RV water tanks work by providing distinct storage areas for clean water used for drinking, washing, and showering, and separate tanks for the wastewater generated from these activities. This system ensures that fresh water remains sanitary and wastewater is contained for proper disposal.
Understanding RV Water Tanks
An RV's plumbing system relies on a set of dedicated tanks to manage its water supply and waste. Unlike a home connected to a municipal water and sewage system, an RV must carry its water and store used water onboard. The core concept is the separation of water types:
- Fresh Water: This is the clean water you use for everything from drinking and cooking to showering and flushing the toilet (initially).
- Waste Water: This includes used water from sinks and showers (gray water) and waste from the toilet (black water).
Types of RV Water Tanks
Based on their function, RVs typically feature at least two, and usually three, different types of water tanks.
- Freshwater Tank: This tank is crucial as it holds all of your clean, drinking water and is the only water that you want coming into your RV. This water is pumped to your faucets, shower, and toilet when you are not connected to an external water source.
- Gray Water Tank: This tank stores wastewater from drains other than the toilet. The reference states, "The gray water tank holds all of the dirty water that goes down your drains, so water from your sinks and shower." This water contains soap, food particles, and other waste but is generally less hazardous than black water.
- Black Water Tank: This is the tank dedicated to sewage. According to the reference, "And the black water tank holds all of the waste from your toilet." This tank contains human waste and toilet paper.
Here's a quick overview of the tank types and their contents:
| Tank Type | Contents | Source(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Freshwater | Clean, drinkable water | Filling point |
| Gray Water | Dirty water from sinks and showers | Sink and shower drains |
| Black Water | Waste from the toilet (human waste, toilet paper) | Toilet |
This separation is essential for hygiene and environmental safety, preventing contamination of fresh water and allowing for appropriate disposal of wastewater at designated facilities.
