Re: Head Suggestions
I have no experience with the bladder type holding tanks. Based on what I read they can be as bad or worse than the porta-p for odors. In the grand scheme of boating dollars, the cost of a porta-p doesnt show up on the radar. They are cheap. You could try one and if it doesnt workout, toss it. You should entertain no delusions of containing odors with one, but you can set it outside the cabin when not needed.<br /><br />In September 2002 Powerboat Reports did a review of porta-ps. I have not read it. You can buy a copy of the report online ($10/non-member or $7.50/member) or try to find it at a library for free.<br /><br />
http://www.powerboat-reports.com/pub/15_9/features/5252-1.html <br /><br />In the long run, I think you will be happier (she will!
) with a head and a holding tank, so Im going to toss this stuff out for you. In particular, take a look at the Raritan link below.<br /><br />For weekending you will be fine with a 4 or 5-gal holding tank. You are not going to want to use it for gray water holding. If you use a fresh water flush you will be doing a lot to keep odors down. Seawater contributes small animals to the holding tank that die and add to the odor problem.<br /><br />There will be two flavors of bacteria in there: aerobic and anaerobic. They both break down the matter but the anaerobic bacteria also cause odor. Current wisdom is a constant supply of fresh air (oxygen) will keep the anaerobic bacteria in check and promote the growth of aerobic critters. Obviously you dont want your holding tank open and exposed. Groco makes something they call SweetTank. It is a low amp-draw air pump for the holding tank that is sourced and vented to the exterior of the cabin. They claim it circulates enough air inside the holding tank to eliminate odors without chemicals. All of the reviews I have read about the SweetTank are very positive. We are installing this configuration, but not a Groco because I dont like the idea of the macerator pump inside the holding tank. I think I can make one myself with a small air pump and some air-tight fittings added to the holding tank.<br /><br />
http://www.groco.net/cat_toilets.html. <br /><br />Polyethylene is supposed to be about the best synthetic material for containing odors. The thicker the better but you will want at least 3/8-in thick. One company is making double walled polyeth holding tanks (forget who just now) but they are not cheap. Raritan makes a 5-gal polyet holding tank that wraps around most standard marine heads. It is either permanent or portable. This might fit your needs.<br /><br />
http://www.raritaneng.com/products/holding_tanks/compact_tanks.html <br /><br />I dont like Todd tanks. Forgot about Ronco. SeaLand is good stuff but the tanks are a little on the large size for weekend use, 9-gal and up.<br /><br />
http://www.sealandtechnology.com/holdtank.html <br /><br />Probably the weakest link in odor control is the hoses. If you end up installing any, get a high quality hose, something like Trident Premium 101 Sani-Shield or SeaLand OdorSafe.<br /><br />
http://www.tridentmarine.com/stage/sanitation.htm <br /><br />
http://www.sealandtechnology.com/accessories.html <br /><br />I hope some of this is useful for you.
