AIRSTREAM LAND YACHT GAS When Parked and Connected to Sewer Outlet
When you are in a park and connected to a sewer outlet, keep the main holding tank dump valve closed and
empty the tank every few days or whenever it becomes almost full. ONLY BY SENDING A LARGE
VOLUME OF LIQUID THROUGH THE MAIN HOLDING TANK AT A TIME WILL TOILET PAPER
AND OTHER SOLIDS COMPLETELY WASH AWAY.
This practice will avoid the accumulation of solids in the main holding tank, which could lead to an
unpleasant cleaning job. Should solids accumulate, close the dump valve, fill the tank about half full with
water, then drive the motorhome for a few miles. The turbulence and surging of the water will usually
dissolve the solids into suspension so the tank can be drained. Keep the auxiliary tank valve open when
connected to a sewer outlet.
Draining the tanks as described will protect them from freezing during storage. When traveling in sub-
freezing temperatures, use a winterizing solution designed for RV use. Follow the directions on the
container. As this is being written, heated tanks are being considered and may be on your motorhome.
CAUTION: Never put wet strength paper towels or tissues in your holding tank, since they won't
dissolve and can "catch" in the mechanism of the dump valve. Colored toilet tissue is slower to
dissolve than white. Most RV accessory stores offer tissue, designed for RVs that will completely
dissolve.
BLACK TANK FLUSH
On the side of the motorhome is a large
utility compartment with a keyed door. A
spigot and garden hose female connector is
inside. In the utility compartment on the left
rear lower side is a water hose connector
marked "black tank flush". (Don’t mistake
it for the exterior water spigot.)
Hook-up a ½” or larger water hose and turn
it on full force. Within the tank a multiple
holed plastic water line will spray the
interior surface of the tank.
The gate valve should be closed for the first
couple of minutes to let some water
accumulate in the tank, and then opened to
let the water out in a rush. Repeat as needed
Drain Systems Cleaning
There are many deodorizers on the market in tablet, liquid, and powder form. These not only combat odor,
but also stimulate the bacteria that works to dissolve the solids in your tank. Picking a deodorizer with
lubricating qualities will help ease the slide valve operation.
The only cleaning agents that can be used without causing harm to the system are household ammonia and
tri-sodium phosphate in small quantities. Do not use any product that contains any portion of petroleum
distillates. This attacks the rubber seals of your toilet and dump valve. Also, do not use any dish detergent
or abrasive cleaners. All products should be marked approved for ABS drainage systems.
When winterizing the drains use only recreational vehicle plumbing type antifreeze. These are sold through
your dealer.