Tag: rv living

What Happens When the RV Converter Goes Bad

Even if you’ve never paid attention to the power converter—the often-unnoticed central nervous system of your RV that’s generally tucked away under a seat or in a cabinet—you’ll want to know what happens when the RV converter goes bad.

Anything that needs electricity in your RV either requires AC or DC power. The RV converter, sometimes called a power converter, transforms the alternating current (AC) power that comes from the electrical hookup to direct current (DC) battery power.

The Importance of a Functioning Converter

Many campsites have electricity available even if they don’t offer water or sewer hookup. If you’re not an off-grid camper or someone who has experience with boondocking, it’s likely you’ve always used the electrical hookup at campsites. You arrive, plug in, and presto, everything works. It’s possible you hadn’t given much thought to the converter and what it does.

That wonderful RV power converter transforming the 120 volts of AC power from the electrical hookup to 12 volts of DC power for battery-functioning appliances means everything that the AC powers like your coffee maker, air conditioner, refrigerator (when not running on propane), and anything else you plug into a wall socket works as well as your lights, roof vent fans, leveling systems, and water pump which are typically part of the DC electricity system in an RV. Every RV is different, so there are other possibilities such as DC power radios or slide-out motors if your RV has slide-outs.

Understanding RV Converters

The RV converter turns the outlet AC power (110 volts) from the campsite hookup into battery DC power (12 volts) to charge your battery and run your DC appliances. It’s designed to seamlessly work in the background so that all electrical components of your RV work. It’s why many people just plug in and go; they don’t give much thought or even know it’s there—until the converter goes bad. However, they typically last a decade or so, possibly longer if you’re mostly a weekend warrior.

While the converter transforms the AC voltage to DC battery voltage, an inverter works in reverse, transforming the 12-volt DC power to 110-volt AC power. An inverter is what allows power from your camper battery to power any AC equipment like when you want to make one more cup of coffee as you tear down and get ready to go.

Signs of a Failing RV Converter

Because it’s important to know what happens when the RV converter goes bad and what to do in that situation, it’s key to be aware of the signs and signals of a converter that’s failing. The top five things to look for are:

  1. Dimming or Flickering Lights: If you notice your RV’s interior lights flickering or dimming, it could be a sign of a failing converter. Because the converter is responsible for converting AC power to DC power, which is used to run your RV’s 12v lights, your batteries may not be charging if the converter is not working properly. Flickering lights may is a signal of a faulty or failing RV converter.
  1. Dead Batteries: The converter is responsible for the proper charging of your batteries when you’re connected to AC electrical hookup. A failing RV converter results in inconsistent power flow to charge your battery which will eventually lead to a dead battery.
  2. Overheating: A converter that is hot to the touch is a sign that your RV converter is failing. Overheating is a signal that the converter is working too hard to keep up with the electrical demands. Permanent damage to your RV converter—as well as other electrical components in your RV—can result from overheating, so address the situation right away.
  3. Strange Noises from the Converter: Failing converters can make a buzzing or humming sound, so listen for any unusual noises coming from your converter. Whether it’s a problem with the fan or other components of your RV converter, don’t ignore odd sounds—investigate.
  4. Electrical System Malfunctions: Other electrical issues can arise from a failing converter. There may be appliances which aren’t working properly, or slide-outs that are giving you issues. The inconsistent power from a failing converter can manifest in an array of electrical system malfunctions and the power flow should be checked.

Causes of RV Converter Failure

There are four main causes of RV converter failure that can be prevented by keeping your RV’s electrical system running smoothly.

  1. Power Surges and Electrical Faults: External electrical issues such as power surges and electrical faults can damage your RV’s converter. You can protect the electrical system in your RV by using a surge protector.
  1. Age and Wear: Time eventually impacts your converter’s performance like any other component in your RV. If your converter is older than 10 years—the average lifespan of an RV converter—consider replacing it before it wears out.
  2. Poor Maintenance: Neglecting your RV’s electrical system can lead to converter issues. Performing regular maintenance on your RV’s converter—including cleaning the fan—can extend the life of your converter. It’s a good idea to check the wiring regularly as well.
  3. Incorrect Installation or Wiring: Having your converter professionally installed ensures that it’s done correctly. An unprofessional or DIY converter installation has a greater likelihood of issues down the road. Saving a little on the costs up front may not be worth the expenses down the road as a result of unprofessional installation.

