Powering Your Camper: Exploring Reliable Energy Sources

There are several ways to power a camper or RV, and it's important to understand the basics of how electrical systems work to keep things running smoothly. Most RVs have two electrical systems: a 12-volt DC electrical system and a 120-volt AC system. The 12-volt system is powered by a battery, which can be a single 12-volt battery or multiple batteries wired together. This system powers things like the water heater, furnace, refrigerator, and lights. The 120-volt system, on the other hand, is powered by an RV electrical hookup or a generator and runs daily-use items like kitchen appliances, TVs, and other large electrical appliances.

When it comes to powering your RV, you have several options. One common method is to use shore power, which is a power source provided by campgrounds, RV parks, or even an outlet on a friend's garage. Shore power typically requires either a 30-amp or 50-amp connection, and it allows you to use larger appliances like air conditioners and microwaves. Another option is to use a generator, which can be portable or built-in. Generators are useful when shore power is not available and can be powered by propane or electricity. Additionally, you can also use solar power by installing solar panels on your RV, which can provide a steady supply of power when camping off-grid.

Understanding your RV's electrical system and power sources is crucial for a safe and comfortable camping experience. By knowing how to connect to different power sources and manage your power usage, you can enjoy the modern conveniences that make RV camping enjoyable.

Shore power

The majority of rigs have two electrical systems. There is an AC (alternating current) system, similar to that of a typical home, and a DC (direct current) system, similar to that of a car. The AC system is powered by plugging your trailer into an external AC power source, while the DC system runs off of one or more battery systems installed in your RV. The two systems are connected, so if you have AC power, it will charge the batteries for the DC system.

Most RVs are set up so that if you have shore power, you can run almost everything in the RV. If you don’t have shore power, you can run off the DC system, which can power essentials like lights and a water pump for a few days.

When connecting to shore power, you will need to ensure that the power source is compatible with your RV's internal electrical system. Most RVs will require either a 30-amp or 50-amp shore power connection. A 30-amp service will provide 30 amps at 120 volts (about 3,600 watts of power), while a 50-amp service will provide 50 amps at 240 volts or 100 amps at 120 volts (about 12,000 watts). You can also use adaptors to operate your RV on a 15/20 amp service, although this is a minimum and will not provide much power.

To connect to shore power, follow these steps:

• Park, level, and stabilize your RV before hooking up to shore power. Ensure your camper is exactly where you want it and that your power cord will reach the power source.
• Turn off appliances and find your power cord and surge protector. In some RVs, the power cord is coiled up in the same driver’s side compartment as your holding tank outlets. In others, it will be in a separate storage area.
• Connect the surge protector first. This will protect your camper’s electrical system from power surges, shorts, high and low voltages, and other potentially dangerous electrical issues.
• Plug in your power cord. Some power cords are hardwired, so you’ll simply plug them into the surge protector. Others will require you to connect one end to your RV’s outlet and the other to shore power.
• Check your systems. To check that you have power, go inside and look at your microwave. If the lights are on, you’re connected. If you’re not getting power, check your trailer’s internal circuit breakers.

RV solar panels

Solar panels are a cost-efficient and sustainable way to power your camper or RV. They are a great way to ensure you have power when travelling off-grid, keeping your food cold and your devices charged. RV solar panels are designed with mobile living in mind, crafted for optimal efficiency and durability. They can withstand the challenges of road travel, including the rigours of bumpy terrain.

There are two electrical systems in most RVs: an AC (alternating current) system, similar to the one in your home, and a DC (direct current) system, which works like the one in your car. The DC system is powered by one or more battery systems installed in your RV, which can run lights, a water pump, fans, a TV and a radio. The AC system, on the other hand, powers larger appliances such as air conditioning, microwaves and power outlets. The two systems are connected, and the AC system will charge the batteries for the DC system. This is done by a converter, and some RVs also have an inverter, which turns DC power into AC power.

Solar panels are a great way to charge your batteries when you are off-grid. They are a renewable energy source, and although they will not provide on-demand power for high-energy appliances, they will constantly charge your batteries when the sun is out. This means you can run the basics, like lights and a water pump, for a few days.

There are a variety of solar panels available for RVs, from compact models to high-wattage units. The Zamp Obsidian range offers both mountable and portable solar kits. Rich Solar also offers a range of solar panels, from 50-watt compact models to 250-watt portable briefcase solar panels.

