Understanding the difference between 12 volt DC and 120 volt AC electricity can be the difference between a great, comfortable camping trip and a poor experience from which you cannot wait to get home. Throughout this blog post we will identify the differences between the two and how to use them.
12 volt is the type of electricity you would find in an automobile. Your battery is the foundation for the 12 volt system in both your car, and your RV. A fully charged battery will operate the 12 volt equipment (furnace, water heater, lighting, range hood, monitor panel, roof vent fans, etc.) in your unit until the battery becomes discharged. The amount you can use these systems on battery alone before losing power will vary based on usage – using more systems will drain more power at a faster rate, so keep that in mind and consider whether you need those lights on in the first place!
120 volt is the same type of electricity you typically find in a home. Plugging your shoreline cord into a power source is the foundation for the 120 volt system in your unit. Many larger pieces of equipment on your rig like the air conditioner, microwave, and televisions can only operate from 120 volt electricity, thus requiring the unit be plugged into a power source or a generator.
Your unit is also equipped with a voltage converter. When the shoreline cord is plugged in at a campground this device converts 120 volt electricity into 12 volt electricity. Most 12 volt equipment in your unit will operate from this power source, even if your battery is discharged. The converter is also equipped with a battery charger which provides a slow, low amperage trickle charge to the battery as long as you are hooked up to shoreline power.
Whether you’re a beginner level camper, an intermediate weekender, or a full-time fifth wheeler living life on the road, understanding the difference between 12v and 120v power is integral to having the optimal camping experience. For additional information regarding your RV’s electrical systems, don’t hesitate to direct your questions to the team @ Plattsburgh RV Store.
