Everything You Should Know About RV Toilets

Living the RV lifestyle means creating a home away from home. And when it comes to life's necessities, a toilet is right at the top of the list. But there are several different types of RV toilets and much more to know about installing and maintaining them than many RV travelers expect. This comprehensive guide is going to discuss everything you need to know about RV toilets, empowering you to choose, maintain, and upgrade the perfect facilities for your adventures.

Understanding the Basics of RV Toilets

We’ll start by discussing the basic information you should know about RV toilets.

What Makes RV Toilets Different

Before we can dive into the specifics, we need to cover what makes an RV toilet different from a model you’d find in a stationary home. Unlike in a home bathroom, RV toilets have to contend with constraints on space, weight, water usage, and waste management. Because of this, there are different types of RV toilets in the market, each designed to address these constraints to varying degrees. So when outfitting your RV with the right throne, you must have your particular needs in mind.

Why It Matters

The type of toilet in your RV can influence your comfort on the road, your environmental impact, and even your vehicle’s resale value. Understanding the options available ensures you make the best decision for both your current and future needs. With a bit of planning, you’ll never need to worry about your RV toilet hindering the space’s practicality.

Types of RV Toilets

Let’s get into the different forms of RV toilets you may see and pick from.

Cassette Toilets

Cassette toilets are portable units that are removable for waste disposal. They have a detachable waste tank beneath the bowl, which you can take to a dump station for emptying. They typically use water and are most suitable for smaller RVs and campervans.

• Pros: They’re lightweight, usually have a flush, and are easy to dump quickly.
• Cons: The smaller unit means more frequent dumps, and the emptying process might not be suitable for all campers.

Composting Toilets

Composting toilets use the natural decomposition process to break down waste into compostable material. They don't require water, and you can use them in even the most remote locations.

• Pros: They’re environmentally friendly, conserve water, and can handle a variety of waste.
• Cons: They take longer for waste to break down, are larger and heavier, and have a learning curve for proper use and maintaining the composting process.

Gravity-Flush Toilets

The most common type in RVs, gravity-flush toilets operate using a simple flush valve and gravity to move waste down to the holding tank. These models also most resemble the toilets we’re familiar with at home. They’re therefore more comfortable to use.

• Pros: They’re easy to use, reliable, and mimic the traditional home toilet experience.
• Cons: They require a good seal to work properly and consume more water compared to other types.

Choosing the Right RV Toilet

Once you’re familiar with the different RV toilets available to you, you can start your search for your own. That’s why we also want to include a few important tips in our guide to everything you should know about RV toilets. Here’s some helpful advice to narrow down your options.

Size and Weight

Your RV's size and layout will dictate the capacity and weight limits of the toilet that it can accommodate. Measure the space and check the dimensions and rating of each toilet to narrow down your choices.

Water Consumption

Consider how much water each flush consumes. Water is precious when you're on the road, so finding a balance between function and conservation is key.

Maintenance

Different toilets have different maintenance requirements. Be honest with yourself about how much effort you're willing to put into keeping your toilet clean and in working order.

Lifestyle Needs

It’s also crucial that you tailor your choice to your lifestyle. Full-time RVers will have different needs than weekend warriors. Think about how you'll use your bathroom, and choose a toilet that fits those scenarios.

RV Toilet Maintenance

After deciding on a toilet, you’ll need to understand how to maintain it. Each type has different maintenance needs, and knowing them now will set you up for success down the line. Here are some basic maintenance requirements to keep in mind.

Regular Cleaning

Frequently cleaning your RV toilet not only keeps odors at bay but also prolongs the unit’s life. Use appropriate cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the pipes and seals.

Preventing Clogs

You should be mindful of what you're flushing. Avoid putting anything in the toilet besides waste and toilet paper, as foreign objects can lead to clogs and other issues.

Odor Control

Toilet odors can be unpleasant and pervasive in the closed quarters of an RV. Utilize holding tank treatments to break down waste and control smells.

Seal Checks

Additionally, take some time to inspect and maintain the seals of your toilet to avoid any unwanted surprises. A tight seal is essential for proper flushing and leak prevention.

Upgrading Your RV Toilet

Even if you make the best possible selection and take care of it, there may come a time when you want to upgrade your RV’s facilities. RV technology is always evolving as manufacturers look for new ways to make roughing it in a camper comfortable for everyone involved. Here are some additional details to know.

New Technologies

The RV industry is never at rest, finding intuitive ways to maximize comfort and practicality for those on the road. From low-water flush systems to remote-control-operated toilets, the options are more sophisticated than ever, and there’s no harm in learning more.

Accessories

In addition to a new toilet, plenty of accessories designed to enhance the bathroom experience in your RV exist. Think soft-closing toilet seats, bidets, and enhanced odor control systems. These items might seem small, but they can have a dramatic impact on your overall RV experience.

Installation Considerations

Should you ever want to follow through on an upgrade, you must keep installation in mind. Depending on the type of toilet you're upgrading to, you may need to adjust the plumbing, consider venting for composting units, or install different power sources for more advanced systems.

Your RV toilet choice is a personal one you should make with care. But in knowing all you can, you’re already in a great position to find the right match for your needs. United RV Center has a wide collection of RV replacement toilets for you to consider. We make sure to provide products that work with many different RVs, improving your chances of choosing something satisfactory. Shop with us today to learn more.