sewer lines and tanks

[pilk]

Has anyone found a way to stop the odor from the drains? We use the tank treatment products but that doesn't seem to help. I seem to recall hearing about using baking soda and vinegar but don't want to use anything that will harm plumbing,gate valves, seals etc.the problem is in both the kitchen and bathroom sinks. I recall seeing advertisement for some brand of foaming drain cleaner but again I don't know if it would harm rv plumbing. Would love to know if anyone has found something that cures this problem.

[CORattler]

It sounds like a venting issue. I would investigate this 1st.

[Mike117]

I don't think vinegar and baking soda would hurt plumbing. Just used it in my drains at home because of odors. It bubbles up but never had a problem. If RV plumbing is good don't see a difference. May be a Plummer out there will weigh in.

[jcurtis934]

Since you are talking both grey tanks...are you leaving the valves open and allowing the sewer gases into your tanks...hence into your plumbing? The shower, with its rubber one way flap gizmo really doesn't seal all that well and tank vapors will still invade the rv unless stoppered with a rubber plug. You don't say what model or year montana, so you may also have one with a air admitance valve under the sink in spite of also having a roof vent for the kitchen sink. If so, cheap vents almost always stick partially open and allow gases into rv. This can be capped off in most cases. Chemicals...since the drain pipes are just like home, most things won't hurt them. Vinegar is a extremely weak acid and baking soda a weak alkaline whick is not harmful...but I think you would have to dump in a lot to do any good. I think I would add an enzyme cleaner and allow it to work first. John

[tooth ferry]

While camping last week, on the 3rd or 4th day started getting bad odor under kitchen sink. Replaced vent valve with $2.99 replacement from Ace Hdwe. No more problem. 2014 Mon HC