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Electricity is delivered to the RV in two ways: 12-volt DC (direct current) basic power is generated by the engine and coach batteries and regular 120-volt AC (alternating current) power comes from outside electric hookups or from an onboard generator. Basic 12-volt electrical power for the RV comes from two battery sources - the engine (automotive) battery and the coach battery(s). Both produce 12-volt DC power and both are kept charged by the vehicle engine (whether it's the engine in the motor home or the engine of the tow vehicle) and the alternator. The engine battery and the coach battery have different usage and storage capacities so the alternator is the device that keeps them appropriately charged. The engine battery powers the engine of the motor home or tow vehicle plus its lights, horn, windshield wipers, radio, dashboard heater and air conditioner and electric brakes for a trailer. The battery(s) in the coach provides 12-volt power to run interior lights, exhaust fans, water pump, alarm systems, LP and CO leak detectors, radio/stereo, power awning, hydraulic leveling systems and 12-volt appliances. While the 12-volt system can support low voltage lights and exhaust fans, it simply does not have the muscle to provide the power needed for big-time appliances such as microwave and coffee pot. For regular electrical service - like what you get in a stick-built house - you need to tap into a 120-volt AC power source. You get this kind of service from an electric hookup at a campground or from an onboard generator. The electrical equipment in an RV that needs 120-volt AC power in order to operate includes: coach heater and air conditioner, microwave, hair dryer, curling iron, coffee pot, toaster, computer and printer, VCR, TV, washer/dryer and refrigerator (although the refrigerator runs on more than one power source.)
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