How to Get Dried Poop Out of RV Tank? What Should Follow

RV enthusiasts, we’ve all been there — the dreaded sight and smell of dried poop in your RV tank. It’s not only unpleasant but can also pose serious problems for your vehicle. 

Navigating the intricacies of an RV’s sewage system can be a messy business. Over time, dried poop in the tank can become an unwelcome challenge for any RV enthusiast. The stubborn nature of dried waste poses not only a sanitation issue but also a potential threat to the smooth functioning of your RV’s plumbing system. As if road trips weren’t adventurous enough, dealing with a clogged or foul-smelling tank adds an extra layer of complexity to the journey.

To help you out in this case, I’ll go through this issue thoroughly and explore the challenges you might encounter, provide you with practical solutions, and ensure that by the end, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the problem head-on.

Procedure for Getting Dried Poop Out of Your RV Tank

So, it’s clear by now that dried poop can be a real headache certainly. Therefore, you shouldn’t wait any longer to get them out of your RV tank. Here’s how to effectively get dried poop out of your RV tank –

Use RV Tank Cleaners

RV tank cleaners are your secret weapon in the battle against dried poop. These products are specially formulated to tackle the toughest waste buildup in your tank. Here’s how they work –

• Enzymes and Bacteria: RV tank cleaners contain a blend of beneficial enzymes and bacteria. These microorganisms are like tiny waste-eating superheroes. When introduced into your tank, they go to work, breaking down solid waste and turning it into a liquid form. This not only helps with removing dried poop but also eliminates the associated odors.
• Digestion Process: The enzymes and bacteria in these cleaners feed on the waste, essentially digesting it. As they break down the waste, it becomes much easier to flush it out of your tank during the next dump. Think of it as a biological clean-up crew for your RV’s plumbing.
• Prevention and Maintenance: Besides their cleaning power, RV tank cleaners are also great for regular maintenance. Using them with every tank dump helps prevent waste from drying out and sticking to the tank walls, ensuring smooth and odor-free operations.

Soak and Agitate

When dealing with particularly tenacious dried poop, you may need to get a bit more hands-on. This approach involves the following steps –

• Soaking: Fill your RV tank with warm water, ensuring it covers the dried waste thoroughly. Add a good enzyme drain cleaner to the mix. Allow this solution to sit in the tank for a while. This soaking process will gradually soften the dried waste and make it easier to remove.
• Agitation: After the soak, drive your RV around. The sloshing action created during the drive helps to agitate the tank’s contents. This agitation further breaks up the dried poop, making it ready for dumping.

Apply Heat

Heat is a handy tool for loosening dried waste. Here’s how to use it effectively –

• Solar Heat: Park your RV in direct sunlight. The warmth from the sun can help soften dried waste over time. It’s a natural and environmentally friendly way to tackle the problem.
• Tank Heaters: If you’re in a colder climate or need a quicker solution, consider using tank heaters. These devices warm the tank’s contents, making waste removal easier.
• Hot Water: Another approach is to pour hot water into your tank. This can rapidly soften and liquefy dried waste, preparing it for removal during the next dump.

Mechanical Assistance

In some cases, dried poop may be particularly stubborn. When that happens, it’s time for some mechanical assistance –

• Tank Wand: Invest in a tank wand, which is a long, flexible tool designed to reach into your tank. You can use it to physically dislodge and break apart dried waste. It’s a bit messy but highly effective.
• Tank Jet: A tank jet is another option that uses pressurized water to blast away clogs and blockages in your tank. While it may not be the cleanest job, it can be a game-changer for persistent issues.

Proper Hydration

Keeping your RV tank hydrated is a fundamental preventive measure. Here’s why it matters –

• Preventing Drying: When waste dries out in your tank, it becomes stubborn and challenging to remove. Proper hydration ensures that waste remains in a liquid or semi-liquid state, making it easier to manage.
• Water Softeners: Consider adding water softeners or RV-safe chemicals to your tank. These substances help maintain optimal tank conditions by preventing mineral buildup and ensuring that waste doesn’t solidify.
• Optimal Flushing: A well-hydrated tank promotes efficient waste removal. When you eventually dump the tank, the liquid waste will flow out more easily, leaving you with a cleaner and odor-free tank.

Regular Maintenance

Prevention is always the best approach when it comes to dealing with dried poop in your RV tank. Here’s why regular maintenance is essential –

• Preventing Dried Waste: Using additives regularly, such as those containing enzymes, helps keep waste from drying out and sticking to the tank walls. This means you’ll be far less likely to encounter the problem in the first place.
• Odor Control: Regular maintenance also ensures that your tank remains odor-free. The enzymes in these additives help break down waste and eliminate any unpleasant smells.
• Efficient Operations: With a well-maintained tank, you’ll enjoy more efficient waste removal, accurate level readings, and a smoother overall RV experience.

Incorporating these cleaning and maintenance practices into your RV care routine will help you avoid the headache of dealing with dried poop in your tank and keep your RV adventures worry-free.

Causes Behind Dried Poop Buildup

Now you may be wondering why actually this troublesome issue occurs. What are the reasons behind this mess? Well, factors such as infrequent dumping, inadequate cleaning procedures, or the use of certain toilet paper types can contribute to the drying and solidifying of waste in the tank. Identifying these culprits is the first step toward prevention.

The Stinky Situation: Challenges of Dried Poop in Your RV Tank

So, you’re on the open road, enjoying the freedom of RV travel, when suddenly, you realize you have a stinky situation on your hands. Dried poop in your RV tank can lead to several issues, including –

Odor Problems

The unmistakable stench can make your RV a less-than-pleasant place to be. It might even waft into your living space, making the trip unbearable.

Blockages

Dried waste can clog your tank’s sensors, causing incorrect level readings and making it challenging to monitor your tank’s capacity.

Reduced Tank Efficiency

As dried poop accumulates, it takes up valuable tank space, reducing the tank’s overall capacity and potentially leading to more frequent emptying.

Corrosion and Damage

Prolonged exposure to dried waste can corrode your tank, leading to costly repairs or even replacements.

End Note

Dealing with dried poop in your RV tank is nobody’s idea of a good time, but it’s a part of RV life. With the right approach and products, you can make the process much more manageable. Say goodbye to the unpleasant odor and clogs, and hit the road with confidence. Remember, a well-maintained RV tank is a happy RV tank, and a happier you!

We hope this article has provided you with the information you need to tackle this stinky situation. If you have any further questions or need additional tips, please don’t hesitate to ask in the comments below. Safe travels, and may your RV adventures be free of poop-related woes!