RV Electrical System – It’s Almost Like Home

Nearly all RVs are equipped with an RV Electrical System consisting of two separate voltages; a 12-volt DC system and a 110-volt AC system.  The 12-volt system consists of two internal power sources.  While the 110-volt system operates from an outside power source (generator or outlet).  All systems operate through a single power converter control center to provide electrical power to the RV.

Your RV may be equipped with a power inverter which does just the opposite of a converter in that it will invert 12 volts to 120/240 for larger RV accessories.  You would typically mount these (or they will be mounted in an exterior or interior storage compartment.

Supplies for Your RV Electrical System

Before going into more detail on how the electrical system operates, there are a few items that EVERY RV should have on board.




The first is an External Power Cord (or Shore Line cord).  It is usually 25 feet long and provides ample length for most campground situations.  Shore cords come with a variety of features for comfort, ease and convenience.  Since most RVs operate on a 30 amp power supply, this is what is featured here – but 50 amp cords are also available.  There are cords that feature indicator lights so that you know that you are getting power.  Another nice feature is the locking cord, that locks into place on the RV so that you don’t have to worry about it working loose.

Next it is always a good idea to have an adapter on hand for those situations where 30 amp or 50 amp power is not available. A basic 30 amp to 20 amp converter is shown here.  If your RV is 50 amp then you will want to be sure to get a 50 amp to 30 amp adapter as well.

Trouble Shooting the RV Electrical System

The electrical system in your RV is very similar to that of your house.  When the RV is plugged into a direct electrical supply there is really no difference.  However battery and or generator power changes your options.

Common issues on the road are usually relate to overloading the system, and its a matter of resetting a breaker or gfi.  For this reason it is very important that you know the location of the fuse box, electrical panel and your gfi’s.




When troubleshooting RV electrical issues you always want to start with the most obvious reasons first. First, plug it in (do you have power?)  Second, check the breakers and gfis. Third, charge the batteries. And fourth, check the battery disconnect – is it on or off?

After you try all of the above, and you are still experiencing power issues, you can try a sort of reset. First, turn everything off.  Next, unplug the shore cord from the power supply and RV or generator. Finally, start over.  If the problem persists, you may have to consult an expert.  A campground office can provide names of mobile or local services.

CAUTION

Do Not plug the shoreline power cord into an outlet that is not grounded; and
Do Not connect the shoreline power cord to another extension cord; and
Use Extreme Caution when connecting the shoreline power cord in wet conditions; and finally
Do Not connect or disconnect the shoreline power cord into the generator while the generator is running.

Finally, we recommend that you travel with a supply of fuses.   Fuses in an RV usually decide to go out at the most inopportune times (middle of the night just as you decide to turn on a light).

12 Volt Appliances and Accessories

One of the nice things about traveling in an RV is the availability of 12 volt appliances.  We love our 12-volt Vacuum for quick clean ups in the trailer and around camp.