RV Power Converters and Inverters

Early RVs were manufactured with dual voltage components that would run on both 110 AC electricity and 12 volt DC, or battery power. With the invention of the power converter, manufacturers can reduce weight and cost by installing 12 volt only components, and use converters to power them while hooked to shore power.

Today RVs come equipped with a power converter. Your converter is really a simple device that takes 110 volt AC and turns it into 12 volt DC. They allow you to use your 12 volt appliances, fans, pumps and camper lights while you are plugged in to 110.

Most RV power converters are equipped with a battery charger to keep the RV's battery charged when connected to a 110 power source. These chargers are usually trickle charges with a charge rate of less than 10 amps.

Inverters work the exact opposite. It will change battery of DC power to AC current. Some RVs have inverters to provide AC power at times when shoreline power is not available, or when generator use is not advised. Inverters are rated in watts, from 50 to 3000 watts.

RV Power inverters are nice to have for dry camping. Generators require fuel, regular maintenance and can be very noisy. We usually dry camp to avoid noise. Inverters are quiet - not even a hum, and are virtually maintenance free!

A power inverter relies on good RV deep cycle batteries to work properly. They work well for low power appliances such as televisions, radios, computers, and for short term use of appliances such as coffee makers or microwaves.

Care should be taken with your batteries when using an inverter for your RV power. For extended stays at a site without electrical hookups, it is advisable to have spare batteries, and to recharge your batteries whenever you can.