Thetford Tips & Tricks
When it comes to caravan toilets, Thetford is the brand many travellers rely on. This year they are celebrating 20 years in Australia, while the brand itself has been trusted by caravanners worldwide since 1972.
Reason enough to share a few practical tips and smart tricks to keep your Thetford setup running smoothly on the road. In this blog we take a closer look at spare cassette tanks, essential parts and simple maintenance to help make your next trip that bit easier.
Spare Cassette Tanks
Heading off on a longer trip or planning to camp off grid? A spare cassette tank gives you a lot more flexibility. Instead of needing to find a dump point straight away, you can simply swap tanks and keep going. Especially handy in more remote areas or when you are staying in one place for a few days. At Carac we stock a full range of Thetford cassette tanks, along with spare parts and toilet care products.
How to Determine Which Cassette You Need
Not sure which cassette fits your toilet? It is easier than you might think.
1. Find the data badge
You will usually find this on the waste tank itself or inside the service door.
2. Check the model number
Look for the “C” number, such as C200, C223, C250, C260, C400 or C500.
3. Left of right C400 and C500
Sit on the toilet facing forward. If the cassette slides out to your right, you need a right hand model. If it slides out to your left, you need a left hand model. You can also check for an L or R marking on the cassette itself.
C234
Thetford Cassette Waste Tank Left Hand Suit C2/3/4
Thetford Cassette Waste Tank Right Hand Suit C2/3/4
C200
Thetford Cassette Waste Tank C200
C220
Thetford Cassette Waste Tank C220
C250 / C260 / C263
Thetford Cassette Waste Tank C250 / C260 / C263
C400
Thetford Cassette Waste Tank RH Right Hand Suit C400
Thetford Cassette Waste Tank LH Suits C400 Toilets
Best Spare Parts to Carry
If you are heading away for a while, it is worth bringing a couple of key spare parts. The ones we see most often are the holding tank mechanism and the lip seal. A control panel can also be worth considering if you experience issues with flushing or the level indicator. These parts are small, affordable and can save you a lot of hassle on the road.
Other smaller parts like a water fill cap, pour out spout or sliding cover are easy to replace when needed and good to keep in mind if something gets damaged or stops working. A water fill extension can also make refilling your tank a lot easier, especially when using jerry cans or when access to the water inlet is limited.
>> Shop All Thetford Cassette Tanks Spare Parts at Carac <<
Daily Use Tips
A few simple habits already make a big difference. Nothing complicated, it just helps keep everything working as it should.
- Adding toilet additive after every empty helps keep everything fresh and working properly.
- Using enough water when flushing helps prevent build-up in the tank.
- Toilet paper that breaks down easily makes emptying smoother.
- Emptying the tank before it is completely full helps avoid unnecessary pressure on the system.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your cassette clean makes things easier and helps avoid issues later. A bit of regular maintenance goes a long way.
- Giving the tank a proper rinse after emptying helps keep it clean and prevents build-up.
- Lubricating the seals regularly helps stop them from drying out or cracking over time.
- Using the right cleaner protects the internal parts and keeps everything working as it should.
- Storing the cassette with the blade slightly open when it is not in use helps prevent the seal from sticking.
Common Issues we See
These come up quite a bit, especially on older setups.
1. Leaks or unpleasant smells
Often caused by a worn lip seal. Replacing it is usually a quick and straightforward fix. To prevent this from happening it is important to lubricate the seal on a regular base, especially before storage.
2. Stiff mechanism
Usually dirt or dryness. Clean it and use a proper silicone spray to keep things moving smoothly. Avoid grease or Vaseline, as these can affect the seals over time.
3. Parts not fitting correctly
Always double check your model number before purchasing. When in doubt, just ask us.
Fresh-Up Sets
If your toilet is starting to show its age, a Fresh-Up Set is an easy way to refresh the most used parts. These kits include a new waste tank, seat and cover. So instead of replacing the whole unit, you refresh the parts you use the most. It also gives you an extra waste tank straight away, which is handy for longer trips.
Which Fresh-Up option suits your trip?
Short trips or powered sites: A standard cassette setup is usually all you need.
Longer trips or off grid travel: A spare cassette or Fresh-Up Set gives you a bit more flexibility.
Older vans: A Fresh-Up Set is an easy way to refresh your system without replacing everything.
We stock the following Thetford Toilet Fresh-Up Sets:
Thetford Aqua Kem
Using the right additive just makes things easier day to day. Aqua Kem Blue and Aqua Kem Green are the most common options. Both help break down waste, reduce smells and make emptying easier. Aqua Kem Blue is the stronger option, while Aqua Kem Green is a more environmentally friendly alternative.
Our Aqua Kem 2-pack saver is a popular choice. It gives you better value and ensures you always have a spare on hand.
Need Help Choosing?
Whether you are heading away for a weekend or planning a longer trip, having the right setup makes things a lot easier. If you are not sure what you need or want to upgrade part of your setup, feel free to get in touch or visit our store in Dandenong South.
Our team is always happy to help you find the right fit for your van.