Nothing lasts forever, but with proper installation and regular maintenance your converter can work well for a long time.

Diagnosing a Bad RV Converter

The first step in diagnosing whether your RV converter is bad is to verify that the RV is connected to a power source and the main power switch is on. If the RV is not connected to a power source, the converter will not work. If the power source is fine, but the converter is still not working, it could be a sign of a bad converter.

Next, inspect the circuit breakers and fuses looking for tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses in the RV’s electrical panel. Reset any tripped breakers and if you find any blown fuses, replace them. Then check to see if the converter is working.

You’ll also want to test the AC outlet voltage with a voltmeter or multimeter at the RV’s AC outlets. It should be around 120 volts. Voltage that is too high or too low can be a sign that your RV converter is bad. If the voltage level is correct, listen for the converter fan; it should run when the converter is working hard.

Observe the condition of the battery, checking to see if the batteries are charging or if they are overcharged. If they are boiling or swollen, they’re overcharged which shortens the life of the battery. The DC voltage output at the battery should be between 13-14 volts when charging.

Internal issues with the converter can cause strange noises coming from the converter. Listen for anything unusual and also check for overheating. Excessive heat can be a sign of malfunction or faulty fan. Just like the fan on your laptop keeps it from overheating, the fan on your converter prevents overheating.

Visually inspect the converter for any signs of physical damage or wear and refer to the RV’s manual for any other specific troubleshooting steps for your converter model. It may require professional evaluation if you cannot determine the issue after all these steps.

Consequences of a Failing Converter

Knowing the impact on RV appliances is an important part of understanding what happens when the RV converter goes bad. Converter issues can cause appliances to work poorly or stop working altogether. Ignoring the problem won’t make it go away. In fact, your RV’s electrical system can incur long-term damage when the RV converter goes bad.

A malfunctioning converter can mean that the battery isn’t being properly charged so items like the propane alarm on your RV may not work if your battery dies.

Replacing or Repairing the RV Converter

Depending on what is wrong with the converter, you may choose to repair. Replacing a fuse is an easy repair. Make sure that you replace a blown fuse with one of the same or lower rating. Never use a fuse with a higher rating than the burned out one to avoid power surges and electrical damage. Having a pack of fuses on hand is an easy and inexpensive way to be prepared in case one blows. Resetting a tripped breaker is also an easy fix. The other replacement fix for a converter is the fan. If it’s faulty, the excess heat will damage your electronics.

Replacing the converter is best done by professionals. It can be a DIY project provided you have a basic understanding of electrical systems and the ability to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Safety first means disconnecting any power source and turning off all electrical systems and appliances prior to removing the old converter. Disconnect the power supply from the old converter, remove it, and prepare the new converter for installation by removing protective covers and referring to the manufacturer’s instructions for any other necessary preparation.

Install the new converter and reconnect power supply wires. Double-check that all connections are aligned correctly and secure to avoid short circuits or other electrical issues. Test the new converter by turning on the power supply and checking the voltage output to ensure it matches the manufacturer’s specifications and replace the cover.

Preventative Measures and Maintenance

Take care of your converter to get the longest life possible. Prevent overheating by making sure the converter is in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources. Check the fan regularly and blow out any dust that may collect in the converter with compressed air.

Contact RV Wholesale Superstore 

The professionals at RV Wholesale Superstore are ready to help you find the perfect RV for you and your family. Visit us in-person at 5080 W. Alexis Road, in Sylvania, OH or call us at (419) 786-1126

Connect with us on Social Media! 

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It’s exciting to be new to the RV life, full of anticipation of all the adventures ahead of you. But one question that may be on your mind is, “What do I do with my dog on vacation?” If you’re a seasoned tent camper upgrading to the RV lifestyle, you may have experience camping with your pet. Even so, there are a few things to remember when RVing with dogs to ensure a positive experience. Two of the best things you can have going for you are a good leash and a well-trained dog. This combination keeps your pet safe, your neighbors happy, and your trip enjoyable. Let’s look at some other tips and frequently asked questions.

