RV/Marine
Walex RV Introduces Six New Premium Cleaning Products
Walex is thrilled to launch six new premium cleaning products for the RV/Marine market. The cleaning line complements Walex's popular holding tank deodorizers so RVers can easily keep their rigs fresh and clean—inside and out.
The newly unveiled range includes:
- Rubber Roof Cleaner & Conditioner: Specially formulated to cleanse and rejuvenate rubber roofs, ensuring they remain pristine against harsh weather conditions. Available in 32oz, 64oz, and 1-gallon.
- Mold & Mildew Remover: A powerful solution to clean and remove stubborn mold and mildew. Safe for vinyl, fabrics, plastics, and rubber trim and moldings. Available in 32oz, 64oz, and 1-gallon.
- Black Streak Remover: Engineered to tackle stubborn black streaks caused by oxidation runoff, this cleaner effortlessly restores surfaces to their original shine, leaving RVs and marine exteriors looking brand new. Available in 32oz, 64oz, and 1-gallon.
- Awning Cleaner: Specifically developed to remove dirt, grime, tree sap, bird droppings, and stains from awnings, preserving their appearance and prolonging their lifespan. Available in 32oz, 64oz, and 1-gallon.
- Toilet Bowl Cleaner: A specialized formula crafted to sanitize and deodorize RV and marine toilets, ensuring hygiene and freshness with every use and safe to use with all Walex holding tank treatments. Available in 32oz.
- Kitchen & Bath Cleaner: An all-purpose cleaner designed to clean and disinfect kitchen and bathroom surfaces and safe to use with all Walex holding tank treatments, making it easier to maintain a pristine living space on the go. Available in 32oz.
Walex Products Company's dedication to innovation and quality is evident in each premium cleaning product. Products manufactured using eco-friendly and biodegradable ingredients, these cleaners are both practical and environmentally conscious, aligning with the company's commitment to sustainability.
"We are excited to introduce these new cleaning solutions to the RV and marine communities," said Walex's RV/Marine Sales Manager Tony Butler. "Our Ph.D. chemists and production team worked tirelessly to develop cleaning products that work safely and effectively alongside our best-selling holding tank treatments. With these new offerings, we aim to enhance the RVing experience, ensuring comfortable and clean travels, no matter how long the trip."
Five tips for keeping black tank sensors working
Owning an RV is an incredible way to explore the world while enjoying the comforts of home on the road. However, RV maintenance can sometimes be a challenge, especially when it comes to keeping essential systems, like the black holding tank sensors, in proper working order. These sensors are vital for knowing when to empty your black tank, which can prevent waste buildup and odors.
Properly Monitor Tank Levels
It's essential closely watch your black tank's level to prevent waste buildup. Many modern RVs come equipped with sensors that monitor the level of waste in the black tank. Empty the black tank when it reaches around two-thirds full to avoid odors and the dreaded "poo pyramid".
Use Premium Tank Treatments
Premium tank treatments can help break down waste, control odors, and reduce the buildup of solids in your black tank. There are various options available with different odor-fighting ingredients. An enzyme-based deodorizer like Bio-Pak fights smells by digesting odor-causing bacteria. Bio-Pak also liquefies waste and paper, eliminating the need for special RV toilet paper. Porta-Pak fights odors by stopping the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Porta-Pak is a powerful formula ideal for heavy usage and hot climates.
Regularly Flush the Tank
Flushing the black tank regularly is crucial to prevent waste buildup and sensor malfunctioning. Invest in a good-quality tank-flushing wand or a built-in tank flush system if your RV has one. When emptying your RV's holding tanks, empty the black first and then the grey. Greywater will flush out any solids left in your drain lines from the black tank.
