Although you know the basics of driving or towing your home on wheels, your RV’s electrical system still may remain a mystery to you. Its invisible network of wires and power sources keeps your lights on and your appliances running, no matter where you park for the night. If you would like to learn more about how RV electrical systems work, this blog can help. Read on for an explanation so you can become an expert on this aspect of your vehicle.
Multiple Systems Living Under One Roof
Something that may surprise you is that your RV camper has two different electrical systems that work together, Motorhomes have three! Regardless of which one you own, these systems create a comfortable living environment while using the camper. The Trailer campers have one 12VDC system and one 120VAC system. Motorhomes have two 12VDC (1 for the chassis and 1 for the camper) systems that operate simultaneously within its walls. The 12VDC system powers things like your lights, water pump, and Smoke/CO detector, the entire 12VDC distribution/Fuse panel.
On the other side, the 120VAC system powers your air conditioner, microwave, and duplex wall outlets. It functions exactly like the electrical system in your brick house. Understanding this distinction saves you frustration when troubleshooting because you immediately know which system powers which appliance.
Powering Your RV
Now that you know what kind of electrical systems in your RV, you may wonder, “Where does that power come from?” You might not realize just how many sources are available to deliver energy to your RV.
Batteries
One source of power are the batteries, which provide energy to the 12VDC system via the 12VDC fuse panel. Manufacturers recommend deep-cycle Lead-Acid or Lithium batteries because of their ability to be charged and discharged several hundred times and the lithium batteries, thousands of times! This makes them perfect for off-grid camping. Lead-acid and lithium varieties both work to supply that consistent 12VDC power you count on, with lithium options steadily growing in popularity for their lighter weight and longer life.
To keep your 12-volt system healthy, make sure you maintain your Lead-Acid batteries. Regularly check water levels in these batteries and use ‘Distilled Water’ and avoid draining below 50 % of capacity. Consider placing the Lithium batteries inside the RV to keep warm if you travel to cold (40degrees or lower) regions. Lithium batteries will not recharge in temps at or below freezing. A reliable battery bank means your RV’s aminities stay powered, wherever your adventures take you.
Shore Power
Another source of energy for your RV electrical system is shore power, which refers to when you plug your RV into an external power source at a campground or your home using the big electrical cord. This connection provides 120VAC electricity directly to your campers’ breaker box. The shore power lets you run appliances like your air conditioner and microwave at the same time, however with 30 amp shore cord you are limited to 30 amps total usage. The 50 amp shore cord has the potential to supply up to 100 amps total usage IF ALL WIRING IS SIZED correctly.
You typically see either a 30-amp or 50-amp connection on modern RVs. A 30-amp service uses a plug with three prongs, while a 50-amp service uses a plug with four prongs. It’s essential to know which amperage your RV requires before you plug it in. Although using an adapter allows you to connect a 30-amp rig to a 50-amp pedestal or vice versa, it limits your power usage.
Shore power acts as an infinite supply line, charging your batteries while powering your outlets. It offers the most convenient way to camp because you still have to think about power management.
Generators
When shore power is unavailable, generators provide a way to create your own 120-volt AC power. Most motorhomes have built-in generators that draw fuel directly from the vehicle’s gas or diesel tank. Towable RV owners often carry portable generators that run on gasoline or propane.
A generator essentially produces the same type of AC electrical power you get when plugged in at a campground. It allows you to run your air conditioner, operate the Microwave and charge your batteries while boondocking. However, you must perform regular maintenance on your generator, including oil changes and filter replacements, to keep it reliable.
Running the generator monthly or draining the generator’s carburetor prevents the carburetor from gumming up. This will ensure the generator fires up every time and gives you complete independence to ensure you stay comfortable regardless of your location.
Solar Power
Solar power offers a silent and renewable way to keep your batteries charged without running a noisy generator. Solar panels mounted on your roof or placed on the ground create energy from the sun and send it to the Batteries via a solar charge controller. This controller regulates the DC voltage and sends a safe, yet programable charge to your battery bank.
An RV solar system primarily charges your 12-volt DC batteries rather than powering your outlets directly. It extends your time off grid significantly by replenishing the 12VDC power you used during the night. You should find it especially useful if you enjoy camping in remote locations where peace and quiet matter most. It represents the ultimate freedom in RV travel.
The Converter: Turning AC Into DC
Another question you may have regarding your RV electrical system is, “Why do my 12VDC (Volts Direct Current) lights work when I plug into 120VAC(Volts Alternating Current) shore power?” This magic happens thanks to a device called a CONVERTER, which takes120VAC power from the campground pedestal or generator and converts it into 12VDC power. This runs the lighting, 12VDC controls and anything else you have an automotive fuse for in the 12VDC fuse panel.
This process provides a steady stream of 12-volt electricity to run your lights, fans, and water pump without draining your battery. Additionally, it charges your house batteries until they are 100% charged. A functioning converter keeps your battery healthy and ensures your 12VDC (also called low-voltage) systems run smoothly. If your lights start dimming AND you’re plugged into shore power, your converter or batteries likely need attention.
The Inverter: Turning DC Into AC
Sometimes, you want to watch TV, and charge a laptop or tablet while camping off the grid. These devices require 120VAC power and your batteries only provide 12VDC power, you’ll need a different device called an inverter. An inverter performs the exact opposite function of a converter.
An Inverter takes the stored 12VDC energy from your batteries and INVERTS it to 120VAC electricity for your duplex outlets and other ‘predetermined’ circuits throughout the RV. Not every RV comes with an inverter, but many owners install them to increase comfort while dry camping.
You must remember that inverters consume a significant amount of battery power rapidly. Running a hair dryer or a coffee maker through an inverter drains your battery bank much faster than running just lights. You gain convenience with an inverter, but you pay for it in energy consumption.
Your Partner in Camper Repair
That was a quick review of how your RV electrical system works! This understanding empowers you to troubleshoot minor issues and make better decisions about your energy usage. However, if you ever find that unexpected electrical trouble is slowing down your vehicle, contact Blue Moon Mobile RV. Our camper repair shop can resolve any issues so you can keep your travels smooth and your RV in top shape.
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