Big Orange FAQ's
Where is the Big Orange filter made?
Big Orange is proud to be designed and manufactured in Canada.
What comes in the box when I purchase a Big Orange filter?
You will receive a Big Orange filter (some assembly required), a bag of carbon, two filter screens, a gasket kit, four screws to assemble Big Orange and two to mount it to your boat and a Filter Instruction sheet. Please see the Filter Instruction sheet in the download section for detailed information.
What tools or parts will I need to install Big Orange on my boat?
Each boat is a little different, but a typical installation requires a Phillips screw driver, a drill and .144" bit, a length of 5/8" ID vent hose and two hose clamps and if you mount Big Orange to the top of our holding tank, don't forget the silicone sealer for the screw holes. The length of the hose needed will depend on where you mount Big Orange. Please see the Filter Instruction sheet for detailed information
Will Big Orange fit my boat?
Probably. You need to check the diameter of your vent line. Big Orange has 16mm (5/8") diameter fittings, the most popular size. If you have a different size, contact us as we offer custom mounting bases with different sizes and styles of fittings. You may also want to download the dimensions sheet to get the size of Big Orange to help you decide where to mount it.
Does it matter which way is up when I mount Big Orange?
Not really. Big Orange can be mounted in any orientation. You just need to be sure to have access to the cartridge and to not block the Filter By-pass Valve.
How much clearance do I need to remove the filter cartridge?
The filter cartridge will need to slide approximately 10mm to release from the mounting base, but don't forget you'll need to get your fingers in there so the more room the better. Once it is released from the mounting base, the cartridge can be pulled straight out or down.
How long will it last?
Big Orange filter assembly will last for years. The filter medium (carbon) that removes the odour should last an entire season depending on use and conditions. However, if your tank overfills and waste gets into Big Orange you will need to clean out the filter and replace the carbon and filter screens.
How hard is it to refill the cartridge?
Very easy. No tools are required to remove the cartridge assembly from the mounting base. Just push down on the locking tab and pull the cartridge assembly out of the mounting base. Now you can take the cartridge assembly to somewhere easier to work on. Remove the screws from the cartridge assembly and remove the cartridge plate. Discard the foam filter screens and used carbon. Pour in the new carbon and install the new filter screens. Reattach the plate. Slide the cartridge assembly back into the mounting base.
Do you have any recommendations on how to keep waste out of Big Orange?
When measuring for the new section of vent line needed to connect the outlet of the holding tank to the inlet of Big Orange, be sure to allow for a generous loop that rises above the tank. This will act like a baffle and should prevent any splashing of waste from working it's way to Big Orange. Also keep an eye on your tank level, do not overfill your tank.
How can I tell if waste has gotten into Big Orange?
The only way to be sure if waste has entered Big Orange is to simply remove the cartridge and inspect the openings for waste.
Do we have to be careful about what we flush down the head?
No. Big Orange does not filter the waste in your tank, only the air that is vented out of the tank due to flushing, boat movement, or tank expansion. Be sure to not overfill your tank and get waste inside of Big Orange. If this happens you will need to clean out the housing and replace the carbon and filter screens.
Will the holding tank ever collapse after I install Big Orange?
Possibly. The by pass valve in Big Orange only eliminates the restriction created by installing an inline filter. Some pump out facilities are very aggresive and will collapse the tank even if you don't have a filter installed. The tanks are made of soft plastic that can withstand some collapse but it is just a matter of time before a collapsed tank will crack.
Do I need to "switch on" the by pass valve everytime I pump out?
No, the by pass valve is automatic. You never need to activate the by pass valve, it is operated by the difference in pressure between the tank and the vent line. Positive pressure keeps the valve closed and negative pressure (like during pump out) opens the valve.