Clean your sensors
If you suspect your black tank sensors aren't functioning, waste or paper buildup is probably interfering with the sensors' ability to read the tank level. Clean the sensors and tank with Commando, a concentrated formula contained in a drop-in packet. Commando contains enzymes that liquefy the waste and paper caked to the tank walls and sensors, restoring the tank to like-new condition. Commando is designed to work in as little as 12 to 24 hours, but leaving it in longer won't hurt the tank. Use Commando preventatively every 3 months to keep the tank problem-free.
Practice Good Waste Management Habits
Avoid disposing of non-biodegradable items, such as paper towels, baby wipes, or feminine hygiene products, in the toilet. These items can contribute to sensor malfunctions by causing clogs and preventing proper waste breakdown. Use trash receptacles for these items to keep your black tank free from debris.
Maintaining your RV black holding tank sensors is essential for a hassle-free and enjoyable RVing experience. By following these tips and incorporating them into your regular RV maintenance routine, you can help ensure that your sensors stay in proper working order. With accurate tank level readings, you'll have peace of mind knowing when it's time to empty the black tank, preventing unwanted surprises and maintaining a clean and comfortable environment while on the road. Happy Adventuring!
RVIA awards Walex 2023 Supplier of the Year
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) has named Walex Products Company its 2023 Supplier of the Year.
RVIA presented the Supplier of the Year accolade at the 2023 RV Aftermarket Conference Awards in San Diego, which recognizes the most outstanding Supplier in the aftermarket segment and is voted on by all Distributor members.
Walex introduced its line of premium RV deodorizers and cleaners after decades of success manufacturing odor-control products for the portable sanitation industry. Walex RV products are in premium RV dealerships worldwide, and the Walex RV division is continuously creating and launching new products to ensure that no matter how long the adventure, RVers stay comfortable, clean, and odor-free.
Walex RV Sales Manager Tony Butler attributed his division's success to the hard work of the company's employees. The Walex team manages every manufacturing process step, from product creation to shipping.
"Our dedicated staff works hard every day to make sure products meet our customers' expectations for quality and delivery time," Butler said. "As a family-run business, we employ a tight-knit team who work very hard; this award is a testament to their dedication to manufacturing industry-leading, premium sanitation products."
How do I keep my RV’s grey holding tank problem-free and odor-free?
Maintaining your RV's grey holding tank is essential to ensure that your RV's plumbing system is working correctly and to avoid any unpleasant odors or backups. Here are some steps you can take to maintain your RV's grey holding tank:
Use the Right Chemicals.
There are a variety of chemical treatments available for RV holding tanks. It is important to choose a product, like Elemonate, that is designed specifically for grey tanks. Walex chemists designed the Elemonate formula specifically to break down grease, food particles, and soap scum in the tank and prevent odors. Elemonate also contains a lemon fragrance that leaves sinks and drains smelling fresh.
Avoid Certain Items.
While it’s hard to avoid getting a small amount of grease and grime down the drains, it’s best to avoid putting certain items down the drain: grease, food scraps, coffee grounds, and paper towels. These items can clog the tank and cause problems.
Dump Regularly.
It is essential to dump your grey tank regularly, depending on how often you use it. It is recommended to dump it every three to four days if you're using it regularly. If you're not using your RV as often, you can go longer between dumps. Leaving water in the tank for too long can cause bacteria growth and unpleasant odors. When you dump, empty the black tank first, then the grey tank. The grey water helps flush out any solids left in the hose from the black water.
Rinse the Tank.
After dumping your grey tank, it's a good idea to rinse it out thoroughly. You can do this by filling the tank with water and then dumping it again. You can also use a tank cleaning wand to reach the hard-to-reach areas of the tank.
Monitor the Tank.
It's a good idea to keep an eye on the level of your grey tank. Most RVs have a monitor that displays the level of the tank. If you notice that the tank is getting full, it's time to dump it.
By following these steps, you can maintain your RV's grey holding tank and keep your RV's plumbing system in good condition.
