Testing RV Electrical Components After A Power Surge

Question:

We have a 5th Wheel RV. Recently had a power surge w/o a surge protector. Took out several appliance although we were able use the gas furnace [meaning the fan worked and the lights were dim.l but, one TV continued to work but the other one will power on but go back out immediately. We continually powered the RV battery which we assume only kept the finance fan, TV, dim lights on. Only a few on the electrical outs will work. So would you agree that the converter is bad. Sequence to all this, a few independent items were plugged into the outlets and it appears each of them were damaged: i.e. a dental water pix flosser, a lamp, a leaf blower because when plugged in another out independent of the RV power, they still do not work. We are afraid to check to see if the A/C unit is also damage because if not it may affect it also. So again, does this ound like a converter problem

asked by: Jean

Expert Reply:

The converter is just one more appliance that's built into your RV's power center so there is the chance that it could be damaged or that it may still properly function. The converter is just a charger for your RV's battery and has its own circuit breaker in the AC distribution panel. You can test the output of the converter to the battery to determine if the converter is faulty and in need of replacement with part # PD4560CSV.

A power surge can damage everything connected through the RV's electrical system so you could need to replace circuit breakers, wiring, outlets, etc. but you'll just have to investigate and test everything out to see what is damaged. To prevent a power surge from damaging your RV's electrical components again you can install a surge protector # HU27FR.

expert reply by: Kevin C

Jean

3/3/2024

After communicating with Kevin who, was very approachable and helpful. We reluctantly purchased the "PD4560K18LS8 Progressive Dynamics 4500 Series RV Converter w/Charge Wizard and AC/DC Distribution Panel - 60 Amp" on January 4, 2024. It was received in a timely manner. It was installed by hubby who knows little about electrical issues but received help from our son who knows a little more. It took several hours but most importantly it is still working with no problems. By the way, Kevin, the surge did not take out the A/C units; although, a number of the electrical outlets/circuit breaker had to be replaced. I would encourage any RV'er to purchase a surge protector. We certainly learned our lesson. Thank you, Kelvin C, for your expertise.