Let’s Dive into Icon Holding Tank Center Side Drain Ht700Sd – 54.5in x 26.5in x 9″ Tank With 3″ Spigot And Sensors Installed
Let’s be honest, holding tanks aren’t the sexiest piece of gear to review, but they are absolutely crucial for comfortable and sustainable off-grid living and overlanding. The Icon Holding Tank Center Side Drain Ht700Sd – 54.5in x 26.5in x 9″ Tank With 3″ Spigot And Sensors Installed, manufactured by Icon, aims to provide a robust and reliable solution for waste management, incorporating features like pre-installed sensors and a convenient side drain.
My journey to this particular tank began with a serious need: upgrading the undersized and poorly designed holding tank in my custom-built overland camper. The original tank lacked proper sensor integration and the drain was positioned in a way that made complete emptying impossible, a recipe for unpleasant odors and sanitation issues.
Upon unboxing, the Icon Holding Tank immediately impressed me with its solid construction. The high-impact ABS plastic felt significantly more robust than the flimsy polyethylene of my old tank. The pre-installed sensors and 3″ spigot gave a sense of completeness and well-thought-out design, a welcome change from the DIY frustrations I was used to.
I considered a few other options, including tanks from Thetford and Valterra, but ultimately chose the Icon for its optimal size, the pre-installed sensor package, and the center side drain configuration, which perfectly suited my camper’s layout. Other tanks required separate sensor installation, which is a time-consuming and potentially messy job.
My first impression was definitely one of relief and cautious optimism. This tank looked like it would finally solve my waste management woes, but the real test would be installation and, of course, the practical use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Icon Holding Tank Center Side Drain Ht700Sd – 54.5in x 26.5in x 9″ Tank With 3″ Spigot And Sensors Installed to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing ground for the Icon Holding Tank was a month-long overlanding trip through the rugged terrain of the American Southwest. This involved everything from scorching desert heat to chilly mountain nights, a true test of its durability.
The tank performed admirably in all conditions, showing no signs of leaks or warping, even with significant temperature fluctuations. The 3″ spigot made emptying the tank a breeze, especially compared to the fiddly smaller diameter fittings I had previously struggled with.
Installation required some careful planning and precise cutting to adapt the existing plumbing, but the tank’s 1-1/4″ mounting flange made securing it to the camper floor relatively straightforward. One minor snag was calibrating the sensors with my existing monitoring system, which took a bit of trial and error but ultimately proved successful.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use and multiple trips, the Icon Holding Tank has proven to be exceptionally reliable. There’s been absolutely no sign of leaks or structural weakness.
The tank’s ABS plastic seems highly resistant to the harsh chemicals used in RV sanitation products, showing no signs of discoloration or degradation. Cleaning is remarkably easy, thanks to the smooth interior surfaces and the well-placed drain.
Compared to my previous tank setup, the Icon is a significant upgrade in every way. The larger capacity, superior drain placement, and reliable sensors have made a world of difference in the convenience and hygiene of my camper setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Icon Holding Tank Center Side Drain Ht700Sd – 54.5in x 26.5in x 9″ Tank With 3″ Spigot And Sensors Installed
Specifications
- Dimensions: 54.5 inches (length) x 26.5 inches (width) x 9 inches (height). These dimensions are critical for ensuring the tank fits within the available space in your RV or camper.
- Capacity: 31 gallons. This offers a substantial holding capacity, allowing for longer periods between emptying, especially important for off-grid travel.
- Material: Thermoformed high-impact ABS plastic. This ensures durability and resistance to chemicals commonly used in sanitation systems.
- Drain: Center side drain with a 3-inch spigot fitting. The center side placement allows for more complete drainage, minimizing residue and odors.
- Sensors: Four pre-installed level sensors. These provide accurate readings of tank levels, preventing overfilling and ensuring timely emptying.
