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Topic: Shore power doesn't appear to be working (Read 233 times) previous topic - next topic
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Shore power doesn't appear to be working
We picked up our 2005 rear twin 31' a few weeks ago. Brought it home and plugged it into our pedestal (50 amp) using a 50-30 dogbone and surge protector. All appeared to be working fine, fridge (on auto) switched to AC, all lights worked, etc. Parked under our RV shed so solar would not be a factor. Panel over stove showed batteries at Good.

(I mention the fridge switching as it seems like a reliable way to know current power source to coach)

Left this weekend for an overnight trip. Unplugged from our home shore power and fridge switched to propane, as expected. Arrived and set up camp, 30 amp connection with surge protector brought from home. Fridge switched over to AC. All seemed fine until the next morning when furnace wouldn't stay on. Panel over stove showed batteries at Weak. Fridge was still on AC though, but by the time we broke camp the house lights were definitely not as bright.

Drove home, battery readout returned to Good from the drive. Plugged in to our home shore power and fridge does not switch over to AC. Lights and such come on, but I suspect we are running on battery. Checked breakers, none are tripped. If we turn off the battery disconnect we get no power at all - not sure if that is designed to completely shut everything down or if on shore power we should still have power in the coach?

Thoughts on next steps to troubleshoot this?

Re: Shore power doesn't appear to be working
Reply #1 –

I suspect your coach battery is going bad or the converter isn't working correctly
Even when plugged in, the interior lights, water pump and the refrigerator's control board run only on 12-volts (even when running on 120-volt shore power).
If the battery is bad or the converter isn't working, the lack of 12-volt power will prevent the refrigerator from starting and will result in dim interior lights.

BTW, the "Battery" indicator on the Panel is close to worthless in determining the batteries' true condition.
A battery capacity monitor will provide more useful information. It functions similarly to a gas gauge, showing how much battery capacity is remaining.
Amazon.com: Victron Energy BMV-712 Smart Battery Monitor (Grey) : Electronics

Time to do some troubleshooting with a voltmeter, seeing is the converter is outputting 13+ volts. If it is, good chance the battery is bad.
Old batteries are common in older, used rigs.
Does your LD have solar?

Larry

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Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
 
Re: Shore power doesn't appear to be working
Reply #2 –
You mentioned the battery switch - they have a reputation for developing poor contact - it helps to work the switch several times to clean the contacts. check for shorepower either with microwave or air conditioner.

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit