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Understanding and Troubleshooting Power Converters and Inverters on RVs

  • By Admin
  • •
  • 27 Apr, 2017
  • •
A recreational vehicle (RV) is only as good as its electrical system, so it’s important to understand the basics of how your RV directs electrical current to the appropriate places. Two devices—the converter and inverter—play a big part in managing electrical power in your RV. Below is more information about power converters and inverters.
04.27.2017

Understanding and Troubleshooting Power Converters and Inverters on RVs

A recreational vehicle (RV) is only as good as its electrical system, so it’s important to understand the basics of how your RV directs electrical current to the appropriate places. Two devices—the converter and inverter—play a big part in managing electrical power in your RV. Below is more information about power converters and inverters.

An Introduction to Dual Power, Converters, and Inverters

Your RV likely contains a dual power system that supplies both 12-volt direct current (DC) and 110-volt alternating current (AC) to various electrical components. For example, most RV appliances, such as refrigerators, microwaves, and air conditioners, are powered by a 110-volt system, while lighting is connected to a 12-volt system.
Batteries directly power the 12-volt components, but a converter transforms the electrical current from 110 volts AC to 12 volts DC when the RV is connected to shore power. As a result, the batteries are kept charged and ready at all times.
An RV power inverter operates in a reverse role in by transforming 12 volts DC to 110 volts AC. As such, the inverter provides electricity for devices that operate at higher voltage levels if they are not connected to shore power.

Potential Problems With Converters and Inverters

RV converters and inverters are generally reliable and don't require much attention from owners. However, there are occasions when a converter or an inverter fails or experiences other types of trouble. Some of the most common problems are listed below.
Insufficient Shore Power
One problem that can prevent a converter from functioning is insufficient shore power. Should incoming voltages be significantly less than 110 volts AC, the converter will be unable to operate and output 12 volts DC.
You can check to see if a shore power connection provides 110 volts AC by using a clamp-on meter that attaches to the outside of the electrical cable. Some variation in voltage is acceptable, but anything less than about 108 volts AC indicates trouble with the incoming power supply.
Blown Fuses
A blown fuse can affect a converter or inverter by shutting off current flow from one direction or another. Consult the electrical diagram for your RV or documentation for the converter and inverter to locate fuses. You will need to evaluate each fuse separately to determine if it is blown.
Should you find a blown fuse, have a professional replace it with an exact match in amperage and voltage. Having an expert perform this step reduces the risk for electrical fires. For example, if you handle the repair yourself and use a 30-amp fuse in place of a 20-amp fuse, the consequence could be disastrous.
Bad House Batteries
Your RV contains at least one, maybe more, lead-acid batteries used to power 12-volt accessories. For RVs with inverters, these batteries also provide the necessary current to produce 110 volts AC.
Lead-acid batteries don't last forever, particularly if they are mistreated or neglected altogether. These batteries are called house batteries for the purpose of differentiating with the engine battery. Eventually, your house batteries will fail due to normal aging.
When the house batteries do fail, they will lose their ability to hold a charge, and this failure prevents them from powering the inverter or from providing sufficient output to accessories.
Failed Cooling Fans
Both converters and inverters generate a lot of heat during operation, and fans provide cooling for these devices. Should the fan go bad, internal components are likely to overheat and fail, too. If you notice the fan has failed in your converter or inverter, then don't delay in getting it repaired, since continued operation may damage the component due to overheating.

If you have questions about your RV's converter or inverter or any other electrical systems, then be sure to contact a  qualified RV service  company for help.

Childproofing Your RV: Getting Your RV Ready for Family Fun

By admin • 29 Nov, 2017
Few vacations are as exciting for a child as hitting the road in your own RV. With your own RV, you're able to take your home and family with you - and give your children experiences that they'll never forget. However, not every RV comes completely childproofed. If you have young kids or even babies, you may want to take some additional measures to childproof everything inside the RV before you start your trip.

Weatherproofing Your RV From Rain

By Admin • 31 Oct, 2017
Whether you are still driving your RV, trailer or camper around during these autumn months or are getting your RV ready for outdoor winter storage, weatherproofing is an important detail to consider. Proper weatherproofing helps prevent water from entering and damaging your RV.

4 Best Practices for Maintaining Your RV Toilet and Its Plumbing

By Admin • 27 Sep, 2017
The toilet in your RV isn't the most glamorous piece of equipment in your trailer or motor home, but it is one of the most important. Abuse can quickly cause problems for RV owners, and the consequences are likely to be unpleasant.

Securing Items To Prevent Interior Damage

By Admin • 11 Aug, 2017
Driving an RV isn't always smooth sailing -- anyone who has been on a bumpy back road can tell you that. Detours and whims are a normal part of traveling, and for RV owners, those new roads often hold surprises.

