Posted 2016-01-22 11:35 AM (#165908) Subject: Power Converter
New User
Posts: 3
Location: Lawrenceville VA
I just bought a used horse trailer that has a power converter in it. Can someone tell me why I need this? I have a 110 receptacle on the outside that goes to a I110 plug on the inside, the power converter and a AC unit. I want to add a breaker panel and more plugs. Can I get rid of the converter?
Posted 2016-01-22 12:19 PM (#165909 - in reply to #165908) Subject: RE: Power Converter
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
The converter supplies 12v DC power from your 110v AC source. This is commonly the voltage used in LQ appliances, interior and aux lighting, as well as maintaining a LQ storage battery (ies). Converters are available that have multiple built in panels that feature both AC breakers and DC fuses. Many have three step battery maintenance capabilities as well. If you intend to effect any kind on interior electrical improvements, the combination panels are a compact and inexpensive way to provide all the power and future circuitry your trailer would need. Most shore cords are capable of 30 amps, and a power center and converter of that capacity is readily available for less than $150. They would offer the 12V DC, battery charging and most have 6 AC and 6 DC circuits with protection fuses and breakers all in one unit.
Posted 2016-01-25 12:35 PM (#165941 - in reply to #165908) Subject: RE: Power Converter
Elite Veteran
Posts: 656 Location: Rayne, LA
As Gard stated, most interior lights, ignition for propane water heater and refrigerator ( when operating without shore power ), slide out motors and various other things are 12 volt powered. It allows you to camp without plugging in or running a generator. When camping primitive I like not having to run a generator while out riding.
Power Converter
