RV holding tanks are an essential part of any RV adventure, managing waste and water so you can enjoy a comfortable, self-contained trip. Whether you're new to RVing or looking to brush up on the basics, understanding your RV's holding tanks is key to ensuring smooth travels. In this guide, we’ll break down the three main types of holding tanks—freshwater, gray water, and black water—and provide tips for maintaining them to keep your RV running efficiently and odor-free. Let’s dive into the essentials and help you feel confident on the road!
What are RV holding tank monitors?
Holding tank monitors use a series of lights or a digital display to show the fluid level inside each holding tank. The most common types of tanks monitored are freshwater, gray water (from sinks and showers), and black water (from toilets).
Identify the location of the holding tank monitor
The location of the holding tank monitor will differ from one RV to another, but more than likely, you'll find it somewhere on the wall next to or near the cab or entry door. The tank monitor might stand alone or be integrated into the RV's master control panel. Look for labels or icons showing which holding tanks the panel monitors
Having trouble locating the tank monitor? Documenting the tank levels before and after your trip is now part of the departure and return inspection. Ask your RVezy host to show you where the tank monitor is located and how to read the digital or illuminated light display.
Sample images of the most common RV tank monitors
Sea Level Tank Monitor with water pump
Holding tank monitor app
RV tank monitor
Firefly tank monitor
Reading an RV tank monitor
Once you locate the RV tank monitor, look for a series of indicators corresponding to each of the RV's tanks. Each tank will have its own indicator or set of indicators. The indicators are usually labeled or color-coded. Common labels include "E" for empty, "F" for full, and intermediate labels such as "1/3," "2/3," or "3/4" to show various levels in between. Some systems may also use color-coded LEDs or a numeric display.
- Activating the tank monitor. Depending on the system, you may need to press a button or toggle a switch to activate the tank monitor. This step may not be necessary for some RVs with automatic monitoring systems.
- Checking the tank levels. Once you activate the tank monitor, observe the indicators for each tank. The corresponding lights, numbers, or labels will show each tank's current level.
- Pro tip: You may have an inconsistent reading if the RV is not level. Ensure the RV is level when you're checking the status of the holding tanks, filling your freshwater tank, or dumping your black and gray tanks.
- Interpreting the readings. Determine the status of each tank using the labels or color codes. For example, if the freshwater tank indicator shows "3/4," the tank is approximately three-quarters full. If the black water tank indicator shows "F," it indicates that the tank is full and needs emptying.
- Taking action. Based on the tank readings, decide whether or not you'll need to dump or refill your tanks.
- Black and gray tanks. Avoid overflowing your tanks by dumping the black and gray tanks when the monitor indicates full or nearly full, and refrain from using them until they're empty again.
- Pro tip: Avoid stinky sewer hoses by dumping your black tank first, followed by the gray tank. The gray water will help flush out any black tank residue left in the hose.
- Freshwater tank. Refill your freshwater tank when the monitor indicates empty or nearly empty. If you're bypassing the freshwater tank and using city water, you won't need to refill the tank unless you plan on camping somewhere without water hookups.
- Black and gray tanks. Avoid overflowing your tanks by dumping the black and gray tanks when the monitor indicates full or nearly full, and refrain from using them until they're empty again.
Remember to regularly check your tank levels to prevent any potential issues related to empty or overflowed tanks.