Airstream Safari - Manual (Page 74)

F
PLUMBING
F - 11
DRAIN AND WASTE SYSTEM
Your trailer has a drain and waste system that includes waste-holding tanks made from
molded plastic, free from corrosion problems, with trouble-free dump valves.
The MAIN HOLDING TANK enables you to use the toilet for several days away from
disposal facilities.
The wastewater from the sink, shower, bath and lavatory drains in the AUXILIARY
HOLDING TANK. Each tank has its own dump valve, however, both tanks drain through
a common outlet. Therefore, you need to make only one connection when hooking up
in a trailer park with sewer facilities.
NOTICE : 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.
Deodorizers
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.
Monitor Panel
Check your monitor panel frequently. When the BLACK WATER HOLDING TANK is
completely full, sewage cannot be emptied from the toilet bowl. If the GRAY WATER
HOLDING TANK is overfilled, drain water will “backup” into the tub and cause an
unpleasant cleaning job. Never drain the tanks at any place other than an approved
dumping station.
Emptying Tanks
Almost all campgrounds will have dumping facilities. Park directories such as Woodalls
and Rand McNally also list dumping stations.
To empty one or both tanks attach the sewer hose by pressing the bayonet fitting onto
the dump valve outlet and rotate clockwise until it feels solid and secure. Attach the
outlet end of the hose to the sewage outlet; making sure that the hose is placed so it
will drain completely.
Pull the dump valve handle as far as it will go and wait until the tank is drained. When
dumping, the main holding tank should be dumped first; then the auxiliary holding
tank. This will help to rinse out the sewer line with auxiliary holding tank water.
The main holding tank must be flushed out until all paper and waste material is re-
moved. Close the dump valve and refill the tank with clean water and repeat until
clean. Replace the cap prior to traveling.