😂 Thanks again Jerry, we look forward to all your videos! Rick
Thanks Rick for the comments. I appreciate the purchase if you used my Amazon link. It's pennies, but they add up. I recently read a review in the Barker units. They look nice. I'm currently looking to mod my Thetford with better wheels. And the gloves. Catching a lot of flack on this one. I was using, but TOOK then off to stage and run the camera. My bad, I should have set a better example.
Thanks David. Never used it, but this comes around from time to time. The swivel stick is a little effort and 15 minutes of work, but the water jets break all the crud from the sides and bottom. Using a natural enzyme after each dump from that point forward keeps the tank clean.
Question, approximately how many flushes equal one gallon in the Black tank? My wife and I are just ready to retire, at our age we have to go more than in our 20's and wondered about the black tank capacities and what that translates into? Thanks everyone.
I did the "dissolve test" comparison between the Scott's RV TP and their "Comfort Soft" TP found in the regular TP aisle - and found they both dissolved at the same rate.
Great vid! You're very easy to follow along with. Just bought the enzyme and the spray hose based off your recommendation. Can't wait to try it all out next weekend! (and I just realized I said I can't wait to try out my new sewer cleaning supplies lol...the life of an RVer!)
That's to funny Michael, you've now gone to the point of no return. Welcome to RV Life! It's a simple project with good results. It's on my "once a year" maintenance list. Keeps those sensors working and helps minimize the goo build-up that can occur. You'll also be surprised how well the Happy Campers works. Been using for over 3 years now. Cold or hot weather, the stuff breaks everything down and amazed how well it works to minimize odor without that yucky overly perfumed smell with the other stuff. Safe travels. Jerry....
Can you provide any insight as to why using regular "septic safe" TP won't work, or won't work as well? In my mind, the issues are the same...except for a time factor. In a septic it has more time to break down. Thanks!! Update: After listening to your description of how the TP breaks down immediately in water, I took two squares from my septic safe TP and put it in a container of water and shook it up... nothing. I even took it in and out of the water to see if that would help. Nope. So, NOW I get it! Thank you for such an informative video!!!
Thanks for the comment. You did the same thing I did when we looked for a quick dissolving paper. In a septic tank, we have longer times for the paper to break down. In our black tank, we're dumping in days and want the breakdown to occur as quickly as possible to prevent clogs. Plus, the Scott's we mentioned is closer to the soft 2-ply found in homes for those sensitive toochies. Jerry...
It's also you septic at the house gets all the water so shower water washer machine so a lot more water to break down toilet paper. All you black tank gets is flush and urine
My wife and several ladies did the "glass test" using various brands on septic safe TP. Put several squares of a brand into a large glass give a quick shake and watch for breakup. After numerous tests, the clear choice was Angel Soft TP. Been using it for over 10 years without any problem. By the way we use the green or orange stuff for odor control and break down - also with good success!
I'm new in this RV and trailer community. I have a brand new trailer and I love it!!!! Right now I don't have to clean my black water tank, but I will keep your video in my favorites until I need it. Why not doing this everytime when winterizing the RV or trailer?????Thank you Mister and I wish you many happy RV years. Cheers from Montreal, Canada.
Thanks and great to hear from our Canadian viewers. So glad you found the channel helpful. Winterizing is a great time. We scrub ours once a year. We found it prevents crud from building up near the drain valves and causing that nasty leaking while traveling.
It’s attached to the end of the wand. There’s a plastic piece that provides a degree of overlap. I move around and side to side to wash the tank, but don’t try to push it hit the sides. I let the water do the work.
What I was waiting for was what do you do with the cleaner wand do you just rinse it out and does it get crud all over it, its when you pull the thing out what i wanna know Thanks
Well we bought our first RV last week, and now I am watching yours and others videos, which are awesome and so helpful! The products you recommend are particularly helpful. I have already bought several of the products and gadgetry that you have suggested! thank you Jerry! Personally speaking, do you like Happy Camper or RV Digest it better? I'm choosing whatever you like the best!
That’s great. So glad to hear you found the videos helpful. Prefer the powders for each. We traveled in hot climates this year and the liquid struggled a bit. Typically look for which is in stock at the best price per treatment.
Happy Camper = Rid-X for more $$. Have used regular powdered Rid-X for years, a capful in the Black and 1/2 capful in the Gray. They make an RV version as well as liquid, but they’re simply higher $$ versions of the original. Is available in the plumbing section (not the RV shelf) at Walmart for about $8/box. One box is good for a 2,000 gal septic system so do the math - a box lasts a LONG time. I dump only when tank is 1/2 to 3/4 full then rinse well and leave a gal of fresh water for my new Rid-X friends to do their duty. If you get a “woody” smell you’re using too much. Also recommend 360° Siphon tank vents by Camco on the roof and of course NEVER flushing with the exhaust fan ON 😳. If you boondock off-grid long term, a 1/2 cup of Baking Soda works wonders to control smell after a couple weeks. But DO NOT add caustic commercial RV tank treatments unless you want to kill your beneficial Rid-X soup. Then when you dump rest assured that you are helping the CG septic system, not harming it with all manner of toxic chemicals. Lastly for serious long term off-grid TP use of any brand you like, am surprised you didn’t mention the “No Flush” option.
Really enjoy your videos, my wife and I are brand new to this, we pick up our Winnebago Minnie drop this Saturday! Also your links to the items you use/talk about is very handy! Thank You
Saw your video and thought, that's the way to do it. Ordered the same one from Amazon hooked it up and lowered it into the tank. Went on for 1/2 second heard a part fly off. Pulled it out sure enough the entire end was missing. Now instead of a 10 minute cleaning I spent 3 hours trying to get the part out with no success. Try again tomorrow. Obviously this is going back.
