Are Tank Heaters Needed for Gray and Black Water RV Tanks

Updated 11/08/2021 | Published 01/15/2019

Question:

Hello, I like the possibilities of this heater. My scenario: I will install a pad on each, gray and black tank, daisy chained together, connected to our coach batteries with a switch. Mainly a precaution. Wont be using them while driving. Would these help to keep the pipes from freezing as well? Thanks

asked by: Michael J

Expert Reply:

The ThermaHeat RV Holding Tank or Step Heater Pad w/ Thermostat # 277-000163 can be installed on gray and black water tanks but in reality it's only really needed on freshwater tanks. You can easily put antifreeze in the gray and black water tanks and piping and you'll prevent them from freezing. Since the freshwater can't have that you'd have to use the heaters.

These would also help with preventing the pipes from freezing as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C

11/2/2021

Using a heating pad for just the fresh water sounds great. How much antifreeze would you add to the black and grey tanks, while camping, to keep them from freezing? I get that it’s easy to add. Just not sure how much to add.

Les D.

11/4/2021

Most RV antifreeze solutions are designed to be used at full strength to displace water in susceptible areas. In your case I would suggest putting heating pads on the gray and black tanks. Personally I add heat tape to the expose dump valve area as well.

Les D.

11/4/2021

@LesD Thanks. Appreciate hearing what you do. I'm a little confused though. Above Jameson C indicates that the heater "can be installed on gray and black water tanks but in reality it's only really needed on freshwater tanks." And, then suggests using antifreeze. This sounded good to me because I read that putting heaters on the black tank can result in gas, etc. Is that not really an issue?