RV Electrical & Battery Systems: Complete Guide
Master your RV electrical system from house batteries to shore power. Covers 12V DC, 120V AC, inverters, and charging.
Master your RV electrical system from house batteries to shore power. Covers 12V DC, 120V AC, inverters, and charging.
A lithium battery showing 20% but not accepting charge typically indicates a BMS protection mode activation. Try disconnecting all power sources for 30 minutes, then reconnect to reset the BMS before checking connections and charging sources.
Your generator likely uses the chassis battery and may have a weak connection or failing starting battery. The main engine alternator charges the chassis battery when running, explaining why the generator starts after running the engine.
Your Progressive Dynamics converter needs either a lithium-compatible charge wizard upgrade (PD9160ALV) or complete replacement with a modern lithium-capable charger like the AIMS or Progressive Dynamics PD9200 series.
LiFePO4 lithium batteries like the Dyness can replace lead acid batteries, but you'll likely need to upgrade your converter/charger to a lithium-compatible model. The BMS protects the battery from overcharging and provides longer life with faster charging.
Use CAT or Cummins dealer locators, truck stop service centers (TA/Petro), and RV apps like Allstays. Call ahead to verify they can accommodate RV size. Truckers use similar resources - diesel expertise overlaps between trucks and motorhomes.
Install low voltage disconnect relay in line feeding Ecoflow alternator charger. Victron Battery Protect or similar cuts power at set voltage. Set disconnect at 12.8V for LiFePO4 to stop at about 20% remaining capacity.
P0171 lean code with no drivability issues is safe to continue driving for your Florida trip. Monitor for symptoms. MAF cleaning was good step - may need replacement if code returns. Check PCV and vacuum lines when convenient.
Reduce RV noise with sound deadening on doghouse, mass loaded vinyl, and weatherstripping. Address rattles with felt pads. Expect improvement not perfection.
Common RV components with red lights include LP detector, CO detector, surge protector, and inverter. Red typically indicates fault or alarm. Check for model numbers to identify and post photo for specific help.
The foam in your Dometic CF80's bottom drain area is a condensation filter that prevents debris and insects from entering the drain system. It should be replaced when dirty to maintain proper drainage and prevent odors.
A wireless RV backup camera showing no signal is typically caused by power issues, loose connections, or wireless interference. Start by checking camera power, verifying monitor settings, and testing connections systematically.
Your Renogy lithium batteries showing different charge percentages indicates a communication or cell balancing issue. Check wiring connections, perform a manual balance cycle, and consider firmware updates through Renogy's app.
A lithium battery manager relay protects lithium batteries from overcharging by disconnecting them from the alternator when not needed. Installation involves wiring the relay between your alternator/converter and battery bank with proper fusing and control circuits.
Boiling battery with sulfur smell means severe overcharging or internal short. Disconnect immediately - hydrogen gas is explosive. Battery must be replaced. Check converter/charger output voltage before installing new battery to prevent recurrence.