I know it would be a hassle but if you could do demonstrations like the guy on "the fit rv" with a clear tank, that would be great. Also a demonstration like the one you suggested with the toilet paper in the glass would be awesome. I really like the idea of the twisty hose you had at the beginning. Which would have been great as a demonstration in a clear tank like the guy on "fit rv" shows. Just a suggestion. Thanks for the info. Oh and you could simulate waste the same way fit rv dude did. rather than real poo. Anyway, thanks again for taking the time to do this.
You crack me up! "I won't get carried away like some people do" 😂 that was a hilarious video clip! I also greatly appreciate the way you find such nice words to discuss every aspect of an unpleasant subject. Thank you 😃
Jerry, how do you know that thing is not beating the sensor to death inside the tank. It just seems like with that bug head in the end if that hide it would damage the tank sensor. Just asking.
I’m not hitting the sides of the tank with the end of the stick. Just moving it up and down and letting the water spray do the trick. Plus it has a plastic flange around the spinner.
Hey Jerry watched your video and went and bought one of those niffty little tools, $11.98 on sale, 50% off, now I don't have one of those tanks like you have on wheels, in just used a 5 gallon bucket and went to town. Only one light showing now, thanks for the info.
My black tank sensor was messed up for a long time. Now, just before I head out for the weekend, take a bucket of HOT water, about 4 gallons, dump that down the toilet and throw in one of those Cascade dish washing pods. The steam from the hot water, the hot water, and the Cascade pod now make for a nice mixture for the 2-hour drive to help clean the sensors, but actually clean the whole tank, and makes it smell fresher
I have a question, what should I clean toilet with. I have been putting on a glove,letting water out of toilet and using a Clorox wipe to wipe it out thouroughly. I don't want to do this if Clorox is harmful. I threw wipe in trash not in toilet. Thanks for advice on this.
Fill up a few gallons of water in an empty container (milk or cat litter). When the "magic wand" gets through, as it is drawn up through the toilet use the water in the containers to wash the wand off.
I have constantly lived in a 5th wheel for over 2 years and use 2 & 3 ply regular toilet paper. I use nothing in the tank. Dump it every 10 days or when you start to smell it. No problems.
I hope to meet up with you out on the road. I think, with both our personalities, we'd have the campsite rolling on the floor. Love this idea. Where did you buy the spinner hose end? It it something readily available? I've been using a spare hose will at the hook ups or dump site full blast water spraying into the tank multiple times filling and emptying each time. It seams to work well but take MUCH MORE time than this idea. We are planning for a little "part time/full time" adventure. As a contractor and tired of our states greed of any of my profits I need to find a lesser of a open handed governmental agencies so we are looking for somewhere with something similar to the wonderful weather we have here but not too much of that cold white stuff that falls. My point... going for a couple month little "drive" with the trailer behind us. It's always nice to know the tanks are as clean as can be. Love the chemical treatment as well. Just would love to know where to find the hose end you have there. Thank you sir
Thanks much. RV life make the world a small place. Sure we cross paths somewhere. Amazon carries the Swivel Stick. Here’s a link amzn.to/2xtS6XO. You can also go to our web site at www.ilovervlife.com. There’s an Accessories page listed at the top where we have most of the items we use listed with links. Safe travels. Jerry...
Hi jerry can you think of a way to use such a tool in the gray tank? We personally have more problems with the gauges in the gray and have tried all kinds of products with varying success? Good day love your vids!
Thanks Dan. The gray tanks are a little easier to clean not having all the solids to deal with. Pour 4 ounces of RV Digest-It liquid amzn.to/2O2Mw5K in the sink drain and add a gallon of water after you dump. Use tank as usual. Depending on how much scum is built up, you may need to repeat a time or 2. Once the sensors are clear, add an ounce to the tank once a month and it will keep the sensors clean. Jerry...
Hi Charles. I don't know what's going on with the Happy Campers folks. Everyone is having difficulty getting product. We're using RV Digest-It powder for hot climates now and having good results this summer - RV Digest-It powder for hot climates 30 treatments amzn.to/2SqtzeV or 120 treatments amzn.to/2XSpdmZ Using the 120, treatment is running about $0.63 per black tank dump.
Very Helpful! I am only getting a small travel trailer, but I want it to be as clean as possible. How often do you do this deep clean on your full size RV?
HI Jerry, thanks you for a great presentation. keep up the good work. I have a question I'am hoping you can help me with.I am seeing light green water fill up my toilet bowl and it has a terrible odor. I clean my black tank at least once a week, and live alone. on the clear outside elbow is a green film on the inside. any suggestions ?
Hi Deb. Glad you found our videos helpful. Green water from the sides when you flush? Now that is a problem! This doesn't have any thing to do with your black tank, but is a concern for you water source. How are you getting your water - camp site water connection, your water tank? Regardless, it sounds like you have algea in your water supply and would expect discolored water in your taps as well. If you're living in your camper fulltime, you be out of water for 24 hours to fix. Also, depending on the severity of the algea, it could take a couple of treatments. You may want to consider doing the following to sanitize your fresh water system: 1) Empty you fresh water tank. 2) Create a mixture of household bleach and water 1/4 cup of bleach in a gallon of water for every 10 gallon capacity of your water tank. Example: 30 gallon tank - 3/4 cup of bleach and 3 gallons of water. 3) Pour bleach mixture into you water tank and fill tank full of water. 4) Turn on water pump and run water in each sink and flush your toilet until you smell the bleach (it will be slight, but noticeable). 5) Let sit for 24 hours. 6) 24 hours later, drain tank, refill with fresh water and run through sink and toilet. 7) Drain tank again, fill with water and run through sinks again until bleach odor goes away. If you're fulltime in your camper, you could still use your toilet overnight, but buy a gallon of water for drinking and cooking until you complete all steps listed above. Also, if you have a very old hose connecting your camper to your campsite water supply, this could also be part of the problem. They're inexpensive and the white, water safe hoses can be purchased at Amazon and may be available at a Walmart nearby is they have an RV accessories section. I and many other RV owners do this once a year and it helps maintain a healthy fresh water system in the camper. Good luck and hope this helps. Jerry.....
My oldest granddaughter bought a used travel trailer and parked it on our land when she was going to college. We hooked her into our septic system, water, and electricity. Two years later she moved for her new job and I helped her clean out and up the camper. The tank sensors were not working properly so I bought that swizzle stick sprayer and cleaned the black tank for over two hours. Couldn’t believe what came out of that tank but the product worked. Great video.
That thing really gives the black tank a good scrub. You’re right. You might think the tank is empty, even with built in tank scrubbers. But that Swivel Stick blasts all the crud out that builds up over time.
I'm living in an RV full time for my last year of college, this video and product are going to be lifesavers. Thanks so much for taking the time to make it!
Glad we could help Chris.
You sir have an energy to your personality that is just so refreshing and magnetic. Wonderful video and the information you shared will serve me well. Thank you. Cheers from a second year full timer.
Thanks Nick for the kind comment. So glad we can share with the RV community. Hoping our paths cross in our RV travels. Jerry...
Thank you Jerry for this cleaning video. I have been fighting a black tank that would read 1/3 when empty for about 3 years. Less than 5 minutes with this wand did the trick. Keep up the great videos.
Great news. Glad we could help.
The last sentence was great. The joy in your face. Thanks Jerry 🤗
Thanks a bunch!
I could listen to this guy teaching physics of dirt. What a great presentation.
What an awesome comment! Thanks much. Jerry...
I cleaned out my black tank with the Camco Swivel Stik today and it worked great! Since purchasing my RV one month ago, the black tank always showed three lights, even after draining. Now it show one light. Thanks!
That’s great Gary. The swivel stick does a great job scrubbing the tank with little effort.
Insider information, the Scott Comfort Plus is the same as the RV safe. The only difference is the packaging. (from a Kimberly Clark employee)
Great information, thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Thank you.
Been using happy camper & Scott’s since we purchased our camper 2 years ago. This year I started to notice more chunks (for lack of better term) coming from my black tank. Was talking to my wife about it and found she switched toilet paper on me. We are switching back to Scott’s but I was hoping a wand would help with a deep clean and this was the exact type of confirmation I was looking for. Excellent video.
Glad to share Charles. The wand will make that black tank squeaky clean.
What a delightful and friendly presentation
Thanks much for the kind comment.
USA4US DEUTERONOMY 8:18 THAT WHAT MRS CASSANDRA LOVES FOR EVERY LIVING CREATURE ON EARTH
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Great video Jerry. Short and to the point but yet entertaining. Im a full time RVer and I use the spinner hose about every 6 months. I also use dollar store TP. I find that a two-ply product from the dollar store does as well as the more expensive RV type. Good tip on the powder. I may get a bucket of that stuff. For now I have a big bottle of cleaning product (Fabuloso) with a spray nozzle. After I flush I give the bowl a couple of sprays and everything smells good and stays sanitary and clean. Thanks again for the video.
Thanks Donald. Glad we could share.
I am about to enter the boondocking world. I am getting a large settlement and am retired anyway, so I plan to buy a older, mid-sized Class C.
I have some experience living on the road. I was a long haul trucker. I lived in my rig 28 days a month. And I was homeless for ten years, so I learned a lot about self-sufficiency there. I am bursting with a book, so I would like to write it in beautiful places.
As I go into this new lifestyle you can bet I will be looking in on your channel a lot. I have watched a lot of videos by a lot of people, but I find yours easier to understand and I enjoy your positive attitude.
Thanks so much Michael for the very kind comment. Joan and I enjoy the RV lifestyle. We’ve found you can splurge or budget, regardless, there’s much to experience. So glad you found our channel and hope you find our RV travels and tips helpful.
@@iLoveRVlife Although I have a lot of experiences as I have noted, I am now a 62 year old, 50% disabled veteran with leg and ankle damage. I can't walk straight around the house.
I think I can drive four to six hours a day before the ankle makes me stop. I had a four way bypass last year. I am generally strong, but take things slow these days. I feel the trade off to the extra difficulties, like getting down to connect hoses when needed and other things that may come up, is worth the benefits, that I do not need to list here.
I can get down to do these things, just with a LOT of pain. Especially since my sternum is just wired together. So, I CAN get by.
One of the reasons I want to do this is because both, I got the settlement of a suit and have the money, and the way my disability has been increasing, about 10% every year to a year and a half, I think I may not be able to do it very well in a couple more years.
Thanks for the video! Wife and I are new owners of a 5th wheel so the whole idea of black and gray tank management is new to us. Based on your video we're ordering the HC. We are Charmin fans for home use but tried the glass test on it and it failed miserably. Bought and will continue to use Scott RV and Marine. We too find it to be a soft paper.
