Most RVs have two wastewater tanks: a grey tank for wastewater from the sinks, and a black tank for wastewater from the toilet. So when it’s time to do everyone’s least favorite RV chore – cleaning out the tanks, it’s important to understand your hoses! So are your RV sewer hoses universal?
Yes, RV sewer hoses are universal; they are all the same size, regardless of your RV make and model. RV sewer hoses connect to the black-water tank, which requires 3-inch diameter tubing. This is the universal diameter for all black-water tanks.
While all black-water tanks, and therefore all sewer hoses, have the same diameter, not all RV sewer hoses are of the highest possible quality. So let’s get into how to tell if your sewer hose is the quality of hose you want for your black-water tank.
What Is A RV Sewer Hose?
RV sewer hoses attach to the tank dump connecting outlet, allowing you to empty the contents of your tanks safely and hygienically. These hoses are designed to be lightweight and easy to store but are also durable.
What Makes A RV Hose “Universal”?
Universal measurements for hoses mean they conform to a standard diameter. For RV sewer hoses, this means 3 inches. All RV sewer hoses have a 3-inch diameter with lugs and fittings on either end.
RV sewer connections are generally universal. This means that while your new RV sewer hose will conform to universal measurements, your connections might not.
Can There Be Differences Between Universal Hoses?
Universal RV sewer hoses all have one thing in common: their 3-inch diameter. Beyond that, there can be a wide range of variations between different RV sewer hoses.
RV sewer hoses come in a wide variety of lengths. Most manufacturers make sewer hoses ranging from 10-20 feet.
Thickness is another factor that varies from hose to hose and is the main determining factor when deciding which universal sewer hose is best for your RV-ing needs. Often, the price of a hose is determined by its thickness.
Hoses often vary in price, based not only on their thickness but also on the smoothness of their interior. A hose with a smooth interior allows waste to flow more efficiently and is also easier to clean.
How Long Should My Hose Be?
Most RV sewer hoses range from 10 and 20 feet. Most full-time RV-ers report using 20-foot hoses. Longer hoses are generally best, even for part-time RV-ers.
The goal with hose length is to be sure you have enough hose to reach the dump station and sewer hook-up. The distance from the RV to these hook-ups can vary, which is why most RV-ers prefer a longer hose.
A few factors to consider when deciding on hose length are the location of your RV’s water compartment. For example, if your RV’s water compartment is in the middle of your vehicle, while the hook-up is set to further back, you will be glad to have the extra hose length.
Why Have Adapters If Sewer Hoses Are Universal?
Dump stations and campsites do not always conform to the universal standards set for RV sewer hoses. This is why it is a good idea to keep adapters in your RV storage in case your connection does not fit the universal hose.
Adapters will allow you to compensate for variations in height, angle, sizes of pipe diameter, and your RV’s distance from the connection. Being prepared is never a bad thing when it comes to RV travel, and especially when it comes to sewage and wastewater disposal.
What To Look For In A New RV Sewer Hose
There are many factors that go into making an RV sewer hose, from the length to thickness, to ease of cleaning and storage. These are all important things to consider when selecting the right sewer hose for you and your RV.
Is The Hose Easy To Use?
There’s no reason to complicate everyone’s least favorite RV chore. When selecting an RV sewer hose, look for one that is long enough to get the job done, and is not overly complicated.
RV sewer hoses with built-in attachments and additions are not always the most efficient option for a job that most people want to get done with as quickly as possible.
Can The Hose Be Stored Easily?
An RV sewer hose is not generally considered to be the most attractive home decoration. Have a plan for how you want to keep your sewer hose out of sight. Some RVs have built-in storage, and this is something to know about ahead of time – you want to be sure your new sewer hose will fit.
Is It Easy To Clean?
Not all RV sewer hoses are manufactured the same way. While they all have that universal diameter, there is even variation inside the hose itself. A hose with a smooth interior will be much easier to clean.
Does It Come With Attachments?
Hope for the best, but expect the worst; this is especially true when it comes to RV sewer hoses.
It’s natural to hope that your universal hose will conveniently attach to every hook-up and connection, but that’s not always going to be the case. If your new hose doesn’t come with attachments, consider investing in some so that you are ready for every waste-water dump situation.
What Replacement Parts Should I Keep On Hand For My RV Sewer Hose?
It’s never a bad thing to have replacement parts for your sewer system when you’re on the road. Some good replacement items to have on hand include an RV sewer connection, hoses, supports, storage caps, and seals.
What Do I Do If My RV Sewer Hose Cracks Or Tears?
When it comes to sewage equipment on your RV, it is easiest and also safest to simply replace the sewer hose. Fortunately, connecting a new sewer hose to your RV is simple as long as you have a replacement hose on hand.
In Summary
All RV sewer hoses are universal, but this only applies to the diameter. All RV sewer hoses are 3-inches in diameter, but there is a lot of variation when it comes to length, thickness, and interior texture. When selecting the right RV sewer hose for your rig, it is important to consider all of these factors before making your final decision.
