This product, redesigned for simple installation as well as simple operation enables RVers to empty holding tanks at the flip of a switch....
We are always looking for ways to make our lives a little easier, and that is no exception for RVers. Especially when it comes to the nasty task of dumping the holding tanks on our RVs. OK how many of you ladies have to deal with this dirty task as well. When you think about what your hands are coming in contact with, you just may want to read on . . .
Phase Four Industries the manufacturer of Drain Master electric RV waste valves continues to improve on a product that has been around for 8 years.
The majority of electric and pneumatic dump valves available today are add-on units that actuate an existing standard blade-type dump valve. They accomplish this by attaching their mechanism to the stem of the valve, and thus operate in this manner. The Drain Master valve takes a different approach – Drain Master is actually an electric valve that replaces the standard gate valve on most RVs. The actuating motor and gears are built into the body to create a compact, unitized valve (valve dimension = 10” w x 6” h x 1 ¾” depth). The valve has been redesigned after recommendations were received when the company solicited RVers’ input. Newest improvements have been the new “cutter” feature on the valve which allows the blade to assist in cutting any TP that may become lodged in the gate area along with a change to the double sided manual override. The override now consists of 1/8” Allen Wrench head.
The blade-style Drain Master valve is driven by a tiny but powerful and fast 12-volt DC motor. The motor draws less than 2.5 amps during operation, and draws no power when held in the open or closed positions. The product is designed to reduce the time and energy required for emptying holding tanks. After the owner attaches the drain hose as usual, a simple flip of a switch opens or closes the Drain Master valve.
The Drain Master is available in a 3-inch valve size, as many RV manufacturers are using 3-inch plumbing on both the black water and gray water holding tanks. This is probably the result of larger tanks taking longer to empty waste through the smaller lines. An adapter kit, sold separately, allows Drain Master to be used with 1 ½” or 2-inch pipes.
Phase Four Industries supplies detailed instructions that explain how to remove the old valve and install the Drain Master. Several safety precautions are emphasized, the most prominent of which is printed on a card protruding from the valve itself. The card includes a warning not to operate the valve prior to installation, because the plastic gate has a sharp leading edge and takes only a second to activate. This could cause injury to a couple of fingers.
Drain Master should fit into service areas on most RVs. Before starting the installation, empty and flush the holding tank(s). Remove the four bolts connecting the old valve to the flanges, separate the plumbing, and remove the old valve and the seals. Before installing the new Drain Master valve, be sure the gate is in the closed position. New seals are provided and it is critical for a trouble free operation that the correct Drain Master seals are used. The seals are a snug fit and should be placed directly onto the flanges on the existing piping after they are lubricated with the supplied lubricant (Dow111 recommended). Please note the seals should not be installed on the valve – very important). The valve can be installed in any position other than the motor down position. There is a newly redesigned double sided manual override to operate the valve in case of an electrical failure on the RV and the valve must be opened manually. You just need 1/8” Allen Wrench to operate the override – old design used a flat blade screwdriver.
The valve comes with a rocker switch and stick on labels to identify the black or gray water tanks, and the wiring is color coded. Naturally, 12 volts must be available for the electric motor to operate. Instructions call out for a 5-amp fuse in the supply line.
The Drain Master is compact enough to fit into close quarters, yet is simple to install (complete installation should take no more than one hour). Operation is simple as well. Suggested retail pricing is $108.27. It comes with a two year warranty. Drain Master is available at most Camping World stores and many RV dealerships and repair shops. For more information, contact Phase Four Industries directly at (877) 787-8833 or visit www.drainmaster.com.
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