How to Fire-Proof Your RV| Rv Service Center Of Santa Cruz

By renamills@comcast.net • 27 Jul, 2017
07.27.2017 How to Fire-Proof Your RV| Rv Service Center Of Santa Cruz Whether you've just purchased your first motor home or you're a seasoned RVer, you should ensure your investment is fire-proof. You probably know how to take a lot of common-sense precautions when fire-proofing your RV, but here are five tips that are easy to follow and will bring you peace of mind before hitting the highway.Change and Properly Dispose of BatteriesA lot of people aren't aware of the dangers in something so seemingly innocent, but batteries can pose a fire hazard if they don't get the right attention. Start by changing any battery-powered appliances in your RV once a year. This includes smoke/propane/carbon monoxide detectors, flashlights, portable radios, etc.Batteries can also spark a fire if the terminals touch or they come in contact with metal. So when you remove the batteries, place electrical tape over the terminals and remove them from your RV right away, and put them in a secure place to be recycled. Also be sure to keep any unused batteries in their original container until ready for use. Since recycling batteries in California is mandatory, you should take care of this before hitting the road. This will prevent you from having to find a recycling center while you're RVing.Maintain the Tires and Wheel BearingsAs you know, tires get hot from friction on the road. But what you might not know is that tires canoverheat to the point that they catch on fire. You can avoid this hazard by ensuring your tires have proper inflation, but there's one other component that can become a fire hazard: the wheel bearings. If they fail, they can overheat and cause the tire to catch on fire.Make sure to have your tires and wheel bearing inspected before taking a trip. Also, consider investing in an infrared temperature gun. By using it regularly, you can get an idea of what the norm is so you'll know exactly when your tires are too hot.Routinely Inspect Your RefrigeratorRefrigerator fires are one of the most common types of fire hazards in an RV, especially if you have a refrigerator that runs on gas. But these fires also easy to prevent when you know what the hazards are. Before heading out for your travels, remove the access panel on the outside of the RV and run a quick visual inspection. Look for rodents that might be nesting, loose wires, dirt and debris, and any evidence that overheating has occurred.Next, you'll need to decide whether you're comfortable traveling with the propane on to keep contents in the fridge cool. If your RV is set up to battery-power your fridge, this is definitely a safer option. But many long-time RVers are adamant that traveling with the propane on is perfectly fine. Keep in mind the gas must be shut off at service stations and while traveling through restricted tunnels and over bridges.The good news is that your food will stay reasonably cool for up to five hours. So if you're only traveling short periods every day, there's no need for the propane at all until you stop for the night.Maintain Your Electrical SystemElectrical outlets are limited in RVs, which can certainly pose some challenges. But by taking the following precautions, your risk of fire is greatly reduced:Avoid overloading outlets with too many appliances, particularly ones that draw a lot of energy.Avoid extension cords. If absolutely necessary, stick with one that's heavy duty, and don't run them under rugs.Routinely check for loose electrical connections AFTER disconnecting any battery connections and your RV from shore power. If anything seems amiss or loose, hire an electrician who works on RVs to fix the problems.Invest in an RV surge protector that will immediately shut off the power if dangerous surges occur.Perform random "touch" tests to ensure the outlets aren't overheating.If you're one to max out your outlets, you might also consider having an electrical box installed-one that's heavy duty to support your appliance usage. This is a great way to improve your RV's electrical system.Invest in Fire ExtinguishersFire extinguishers are a must for every RV, and you have several types to choose from. However, the best is probably a dry chemical extinguisher since they're rated for most any type of fire. The main caveat is that some of the agents can become corrosive over time. So it's important to clean up the mess as soon as possible once the fire is extinguished.If you have any questions about fire-proofing your RV, contact one of our team members at RV Service Center of Santa Cruz. Facebook Twitter Google+ pinterest

Storing Your RV for the Season: Tips for Winter Readiness

By Admin • 24 May, 2017
After a season of beautiful weather and pristine sunny days, the weather is getting cooler and it's time to think about putting away your RV for the winter. A lot goes into making your vehicle winter-ready, so as soon as the temperatures start to drop to freezing temperatures at night, you need to have your winterizing strategy ready to go. Here are some tips that will help you keep your RV safe all off-season long so you are ready for new adventures come spring.

Summer Time and Your RV: How to Keep Your RV Cool

By Admin • 24 Mar, 2017
Summertime trips in your RV can provide some of the best days of your life, but the hottest part of the year can make staying comfortable in your RV a challenge, if you aren't prepared. Below are several tips you can use to give your RV's air conditioner a helping hand and keep yourself comfortable.

How to Replace a Worn Gasket in Your RV Air Conditioner

By Admin • 01 Feb, 2017
If your recreational vehicle's (RV) air conditioner is leaking, then it is probably time to replace the rooftop gasket that seals the unit. As this gasket ages, it becomes brittle, hard, and unable to seal the opening, thus permitting moisture to enter the RV. Below is how you can replace an old gasket with a new one and eliminate a frustrating air conditioner leak.

5 Tips to Find the Perfect Vintage RV or Trailer

By Admin • 01 Jan, 2017
Nostalgia for old campers is growing by leaps and bounds as more people realize the relaxing benefits of getting away from the city in their own retro "home on wheels." They remember trips with their parents and neighbors to see the Grand Canyon or the Smoky Mountains and want to recreate the experience with their own kids. Other families choose to restore old campers as family projects they later use for economical road trips.

How To Maximize Your RV Refrigerator's Effectiveness

By Admin • 01 Dec, 2016
A refrigerator is an essential recreational vehicle (RV) appliance if you plan to prepare your own meals during travel. However, you can get the most use out of an RV refrigerator when you understand the unique aspects of the appliance. Below is more information about RV refrigerators and what you can do to make them truly work for you out on the road.
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