Holding tank not empty after pump out?

cghubbell · #1 (**permalink**) 09-15-2009

I had my holding tank pumped out for the first time recently so I could change the hoses. After pump out (which seemed to go well), there was still about 1/2" or less of blue liquid on the bottom.

Even after removing the pump out hose very little came out. I think the fitting that threads into the bottom of the tank sticks up a bit and prevents complete draining.

Having no prior experience with holding tank plumbing, I'm wonder if this is normal, or if I have an inappropriate fitting that needs replacement.

Thanks,
Chris

k1vsk · #2 (**permalink**) 09-15-2009

If that gap between the bottom of the tank and the pumpout pipe didn't exist, it would clog.

JohnRPollard · #3 (**permalink**) 09-15-2009

In my experience, that is perfectly normal.

At the end of the season, we flush repeatedly with fresh water, then we open the inspection port and stick the yucka sucka nozzle down in there to get the dregs.

capttb · #4 (**permalink**) 09-15-2009

It's about normal in my experience for the fitting to be a little above the bottom and you just can't get it all. It's a good idea to rinse and pump the tank out a FEW times before you wrestle with a tank, and have a beer before you start and some cold ones ready out in the fresh air for when you are done.

cghubbell · #5 (**permalink**) 09-15-2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by JohnRPollard

At the end of the season, we flush repeatedly with fresh water, then we open the inspection port and stick the yucka sucka nozzle down in there to get the dregs.

I like the sound of that tool... Gonna have to get me one! When I did the hose replacement a few weeks back I just donned rubber gloves and hoped for the best.

My first problem with that technique though is that the inspection port, thus far, has proved impossible to open. All things considered, I probably don't want to get in there anyway!