Portable power stations

When choosing a portable power station, it's important to consider the type of power (gas vs battery), the size of the station, and the recharging options. Gas-powered generators tend to be less expensive and provide more energy, but they are also noisier and can only be used outdoors. Battery-powered stations, on the other hand, are more expensive, quieter, and safer for indoor use.

In terms of size, it's crucial to know what devices you intend to plug into the power station. Manufacturers usually provide charts with estimated power requirements, or you can calculate the wattage by multiplying the voltage by the amps required to run each appliance.

When it comes to recharging, some power stations can be charged through solar panels, car chargers, or EV charging stations, in addition to standard wall outlets. However, it's worth noting that solar panels may not always provide the maximum charging capacity, especially if conditions are not optimal.

Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus

This power station stands out for its ability to be expanded by adding external batteries, increasing its overall capacity and capabilities. It also features a telescoping handle and durable wheels for easy transport. The standard specs and performance are similar to the Jackery Explorer 2000 Pro, but the 2000 Plus weighs around 20 pounds more and is built to do more.

EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus

The EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus is a high-performing portable power station with a 1,024 watt-hour capacity and 1,800-watt output. It offers fast recharging through five methods: wall socket, solar, car charger, generator, and hybrid. It also has a built-in UPS feature that ensures seamless power during outages with a 10-millisecond switch to battery backup.

Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus

The Jackery Explorer 1000 Plus has a stated capacity of 1,264Wh and a 2,000-watt output. Like the 2000 Plus, it also supports capacity expansion through external batteries, allowing you to add up to three extra batteries for a total of up to 5kWh. It can be charged via a wall outlet in about one and a half hours or through solar charging, which will take double the time.

Dakota Lithium PS2400

The Dakota Lithium PS2400 is the fastest-charging portable power station on our list. It charges from 0% to 100% in 77 minutes and has a 10ms switchover time. It's a great option for those who need to recover their total capacity quickly.

Zendure SuperBase Pro 2000

The Zendure SuperBase Pro 2000 offers UPS or EPS backup protection modes, making it ideal for backing up critical pieces of equipment during power failures. It has a blazing-fast "less than 13ms" transfer speed, and the Zendure suite offers a range of options for portable or static energy solutions.

BougeRV Flash300

The BougeRV Flash300 is a small but mighty power station. It features wireless charging capability, fast charging (0% to 100% in around 45 minutes), and all the standard ports you'd expect. It's reasonably priced at $400, making it a great entry-level pick.

RV batteries

There are two main types of RV batteries: starting batteries and house batteries. Starting batteries, also known as chassis batteries, provide a large current in short, intermittent bursts to get the RV engine up and running. House batteries, on the other hand, are deep cycle batteries that provide a steady current over an extended period. They have thicker plates than starting batteries, allowing them to be recharged and discharged regularly.

Deep cycle batteries come in two main construction types: flooded lead-acid and valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA). Flooded lead-acid batteries are the most common type and can be either maintenance-free or serviceable. VRLA batteries have the electrolyte suspended in a gel or fiberglass mat. Gel batteries are leak-proof and often used in marine applications, while AGM batteries are more commonly used in RVs as they are leak-proof, have similar charging rates to standard lead-acid batteries, and require little maintenance.

To care for your RV batteries, it is important to avoid overcharging or undercharging them. Overcharging can cause plate corrosion, while undercharging can lead to the formation of crystals that render the battery unusable. Additionally, discharging batteries below 50% of their capacity can shorten their lifespan.

Generators

When choosing a generator, it's important to consider the wattage requirements of your appliances. A 2000-watt generator is suitable for average camper use, supporting lights, phone charging, TVs, stoves, and laptops. Smaller generators of 500 to 1000 watts can power the bare minimum, while larger generators of more than 3000 watts can accommodate heavier appliances.

For a 30-amp camper, a 3000-watt generator is typically sufficient, while a 6000-watt generator or higher is recommended for larger campers or RVs with heavy-duty appliances.

Portable generators are a popular choice for campers due to their convenience and ease of transport. Some models come with handles and wheels, making them easier to move around. Additionally, inverter generators with inverter technology are known for being quieter, more fuel-efficient, and suitable for powering sensitive electronic equipment.

When it comes to fuel type, diesel generators tend to be more powerful, while propane generators can be stored indefinitely, making them a good choice for longer, isolated trips. It's also worth considering the weight of the generator, especially if you need to transport it in and out of your camper.

Remember to prioritize safety when using a generator. Always operate generators in well-ventilated areas, as carbon monoxide can be dangerous. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, is also crucial to ensure the optimal functioning of your generator.

Frequently asked questions