Practical guide: dump station routines

Experienced RV traveller Lisa Jansen breaks down the dump station routine to help those exploring New Zealand dispose of waste responsibly, safely, and as painlessly as possible.

For any seasoned camper traveller, regular visits to the dump station are routine. It’s nobody’s favourite part of the lifestyle, but most travellers quickly realise it’s no big deal. However, for caravan and motorhome newbies, it can be daunting.

In this Getting into Gear column, we break down the dump station routine, so you know exactly what to do – and what not to do – in order to correctly dispose of your waste.

What are dump stations?

A dump station is a designated facility where motorhome and caravan travellers can safely and responsibly dispose of their wastewater and toilet waste. Some dump stations provide separate disposal points for grey water (from sinks and showers) and black water (from toilets), with clear signage indicating where each type of waste should go, while others just have one disposal point for both. Many public dump stations are free to use, while some may request a small donation to help with maintenance.

Proper use of dump stations is essential to ensure waste is handled in a sanitary and eco-friendly manner.

Terminology

Before tackling the process, it’s helpful to understand some essential terms.

Grey water refers to the wastewater from non-toilet sources such as sinks, showers, and washing up. Although grey water is not as hazardous as black water, it can still contain bacteria and should always be disposed of properly to avoid environmental harm.

Black water refers to the wastewater from the toilet system, containing human waste and toilet paper. It is stored in a separate black water tank or a removable cassette, depending on the vehicle’s setup. Due to its organic content, black water can produce strong odours and pose health risks if not handled correctly. Proper disposal at designated dump stations is essential to prevent contamination and ensure environmental safety.

Fresh water refers to clean, potable water stored in an RV for drinking, cooking, and hygiene purposes.

A toilet cassette is a portable waste storage system that collects black water from the toilet. Unlike fixed black water tanks, a cassette toilet features a removable container that can be easily accessed from an external locker on the vehicle.

Evacuation hose (or just hose) is a flexible hose used to empty the grey or black water tanks into the dump station disposal points.

RV setups

Different RVs have varying configurations when it comes to water and waste storage. Understanding the difference helps you find the right vehicle for you and helps streamline the dump station process.

Toilet Cassette vs. Black Water Tank

One key difference is whether an RV has a cassette toilet or a black water tank. Most RVs in New Zealand have cassette toilets, where the waste is stored in a cassette that can be manually removed for emptying. Some RVs, especially larger vehicles, may have a fixed black water tank that requires an evacuation hose. These fixed tanks are often larger than the cassettes, meaning they don’t need to be emptied as frequently. While that’s generally a plus, it also offers more opportunity for smells to build up, especially if the system is not configured perfectly. It also means the entire vehicle needs to be driven to the dump station for emptying, while cassettes can be removed and taken to the dump station separately.

Tank Sizes and Monitors

Another aspect where RVs differ is the tank size and whether the tanks are monitored. Some vehicles have larger tanks that allow for longer travel between visits to a dump station, while smaller tanks require more frequent emptying.

Modern RVs often feature gauges that indicate tank levels, but older models may require manual checks or experience-based estimates. If you’re buying a used RV with tank monitors, make sure they are working, as these sensors have a tendency to break.

Built-in vs Portable Tanks

Another aspect to be aware of is the difference between built-in and portable tanks. Motorhomes typically have built-in water and waste tanks, meaning the entire vehicle must be taken to the dump station for emptying. Caravans, on the other hand, often use portable tanks that need to be set up outside the caravan and can be rolled to the dump station without needing to move the entire vehicle.

Locating a dump station

Finding dump stations in New Zealand is relatively easy. Most towns and popular tourist areas have public dump stations, often provided by local councils and free to use, although some may request a small donation to support maintenance. Holiday parks and some fuel stations also offer dump station facilities, usually for a small fee or included as part of an overnight stay or filling up fuel. The New Zealand Motor Caravan Association (NZMCA) also operates some dump stations specifically for members.

To locate the nearest dump station, use dedicated mobile apps, such as CamperMate, Rankers Camping and the NZMCA app (for members only), which show dump stations on a map and provide up-to-date information. Roadside signage featuring a blue symbol of a motorhome with a downward arrow also helps guide drivers to nearby dump stations.

Step-by-step dump station procedure

Following a systematic approach ensures a smooth and hygienic experience at the dump station.

Preparation

1. Identify your drain outlets and park your vehicle accordingly. Some dump stations are tight spaces, and manoeuvring can be tricky. It’s best to know where your drain points are before you arrive.
2. Wait patiently for your turn and respect others’ space.
3. Use disposable gloves or have soap and water ready for cleaning up afterward.

Emptying grey and black water tanks

1. Connect the evacuation hose securely to the outlet on your RV and position the other end in the dump station so it cannot accidentally move out.
2. Open the release valve to allow water to drain.
3. If needed, gently agitate the hose to clear blockages.
4. Once done, close the valve and then detach the hose and rinse it with clean water.

Emptying a cassette toilet

1. Remove the cassette from its compartment.
2. Position the spout over the designated disposal point and open the cap.
3. Press the air release button while tilting to pour waste. Make sure you do these two things simultaneously to avoid splatter.
4. Rinse thoroughly using the provided rinse water tap.
5. Return the cassette. Ensure it’s pushed all the way in. Otherwise, the valve might not open from the inside when wanting to use the toilet.

Clean up

1. Flush out hoses with clean water before storing them.
2. Rinse any spillages in the dump station area.
3. Dispose of gloves properly and wash hands.

Dump station etiquette

Maintaining proper etiquette at dump stations is crucial for ensuring a positive experience for all users. One important aspect is to be patient and wait your turn. Dump stations can be busy, particularly in popular travel areas. Exercising patience and courtesy helps everyone get through the process smoothly. Additionally, keep a respectful distance while others are using the facilities.

The dump station is not a place for socialising – giving fellow travellers space ensures a more comfortable experience for everyone involved.

Another key aspect of dump station etiquette is using the correct disposal points to avoid contamination and blockages. Furthermore, only wastewater and toilet waste should be emptied into the designated drains, and under no circumstances should foreign objects, such as wipes, nappies, or food waste, be disposed of in these facilities as they cause blockages. If you encounter a blocked or malfunctioning dump station, it is good practice to report the issue to the local council or site operator.Finally, make sure you always clean up after yourself, so the dump station is ready for the next user.

Useful gear and products

The right equipment and products can make the dump station routine quicker, easier, and more hygienic. One popular item is toilet chemicals, which help to control odours and break down waste efficiently within the black water tank or cassette. These chemicals are available from RV stores as well as some hardware stores. Gloves are also helpful, as they ensure a more hygienic experience when handling waste disposal tasks. However, please consider the environment before using a new pair of disposable gloves each time.

A popular accessory among motorhome and caravan travellers is the Dump Mate. This specially designed tool directs waste from a toilet cassette into the disposal point more cleanly and efficiently. Regular use of tank cleaning solutions is also recommended to prevent odours from developing and to keep the waste tanks in optimal condition. These cleaning products help break down any residue buildup inside the tanks, ensuring they remain fresh and function effectively.

Emptying wastewater and toilet waste might not be the highlight of your travels, but it’s an essential part of the RV lifestyle. And, with a bit of preparation, the right gear, and a respectful approach, it can become a straightforward and stress-free task, allowing you to focus on enjoying your adventures.