Commando Wins Award for Sustainable Packaging
The Flexible Packaging Association awarded Commando Black Tank Cleaner a Silver Achievement Award in Sustainability during the 2023 Flexible Packaging Achievement Awards Competition.
In 2022, Walex worked with packaging supplier Glenroy, Inc. to transition Commando into a recycle-ready zipper pouch.
RVers can recycle Commando in plastic bag recycling bins, located at many retail stores. The material from the pouches is then made into synthetic lumber for decking, park benches, or recycled directly into another pouch. Walex is in the process of transitioning the rest of its RV/Marine product line to recycle-ready packaging.
Premium black tank products now available in fresh summer fragrances!
Walex added two new fragrances to its RV product line January 2023.
Porta-Pak Black Tank Deodorizer will be available in Clean Linen, and Bio-Pak Black Tank Deodorizer & Digester will be available in Ocean Mist.
Walex research & development created these fragrances after extensive testing to determine the most appealing, best-performing fragrances. These fresh, beachy scents are perfect for summer travels.
De-Winterize with Elemonate and Commando
For some RVers, spring means de-winterizing the RV and planning summer travels. De-winterizing should include a deep cleaning and maintenance check-up to ensure the rig is in top shape for that big summer adventure. If cleaning inside the black and grey tanks to eliminate any residual odors seems daunting, use a product formulated with powerful enzymes that do the work for you.
Walex's Black Tank Cleaner and Grey Tank Cleaner
Commando easily cleans the black holding tank.
Elemonate freshens and cleans the grey tank & drain lines
How to get rid of stubborn RV odors
The most obvious culprit of odors in your RV is your black holding tank and toilet, so most RVers invest in a premium black tank deodorizer like Porta-Pak. But sometimes odors still linger, requiring odor control products that either work differently or target other odor sources. Walex is the global leader in odor control and offers a complete range of these types of products.
Odor Source: Grey Holding Tank
Product: Elemonate
An RV's grey holding tank is often overlooked as a potential odor source because it simply captures water from sinks and the shower. However, that water contains dirt, grease, and grime, which, over time, can form an organic sludge that breeds bacteria. Elemonate is a grey holding tank deodorizer that contains fresh lemon fragrance and natural enzymes that destroy build-up in the grey tank. Drop one Elemonate tablet in the sink and turn on the faucet for a few seconds to let it dissolve.
Odor source: Mildew, garbage, dirty laundry
Product: Odor Absorber
Tight spaces amplify foul odors, so keeping RV interiors smelling completely fresh is tricky. Odor Absorber is a gel product infused with a layer of charcoal that eradicates and absorbs odors. It keeps working for up to 60 days. Many RVers place one inside their garbage bin, under the sink, or around other potential odor sources.
Odor source: Black tank pyramid
Product: Commando
Sometimes, the reason for black holding tank odors is not a lack of deodorizer but a lack of water. Without enough water in the tank, solids pile up and get caked to the tank walls and sensors. This build-up creates residual odor and causes sensors to read incorrectly. Commando is a lightly-fragranced drop-in packet containing a powerful cleaning formula. Fill the tank with water and drop one packet in. The outer lining dissolves, releasing enzymes that attack and liquefy solids, cleaning the tank walls and sensors. Commando works without agitation in 12 to 24 hours (although you can leave it in longer).
Whatever the odor source, Walex has a product to eradicate it. Call 800-338-3155 or visit your local RV dealer for details.
What do enzymes do in my black tank?
Many enzyme-based RV and Marine holding tank products are available, but they aren't all of the same quality. So how exactly do enzymes benefit your holding tank? Keep reading to find out.
Enzymes are proteins that help speed up chemical reactions, such as the breakdown of solids. When released into your RV black or grey holding tank, enzymes immediately start digesting the waste and paper inside the tank. This action helps prevent clogging and facilitates easier dumping when the tank is full. It also helps control the odor-causing "poop pyramid" from forming.
