RV Electrical Systems

The Electrical System

Overview

In an RV, there are three types of electrical systems that you should know about and understand the difference between them. The lights, refrigerator pilot, furnace pilot, and water heater pilot are all part of the Direct Current or DC electrical system. This system takes power from what is referred to as the coach battery (not to be confused with the vehicle starting battery). If your coach battery is not charged, appliances like your refrigerator or furnace will not operate. The AC or Alternating Current electrical system can be referred to as Shore power or if you prefer, Edison power. This is the AC electrical outlets that power your television, microwave, and air conditioners. When you plug in at an RV Park, we use the term in an RV, Shore Power to differentiate between AC and DC. The last system comes from the engine of the motorhome or the tow vehicle, the alternator. This can charge batteries while you are on the road.

Start Up

1. Turn on the DC system
2. Hook up the Coach battery, if you unhook it when stored so It doesn’t discharge
3. Check all fuses and make sure that breakers are turned on

Maintenance

Recommended items

1. Surge Protector to protect electrical system when plugged into an RV Park pedestal
2. Electrical adapters (called dog-bones in RV lingo) 50 amp to 30 and 50 amp to 30

Cost

1. Surge Protector $100 to $500
2. Dog-bone adapters $20 to $50

RV Electrical System- How To Full time RV.docx