General Information - Tiffin Motorhomes WAYFARER 2017 Owner's Manual

ELECTRICAL FEATURES

GENERAL INFORMATION

There are two electrical systems in your Wayfarer motorhome. These are the 12-volt DC (VDC) system
and the 120-volt AC (VAC) system. Most standard appliances require the 120-VAC system, while the
majority of the lighting systems used in the Wayfarer use the 12-VDC electrical system.
The electrical power for the 12 VDC system is supplied by the batteries of the Wayfarer. Those batteries
are charged by a power converter. The alternator also charges the batteries when the engine is running.
The electrical power for the 120 VAC is supplied by the power cord when the Wayfarer is connected to
an external power source or when the on-board electrical generator is in operation. The inverter can
also supply 120 VAC electrical power (to limited outlets and limited appliances)—the inverter transforms
the 12 VDC electrical power from the batteries into the 120 VAC electrical power for the basic
appliances.
To connect the Wayfarer to an external source of 120 VAC electrical power, it is first recommended that
all of the circuit breakers are in the "off" position. This is done to prevent any power surge upon
connecting the motorhome to the external power source. Then unwind the power cord from the
electrical compartment located in an external compartment. The standard, flexible, power cord
supplied with the Wayfarer is designed to handle up to 30 amperes. Make sure that the pins in the male
end of the plug are oriented correctly so they match the power cable, and they are in good condition
(i.e., aren't bent or damaged).
If there is a circuit breaker switch at the "plug" end of the power cord, that breaker should be turned
"off" before making the connection. Insert the plug into the mating outlet and then turn the circuit
breaker "on." Close and lock the electrical compartment door to protect the contents and to keep them
clean and dry. Close the cover on the power box, if so equipped, to avoid an unintentional disconnection
and to keep the contents clean and dry. Then switch the main breaker to the "on" position.
When properly connected, the 120 VAC system provides power to all the 120 VAC circuits and outlets
when the main breaker is turned "on."
55