Hi Jeff. Welcome to RV life and glad you found the video helpful. That little bit of black tank maintenance will help a bunch in the long run. Safe travels. Jerry...
Because of your video we tried the Happy Camper treatment in a word, WOW! no odor and hubs said the black water was actually dissolved. thx for this product recommendation
That's great news Vicki. The stuff really is amazing. Jerry...
Jerry-you hit the nail on the head with both paper and Happy Camper. I would recommend all tanks get a scoop. (yes-shower too) Also if you mix it with hot water before adding to tank it "Activates" the enzymes.
Good tip. Thanks for sharing.
Opa and Oma’s Camping Adventures can you explain what a scoop is and does?
Daniel. Maybe I can help. Happy Campers comes with a small scoop in the container to measure the product.
We avoid black tank issue by never going #2 in the toilet and never putting any paper products in the tank. We use happy campers chemical and tank valve lubricant from time to time. We haven’t had any issues with odors or sensor issues. Of course we don’t boondock and if we decided to I would probably go with a composting option. This works for us being retired and with no children.
As for grey tanks we use happy camper in them as well. We wipe our dishes, pots and pans down with paper towels to remove food residue and grease before washing them in the sink.
I’m sure this seems extreme for most people but for the two of us it’s worth the time and effort to avoid black and grey tank issues.
Agree no Clorox or other bleach. Rots seals and is a health hazard and stinks as bad. We use Borax powder and the liquid form of dawn soap and fill tank to about 1/3 full before driving.
Thanks for the video. Good information.
Thanks much.
Love that you helped us with the "less-desirable" topics as well!!! Helpful info that made me giggle at the same time!!!
Hi Joolz. Thanks for the comments and glad we were able to add a little laughter to a stinky subject :)
Preparing to go full time solo in a truck camper rig has been my focus for the last year, and visiting the plethora of RV TH-cam channels has occupied a good amount of time. I'm just sorting power and sewer now, but Jerry, this vid was super informative, well presented and funny to boot! Subbed!!
Thanks a bunch. These projects can be very rewarding. Have a great time out there.
Very ingenious testing, and education system! Who would think of a black water simulator? It looks like a lot of work on your part, and I think your ideas and methods are pretty close to the real state of affairs in a real black water tank. You are covering a lot of problems that occur in an RV! Nice job!
Thanks so much
Think you're pretty cool Jerry, thanks for keeping the videos up here for those of us that were wondering is that hose cleaner thingie was was worth keeping.. (came with my RV, EVERYTHING x'3 came with my RV.)
Thanks so much! It is a handy hose cleaner thingie :) With our heavy travel schedule and black tank use it’s one of those every year or so tasks to get the sensors working again.
Clearly the best way to clean tank is from the top down. Great tool you have and great practical advice.
You bet Cliff and thanks for the kind comment. Can't imagine the mess of working from the other direction, even though there are several adapters sold for this purpose. The wand and good water pressure really gives the tank a good scrub. Jerry....
Thanks for sharing. I just purchased our becuase our sensor was stuck on full when completely empty and it fixed the problem in about 2 minutes. This unit is highly recommended. Didn’t use any other method by the way
That's great Jerry. Good to here it worked for you too.
Good job and well narrated video, it was a pleasure seeing a very personable personality illustrating the topic.
Thanks Robert.
Thank you for this! I'm going to be switching over to a FT RV living situation and this is invaluable. Thank you so much!
Glad we could share Erin.
OMG!!! JERRY YOUR SOO RIGHT!! I bought one of those also (before I saw your video) and yes it corrected my tank 1/2 tank lights also!! keep up the good work Jerry.
Thanks so much. Will do.
Great video.
The Happy Campers treatment is the real deal. After a year of dumping the orange glug, and the little packets, and still smelling horrible, we found the Happy Campers treatment. Great Stuff.
As far as the toilet paper, we were using the lame RV stuff from the RV store, then the RV stuff at MegaloMart, then went back to our favorite home brand with no trouble. However, this doesn't mean YOU will have the same experience. We have the built-n tank flush, plus one of those Rhino back-flush fittings, and I occasionally have to do some work to get everything flushed out properly. But the Happy Camper stuff takes care of most of it.
As far as adding the Happy Camper stuff, I fill the bowl about half full, start adding the powder, while letting it flow down the drain. This helps mix the powder with the water. HC says to use at least a gallon of water when adding to the tank.
Thanks so much and appreciate the comment. We’ve used these enzymes over 4 years. Skipped for a month of travel once. Bad move. Using a scoop after every dump liquifies everything.
My RV came with a tank flush valve. I use it during the dumping operation to help clean the black water tank. I would imagine using the snake sprayer you demonstrated in addition to the manufacturer supplied valve things should be very clean. Good video's Thx Don
I have a flush valve as well. It’s ok during the dump process, but gunk still has a tendency to build up over time. With good water pressure, the swivel stick knock that build up of the side and bottom.
I use the "poop" stick kn a regular basis....in the south during the summer it gets hot and the smell can get bad...this has eliminated smell when used every month! Great video!!
Thanks a bunch.
Love your sense of humor. Great video
Thanks a bunch Vilma.
Thank you Jerry. Love your facial expressions.
Glad we could share.
Thank You! This is a great suggestion and I'll be ordering the Flexible Swivel Stick & Happy Camper today! THANK YOU!!!
Because, I am like you... those "colored" Black Tank additives I feel actually make the odors MUCH WORSE!!!
