Maintenance of Horst Miracles Probe Sensors for RV Black Water Tanks

Question:

I have installed two sets of Horst Miracle Probes in my RV. Each time I got level readings for a short while and then the tank level readings gave no indication. I verified the monitor circuitry was working correctly. I keep the tanks clean, and when I removed the probes they were clean, but had green corrosion at the very tip where conduction takes place. This corrosion obviously prevents the tanks from conducting, and thus giving readings. I realize these probes have mostly good ratings. Valterra says the last 3/16inch of the probe where conduction takes place is gold plated to presumably improve conduction and probably reduce corrosion. If there are instructions for maintenance and care of the tanks that will eliminate the corrosion on the end of the probes it would certainly eliminate a lot of heart burn for people with this problem. Simply telling people to clean their tanks or check for grounds in the system will not be the correct answer in this case. I tried to upload a picture of a probe but upload failed. Any help or information is appreciated.

asked by: Richard C

Expert Reply:

It sounds like the probes on your Horst Miracle Probe Sensors for RV Black Water Tanks, # T21301VP have been introduced to something that has caused damage to them. Possibly from a harsh chemical cleaner that ate away at the plating. You may need to consider replacing them. I have included a couple of help articles that we have posted on the site that walk you through the steps of cleaning and maintaining a waste tank. The Valterra Sensor Power Sensor Cleaner, # V22011 is my recommendation for cleaning your Horst Probe Sensors. This is a non-toxic treatment for cleaning sensors, you only need to use about 8 Oz. for a 40-gallon tank.

I recommend using the Valterra Septic Power Septic System Treatment, # V44002 on a regular basis. Simply follow the directions on the label. This biodegradable treatment helps prevent odors and clogs by breaking down waste and tissue in the black-water tank and gray-water tank.

expert reply by: Michael R