It’s exciting to be new to the RV life, full of anticipation of all the adventures ahead of you. But one question that may be on your mind is, “What do I do with my dog on vacation?” If you’re a seasoned tent camper upgrading to the RV lifestyle, you may have experience camping with your pet. Even so, there are a few things to remember when RVing with dogs to ensure a positive experience. Two of the best things you can have going for you are a good leash and a well-trained dog. This combination keeps your pet safe, your neighbors happy, and your trip enjoyable. Let’s look at some other tips and frequently asked questions.

Is RVing with Dogs Possible and Safe?

Yes, many people spend years traveling in their RVs with dogs. It can be a great alternative to camping alone and also a natural deterrent to theft, or curious nocturnal scavengers. When it comes to your dog’s safety, RVs are no different than cars. Drive cautiously and try not to brake suddenly which can throw your pet off balance.

The most secure way to travel with your dog is to use a crate or vehicle harness. This will keep Fido safe and protected in case of an accident. The most important thing to remember is keeping your dog with you. It is never wise to leave a dog or any other pet in a towed RV when no one else is with them.

Are RV Parks Dog-Friendly?

Not every RV park welcomes dogs. There are RV parks that do not allow pets at all. Not to worry, dogs are allowed at many campgrounds but they don’t necessarily have dog-related amenities. Finally, there are the parks that are truly dog-friendly. These parks may provide public areas that are designed for dogs giving them dedicated space to have fun, roam around and explore freely.

It’s important when traveling with pets to do your research and find the right park for your trip. When you’re RVing with dogs, remember that not everyone is a dog lover. So when you’re choosing a destination, picking a dog-friendly park is the best first step in respecting other people’s camping experience as well as having an enjoyable adventure yourself.

What Type of RV Should I Use for Traveling with a Dog?

Just like your dog can ride with you in whatever vehicle you happen to drive, a dog can travel in any RV! If you are looking for an RV, take the size of your pet into consideration and look for one that provides ample space for you and your dog. The larger your dog, the more impact your RV choice may have on your overall comfort. In the same way that a Great Dane may be more comfortable riding in a minivan than in a Mini Cooper, a larger RV may be a better choice if you are the owner of a larger breed. Obviously, the larger the RV, the more spacious and comfortable no matter the size of your dog. Keep in mind that the more space you have, the more areas you’ll have to clean up after your dog.

Tips for RVing with Dogs

Plan Regular Stops

Planning regular stops during your RV trip is crucial for your dog’s comfort and well-being. These breaks provide an opportunity for your dog to stretch, exercise, and relieve themselves. It’s not only a physical break but a mental one as well, offering a change of scenery and a chance to explore new surroundings.

Every stop is a mini-adventure for your dog, filled with new scents and sights that provide mental stimulation. Besides, these stops are beneficial for you as well, allowing you to stretch your legs, get some fresh air, and take a break from the monotony of driving.

Ensuring your dog stays hydrated and gets a chance to relieve themselves will contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable RV experience for both of you.

Keep a Routine

Maintaining a routine while on the road can significantly help in reducing anxiety and keeping your dog comfortable. Stick to a regular feeding schedule to keep your dog’s digestive system on track. Regular bathroom breaks are also part of this routine, ensuring your dog gets plenty of opportunities to relieve themselves. Incorporate elements of your dog’s routine from home into your travel schedule, like regular playtimes and walks.

These familiar activities provide a sense of security and normalcy amidst the constantly changing environment of the road. A routine creates a semblance of familiarity which can be reassuring to your dog, making the RV trip a pleasant experience.

Get a Vet Check-Up

Before heading out on your RV adventure, a visit to the vet is essential to ensure your dog is healthy and ready for the journey. A thorough check-up can identify any potential health issues that might need attention. Ensure that all vaccinations are up to date to protect your dog from diseases, especially if you’ll be visiting areas with other animals.

