Fresh Water Holding Tanks - forest river Forester Owner's Manual

Fresh Water Holding Tanks

Due to the vast array of floor plans and the necessary
rearranging of plumbing systems, locations will alter, but
in general, the holding tanks are located approximately
beneath the bathroom area. Drain valves and drain hose
storage are usually located on the driver's side.
The storage tanks are constructed of strong, lightweight
polyethylene, which minimizes both weight and mainte-
nance. Some models may have two gray water tanks
and one black water tank.
Each tank has a separate drain line and dump valve,
which permits dumping tanks individually or together.
Each tank should be emptied often at dump stations des-
ignated for this purpose. These dump stations are found
at most campgrounds and are well marked. Many ser-
vice stations, particularly along interstate highways, also
have these facilities. Campground directories list dump-
ing station locations across the nations.
If possible, dump holding tanks before a trip to reduce
the gross vehicle weight. Enough water should be kept in
the black water tank to cover the bottom to prevent hard-
ening of any residue that may remain. Never dump black
water tank until it is 3/4 full. This practice ensures that
enough water is in the tank to flush all wastes into sewer
line. If necessary, fill the tank to the ¾ mark with addi-
tional water before draining.
Never put anything in the holding tanks other than nor-
mal drain water, wastes and biodegradable products.
Paper wrappers, gum, cigarettes, etc., no matter how
small, should NEVER be placed into either the gray or
black tanks.
NOTE:
You can find biodegradable paper products at most
stores that sell camping supplies and at campgrounds
that have a store on the premises. You can also find
chemical substitutes to deposit into the waste tanks if
you prefer.
NOTE:
It is important to note that harmful and toxic materials
can accumulate if the holding tanks are not regularly
drained and thoroughly rinsed. It is also important to use
holding tank deodorizing and cleaning agents in the
waste water tanks to reduce orders and keep the lines
open and free flowing.
Empty the Holding Tanks
1. Remove the sewer drain hose from its storage com-
partment on the side of the recreational vehicle.
2. Remove the cap from the RV drain and connect the
drain hose to it.
3. Attach the other end of the flexible drain line to the
dump station inlet. Be sure both ends of the flexible
drain line are securely attached.
4. Drain the black water tank first by pulling the termi-
nation valve handle toward you. Be sure to allow
sufficient time for the tank to completely drain, and
then rinse the tank with several gallons of water by
depressing the stool pedal or hand flush handle.
Close the valve on the stool and let it fill before
releasing to the tank. This creates additional force
to flush the tank more completely.
5. Drain the gray water tank by pulling the termination
valve handle toward you. Draining the gray tank last
uses the soapy water in the tank to rinse the drain
and flexible hose.
6. When tanks are emptied, close termination valves
by pushing handles back to closed positions.
7. Remove flexible drain hose and wash it thoroughly
with clean water. Remove the other end from the
dump station inlet and replace it in its storage com-
partment. Secure the sewer hose storage cover,
and replace the caps on both the recreational
vehicle outlet and the dump station inlet.
NOTE:
Follow these guidelines to help ensure trouble-free
operation:
• Never put anything in the black water tank other
than biodegradable RV toilet paper.
• Do not put automotive antifreeze, household toilet
cleaner or drain cleaners, or any solid material into
the waste water system.
• Always use chemicals in the black water system
that are made especially for this purpose.
• When cleaning components of the waste water sys-
tem, use cleaners made for RV systems.
• Always keep the drain cap in place and termination
valves close.
• After every third time the holding tanks are emp-
tied, fill and flush both tanks with clean, fresh water
a couple of times to keep them clear and clean.
Keeping the black water tank clean allows the monitor
panel to accurately assess the status of the tank. Always
remember to clean up the dump site before leaving.
Never empty your holding tanks directly on the ground or
into a river or stream. Do not pollute!
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PLUMBING