RV hookups are essential for travelers wanting to take full advantage of their rig, and allow a high level of comfort regardless of your destination. There are three types of hookups: water, sewer, and electric, each of which allow you enjoy the comforts of home while on the road.
Hookups are found at RV parks and campgrounds, and access to them will result in a higher per-site price than a standard parking site. Many parks offer full or partial hookups, allowing you to pay only for what you use.
Water Hookups
Water hookups provide access to the running water needed for many of the appliances in your RV. They make it possible to flush your toilet, wash your hands in the sink, and drink tap water without having to bring bottled water or find a public restroom. You’ll find that most parks and campgrounds offer water hookups.
Water hookups are the first RV hookup you’ll want to connect once parked. Check with the RV park or campground to find out if they require the use of a water pressure regulator; some do and some do not. Begin by unwinding your water hose and work out any kinks, and then connect it to your RV. Once secure, connect the other end to the site’s water hookup. You’ll need to turn on the water and grey tank valve, and don’t forget to check for leaks at either end.
Disconnecting is a simple process: turn off the water supply, shake the hose a bit to settle any remaining water in the middle, and disconnect the hose from the water source followed by your RV.
If you want to take advantage of the convenience of your RV’s toilet and shower, or have drinking water at your disposable, you’ll want to find an RV park with access to a water hookup!
Sewer Hookups
If you use water hookups then you will also want to utilize sewer hookups. They make it easy to dispose of running water from your toilet, shower and sinks by providing a sewer system for your vehicle. Your waste tank, which holds the waste from your toilet, is your black tank. Your grey tank disposes of running water with no waste. Your black tank should never be more than 75% filled, but you won’t have to worry about this when you have a sewer hookup.
Connecting a sewer hookup requires a separate hose from your water hookup, and will be the second one you connect when settling in. You’ll first attach the sewer hose to the site’s hookup, and then to your RV. Once secured, open the black tank valve. Depending on your RV’s set up, you may be able to leave the black tank valve off and turn on the grey tank valve as long as you’re hooked up to the sewer at your location.
Disconnecting is a bit more work, and you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing gloves because it can get messy. Turn off all valves and then disconnect the hose from your RV, holding it upright to allow any remaining waste to flow into the RV park’s sewer system. You’ll want to wash out the sewer hose and use waste-fighting chemicals before storing it.
Sewer hookups are crucial to the many conveniences your RV offers, and we recommend them for anyone staying at a location for a few days or more. The alternative is to not produce any sewage, or travel to and from dump stations once your tank is 75% full.
Electric Hookups
Electric RV hookups power your entire vehicle’s electrical system. This is what allows you to use lights, AC, heat, appliances and any indoor or outdoor outlets. Electric hookups are offered at most parks and campgrounds, although they may only be offered as either 30 or 50-amp hookups. In this case, you may need a converter.
Electric hookups are the last to be connected when setting up at a location. Make sure the electric hookup box matches what your rig can handle; older campgrounds and parks aren’t always up-to-date, so double-check before getting started or you risk blowing out your system. For most RVs, you’ll hook both ends of the cable up, and then flip the regulator switch to power on and off.
Disconnecting is simple: turn off the regulator, unplug the cable hooked to your RV first, then its power source.
If you have any appliances, such as televisions, or want to run the AC in the summer, you’ll need electric hookups. Utilize them when possible, as they allow you to take advantage of everything your RV has to offer!
Final Thoughts
RV hookups allow you to pick and choose how you want to use your RV during a trip, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, not all campgrounds and RV parks will offer them, and many only offer certain types. Call ahead if you absolutely need access to a specific RV hookup. Next, make sure you understand and are comfortable with the specific equipment offered at a location. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for assistance if you have any questions – they’re there to help! Finally, always be careful! You’re dealing with running water, sewage, and electricity; do not take connecting and disconnecting your hookups lightly!