Discuss the possibility of motion sickness with your vet and have appropriate medications on hand if needed. If you’re planning to cross state lines, obtaining a health certificate and having a record of vaccinations is crucial. Having these documents easily accessible can also be beneficial in case of emergencies.

Create a Secure Space for Your Pet

Creating a secure space for your dog to travel in while on the road is imperative for their safety. A well-ventilated crate can provide a secure and comfortable space. Ensure the crate is spacious enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If your dog prefers to be out of a crate, a doggy seatbelt is an alternative to keep them safe and secure. Incorporate familiar items like your dog’s bed, blanket, or toys to help them feel at home in the RV. These familiar scents and textures can provide comfort and reduce anxiety.

Ensuring proper ventilation and temperature control in the RV is crucial for your dog’s comfort, particularly in extreme weather conditions. By creating a secure and comfortable space, you’re setting the stage for an enjoyable and memorable RV adventure with your furry companion.

Replace Your Carpet

If your RV has carpets, one modification you can make is to replace them with smooth, hard flooring. Cleanup is much easier on hard floors, especially if you have a puppy or elderly dog that may be prone to accidents. It also means you have one less appliance to store. Say, “Goodbye, vacuum cleaner,” and, “Hello,” to a convenient space to store dog food!

Cover RV Furniture

When you’re RVing with dogs, one of the easiest ways to protect your furniture from stains or scratches is to cover it. Covering your RV furniture helps retain your RV’s value. It also makes cleaning simple and there are many options from a simple sheet to specialty fitted covers that are specially made for pets. Even if your dog is trained to keep off the furniture, even the best dogs may test the boundaries in your RV – especially in a thunderstorm!

Find a Vet at Your Destination

When you are traveling it’s a good idea to know where the local hospital or urgent care center is in case there is an accident. Likewise, it’s good practice to familiarize yourself with local vets. Chances are, you’ll never need either one, but it’s good information to have whenever you travel just in case.

Keep Temperature In Mind

The extreme temperatures in winter and summer can be brutal, especially for your dog. Temperatures can climb quickly and exponentially in an RV the same way they can in a car. And just like your pet can’t open the door and jump out of a car, they can’t walk out of a scorching RV either. So, it’s important to be mindful of temps and take the same precautions as you would with your dog in your car. Keeping your RV cool in hot weather is important to the comfort and safety of your pet.

Another thing to remember is that if your dog is tied up outside in hot weather, digging down to find a nice, cool layer of dirt to lie in is instinctual and they can move a lot of dirt in a very short amount of time! However, big holes all over your campsite are not a way to make friends with other campers or the park groundskeepers! So, keep a close eye on your furry friend and provide extra water or frequent dips in the lake or local pond to help them regulate their body temperature and stay healthy.

When camping in winter or other cold times of the year, remember that cold-vulnerable dogs like Chihuahuas, Whippets, or Greyhounds will have a hard time keeping warm in a freezing RV. For these breeds it’s especially important to provide a warm dog bed or extra blankets they can nest in when frigid weather arrives. It may be a power-saver when you don’t keep the temperatures in your RV as controlled as you would at home, especially if you are boondocking. Just be alert to your dog’s comfort level and adjust accordingly.

Beware of Wild Animals

Part of the fun of camping is being out in nature. When you’re out in nature, you’re much more likely to encounter wild animals, which is part of the camping experience. It’s important to keep in mind that you and your dog won’t have the same reaction to seeing an animal in the wild, and their reaction may not always the safest one (think skunk!)

The simplest way to keep you and your dog safe is to keep them on a leash at all times. No matter how well-trained your dog is, there is no way to predict how they will react to an animal in the wild – especially one they have never been exposed to before or one that startles them.

It can help your trips go smoother and help avoid accidents or injuries either to or from your dog to work on training at home. A well-trained dog kept on a leash goes a long way to ensure safety and an enjoyable experience when you are RVing with dogs, especially when it comes to an unexpected encounter with the local wildlife.

