Pumpout Pointers

Did you know... Untreated sewage discharge from one weekend boater puts the same amount of bacterial pollution into the water as the treated sewage of 10,000 people.

• Keep your MSD (marine sanitation device) in good operating condition. Make sure all fittings, hoses and other pump mechanisms stay clean and lubricated.
• Keep a complete repair kit for your particular type of head on board. Use rapid-dissolving marine toilet tissue specifically designed for MSDs.
• Follow pumpout instructions. If instructions are not posted, or unclear, ask. Encourage the marina operator to post easy-to-understand instructions or ask for assistance.
• Rinse water through the pumpout system for one minute when finished pumping. Expensive breakdowns commonly occur when the sewer lines get clogged because of inadequate rinsing. Flushing water through the system is an inexpensive form of preventive maintenance.
• Only pump out your holding tank. Pumpouts are not designed to handle bilge water or other substances.
• Turn off the pump when finished so it will work for the next boater.
• Consider using a mobile pumpout service if you prefer not to service the head yourself.