Can Jensen RV Stereo be Powered by Light or Refrigerator Circuit
Question:
Im interested in installing this in our 2006 Coachmen Gulfstream 21MB Amerilite travel trailer. Our TT is pretty basic and does not have 12V axillary power receptacles. I see in the specs that it needs a 10 amp 12V power source. The closest 12V dc source I have is an under cabinet light. Would that be safe enough to tap into that for power? I may be able to fish a 12 VDC wire thru the wall and tap into the 12 VDC source on the back of our refrigerator. Then, Ill need a hidden AM/FM antenna as well since I dont want to drill a hole in the roof. Do you have a suggested antenna for our needs? I was looking at the Jensen In-Wall Antenna - AM/FM - 6 foot Long Item # AN140 but didnt know if the antenna wires must be stretched out or can they remain coiled and get good reception? Thoughts?
asked by: Larry O
Helpful Expert Reply:
While it may be possible to power the Jensen RV Stereo # JWM60A with the under-cabinet circuit that or the refrigerator, the issue becomes if the wires that power the cabinet light can handle the additional 10 amps that the Jensen will draw. It is more likely the refrigerator will have wires that can handle this amperage, but it is not something that I could say for certain. The best option is to wire the stereo directly to your DC breaker box which I imagine is where your cabinet lights and fridge are getting their power from. This will not be as easy as tapping into the circuits you mentioned but it is the best option so you aren't blowing fuses consistently or having other power trouble. I have added a link to a video review as well as the install directions of this stereo for you to take a look at.
In regards to the Jensen In-Wall Antenna # AN140, it does not need to be completely spread to get reception, though "good" reception is something that depends on the location of the antenna and being able to move it as needed so you are going to be better off using the Jensen Antenna # 44US01R, even though I do understand you don't want to drill a hole in your roof. This can be mounted on the side of your trailer as well, which is beneficial because it will be easier to maneuver the antenna to get optimal reception.
I have added links to video reviews of both antennas for you to check out as well.
Products Referenced in This Question
Jensen Antenna - Top or Side Mount - Rubber Mast
- RV Antennas
- AM/FM Antenna
- 99 Inch Cable
- Rooftop Mount
- Side Mount
- Jensen
more information >
Jensen In-Wall Antenna - AM/FM - 6' Long
- RV Antennas
- AM/FM Antenna
- 39 Inch Cable
- Wall Mount
- Jensen
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Jensen RV Stereo w DVD Player - Double DIN - App Control, Bluetooth, USB, AUX - 48W - 3 Zones - 12V
- RV Stereos
- In-Wall Stereo
- Multimedia System
- 48 Watts
- 12V
- Double DIN
- Bluetooth Compatible
- 9W x 6T x 5-1/2D Inch
- AM/FM
- Antenna Input
- AUX
- CD/DVD Player
- Smartphone App
- USB
- Jensen
more information >
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