RVs have three main water tanks for fresh water and two types of wastewater. A fourth tank heats water for showering and washing dishes. RV sewage tanks are split, and tanks are generally made of plastic. Portable tanks exist for fresh and waste water, and hot water tanks are also common.
The three main RV water tanks are designed to hold fresh water and two types of wastewater. A fourth type of water tank found in many recreational vehicles is used to heat water for showering, washing dishes, and similar functions. The largest RV water tanks are generally for fresh water, and tend to be slightly smaller in volume than the combined size of both wastewater tanks. Most RV sewage tanks are split so that the sinks and shower drain into one and the toilet empties into the other. RV water tanks are generally made of various plastic substances, although metals and other materials may also be used.
Most motorhomes, trailers, and campers use three separate RV water tanks. The largest of these tanks tends to contain fresh water. This is usually potable water, although it doesn’t necessarily have to be. RV freshwater tanks can be made of metal, though they are often constructed of other substances to prevent electrolysis and corrosion. Polyethylene is a common material for construction of RV water tanks, although other plastics can be used as well.
Some RVs only have one waste water tank, although it is common to have two. Having separate RV water tanks to drain the toilet and sinks can allow one to fill and the other to still be used. In some cases, it’s also safe to drain gray water from sumps and shower when you’re away from a landfill. Many areas have laws against this practice, although some do not. These sewage tanks are usually mounted under the RV or in a side compartment and are usually emptied via knife valves.
Secondary portable RV water tanks also exist for fresh and waste water. An extra fresh water tank can make it easier for longer camping trips away from utilities, though that extra water has to go somewhere. A portable sewage tank can be used to store excess sewage when camping away from utilities, although it can also be used as part of the flushing process. In this case, the sewage tanks in an RV can be emptied into the portable container, which can then be taken to a dump station while the RV sits immobile.
Many RVs also use hot water tanks. They are usually metal pressure vessels that can hold heated water for various cleaning purposes. Like a hot water tank in a home or business, these units sit in line between the water source and the faucets. The tank usually contains some type of burner or heating element that can burn propane or use electricity to heat the water.
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