A reader watched my (really good, if I do say so myself) video about changing out the RV Power Converter and wondered if the power converter could somehow be the culprit behind some VERY strange behavior. Before you read on, you can also check out my page chocked FULL of RV Power Converter how to videos.
Lets read the exchange between the reader and RV52 and see if it can help you out!
Reader question: Why does my RV Air Conditioner quit when I turn on the lights?
Watched your youtube video on converter install, very good i must say . I have a question not sure if my problem is the converter or some other problem and thought you maybe have some insight. First thing I am always plugged in shore power and have turned the battery to the off position(use stationary and as a second home 1/2 a week). , The problem is when I turn on any dome light (which I believe are 12v) or bath vanity the a/c kicks off. I don’t understand, from what I have read a/c runs 120v all outlets. microwave and ceiling fan and 75 watt nook light work fine.
Dazed and confused
John
RV52.com’s answer below has some extra information on RV Air Conditioning Systems and Thermostats!
John,
Thanks for the complement on the video. Its nice to receive and keeps me wanting to make more.
There is the A/C and there are the A/C controls – the thermostat. The thermostat is DC which means that its power comes from the converter. When you turn on any lights running on DC, the voltage level gets dropped low enough for the A/C thermostat to signal “off” to the A/C.
When you turn the lights off, does the A/C cycle back on after a couple of minutes?
I’m assuming you never threw a breaker on any of these scenarios.
When you turn on a light, do the others dim a great deal?
This certainly sounds like your converter. They aren’t expensive (only $100-200 bucks or so) and you can get from Amazon. If you get one, I would love it if you use any of my links to get to Amazon (I’ll get a small commission that does not affect your price at all).
/how-to-video/how-to-all-about-converters/
Your converter should have PLENTY of juice to keep all the lights going and run the thermostat if running well. I’ve also sent to my local RV repair guru’s to get a 2nd opinion.
Thanks!
Marlan