Contact RV Wholesale Superstore 

The professionals at RV Wholesale Superstore are ready to help you find the perfect RV for you and your family. Visit us in-person at 5080 W. Alexis Road, in Sylvania, OH or call us at (419) 786-1126

Connect with us on Social Media! 

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Have you ever considered taking the road less traveled—quite literally—by embarking on a solo RV travel adventure? Traveling alone in an RV offers an unmatched sense of freedom, a plethora of opportunities for self-discovery, and the flexibility to follow your own schedule. But, like any journey, it requires preparation to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. In this guide, we will delve into the essential safety and general travel tips you should consider when RVing solo.

Why Solo RV Travel?

Freedom and Flexibility – One of the most captivating reasons to consider solo RV travel is the unparalleled freedom and flexibility you have when you’re your own boss on the road. There’s no need to compromise with anyone; you decide the when, where, and how of your trip.

Opportunities for Self-Discovery – Travelling alone gives you time to reflect, explore your interests, and challenge yourself in new and exciting ways. Solo RV travel can be a deeply enriching personal experience.

Ability to Follow Your Own Schedule – Without other travelers to account for, you can adjust your itinerary on the fly. Spend an extra day at a site you love or move on earlier than planned—it’s all up to you.

Pre-Trip Preparations

Vehicle Check

Before you embark on your solo RV journey, it’s crucial to ensure that your vehicle is in top-notch mechanical condition. Nothing can halt the excitement of an adventure faster than a broken-down RV.

Learning Basic RV Maintenance Skills

It’s also good to arm yourself with basic RV maintenance skills. Here are some tasks you should be familiar with:

  • Checking oil and other fluid levels
  • Inspecting tires for wear and proper inflation
  • Testing brakes and lights
  • Checking for leaks in water and gas lines
  • Securing all doors, windows, and loose items

Route Planning

Another pre-trip task is to thoroughly research your route. Campgrounds, rest stops, and even gas stations can be sparse in certain areas. Some spots may require reservations, especially during peak season.

Emergency Preparedness

No one likes to think about emergencies, but preparation is key when you’re RVing solo. Keep a well-stocked first aid kit, have a backup power supply like a generator or extra batteries, and maintain a list of emergency contacts. A roadside assistance membership is also highly recommended for solo RV travel.

Safety Tips

Driving Safety

Safety is paramount when you’re on the road alone. Limit your driving to reasonable hours to ensure you don’t suffer from fatigue. Nighttime driving is generally best avoided due to reduced visibility and increased wildlife activity. Exercise caution in bad weather and remember to use proper signaling and maintain safe following distances.

Personal Safety

Security starts with simple actions. Make use of your RV’s security features, such as door locks and window latches. Always be aware of your surroundings and, if possible, inform someone you trust about your itinerary and schedule. Proper food storage is essential as well, especially to avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite.

Health Precautions

Your health should not take a backseat when you’re out experiencing the joys of solo RV travel. Keep an adequate supply of any medications you take, stay hydrated, and know the location of the nearest medical facilities.

General Solo RV Travel Tips

Campground Etiquette

Maintaining a good relationship with your fellow travelers can enhance your solo RV experience. Observe quiet hours, keep your camping area clean, and follow all campground rules to ensure that everyone has a pleasant stay.

Socializing and Networking

Solo doesn’t have to mean lonely. The RV community is a tight-knit group. Online forums, social media platforms, and community events are excellent ways to make new friends while RVing solo.

Maximizing Enjoyment

Last but not least, remember that this trip is all about you. Visit the tourist spots you’ve always wanted to see, but also take time to explore less-known local attractions. Keep a camera or journal to capture the memories, and don’t be afraid to adjust your itinerary to chase new experiences.

Solo RV travel offers a unique and enriching opportunity for anyone looking to explore at their own pace. By taking proper safety precautions and preparing adequately, you can make the most of your journey. So go ahead, hit the open road alone, and create your own adventure.

Contact RV Wholesale Superstore

The professionals at RV Wholesale Superstore are ready to help you find the perfect RV for you and your family. Visit us in-person at 5080 W. Alexis Road, in Sylvania, OH or call us at (419) 786-1126

Connect with us on Social Media!

Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Pinterest