Thank you..... been Full Time now for over 4 years! I Love RV Living!
Hi Allen. Great to know the tips helped.
We use the Scott RV to too. You can get it at Walmart back in the auto dept where the RV section is at.
Good stuff.
Love the tip on the powder in the kitchen sink. Definitely will help and will do it myself. As always, keep up the great videos.
Thanks Jaz
Boy, Jerry, I damn near wore out my clicker; subscribe, like, bought everything from Amazon, after watching this video. You do realize, of course, everything RV applys to boats and I've got one of those ,too. So large quantities of these problem solvers have been purchased. Beleive it or not the most exciting purchase was was the tank scrubber! It was cheap, too! I'm new to RV-ing and this comunity is so friendly and helpful people from the northeast, like me, are not used to this! We need lessons. There is a whole lot of great help and information here on TH-cam. Thank you, mucho. Looking forward to more of your videos.
Hi 28cruzin. Wow! So glad you found the channel and our videos useful. And thanks much for the subscribe and purchases. Joan and I really enjoy the RV life and happy to share our travel experiences and a few handy tips we've learned along the way. We have a few more RV tip videos planned over the next couple for weeks, then a heavy travel season where we'll show the sites along the way. Jerry...
Great video!
Just want to say…(and suggest) ~
We have a septic system at home and have NEVER put any toilet paper (TP) down the toilet. We have a separate container for the soiled TP and it is emptied regularly.
We do the same thing in the camper trailer. We do NOT put any TP down the toilet. Saves space and headaches.
Also, in regards to the gray tank stink due to food particles - purchase screen inserts from the dollar store for inside the sink drains. They work better than the provided slotted sink stops, and can easily be emptied in the garbage or compost bin. I mean, why push food particles down into the gray tank anyway? 😉
Thanks
Thanks Jerry. My sensors were misreading. I used the gadget you reviewed and they are reading properly now. Thanks again.
Super! Glad you found the video helpful.
You sir are a legend! Love the videos very informative and you have a great sense of humor
You’re too kind. Thanks. We have a lot of fun sharing our RV travel and tips.
Making ready for upcoming trip in our new camper and this was super helpful....thank you sir. Bought the Camco swivel stick as a result. FYI...Happy Camper is not readily available in stock anywhere that I can find (even on Amazon). Not a huge deal if you plan ahead for 10 day delivery, but something to consider when recommending.
Hi JB. Thanks a bunch. I’ve been monitoring the Happy Camper supplier. Looks like the ran out of stock. There is an alternative if you want to use an unscented liquid. We evaluated RV Digest-It with good results. Here’s a link to the video if interested th-cam.com/video/hHPSm9x8YZA/w-d-xo.html
Thank you. A tip from an old couple I met 4 months ago for order control is using grape kool aid packets. It's been 4 months now and I HAVNT had any odor. I dump the black tank and ad 3 packets with about 5 gallons of water.
Interesting. Does it also help to break down the solids in the tank?
No. Just for odor
Thanks
Thank’s it help a lot!!! And I love the way you talk, is understandable and easy!!!
Thanks a bunch. Glad we could help.
Thanks for the demonstration Jerry. Very well done video.
Thanks Ray. Glad we could share.
Hi Jerry!
Suzan and I (Rick) really enjoy your videos and suggestions. So far we are planning a trip to Cloud Canyon and purchased several Amazon products based on your videos. I have been camping for many years with a travel trailer. This past October we upgraded to a 2017 Cedar Creek 38FLX. We are anxious to use it this Season.
Too bad you can't get endorsed by the products you demo. For example, I just now purchased 12 rolls of the Scott TP and the Happy Camper product. Jerry, a couple of things I wanted to share with you and your viewers:
1) I did purchase a Barker model 30844 Blue boy/pooper truck (42 gallons). I find it constructed better than the Thetford models 💪🏼. It has heavy duty tires that are actually inflatable. Unfortunately, Amazon does not display an updated picture. It displays the cheap plastic wheels instead.
2) Please wear some latex gloves when handling those sewer parts! 😂
Thanks again Jerry, we look forward to all your videos!
Rick
Thanks Rick for the comments. I appreciate the purchase if you used my Amazon link. It's pennies, but they add up. I recently read a review in the Barker units. They look nice. I'm currently looking to mod my Thetford with better wheels. And the gloves. Catching a lot of flack on this one. I was using, but TOOK then off to stage and run the camera. My bad, I should have set a better example.
I agree with islander son, wear protective disposable gloves, great info, thanks
Larry Cowan I use a plastic tennis ball tube to store disposable gloves in discharge area. People who use gloves over and over are fooling themselves.
We also got the tube cleaner tool! Love it!! Cleaned REALLY WELL!!
Super. Time to clean my sensors on this end.
Great video, super informative and I have to say that Happy Campers tank treatment is by far our favorite! Anyway, thanks for the great video :)
Thanks. Hope you found it helpful.
How often should i clean my moms tank? She lives in it full time by herself. Thanks for the video. You're great!
Thanks so much Ava. Once a year should work unless you’re noticing some flow issues when you dump the tank.
The nbc suit and danger tape hilarious😂
Thanks. Had a little fun with this one.
Great video. Thanks.
What about Borax mixed with Dawn ?
Thanks David. Never used it, but this comes around from time to time. The swivel stick is a little effort and 15 minutes of work, but the water jets break all the crud from the sides and bottom. Using a natural enzyme after each dump from that point forward keeps the tank clean.
I so enjoy your videos and have learned SO much from you as a new RV-er! Thank you for all your help.
