How to Set Up the Thetford Porta Potti 145?
The Thetford Porta Potti 145 is a popular portable toilet choice for RV and camping use. Setting it up properly ensures it functions as intended. Follow these steps:
Unboxing
- Remove the Porta Potti 145 from its packaging.
- Check that it includes the toilet, detachable seat, toilet chemicals, and user manual.
Assembling the Toilet
- Slide the detachable seat onto the toilet, aligning the ridges on the bottom of the seat with the grooves on the toilet rim.
- Lock the seat into place by twisting it clockwise until it clicks.
- Open the toilet holding tank lid and install 4 D batteries into the battery compartment for the flush and level indicators.
Adding Initial Toilet Chemicals
Before first use, add toilet chemicals to break down waste and control odor:
- Add 3 cups (700ml) of Thetford Aqua Kem Blue or Aqua Kem Green into the holding tank.
- Add 2 cups (500ml) of water to activate the chemicals.
- Securely close the holding tank lid.
The initial chemical charge prepares the holding tank for up to 40 uses.
Final Steps
You're now ready to use your Thetford Porta Potti 145. Remember these final tips:
- Make sure the seal that locks the upper and lower tanks is correctly aligned and fully engaged.
- Open the valve blade in the toilet bowl for proper flushing.
- Consider desired privacy levels when placing the toilet in your RV or campsite.
Following this setup process ensures your portable toilet is ready for hassle-free sanitation on the go!
How to Use the Thetford Porta Potti 145?
Using the Thetford Porta Potti 145 properly helps keep it functioning and avoids unsanitary issues. Follow these steps each time you use it:
Before Each Use
- Add water to the toilet bowl up to the recommended fill line.
- Add toilet chemicals as needed - typically 1 cup (240ml) per week of regular use.
- Open the blade valve inside the bowl for proper flushing.
Using the Toilet
- Lock the toilet seat cover in the open position.
- Sit on the seat and use as you would a standard toilet.
- After use, close the seat cover and press the flush button to empty the bowl.
Emptying the Waste Tank
Empty the waste holding tank when it reaches the full line:
- Make sure the valve blade is closed in the toilet bowl.
- Remove the tank from the locked position on the toilet.
- Carry the tank to an approved waste disposal station.
- Rotate the emptying spout and extend outward.
- Pull the main handle outward until it locks to empty the tank contents.
- Rinse the tank with water after emptying.
Final Steps
- Re-install a cleaned empty holding tank under the locked ridges.
- Add toilet chemicals and water to the tank and bowl.
- Make sure the blade valve is open again.
Following this process keeps your Porta Potti functioning properly and safely contains waste.
How to Empty the Thetford Porta Potti 145?
Emptying the waste holding tank is an essential part of maintaining the Thetford Porta Potti 145. Follow this process when the tank reaches the full indicator line:
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Prepare the Toilet
- Make sure the blade valve inside the toilet bowl is completely closed.
- Flush the toilet bowl one last time to transfer any waste into the holding tank.
- Disconnect the tank from the locked position under the toilet bowl. The tank can then be carried separately.
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Locate Approved Disposal Site
You'll need to locate an approved waste disposal station. Options include:
- Dump stations at RV parks or campgrounds
- Marina pump-out stations
- Public toilets with sanitary disposal facilities
Never empty portable toilet waste into water sources, drains not designed for waste, or onto the ground.
Empty the Waste Tank
- With the tank at a disposal area, rotate the emptying spout 90 degrees until it locks in the outward position.
- Pull the main handle straight out until it locks into place. This opens the release valve so waste can empty from the tank.
- After the tank finishes draining completely, push the main handle back in to its closed position and rotate the emptying spout back to its standard rear-facing position.
Final Steps
- Rinse out the empty tank with water to keep it clean.
- Reinstall the emptied tank on the Porta Potti and lock it into place.
- Add toilet chemicals to help control odor and break down waste.
