Our Blog
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Can I Run Two Air Conditioners On 30 Amps with a Soft Start? (Yes!*)
I’m targeting a certain kind of RV owner with this post. If you searched, “Can I run two air conditioners with Soft Starts?” then I’m betting you own a 50-amp RV with two or three air conditioners. You’re wondering how you can manage to run two air conditioners off a 30-amp connection, and you’re hoping…
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Proof Why You Shouldn’t Use an Extension Cord to Plug In Your RV
Here’s Exhibit A why you don’t use an extension cord to plug in your RV. The other day, I arrived at a service call where the customer had complained about the appliances throwing error codes, the ceiling lights dimming, and low-voltage loads generally not working. These are all classic signs of low system voltage, where…
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Does My RV Battery Charge While Plugged In?
If you’re new to RV camping, you might be wondering how your RV battery gets recharged. Does the battery get charged when you’re hooked up to shore power, for instance? Psst … if you’re not familiar with the term “shore power,” we have a lot to talk about! But before I drench you with science,…
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Here’s Why Campground Voltage Is Low on Summer Holiday Weekends
This post is rated Intermediate (Blue, if you’re a skier). You don’t need to be Nikola Tesla reincarnated, but you should have a solid understanding of electrical circuits, terminology, and Ohm’s Law. Start with RV Electricity 101. This article will keep things somewhat simple for two reasons. Have You Ever Experienced Campground Low Voltage? If…
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Tool Talk: Screwdrivers, Bits, and Sockets – Oh My!
The original version of this post first appeared at RVTravel.com. I encourage you to check it out (it’s still live!) There, you can read other RVer’s helpful comments as well. I’ve re-posted it on my own site for reference, but all credit goes to RV Travel, where you can also read great content from Dave…
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Why Are My RV Lights Flickering or Dimmering? (RV Tech Answers)
Everyone knows flickering lights are the signal that something’s wrong, whether it’s low voltage or paranormal activity. If your RV ceiling lights are dimming or flickering, then your RV is trying to tell you that it’s sick, something is wrong, and it needs help! Why Are My RV Ceiling Lights Flickering or Dimming? Usually, flickering,…
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My RV Roof Is Turning Black. Is That Normal?
If your RV roof is turning black, I’ll bet my hat that your problem is an old EPDM roof at the end of its life. Other possibilities include algae, mold, or air pollution, but a flaky black roof is to an RV what wrinkly elbows are to a human: signs of old age! Cause #1:…
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The RV Engineer Goes to RV Tech School! (Part 3)
If you’re reading this post before reading Part 1 and Part 2, don’t. That’s like reading the last chapter of a book first, and there’s a special circle of hell reserved for people like that. To briefly recap: Almost a year ago, I left my position as an RV design engineer to become an RV…
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RV 101: Intro to the Electrical System
How Does an RV Electrical System Work? An RV’s electrical system is made up of two sub-systems: 120-volt* alternating current (120VAC) and 12-volt direct current (12VDC). You can think of these as “shore power” and “battery power,” respectively. In general, 120VAC electricity is used for “big” electrical loads, like air conditioners, and 12VDC electricity is…
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RV 101: Intro to the Propane System
Propane is the lifeblood of many RVs. As coursing blood in the body heals and energizes, so does propane carry warmth, enable refrigeration, and help cook. It’s cheap and abundant – but also easily abused or mishandled. Treat it with respect. This is a 101 guide to your RV propane system. You will learn why…
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RV Engineer Answers: How Is My RV Grounded?
Electrical grounding is a concept that gives most of us as much trouble as rubbing our stomachs and patting our heads at the same time. It’s abstract and confusing. This article will keep things somewhat simple (with one exception) – for two reasons. RV Electrical 101 Voltage, as you know, is akin to electrical pressure.…
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Here’s How Long You Can Camp Without Dumping Your Black Tank
How long can you use your black tank without needing to dump it? It’s a common question for RV families embarking on their first dry camping trip. Nobody wants the surprise of the dreaded poop pyramid. By the end of this article, you will know exactly how many days you can go without dumping your…