Another benefit of enzyme-based deodorizers: they eliminate the need for special RV toilet paper. Often RVers purchase single-ply RV or septic-safe toilet paper to avoid clogging. However, enzyme formulas such as Bio-Pak, are powerful enough to digest normal toilet tissue.
Walex offers a range of higher quality, quick-acting, enzyme-based products. The most popular of these are Bio-Pak, Commando, and Elemonate. Bio-Pak is a black holding tank drop-in deodorizer and digester. Commando cleans and restores black holding tank walls and sensors; and Elemonate, a grey holding tank deodorizer.
You can pick these products at your local RV dealership. Happy adventuring!
Can I use Elemonate in my home sink too?
Elemonate is a deodorizer designed for an RV's grey holding tank—the tank that collects water from your shower and sinks. The quick-dissolving tablet not only smells lemony-fresh but also contains digestive enzymes that attack odor-causing organic sludge.
You may have a few extra Elemonate tablets left over from your last trip and wonder whether you can use them in your home. Even home sinks, shower drains, and garbage disposals can emit foul odors due to grease, greywater, and food scrap residue.
The good news is you can instantly freshen up your kitchen sink with Elemonate. Use it the same way you would in your RV. Drop it into the sink and run water over to dissolve it. The lemon fragrance and enzymes will coat the inside of your pipes, eliminating odors. Not only will Elemonate not harm your pipes, but it is also safe for your septic system. It deodorizes using natural enzymes that are completely septic-safe.
Happy adventuring!
Black tank sensors reading 2/3 full? Here's the solution.
If your RV's black holding tank sensors aren't working correctly, you're not alone. Black tank sensors frequently malfunction due to the residual waste and toilet paper buildup on tank walls, causing the sensors to read 2/3 full even after dumping. The easiest way to clean your sensors is with a drop-in packet called Commando that restores sensor function in as little as 12 to 24 hours— with no agitation or scrubbing required.
RV owners often report their black holding tank sensors reading 2/3 full, even after emptying the tank. If you don't know how full your holding tank is, you don't know when to dump it. You'd likely empty your tank more frequently to be safe, leading to solid waste buildup, often referred to as the poo pyramid.
If you suspect your sensors aren't reading correctly, you need to use Commando.
- Empty your tank, rinse out any chemical residue, close your dump valve, drop one Commando packet into the toilet, and flush
- Then fill your holding above your highest sensor or completely full.
- Leave it in for a minimum of 12 hours. Commando is formulated to work in as little as 12 to 24 hours for those in a hurry, but it will not hurt your tank to leave it in longer for more stubborn holding tank issues or clogs.
- Empty your tank. Rinse again. You can now add your deodorizer, refill with 1.25 gallons of water for every 10 gallons of holding tank capacity and continue using the toilet.
Commando works its magic by releasing natural enzymes into the tank, which digest and liquefy waste and paper. Use as directed every three months to lubricate valves and seals and keep tank walls free from buildup. We also recommend adding it to your RV winterizing routine.
The next time you're at your RV dealer, pick up a bag of Commando.
Commando now available in recyclable packaging
After debuting recyclable packaging for Bio-Active Septic Tank Treatment in 2021, Walex is now packaging its black holding tank cleaner, Commando, in the same eco-friendly material.
Walex plans to transition several more of its RV/Marine product line to recyclable material in the coming years. The effort is part of an eco-friendly initiative extending to the product formulas; all of Walex's RV/Marine products comply with the country's most stringent environmental standards.
Recycle your Commando bag in a plastic bag recycling bin located at many retail stores, including Lidl, Target, Walmart, and Wegmans. To recycle, ensure the package is clean and dry before placing it in the bin.
The new recyclable bags are stamped with a seal from How2Recycle, an organization that aims to clarify the recycling process by standardizing instructions and labels. According to How2Recycle.info, the bag material can be made into synthetic lumber for decking, park benches, or recycled directly into another bag.