How Long Between Pumpouts..?

Squidd · #1 (**permalink**) 11-28-2011

My plan is to keep my boat "dry slipped" on the trailer, mast up, at the yard.

I really only plan on using it every other weekend or so, two to four people, on weekender overnighters....mostly two people trips...

I wonder if I need to pump out every weekend, or can I leave it sit till I get half tank or better to pump..

Any chemical/organic treatment between pumpouts..?

LakeSuperiorGeezer · #2 (**permalink**) 11-28-2011

In cold weather there should be no anaerobic activity like in a septic tank. Even if there were, it would not be a problem. I am saying this from my experience with my RV. I do not think the sludge would settle and compact such that you could not pump it out.

Squidd · #3 (**permalink**) 11-28-2011

I'm more refering to "next season" when I first launch the boat..

Just using it for the weekend, and then back on trailer till next time..over the course of "summer"...

It's Lake Superior weather so other than that one warm Wednesday afternoon, you could call it "cold weather".. LOL

cruisingdream · #4 (**permalink**) 11-28-2011

the longer it sits the more time it has to permeate hoses & tanks
so pump it when you get back , it is worth it !

jackdale · #5 (**permalink**) 11-28-2011

Maybe carry a port-a-potty that you can take home and empty.

Minnewaska · #6 (**permalink**) 11-28-2011

If you treat with Raritan KO and have good air exchange (vent line), the tank will theoretically maintain itself. You then have to be very diligent that absolutely nothing goes down the head, except toilet paper and stuff you previously ate. Nothing, or it will kill the good bacteria in the KO. However, after two weeks, I would become concerned about sediment that could clog your discharge tubes. If we are going to leave a couple of flushes in the tank for an extended period (usually 4 or 5 days at the most) we have a liquid deposits only policy at that point. Other needs go ashore.

Additionally, you would have to flush plenty of fresh water to clear the line before you depart, one gallon minimum up to three gallons. That can eat up holding tank volume.

If it were me, I would pump it.

T37Chef · #7 (**permalink**) 11-28-2011

Quote:

Originally Posted by jackdale

Maybe carry a port-a-potty that you can take home and empty.

Thats what I was thinking

Squidd · #8 (**permalink**) 11-28-2011

OK I can see where it'll depend on usage and tank capacity, I just didn't want to have to pull up to pump out station for every 5 gallon weekend when I have a 20 gallon tank...

Guess we'll have to play this one by ear (nose) once we're out on the water...

Quote:

Maybe carry a port-a-potty that you can take home and empty.

Yeah, that's kind of why I bought a bigger boat with full head..so I could avoid that hassle...

What is the usual proceedure for pump out..is that a pay as you go thing, or part of your mooring/slip package..?

Tempest · #9 (**permalink**) 11-28-2011

Many harbors now have free pumpout stations or vessels. Vessels are usually reached by VHF radio. My Marina has a token operated self-service station, pull in depost tokens, pump out. There is supposed to be a vessel in my area, but I haven't seen it yet.

mitiempo · #10 (**permalink**) 11-28-2011

If it is kept over the winter on a trailer in your location you will have freeze issues if it is not emptied beforehand.