RV Glossary
Browse RV and towing terms
Browse RV and towing terms with practical definitions and related concepts used throughout our towing-capacity pages.
B
Black Tank Flush
A black tank flush is a built-in rinse system that sprays water inside the black tank to help remove waste residue and reduce odors. It simplifies RV tank maintenance.
Black Water Tank
The black water tank holds sewage waste from the RV toilet. Proper dumping, rinsing, and maintenance are important to control odors and avoid buildup.
C
City Water
City water is a direct water hookup at a campsite that supplies continuous pressurized water to an RV. It allows you to use sinks, showers, and toilets without relying on the fresh water tank.
D
Dewinterization
Dewinterization is the process of flushing antifreeze from the RV plumbing system and preparing the RV for normal use after winter storage. It usually includes sanitizing the fresh water system.
Dump Station
A dump station is a designated place where RV owners empty gray and black water tanks. Dump stations are commonly found at campgrounds, RV parks, and travel centers.
F
Fresh Water Tank
The fresh water tank stores clean water for drinking, washing, and general use in an RV. It supports off-grid camping when no water hookup is available.
G
Gray Water Tank
The gray water tank collects wastewater from sinks and showers in an RV. It must be emptied at a dump station or approved wastewater disposal location.
H
Holding Tank
A holding tank is a general term for the fresh, gray, or black water tanks in an RV. These tanks store water or waste until the contents are used or emptied.
L
Low Point Drain
Low point drains are valves located at the lowest points in an RV plumbing system that allow water lines to be emptied. They are commonly used during winterization and routine maintenance.
P
Portable Waste Tank
A portable waste tank is a movable container used to transport gray or black water from an RV to a dump station. It is especially useful when your campsite does not have a sewer hookup.
T
Tank Sensors
Tank sensors monitor the levels of fresh, gray, and black water tanks in an RV and display them on a control panel. They help RV owners know when to refill or dump tanks.
W
Water Filtration System
A water filtration system helps remove sediment, odors, and contaminants from incoming RV water. It improves taste and can help protect fixtures and appliances.
Water Heater
An RV water heater provides hot water for showers, sinks, and other daily use. It may run on propane, electricity, or both depending on the RV setup.
Water Pressure Regulator
A water pressure regulator controls incoming campground water pressure to help protect an RV plumbing system from leaks or damage. It is commonly used whenever connecting to city water.
Winterization
Winterization is the process of preparing an RV plumbing system for freezing temperatures by draining water and adding RV antifreeze where needed. Proper winterization helps prevent cracked lines and expensive repairs.