Thanks so much Diane. So glad we could share.
Question, approximately how many flushes equal one gallon in the Black tank? My wife and I are just ready to retire, at our age we have to go more than in our 20's and wondered about the black tank capacities and what that translates into? Thanks everyone.
HI Patrick. Not sure. One an average, our 40 gallon back tank last Joan and I about a week to 10 days.
I found Happy Camper works the best over all others I been using RVS for over 30 years. Great video thanks for all the advice.
It is good stuff.
I did the "dissolve test" comparison between the Scott's RV TP and their "Comfort Soft" TP found in the regular TP aisle - and found they both dissolved at the same rate.
Thanks for sharing. I’ll give it a try.
Bought the Happy Camper. Thanks for the information. Also loved the gas mask intro!
Haha! Thanks. Had a little fun with that one. Thanks for the Happy Campers purchase. Good stuff.
Thank you. My first time ever in an RV. Loved your video and info.
Glad we can share. Have a great time in your RV travels. Jerry...
Great video...thank you so much for taking the time to do your videos!
Thanks John. Glad to share our tips.
Great vid! You're very easy to follow along with. Just bought the enzyme and the spray hose based off your recommendation. Can't wait to try it all out next weekend! (and I just realized I said I can't wait to try out my new sewer cleaning supplies lol...the life of an RVer!)
That's to funny Michael, you've now gone to the point of no return. Welcome to RV Life! It's a simple project with good results. It's on my "once a year" maintenance list. Keeps those sensors working and helps minimize the goo build-up that can occur. You'll also be surprised how well the Happy Campers works. Been using for over 3 years now. Cold or hot weather, the stuff breaks everything down and amazed how well it works to minimize odor without that yucky overly perfumed smell with the other stuff. Safe travels. Jerry....
You always have the best advise! Thank you for sharing!
Glad we could help Rose.
Can you provide any insight as to why using regular "septic safe" TP won't work, or won't work as well? In my mind, the issues are the same...except for a time factor. In a septic it has more time to break down. Thanks!! Update: After listening to your description of how the TP breaks down immediately in water, I took two squares from my septic safe TP and put it in a container of water and shook it up... nothing. I even took it in and out of the water to see if that would help. Nope. So, NOW I get it! Thank you for such an informative video!!!
Thanks for the comment. You did the same thing I did when we looked for a quick dissolving paper. In a septic tank, we have longer times for the paper to break down. In our black tank, we're dumping in days and want the breakdown to occur as quickly as possible to prevent clogs. Plus, the Scott's we mentioned is closer to the soft 2-ply found in homes for those sensitive toochies. Jerry...
It's also you septic at the house gets all the water so shower water washer machine so a lot more water to break down toilet paper. All you black tank gets is flush and urine
Makes sense. :)
After watching your video and doing my own test, I promptly picked up Scott's! Thanks!
My wife and several ladies did the "glass test" using various brands on septic safe TP. Put several squares of a brand into a large glass give a quick shake and watch for breakup. After numerous tests, the clear choice was Angel Soft TP.
Been using it for over 10 years without any problem.
By the way we use the green or orange stuff for odor control and break down - also with good success!
Thanks for your videos there helping a first timer in the rv world ! Keep up the great videos!!!!👍🏻
Thanks a bunch Tom.
I just bought the black tank cleaner you recommended it total kicks butt ! 😊
Great stuff. Glad to hear it’s working out.
Nice video. Right at the end when you say, “I love RV life”, i couldn’t help but think of Leslie Jordan from Ski Patrol!!
Thanks much. Too funny. Just can't hide that southern twang :)
I'm new in this RV and trailer community. I have a brand new trailer and I love it!!!! Right now I don't have to clean my black water tank, but I will keep your video in my favorites until I need it. Why not doing this everytime when winterizing the RV or trailer?????Thank you Mister and I wish you many happy RV years. Cheers from Montreal, Canada.
Thanks and great to hear from our Canadian viewers. So glad you found the channel helpful. Winterizing is a great time. We scrub ours once a year. We found it prevents crud from building up near the drain valves and causing that nasty leaking while traveling.
Doesn't the brass spinner bang around in the plastic tank? Thanks for video!
It’s attached to the end of the wand. There’s a plastic piece that provides a degree of overlap. I move around and side to side to wash the tank, but don’t try to push it hit the sides. I let the water do the work.
What I was waiting for was what do you do with the cleaner wand do you just rinse it out and does it get crud all over it, its when you pull the thing out what i wanna know
Thanks
There’s no crud on it when you finish. Just spay a little bleach on the wand and rinse.
Wonderful & informative video! Just got my first travel trailer being on my own, & this helped me immensely. Thanks very much!
My pleasure Maryann. Great to hear you found the information helpful.
Well we bought our first RV last week, and now I am watching yours and others videos, which are awesome and so helpful! The products you recommend are particularly helpful. I have already bought several of the products and gadgetry that you have suggested! thank you Jerry! Personally speaking, do you like Happy Camper or RV Digest it better? I'm choosing whatever you like the best!
That’s great. So glad to hear you found the videos helpful. Prefer the powders for each. We traveled in hot climates this year and the liquid struggled a bit. Typically look for which is in stock at the best price per treatment.
Quick disconnect fittings on the clean out wand makes life much easier.
Thanks James. Good tip.
