When Do Trailers Typically have Electric Brakes Instead of Air Brakes

Question:

I just read a great response here in your site about converting a trailer with air brakes to electric brakes. I can only assume air brakes have more stopping power than electric brakes so is there a guide or standard for best use application? At what trailer/towed weight would it become a safety hazard with electric brakes and a person would be better off having air brakes?

asked by: Aaron D

Expert Reply:

Properly rated electric brakes work really well. In general though air brakes are seen on commercial braking applications like semi trucks and electric are on trailers that get towed more by full size trucks that are non-commercial.

I wouldn't say there's a hard line between where electric brakes and air brakes applications meet as it's more application orientated. If you have a trailer currently with air brakes or electric brakes I'd recommend sticking with what it has now as chances are all of the components are properly rated.

expert reply by: Jameson C