Electrical & Troubleshooting Tree

ELECTRICITY & YOU

Welcome to the Electrical Troubleshooting section of our RVing resource. Here, we offer you the foundational knowledge and practical tips to understand and resolve common electrical issues in your RV.

Troubleshooting Tree

OHM'S LAW

This fundamental equation is at the heart of any electrical situation you may come across.

Amperage

Consider Amperage (I) in Ohm's Law (E=I x R) as the flow of water in a river no longer standing perfectly still. Now, with force, the water can knock you over (read: electricity with Amperage is what can injure you).

Resistance

Consider Resistance (R) in Ohm's Law (E=I x R) as a dam impeding the water flow in a river no longer standing perfectly still. The dam acts to resist the flow of amperage through the river. These resistors, or "the dam," alter how much flow reaches the other side of a circuit. Think of a dimmer switch as this dam, where the lower the dimmer, the higher the resistance.

Voltage

Voltage, often likened to "electrical pressure," is the force that drives electric charges through a circuit. It's measured in volts (V) and indicates the potential difference between two points. Higher voltage means more potential to do work, such as lighting a bulb or powering devices. In essence, it's the push that moves electric charges in a circuit.

RV Surge Protectors

A whole circuit RV surge protector is a safeguard for RVs, shielding them from sudden voltage spikes. It continuously monitors power, promptly disconnecting the RV during excessive surges to protect its electrical system and appliances. This device is essential for maintaining stable and safe electrical operations in an RV.

OKAY! Now that we got that out of the way...

?

In your RV, circuit breakers and fuses are critical for safety and troubleshooting. Circuit breakers are automatic protection devices that trip or shut off when they detect an overload or short circuit, preventing damage and potential fire hazards. They can be reset and reused once the underlying issue is resolved.

Fuses, in contrast, provide similar protection but are designed for one-time use. When a fuse blows due to an overload, it must be replaced, but this sacrifice prevents further damage to your electrical system.

Surge protectors are also key players in safeguarding your RV's electronics from unexpected voltage spikes. They monitor the electrical current and can disconnect your RV from an unstable power source, protecting your system from potential damage.

Understanding these basics and the roles of different components in your RV's electrical system equips you with the knowledge to troubleshoot effectively.

Remember, having the right tools and a basic understanding of electricity can empower you to tackle common issues and maintain your RV's electrical health.

Stay safe and happy troubleshooting!