How do I get rid of the black tank pyramid?

A black tank pyramid refers to the buildup of waste and paper in your RV’s black holding tank, and it can put a significant damper on your RV travels. Waste buildup fills your RV with foul odors and is a pain to remove—without the right products. Here’s how you can prevent a pyramid from forming or eliminate one if it does.

Don’t leave your black tank valve open when you’re hooked up at a site.

If you allow your tank to drain gradually, the liquids will pass through while the solids build up in a solid pyramid. To thoroughly dump the contents of your tank, you need the assistance of gravity. Keep the valve closed until the tank is 2/3 full, and then dump it. 

Use an enzyme-based deodorizer.

Enzymes digest waste and paper, so using a deodorizer with powerful enzymes will keep the contents of your black tank from solidifying. Walex’s Bio-Pak is an enzyme-based formula contained in a rapid-dissolving water-soluble packet. When flushed down into the tank, the enzymes go to work immediately, breaking down buildup and deodorizing in the process. 

Use an enzyme-based black tank cleaner.

If you suspect a waste pyramid has formed in your black holding tank, you need to use Commando. Commando’s innovative formula is packed with enough enzymes to restore your black holding tank to good-as-new, no scrubbing or agitation required. Not only will it liquefy the waste and paper, but it will clean tank walls and sensors, restoring the accuracy of your sensors. Here’s how to use it:

1. Empty your tank, rinse out any chemical residue, close your dump valve, drop one Commando packet into the toilet, and flush
2. Then fill your holding above your highest sensor or completely full. 
3. Leave it in for a minimum of 12 hours. Commando is formulated to work in as little as 12 to 24 hours for those in a hurry, but it will not hurt your tank to leave it in longer, several days, for more stubborn holding tank issues or clogs. 
4. Empty your tank. Rinse again. You can now add your deodorizer, refill with 1.25 gallons of water for every 10 gallons of holding tank capacity and continue using the toilet.

You can use Commando to destroy existing buildup or preventatively every three months to control buildup from forming.

Happy adventuring!