Holding Tanks .....Alternative Placements

How can you tell when your sanitation hoses need replacing? Well actually, long before they reach this stage. This GB58 came into Oxford with an odor problem as well as insufficient holding tank storage capacity. We obviously had to replace the hoses. The area in this picture is where dips in the hose occur allowing raw sewage to collect and permeate the hose. To gain the capacity required we had to be creative. Our solution was to utilize the space under the queen berth in the master stateroom.

This space was previously unused but the installation had to be perfect because, face it, who wants to sleep over a holding tank. We also lined the underside of the berth top with Soundown insulation to hide the sound of the sloshing and mechanical activities of the tank. All Y-valves and vented loops were also replaced and the odor has left the boat. This installation occured several months ago and according to the captain all is well up to this date.

Wayne, our master carpenter, lays up a mock tank for this job. In most places we first mock up a tank out of luan to ensure the best fit possible. It also allows us to find out about installation problems before the actual tank is made which is cost effective in the long run considering the cost of having to remake a tank. Our hoses are led with no dips and fastened with cushioned clamps to avoid chafing. We also use only Groco bronze vented loops.

Did You Know?

Sewage contains two types of bacteria: aerobic bacteria which needs oxygen and anaerobic which thrives in an airless enviornment. Only the second type creates odor and it can't survive in an aerobic atmosphere. Plenty of air will keep the odor down and the aerobic bacteria breaking down the waste.

There are currently several bio-active additives which contain live aerobic bacteria which can be added to your tank to help keep the odor from forming. As we are just starting to experiment with these, we will hold our report for a later date. For now, make sure your vents are working and of a sufficient size.