Recreational Vehicle (RV) Technician Practice Test

At which voltage does the current from a typical RV generator operate?

1. 12 volts

2. 24 volts

3. 120 volts

4. 240 volts

The correct answer is: 120 volts

A typical RV generator primarily operates at 120 volts for its AC (alternating current) power output. This is significant because most household appliances and electronic devices found in RVs are designed to run on 120-volt AC power. This includes common amenities like air conditioners, microwaves, and televisions. While RVs also use 12 volts DC (direct current) systems for lights and other small devices, the majority of high-power appliances rely on the 120-volt output provided by the generator. Understanding the voltage operation is crucial for RV technicians when setting up, maintaining, or troubleshooting the electrical systems within an RV. In contrast, the other choices represent voltages that are generally not utilized for the primary power generation in standard RV setups. For example, 24 volts would require specific configurations and is less common in RV applications. Meanwhile, 240 volts is typically used for heavy appliances or larger residential power systems, not for standard RV operation.