Repeating this process periodically keeps your portable toilet functioning properly during your travels.
How to Clean the Thetford Porta Potti 145?
Regular cleaning keeps the Thetford Porta Potti 145 functioning properly and free of unpleasant odors. Follow this process:
Supplies Needed
- Mild detergent or RV toilet cleaning solution
- Water
- Scrub brush
- Sponge or soft cloth
- Rubber gloves
Cleaning the Toilet Bowl
- Add water up to the bowl's recommended fill line.
- Squirt detergent into the water and use the scrub brush to clean the bowl, valve blade, and seals.
- Flush the soapy water through the blade valve into the waste tank.
- Rinse the bowl with clean water 2-3 times to remove detergent residue.
- Wipe the rest of the toilet exterior clean with a sponge or soft cloth.
Cleaning the Waste Tank
To clean the detachable waste tank:
- Empty the tank completely following the standard process.
- Rinse thoroughly with water and scrub any difficult stains with a brush.
- Add 1 gallon of warm water and 1 cup of baking soda or tank cleaning solution.
- Securely close the tank and shake vigorously to loosen debris.
- Empty the tank again and rinse until clean.
Tips for a Fresh Toilet
- Let all parts dry completely before reassembling.
- Freshen with RV holding tank deodorizer as needed.
- Swap out toilet seat if cracks develop that trap waste and odors.
Taking the time to properly clean your Porta Potti helps keep it operating like new for many camping trips to come.
How to Store the Thetford Porta Potti 145?
Properly storing your Porta Potti 145 helps prevent foul odors, warping, and other damage between uses. Follow these tips:
Supplies Needed
- Mild cleaning solution
- Water
- Toilet chemicals
- Deodorizer/holding tank treatment
Empty and Clean
Before storage:
- Empty the waste tank completely following standard procedure.
- Thoroughly clean all toilet parts and let air dry.
- Reassemble toilet when dry.
Add Storage Solution
To the waste tank, add:
- 1 gallon of water
- 1⁄2 cup baking soda to neutralize odors
- 1 tablespoon of concentrated holding tank deodorizer
Swish solution in tank, empty, and let air dry again.
Prepare Toilet
- Ensure valve blade is closed.
- Lock waste tank securely into place on toilet.
- Add 1 cup of RV antifreeze to the empty toilet bowl.
Store Properly
- Place toilet back in original box or storage bag if possible.
- Store in cool, dry area away from extreme temperatures.
- Avoid stacking heavy items on top that could warp the toilet.
Proper storage between uses helps ensure your portable toilet lasts for seasons of camping ahead.
How to Troubleshoot Issues with the Thetford Porta Potti 145?
The Thetford Porta Potti 145 is a reliable portable toilet, but occasional issues can arise. Here are troubleshooting tips for common problems:
Toilet Leaks
- Check seals between tank and toilet for damage or debris.
- Confirm blade valve is fully closed when tank is installed.
- Inspect valve blade seals and replace if worn.
Weak or No Flush
- Ensure flush valve blade is fully opened.
- Check for obstructions in valve blade area.
- Add water to bowl until it reaches fill line.
- Make sure 4 fresh D batteries are installed.
Persistent Odors
- Clean toilet thoroughly with baking soda and water solution.
- Use Thetford Aqua Kem to break down tank waste.
- Check for toilet chemical residue buildup.
- Replace worn or cracked toilet seat and seals.
Battery/Tank Indicators Not Working
- Check battery orientation and that contacts are clean.
- Ensure 4 high-quality D batteries are installed.
- Inspect indicator wires for damage and secure connections.
- Tank sensors may need replacement after extended use.
Difficulty Emptying Waste Tank
- Be sure release valve handle is pulled completely out until it locks.
- Check for obstructions in emptying spout.
- Spray silicone lubricant on spout o-ring if it sticks when rotating.
Addressing small issues promptly keeps your portable toilet functioning properly for stress-free trips.
