Filters for vents on holding tanks

J

joyful

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Joined
Sep 19, 2005
RO Number
19077
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21
We have a 2000 Carver 356 MY with two heads and two holding tanks.

I would like to install filters on the vent lines, but not sure what type of filter to use or where to best install.

I suspect the two tanks vent out of the same vent on the starboard side.

Any suggestions?

Don Fitton
 
Sealand makes two sizes of filters, depending on the size of your vent line. Most are 5/8.
It gets installed anywhere above the tank, in the vent line. they come with a mounting bracket if you specify it. Not sure if Boatfix sells them, but I would try them first.
 
A properly functioning holding tank does not need a vent filter. Have you checked your sewage hoses to see if they are permeated?

I do not believe in the use of filters. Use the right treatment for your tank (KO if it is well ventilated, Odorlos if you only have one small vent line), pump out regularly and rinse the tank when you pump out and you won't have any odors.
 
Google "Big Orange Filter" for a relatively new solution that has been recommended by many boaters.
 
I'm with Hogan on this. Filters are just treating a symptom, not the problem.
 
quote:
Originally posted by MikeeH

I'm with Hogan on this. Filters are just treating a symptom, not the problem.

Click to expand...

And so am I. Same reasons.
 
Well wait a minute. The "FUNCTION" of a holding tank is to hold waste. The "problem" being discussed is odor.

So I'd argue that preventing odor from being vented outside of the tank IS addressing the problem.

I think we all agree that there are 3 ways to accomplish that:

- The aerobic bacterial method
- The chemical method
- The filtering method

I had success with the first method, but I found it expensive and a hassle (one more product to buy and store and use). It's also fragile. If someone gets too aggressive with cleaning products in the bowl, there goes the expensive "good" bacteria.

The second method is also expensive, and on top of that, is also bad for the environment.

So I filter, successfully, and very inexpensively. It's also the way my boat was configured, so I don't have to re-engineer anything.
 
I'm with the no filter crowd as well. A properly maintained and vented tank should be able to take what ever waste you put in it without smelling. A tank that smells says something is wrong with the system. Additionally, I'm rather uncomfortable with the sizing of some vents that rely on a filter. I would think at pumpout time, there would be undue negative pressure on the tank.

That said, I understand SLW's point. Saint Max was built with a vent filter. It would be a RPITA to re-engineer the thing.
 
I would quess you would have similar tanks and vent lines to my 2002 Carver. Here is the link to replacement filters. http://www.trioniccorp.com You will most likely need the TA150 with the adaptors if you do not have one installed now.
 
Do a search on this topic via google. You can make your own for less than $10 each with PVC and plumbing fittings from homedepotlowes.
 
I'm not about to get into the discussion of the value of filters but will agree that you can easily make them by using PVC
for a fraction of the cost of off the shelf ones at over $80 each. Making your own allows you to replace the filtering charcoal repeatedly.
My boat was manufactured with one in the design and I continue to use them!
 
Just like so many things that that might not be real "captain" stuff, those filters work, the wife will be happy. So just instal one and have a beer.

Cor
 
quote:
Originally posted by KiDa

I'm with the no filter crowd as well. A properly maintained and vented tank should be able to take what ever waste you put in it without smelling. ..........

That said, I understand SLW's point. Saint Max was built with a vent filter. It would be a RPITA to re-engineer the thing.
Click to expand...


"re-engineering" would be nothing more than a piece of sanitation hose with the same fittings as the filter. Remove filter, replace with hose. Done.

Re-reading the original post, it appears he has no filters now but wants to install them. He doesn't say why but my advice would be to try Odorlos and see if it solves whatever provlem he is trying to solve. It's important to read, understand, and follow the directions. No additional chemicals, no cleaners, etc. and start with a tank that's been emptied and flushed of all chemicals.
 
^^^^^^^^^^

Problem is the vent is high and about 3/4 of an inch in diameter. The Regal was low and about 1/5 to 2 inches in diameter. The difference is not only the vent size, but the ability to rinse out the tank after each pumpout.
 
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