Dear Dr. R.V. Shrink:
Here is one I haven't seen you address yet.
We recently had our toilet water-valve stick and not close all the way. It eventually filled the black water holding tank and backed up into our trailer. We were sitting outside and did not notice the problem until water was dripping out onto the ground.
Fortunately, it was not as bad as it sounds. We were not hooked up to water. Our water storage tank went dry and most of the water spilling out of the toilet was fairly clean.
My husband, without hesitation, decided it was my fault because I used the facilities last and, knowing we had a problem, he told me because it sticks to be sure to pull up on the pedal whenever I flush the toilet.
In my defense, since he knew we had a malfunction he should have corrected it immediately.
Would you rather be my defense lawyer or his?
--Jump or swim in Sweetwater
Dear Jump:
It doesn't amount to a hill of beans who's to blame. I could make a case for both of you, but a better reaction would be "live and learn."
I would bet you won't do that again.
It happens more than people like to admit. Not just with the toilet, but other spigots.
We once had a loom, we were storing in the shower, fall over and turn on the tap. We were in a hurry to catch the Durango, Colorado train to Silverton. We pulled quickly into an RV park, hooked up the water, turned it on and took off. Luckily the park manager saw water flowing from our rig and shut it off.
It makes you a bit gun shy, but eventually you realize that these are not common events and as long as you are careful, RV plumbing is very reliable.
The problem with a self-contained system is that your drain field is a gray/black water tank. Once they fill, there is only one place for the water to go and gravity will always make sure it gets there.
I am assuming you have the valve fixed by now. It could be something as simple as toilet paper in the slide mechanism or the pedal needing some lube.
I am a big fan of checklists and notes. If you have a problem that calls for actions out of the ordinary, it would be wise to give yourself a reminder with a bright colored Post-it note.
Don't post it on your forehead, they are really hard to see there.
--Keep Smilin', Dr. R.V. Shrink
1 comment:
Don't post it on your forehead, they are really hard to see there.
--Keep Smilin', Dr. R.V. Shrink
Dear Dr Shrink. You should also give credit to your loving wife who helps keep very close track of such things....! I always get a laugh when I read your column! Happy Weekend to you both!
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