Power Up Your RV: Essential Electrical Upgrades for Your Rig
Having sufficient electrical power in your RV is essential for running all your appliances, lights, and electronics while on the road or camping off-grid. Unfortunately, most RVs come equipped with limited electrical systems that may not meet your needs. The good news is there are several worthwhile upgrades you can make to increase your RV's electrical capacity and performance.
RV Inverter Installation
One of the best upgrades is installing a powerful pure sine wave inverter. This allows you to power AC appliances and electronics using your RV battery bank. Choose an inverter sized appropriately for your electrical needs that offers a remote display and management app.
- Pure sine wave inverters provide clean power for sensitive electronics.
- Remote displays and apps allow monitoring and control from inside the RV.
- Size the inverter based on the wattage of appliances you need to run.
Adding More Outlets and USB Ports
Most RVs lack sufficient outlets and USB charging ports. Adding more throughout the interior and exterior allows you to easily plug in and charge all your devices. Consider installing:
- Multiple dual USB charging ports near seating areas and beds
- GFCI protected exterior outlets under the awning for patio lighting and appliances
- Outlet strips with USB ports in galley and work areas
Upgrading Your RV Batteries
Replacing the weak factory-installed batteries with higher capacity absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries will improve performance and allow you to go longer between charges. For maximum power:
- Use 6V or 12V AGM batteries wired in series/parallel for your house battery bank.
- Look for deep cycle batteries rated for RV use.
- Have at least 200Ah total capacity for good dry camping duration.
Installing Solar Panels
Adding solar panels and a charge controller will allow you to recharge your batteries using free solar energy. For your RV:
- Flush mount 100W - 200W polycrystalline panels on the roof.
- Use a MPPT solar charge controller to maximize energy yield.
- Ensure panels and controller are RV/marine rated to handle vibration.
With these upgrades, your RV's electrical system will offer stable power, plenty of ports, and off-grid recharging capability for powering all your road trip needs!
RV Inverter Installation
Installing an inverter in your RV allows you to power AC appliances and electronics using your 12V battery bank. It converts DC power stored in the batteries into standard 120V AC power that your devices can use. Follow this guide for proper RV inverter selection, wiring, and installation.
Choosing an RV Inverter
Consider these factors when selecting an inverter for your RV:
- Output wattage - Size the inverter to handle starting and running watts of all appliances used.
- Pure sine wave - Provides clean power for sensitive electronics.
- Remote display - Allows monitoring and control from inside the RV.
- RV rating - Ensures the inverter can handle vehicle vibration.
Mounting the Inverter
Follow these best practices when mounting your RV inverter:
- Install in a ventilated space like a storage bay or utility compartment.
- Ensure adequate clearance around inverter for ventilation and wiring.
- Mount securely using bolts through the inverter's feet.
- Place as close to batteries as possible to minimize cable runs.
Wiring the Inverter
Use these guidelines for proper RV inverter wiring:
- Use appropriately sized copper cables based on inverter amperage.
- Install fuse or breaker on the DC input wires near the battery bank.
- Connect to battery bank terminals using ring terminals and heat shrink.
- Run AC output through on/off switch to dedicated outlet.
- Use strain reliefs on all cable connections.
Connecting to the Battery Bank
Follow these tips for installing inverter battery cables:
- Run cables directly from inverter DC terminals to battery bank.
- Keep cable runs as short as possible.
- Connect to auxiliary house battery bank, not vehicle starting battery.
- Install fuse or DC breaker within 18 inches of battery terminal.
Correctly sizing, wiring, and installing your RV inverter will allow you to efficiently run AC appliances on board your rig off the battery bank. Enjoy the conveniences of onboard power while off-grid!
Adding More Outlets and USB Ports
Most RVs come with a limited number of power outlets and USB charging ports. Adding more throughout your RV allows you to easily plug in and charge all your electronics while camping or living in your rig. Follow this guide on installing additional outlets and USB ports.
Galley Outlets and USB
The galley is where you'll need multiple outlets for kitchen appliances plus USB charging:
- Install a powered USB hub near the kitchen table or island.
- Mount outlet strips under upper cabinets to plug in blenders and mixers.
- Add outlets inside cabinets for coffee maker, toaster, etc.
Bedroom and Living Room USB
Place USB charging ports next to sleeping and sitting areas:
- Install dual USB ports on either side of beds for phone charging.
- Mount USB ports near sofas, chairs, and recliners.
- Ensure USB ports are easily accessible from seating.
Bathroom GFCI Outlets
The bathroom requires GFCI protected outlets for safety:
- Install a GFCI outlet near the sink/vanity.
- Mount another GFCI outlet on wall near medicine cabinet.
- Only use outlets with GFCI protection in wet areas.
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Exterior Outlets and Lighting
Additional exterior outlets allow powering patio lights and appliances:
- Install GFCI outdoor outlets under the awning or steps.