Happy Camper = Rid-X for more $$. Have used regular powdered Rid-X for years, a capful in the Black and 1/2 capful in the Gray. They make an RV version as well as liquid, but they’re simply higher $$ versions of the original. Is available in the plumbing section (not the RV shelf) at Walmart for about $8/box. One box is good for a 2,000 gal septic system so do the math - a box lasts a LONG time. I dump only when tank is 1/2 to 3/4 full then rinse well and leave a gal of fresh water for my new Rid-X friends to do their duty. If you get a “woody” smell you’re using too much. Also recommend 360° Siphon tank vents by Camco on the roof and of course NEVER flushing with the exhaust fan ON 😳. If you boondock off-grid long term, a 1/2 cup of Baking Soda works wonders to control smell after a couple weeks. But DO NOT add caustic commercial RV tank treatments unless you want to kill your beneficial Rid-X soup. Then when you dump rest assured that you are helping the CG septic system, not harming it with all manner of toxic chemicals. Lastly for serious long term off-grid TP use of any brand you like, am surprised you didn’t mention the “No Flush” option.
Thanks for sharing.
hey Jerry, I just Love you and your videos. thanks for posting them
Thanks so much Juan. Glad to share and much more planned this year.
I removed the black tank from the bottom of the RV and washed and waxed it. Thanks for this Tips...
Bet that was a job. Glad to share Alfred.
Thank you Jerry your video is greatly appreciated. I enjoyed your happy positive personality 😁as well.
Thanks much Erica. Glad to help.
Really enjoy your videos, my wife and I are brand new to this, we pick up our Winnebago Minnie drop this Saturday! Also your links to the items you use/talk about is very handy! Thank You
Thanks so much Kelly. Great to hear you’re finding the channel helpful. Enjoy your Minnie!
You sewer are knowledgeable Jerry! Tanks much! :-)
Oh my goodness Ray. That’s great! I’m adding this to my professional resume😉
I have seen the scott rapid disolving at walmart
They carry. Reasonably priced too.
Saw your video and thought, that's the way to do it. Ordered the same one from Amazon hooked it up and lowered it into the tank. Went on for 1/2 second heard a part fly off. Pulled it out sure enough the entire end was missing. Now instead of a 10 minute cleaning I spent 3 hours trying to get the part out with no success. Try again tomorrow. Obviously this is going back.
Sorry to hear you had problems. Obviously this was a bad one. Had mine for a while with no issues. Hope the next one works out better for you,
I know it would be a hassle but if you could do demonstrations like the guy on "the fit rv" with a clear tank, that would be great. Also a demonstration like the one you suggested with the toilet paper in the glass would be awesome. I really like the idea of the twisty hose you had at the beginning. Which would have been great as a demonstration in a clear tank like the guy on "fit rv" shows. Just a suggestion. Thanks for the info. Oh and you could simulate waste the same way fit rv dude did. rather than real poo. Anyway, thanks again for taking the time to do this.
If I can find a large tanks, I’ll simulate the cleaning.
You crack me up! "I won't get carried away like some people do" 😂 that was a hilarious video clip! I also greatly appreciate the way you find such nice words to discuss every aspect of an unpleasant subject. Thank you 😃
Thanks a bunch. It was a rather stinky subject so thought I'd add a little humor to this one. ;)
Jerry, how do you know that thing is not beating the sensor to death inside the tank. It just seems like with that bug head in the end if that hide it would damage the tank sensor. Just asking.
I’m not hitting the sides of the tank with the end of the stick. Just moving it up and down and letting the water spray do the trick. Plus it has a plastic flange around the spinner.
Thank you for the video Jerry. Can you tell me how often you add the happy campers to your black tank and how much water you add with it?
I have a 40 gal tank. Add 1 scoop per dump with a 5 second flush. That’s seems to be enough to get it working.
Hey Jerry watched your video and went and bought one of those niffty little tools, $11.98 on sale, 50% off, now I don't have one of those tanks like you have on wheels, in just used a 5 gallon bucket and went to town. Only one light showing now, thanks for the info.
Super. Great to hear you had good results.
My black tank sensor was messed up for a long time. Now, just before I head out for the weekend, take a bucket of HOT water, about 4 gallons, dump that down the toilet and throw in one of those Cascade dish washing pods. The steam from the hot water, the hot water, and the Cascade pod now make for a nice mixture for the 2-hour drive to help clean the sensors, but actually clean the whole tank, and makes it smell fresher
Great tip. Thanks for sharing.
I will try this next week when we head out for a weekend jaunt! Thanks!
How do you then clean the wand so you can safely store it for future use? Wish you would have included that in the video.
Hi Gale. Best way to clean anything used with the black tank is a spray bottle filled with undiluted bleach. Spray, let sit for a few minutes, rinse.
Man... Those noises... That's the stuff nightmares are made of.
Living full time in my rv..never put toilet paper in the toilet! Thanks for the spinner hose idea!
With an tank enzyme and RV/marine toilet paper, we’ve never had an issue. Glad to hear the swivel stick was helpful.
Do you leave black tank drain open or closed when flushing with magic wand
Hi David. Open. You don’t want any water to build up so the sprayer can blast the crud off the bottom and side of the tank.
I have been using happy camper for 7 years it is the only way to go
Good stuff.
I have a question, what should I clean toilet with. I have been putting on a glove,letting water out of toilet and using a Clorox wipe to wipe it out thouroughly. I don't want to do this if Clorox is harmful. I threw wipe in trash not in toilet. Thanks for advice on this.
That’s exactly what we do. So little bleach is exposed to the tank we haven’t noticed any impact.