- Mounting: 1-1/4″ mounting flange around the perimeter. This simplifies installation by providing a secure and easy-to-access mounting surface.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the tank’s usability and longevity. The ABS plastic construction, for example, provides superior resistance to cracking and chemical degradation compared to polyethylene alternatives.
Performance & Functionality
The Icon Holding Tank performs its primary function – holding waste – exceptionally well. The 31-gallon capacity is sufficient for extended off-grid trips.
The pre-installed sensors provide accurate and reliable readings, eliminating guesswork and preventing messy overflows. The 3-inch spigot allows for rapid and complete drainage, a major improvement over smaller, more restrictive fittings.
One minor area for potential improvement would be to offer more detailed instructions on sensor calibration for different monitoring systems. However, overall, the tank meets and exceeds my expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The tank’s rectangular design maximizes space utilization, a crucial factor in RV and camper applications. The use of ABS plastic strikes a good balance between weight and durability.
The smooth interior surfaces and well-placed drain make cleaning remarkably easy. The pre-installed sensors and spigot fittings streamline the installation process, reducing the amount of DIY work required.
Durability & Maintenance
The high-impact ABS plastic construction suggests a long lifespan, even under demanding conditions. Regular cleaning with appropriate RV sanitation products should ensure the tank remains in good condition for many years.
The simple design and robust materials minimize the risk of mechanical failures or leaks. In the event of sensor malfunction, they are readily replaceable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Icon Holding Tank comes complete with the necessary spigot fittings and pre-installed sensors. While there are no specific customization options offered directly by Icon, the tank is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories.
Users can easily connect the tank to various RV monitoring systems and plumbing components using standard fittings. The pre-installed sensor package also eliminates the need for purchasing and installing sensors separately.
Pros and Cons of Icon Holding Tank Center Side Drain Ht700Sd – 54.5in x 26.5in x 9″ Tank With 3″ Spigot And Sensors Installed
Pros
- Durable ABS plastic construction ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to chemicals.
- Pre-installed level sensors provide accurate tank readings, eliminating guesswork and preventing overflows.
- Large 3-inch spigot enables rapid and complete drainage, minimizing odors and sanitation issues.
- Optimal size and shape maximize space utilization in RV and camper applications.
- Easy to clean and maintain thanks to the smooth interior surfaces and well-placed drain.
Cons
- Sensor calibration can be tricky with some monitoring systems, requiring some trial and error.
- The tank’s price is slightly higher compared to basic polyethylene models without pre-installed sensors.
Who Should Buy Icon Holding Tank Center Side Drain Ht700Sd – 54.5in x 26.5in x 9″ Tank With 3″ Spigot And Sensors Installed?
The Icon Holding Tank is perfect for RV owners, overlanders, and anyone building a custom camper or tiny home who values reliability, convenience, and hygiene. It is particularly well-suited for those who spend extended periods off-grid and require a robust and easy-to-manage waste management system.
This product may not be necessary for those on a tight budget who are comfortable with basic, low-capacity tanks and manual level monitoring. Those who only use their RV for occasional weekend trips at campgrounds with full hookups may also find a simpler tank sufficient.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality RV sanitation hose for emptying the tank.
Conclusion on Icon Holding Tank Center Side Drain Ht700Sd – 54.5in x 26.5in x 9″ Tank With 3″ Spigot And Sensors Installed
Overall, the Icon Holding Tank Center Side Drain Ht700Sd – 54.5in x 26.5in x 9″ Tank With 3″ Spigot And Sensors Installed is an excellent investment for anyone seeking a reliable and convenient waste management solution for their RV or camper. The superior construction, pre-installed sensors, and efficient drain system justify the price premium over basic models.
The tank’s durability and ease of use make it a worthwhile upgrade that will provide years of trouble-free performance. I would highly recommend this product to anyone looking to enhance their off-grid living experience.
Don’t settle for a subpar holding tank that causes headaches and sanitation issues. Invest in the Icon Holding Tank and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a reliable and well-designed waste management system.