- Use weatherproof covers to protect outdoor outlets.
- Run wires through exterior walls into interior outlets.
Strategically placing extra outlets and USB ports throughout your RV will ensure you have convenient power access for all your devices no matter where you are parked!
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Upgrading Your RV Batteries
Replacing the weak original batteries in your RV with high-capacity absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries will improve performance and allow you to camp off-grid for longer. Follow this guide on selecting and installing upgraded RV house batteries.
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Choosing RV Batteries
Look for these features when picking new RV house batteries:
- Deep cycle - Made for continuous discharge and recharging.
- 6V or 12V voltage.
- AGM or gel cell chemistry - Handles vibration and charge cycles.
- 200Ah+ capacity for extended dry camping.
- Group 31 size fits most RV battery compartments.
Wiring Batteries in Series vs Parallel
Wire batteries together to increase voltage or capacity:
- Series - Doubles voltage by linking positive to negative.
- Parallel - Doubles capacity by linking same terminals.
- Hybrid - Series strings connected in parallel for more power.
Installing Replacement RV Batteries
Follow these steps to replace your RV house batteries:
- Disconnect and remove existing batteries.
- Clean battery tray thoroughly.
- Place new batteries snugly in tray, securing with hold downs.
- Connect terminals tightly using battery terminal hardware.
- Ensure good ventilation for batteries.
RV Battery Maintenance
For long battery life:
- Recharge fully after each trip.
- Clean terminals regularly with baking soda/water.
- Check cells biannually for proper fluid levels.
- Avoid deeply discharging batteries.
Upgrading to higher capacity AGM batteries paired with proper care will keep your RV electrical system performing optimally for years to come!
What is the use of Amazon Prime for a regular buyer of "RV Power & Electrical Parts"?
For RVers who frequently purchase electrical upgrades and replacements for their motorhome or travel trailer, an Amazon Prime membership can provide some useful benefits:
Free Two-Day Shipping
Many of the RV power and electrical parts you need are available on Amazon with free two-day shipping for Prime members. This includes items like:
- Replacement RV batteries
- Wiring and electrical connectors
- Inverters, converters, and chargers
- Outlets, breakers, and fuses
- Solar panels and accessories
The fast free shipping means you can quickly get the parts you need and make time-sensitive repairs before your next planned trip.
Free Returns
If an electrical part doesn't fit or work for your RV, Amazon Prime provides free returns on most items. You can return it quickly and easily and get a replacement or refund.
Prime Member Deals
Subscribing to Amazon Prime gets you exclusive access to special deals and discounts on thousands of items, including RV electrical equipment. This can translate to big savings on expensive upgrades like solar panels or lithium batteries.
Overall, an Amazon Prime membership provides convenience, speed, and savings for RV owners who are regularly maintaining, upgrading, or repairing their motorhome or camper electrical system.
How To Choose The Right RV Electrical Supplies For Your Needs??
Choosing the right RV electrical supplies can be overwhelming, but it's important to have the right tools to ensure your electrical system runs smoothly. Here are some tips to help you choose the right RV electrical supplies for your needs:
- Determine your power needs and choose the right amperage for your RV.
- Invest in a surge protector to protect your RV from power surges and electrical damage.
- Choose LED bulbs to save energy and reduce heat.
- Purchase a multimeter to troubleshoot electrical problems and test voltage.
- Keep extra fuses and light bulbs on hand for easy replacement.
- Consider purchasing a wire crimping tool for easy wire repairs.
- Invest in a digital clamp meter with probes to measure current and voltage accurately.
By following these tips, you can choose the right RV electrical supplies for your needs and ensure your electrical system runs smoothly.
RV Electrical Parts
RV electrical parts are essential for the proper functioning of an RV's electrical system. Here are some of the most popular RV electrical parts available:
- Surge protectors: Protect your RV from power surges and electrical damage with a surge protector. Brands like Hughes, Surge Guard, and Progressive Industries offer reliable surge protectors.
- Converters and inverters: Converters and inverters are essential for converting AC power to DC power and vice versa. Brands like Parallax, Progressive Dynamics, and IOTA offer high-quality converters and inverters.
- Batteries: RV batteries are necessary for powering your RV's electrical system when you're not connected to shore power. RV Parts Country offers a wide selection of RV batteries.
- Electrical adapters: Electrical adapters are necessary for connecting your RV to different types of power sources. RV Parts Country offers a variety of electrical adapters.
- Solar panels: Solar panels are a great way to generate power for your RV without relying on shore power. PPL Motor Homes offers a variety of solar power systems.
- Lighting: Dyers RV Parts and Accessories carries a wide array of RV lighting options, including LED bulbs, light fixtures, and replacement lenses.
- Outdoor electrical supplies: Camping World offers a variety of outdoor electrical supplies, including RV power cords, hatches, and outlets.
By investing in high-quality RV electrical parts, you can ensure that your RV's electrical system runs smoothly and efficiently.