Fill up a few gallons of water in an empty container (milk or cat litter). When the "magic wand" gets through, as it is drawn up through the toilet use the water in the containers to wash the wand off.
Great tip.
Thnx....great presentation..I got 10 more months in this apt (lease) to learn all about camping/van life!
Thanks much Betty. You'll love the RV life. Enjoy the RV fun to the max and don't sweat the small stuff! Jerry....
I have constantly lived in a 5th wheel for over 2 years and use 2 & 3 ply regular toilet paper. I use nothing in the tank. Dump it every 10 days or when you start to smell it. No problems.
Do you still use the black tank flush hose and use this periodically?
I do. Once a year. More so a preventative maintenance.
Thx a bunch.. Ordered all the products you recommend.
Glad to share and hope all works great for you.
When are you supposed to use the happy camper powder?
One scoop after every black tank dump.
I hope to meet up with you out on the road. I think, with both our personalities, we'd have the campsite rolling on the floor.
Love this idea. Where did you buy the spinner hose end? It it something readily available? I've been using a spare hose will at the hook ups or dump site full blast water spraying into the tank multiple times filling and emptying each time. It seams to work well but take MUCH MORE time than this idea.
We are planning for a little "part time/full time" adventure. As a contractor and tired of our states greed of any of my profits I need to find a lesser of a open handed governmental agencies so we are looking for somewhere with something similar to the wonderful weather we have here but not too much of that cold white stuff that falls. My point... going for a couple month little "drive" with the trailer behind us. It's always nice to know the tanks are as clean as can be. Love the chemical treatment as well.
Just would love to know where to find the hose end you have there.
Thank you sir
Thanks much. RV life make the world a small place. Sure we cross paths somewhere. Amazon carries the Swivel Stick. Here’s a link amzn.to/2xtS6XO. You can also go to our web site at www.ilovervlife.com. There’s an Accessories page listed at the top where we have most of the items we use listed with links. Safe travels. Jerry...
Hi jerry can you think of a way to use such a tool in the gray tank? We personally have more problems with the gauges in the gray and have tried all kinds of products with varying success? Good day love your vids!
Thanks Dan. The gray tanks are a little easier to clean not having all the solids to deal with. Pour 4 ounces of RV Digest-It liquid amzn.to/2O2Mw5K in the sink drain and add a gallon of water after you dump. Use tank as usual. Depending on how much scum is built up, you may need to repeat a time or 2. Once the sensors are clear, add an ounce to the tank once a month and it will keep the sensors clean. Jerry...
Wow thank you much we already use rv digest from one of your other videos! Wife says thanks also👍
Lol...I really enjoyed your video. So funny but informative. Great tip about Happy Camper enzyme product. Thanks.
Hi Ann Lei. Thanks for watching and the kind comment. Using a tank enzyme was a game changer for us. Safe travels.
What is the active ingredient on the happy campers odor free ?
I’m told it’s a natural enzyme with no harsh chemicals. We’ve used since 2015.
Great video and tips. Can you tell me where you get the large Happy Camper, I only find the 18 treatment?
Hi Charles. I don't know what's going on with the Happy Campers folks. Everyone is having difficulty getting product. We're using RV Digest-It powder for hot climates now and having good results this summer - RV Digest-It powder for hot climates 30 treatments amzn.to/2SqtzeV or 120 treatments amzn.to/2XSpdmZ Using the 120, treatment is running about $0.63 per black tank dump.
@@iLoveRVlife Thanks again for the good information!
Very Helpful! I am only getting a small travel trailer, but I want it to be as clean as possible. How often do you do this deep clean on your full size RV?
So glad we can help. We travel around 7 to 8 months out of the year. We've found a once a year, deep clean works for us. Jerry...
HI Jerry, thanks you for a great presentation. keep up the good work. I have a question I'am hoping you can help me with.I am seeing light green water fill up my toilet bowl and it has a terrible odor. I clean my black tank at least once a week, and live alone. on the clear outside elbow is a green film on the inside. any suggestions ?
Hi Deb. Glad you found our videos helpful. Green water from the sides when you flush? Now that is a problem! This doesn't have any thing to do with your black tank, but is a concern for you water source. How are you getting your water - camp site water connection, your water tank? Regardless, it sounds like you have algea in your water supply and would expect discolored water in your taps as well. If you're living in your camper fulltime, you be out of water for 24 hours to fix. Also, depending on the severity of the algea, it could take a couple of treatments. You may want to consider doing the following to sanitize your fresh water system:
1) Empty you fresh water tank.
2) Create a mixture of household bleach and water 1/4 cup of bleach in a gallon of water for every 10 gallon capacity of your water tank. Example: 30 gallon tank - 3/4 cup of bleach and 3 gallons of water.
3) Pour bleach mixture into you water tank and fill tank full of water.
4) Turn on water pump and run water in each sink and flush your toilet until you smell the bleach (it will be slight, but noticeable).
5) Let sit for 24 hours.
6) 24 hours later, drain tank, refill with fresh water and run through sink and toilet.
7) Drain tank again, fill with water and run through sinks again until bleach odor goes away.
If you're fulltime in your camper, you could still use your toilet overnight, but buy a gallon of water for drinking and cooking until you complete all steps listed above.
Also, if you have a very old hose connecting your camper to your campsite water supply, this could also be part of the problem. They're inexpensive and the white, water safe hoses can be purchased at Amazon and may be available at a Walmart nearby is they have an RV accessories section.
I and many other RV owners do this once a year and it helps maintain a healthy fresh water system in the camper.
Good luck and hope this helps. Jerry.....