There are a handful of things that can cause your RV toilet to clog, but one of the most common is not flushing.
If you have been following our tips for how to keep an RV clean, and it still won’t flush, we’ve got some simple DIY solutions for you.
Methods to Unclog an RV Toilet
Following a cleaning and maintenance routine will help you avoid the need to unclog your RV toilet. But, when it’s already backed up here are some steps that will resolve the problem quickly.
DIY Methods to Unclog an RV Toilet – VIDEO:
Before we get started on how to unclog an RV toilet, we wanted to share a video with you. This will help you see what the process looks like and give you an idea of some of the methods that can be used.
There are a few different ways to unclog your RV toilet, but before you start any of them, make sure that you have a good grip on the plunger.
1) Using a Garden Hose
If you’re able to snake your garden hose through one of the vent holes at the top of the toilet, this is an easy way to unclog an RV toilet.
Just make sure that you don’t let go of both ends or pull too hard on them when there is resistance. This could cause you to break your holding tank hose or damage the hose itself.
2) Using a Plunger
The main difference in how to unclog an RV toilet with a plunger is that it will require more muscle. Make sure you are wearing gloves because this will help protect your hands from any chemicals that may be on the outside of the tank.
If you don’t have any rubber gloves, then consider using dishwashing gloves instead. They are safe for human contact and easy to find at most stores these days.
Make sure there’s lots of water on both sides of the plunger before plunging but make sure not to over-saturate it either. This can make it too heavy when trying to plunge.
Once you’ve plunged a few times, go back and check the water level. You may need to add more so that the plunger has something to push against.
If the plunger doesn’t work, then try one of the following methods:
3) Using a Wet/Dry Vacuum
If you have a wet/dry vacuum, this can be an easy way to unclog your RV toilet.
Just make sure that you don’t suck up any of the water from the tank or you will end up with a wet mess in your driveway or garage.
Attach the vacuum cleaner directly to the hose that is coming out of the RV toilet. Turn it on plunge at the same time for about 5 to 10 seconds. If it doesn’t work, then try one or more of the following methods instead:
4) Using Drain Cleaner
Another easy way to unclog an RV toilet is with a drain cleaner. This only works if you have some in your RV already. It’s best to use one that’s specifically meant for RV toilets like this one here.
Simply pour the drain cleaner down inside of the toilet and let it sit for about 30 minutes (if not longer) before flushing.
If this method fails, then try using a wet/dry vacuum or plunger instead. You can also use both at the same time like as mentioned above in the option.
5) Using Hot Water & Baking Soda
This is a two-step process that can help to unclog your RV toilet.
First, add about a quart of hot water to the tank. Then, add 1/2 cup of baking soda and let it sit for about 30 minutes before flushing.
If this doesn’t work, then try one or more of the other methods mentioned here.
Hopefully, one of these methods will work for you and your RV toilet will be clog-free in no time!
Can boiling water be used to unclog RV toilet?
Boiling water can help to break up the clog and clear the line. Be sure to use caution when working with hot water, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific RV toilet.
If boiling water doesn’t work, you may need to use a plunger or plumbing snake to clear the clog. If these methods don’t work either, it’s time to call a professional plumber.
Clearing a clogged RV toilet is not an easy task, but it can be done with a little patience and some basic tools. By following these steps, you should be able to get your RV back up and running in no time!
Know about Cost: How Much Cost To Dump RV Waste?
Last Words:
While many techniques can be used to unclog an RV toilet, the following is one of the most popular and effective methods.
Before you start, make sure your holding tank has been emptied so it does not overflow with water or waste once you have dislodged whatever is clogging it.
Next, remove the lid from the bowl and use a plunger on top of an upside-down bucket (preferably plastic). Cover as much surface area as possible by pressing firmly in circular motions for at least five minutes before pulling out some suction power to release any buildup below.
If this process isn’t working after 10-15 minutes then try using some liquid dish soap instead of water to create more lather. If that still doesn’t do the job, then it’s time to bring out the big guns with a wet/dry vacuum.
If none of these work, then you can try a few of the other methods listed above. But, be prepared for some serious elbow grease!
Hopefully, one of these tips will help unclog your RV toilet in no time. Happy travels!