Recently, a new RVer asked us how to plug their RV into a household electric outlet. That reminded us that there are probably a lot of people with the same question. So, in today’s post, we’re going to cover the basics of connecting different types of RVs to 20-, 30-, and/or 50-amp electric service… using …
Electrical
In over 20 years of full-time RVing, we can’t begin to count the number of times we’ve hooked up at RV parks (even expensive high-end parks) and seen readings on our voltmeter that are way too low. Many years ago we learned about the Hughes Autoformer, and we haven’t had to worry about low voltage …
We’ve posted on the battery disconnect switch before. We’ve even addressed the question “Should I disconnect my RV battery when plugged in?” (meaning plugged into shore power). But we’ve never discussed whether or not to keep the RV battery disconnect switch on or off while the rig is in storage. Should you keep your RV …
Thet terms “RV converter” and “RV battery charger” are often used interchangeably, but what are the differences between an RV converter vs battery charger? The term “battery charger” is pretty self-explanatory. A battery charger charges your RV batteries. But there’s a bit more to it than that. Likewise, an RV converter charges your rig’s batteries, …
Should you wire RV batteries in series vs parallel? That’s a great question and knowing the correct answer is really important. If we had a dollar for every time we’ve been asked, “Are RV batteries wired in series or parallel?” we’d have enough to fill our diesel pusher’s fuel tank. But we can’t just give …
Batteries are a critical part of any RV. Your RV battery gives you the power you need to operate a variety of features, including appliances, devices, and lights. If you have a motorized RV, you also need a battery to start and drive your rig. But there are several different types of RV batteries, and …
When hooking up to electrical power, the outlet or power pedestal you’re connecting to isn’t always conveniently located. That’s why it’s important to carry an RV extension cord. The question is which cord to carry because using an underrated cord for the load your RV will require could lead to problems, including fire. Which cord …
RV wiring has traditionally been installed in a similar manner to electrical wiring in a house. In recent years, however, multiplex wiring systems for RV use have become more common. RV multiplex systems make the wiring throughout the RV more like that of a computer network which can have some real benefits. But what, exactly, …
The 50 amp RV plug is a powerful thing! In fact, it has the capacity to power everything in your RV no matter what size rig you’ve got. People often wonder how much a single 50-amp plug can really handle. Well, we can power our entire motorhome on a 50-amp plug when we’re connected to …
A quality, highly protective RV surge protector can appear at first glance to be a bit pricey. But when you consider the cost of replacing your RV’s electronics, the cost of surge protection becomes inconsequential. Plugging your RV into unknown power sources like those at RV parks, campgrounds, state parks, etc. is always risky. Any …
Because most RVs have two electrical systems – a 12V DC system as well as a 120V AC system – there can be some confusion about some matters related to the two systems and how they function, both together and separately. For example, we’ve often heard the question “Should I disconnect my RV battery when …
As full-time RVers and chronic DIYers, we carry lots of tools and supplies, and we use them all regularly. But even part-time and occasional RVers need a few tools and supplies. Today we’re looking at RV electrical supplies in particular because RVing means you’ve got a home-on-wheels with not just one, but TWO electrical systems …
We’ve talked a lot about solar power on this blog over the years, and we’re big fans. We’ve got what for us is the ultimate RV solar panel system, and it has served us very well overall. But there’s no getting around the fact that the sun goes down every night, and that clouds, rain, …
As the single largest power draw on most RVs, air conditioners pull a lot of juice, especially when they first start up. While running an AC unit might not exceed the capabilities of a small generator or shore power connection, the initial power spike when the compressor comes on is where we need the best soft start for …
You may have seen reports of RV hot skin issues in the news from time to time. It’s a real thing, and it can be extremely dangerous. So, we’re here to lay out the details on what the term “RV hot skin” means, how to test your RV for a “hot skin” condition, and how …