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Glossary
AC ELECTRICITY – Alternating current also known as shoreline power. For purposes of this
manual, it refers to 120-volt AC (abbreviated 120 VAC).
AMP – Short for ampere, the electric current unit of measure. RV sites with electric hookup
will specify the maximum amps supported, which generally come in units of 20, 30, or 50
amps. The RV power connector must match the various plugs of the site amp rating.
ANODE ROD – An anode rod, when used in a water heater, attracts corrosion causing
products in the water. These products attack the anode rod instead of the metal tank itself.
The anode rod should be inspected yearly and changed when it is reduced to about 1/4 of
its original size. The rods are used in steel water heater tanks - an aluminum tank has an
inner layer of anode metal to accomplish the same thing. Anode rods should not be installed
in aluminum tanks!
AUXILIARY BATTERY – For purposes of this manual, the term refers to the 12-volt DC
group 27 deep cycle battery (customer purchased) that should be installed in your RV.
AWNING – A roof-like structure made of canvas or other artificial materials which extends
from the RV body to provide shade. Awnings are generally placed over entrances. Some
extend and stow manually while others are operated electrically.
BLACK WATER – Term associated with the sewage holding tank. The toilet drains directly
into this tank.
BLUE BOY – Also known as a honey pot. Refers to a portable waste holding tank that has
wheels on one end. These tanks often are manufactured out of blue plastic, hence the nick-
name.
BOON DOCKING – Also known as dry camping. Camping without electrical and water
hookups.
BREAKAWAY SWITCH – An electrical switch on trailers designed to engage the breaks in
case the trailer breaks away from the tow vehicle. The switch is connected by a cable to the
tow vehicle. Breakaway is detected when the switch cable is pulled out during vehicle sepa-
ration.
BRAKE CONTROLLER – A device (customer supplied) mounted under the dash of a tow-
ing vehicle to control the braking system of the RV. Most brake actuators are based on a
time delay application; the longer the brakes are applied tighter the trailer brakes react.
BRITISH THERMAL UNIT (BTU) – Measurement of heat that is the quantity required to
raise the temperature of one pound of water 1°F. RV air-conditioners and furnaces are
BTU-rated.
GLOSSARY
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