Size Matters

My husband and I have wanted to invest in an RV for years, but have only looked and not made the final step. We love to travel and enjoy fishing and the outdoors with our two younger children and three older ones as much as we can. Recently we narrowed down our favorite choices to three models. I realized that each model has different sizes of holding tanks. One coach’s black holding tank is only 22 gallons as compared to much larger on the other two models. I have been reading your column trying to learn more and I must admit they sound very intimidating. I was worried about the size of the tanks, now I am worried about the basic workings of RVing in general as I read your column. Should I be concerned about the tank size, especially the black tank?
Jodi, (Worthington, OH)

 

That’s my job Jodi, to put the fear of RVing into you! I’m just kidding! I hope you don’t get discouraged just because I publish questions about the technical issues with motorhomes. You should hear what the many millions of those who have not written to the RV Doctor have to say. It’s a great way for families to enjoy traveling. Indeed they all require maintenance, as does any house, but the good news is that any handyperson can do most of the maintenance personally, without the expense of a repair shop.

As far as holding tank capacity; with upwards of seven people using the amenities, that 22-gallon tank will fill quickly. I’ve always advised seeking the largest tank possible. If you like the floor plans of all three equally, I’d go for the one with the largest holding tanks. Now if you will predominantly be camping in a campground with sewer hook-ups, then it doesn’t really matter. It just means you’ll have to evacuate the tanks more often. If you will be dry-camping often, not connected to a park’s sewer system, then the larger the tank is preferable.