Installing RV Dump to Septic Tank (How Do I Joint)
RV dumps are special fittings that allow wastewater tanks on recreational vehicles to be emptied directly into a sewage system or septic tank. Adding an RV dump line to your existing septic tank can be a convenient way to handle waste during RV trips to your property. However, careful consideration should be made to ensure your septic system can handle the extra capacity.
In this article, I’ll cover all the key steps for properly installing an RV dump system to a septic tank.
What are the Considerations Before Installing
Before taking on an RV dump installation project, assess your existing septic tank capacity. A septic system that is undersized or already overloaded with a home’s wastewater alone will be further stressed by RV dumps. Confirm your municipal codes also permit RV disposal into your sewage system.
Determine the optimal location to place the dump station, ensuring it will be easily accessible when an RV needs to be emptied. The type of piping and fittings needed will depend on the distance to the tank and existing infrastructure. Always check regional regulations to ensure your project complies with permit, coding, and environmental requirements.
Materials You’ll Need
To install an RV dump line to a septic tank, you’ll need:
- PVC piping (size will depend on length of run)
- PVC elbows, couplers, tees, and other fittings
- A sewer hose connector with a backflow valve
- Watertight tank inlet riser/seal kits
- Solvent cement and glue for PVC joints
- A pre-fabricated septic tank access lid
- Various hand tools for digging, cutting, etc.
Step-By-Step Installation Guide
Step 1- Mark Location and Dig Trench: Measure from the RV pad to the septic inlet and mark a trench line for the PVC pipe. Dig a trench at least 18” deep from the septic inlet to the proposed RV dump site.
Step 2- Cut and Dry-Fit Piping: Cut the PVC piping to the appropriate length for your trench. Piece together the piping, elbows, and fittings to ensure proper fit.
Step 3- Glue Fittings and Assemble: Thoroughly glue all PVC joints and connect virgin PVC pieces where needed. Allow time for curing based on glue instructions.
Step 4- Attach Piping to Septic Inlet: Use a riser kit to raise and seal the septic inlet. Insert PVC assembly into the inlet, affixing an end-piece RV dump fitting at the connection point.
Step 5- Backfill and Pressure Test: Partially backfill to stabilize piping. Plug the piping end, fill it with water, and check for leaks at joints under pressure. Address any leaks before full backfill.
Step 6- Complete the Project: Fully backfill the trench and pack down the soil. Affix septic access lid at finished grade for easy access. Connect sewer adapter and test dump functionality with RV.
Guidelines for Waste Disposal
Remember, only human waste and toilet paper should enter the septic system. Also, many RV chemical treatments are harmful to septic systems. Because it can kill off the bacteria necessary to break down the waste.
One more thing, you should always filter your RV grey water tank before disposal. If there are too many solid buildups in the black water tank, use a septic tank additive to help break it down.
Alternatives to Installing RV Dump to Septic Tank
Many RVs utilize onboard waste storage instead of requiring immediate dumping. Absorbing deodorizers, tank sensors, and more capacity allows longer boondocking before needing to empty at a dump site. This avoids overburdening your home’s septic. You can look into installing one if septic tank installation is too much for you, or isn’t allowed by your local law.
You can also look into portable waste stations with attached storage tanks that provide sanitary dump access without connecting to onsite sewage infrastructure. Tanks can then be wheeled to designated dump points for environmentally safe disposal offsite.
