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The converter/inverter also operates as a battery charger when it is connected to
a 120V power source. If the battery is below its full charge, the converter/inverter
charger will begin operation at a rate that reflects the level of discharge. When the
battery is again fully charged, the converter charger drops its charging level back to a
maintenance level to keep the battery fully charged.
If for any reason you charge a battery with a source outside the motorhome, make
sure to follow the rules of battery maintenance and safety outlined in this section. Also
observe these additional safety precautions related to battery charging:
1.
Disconnect the battery from the motorhome.
2.
Check electrolyte before charging. Be sure each cell is properly
filled with distilled water.
3.
Make sure to use care when connecting and disconnecting the
cables from chargers. A poor connection can cause an electrical
arc, which can result in an explosion.
4.
Remove the battery vent caps before charging, and make sure
that the electrolyte does not splash out as a result of charging too
quickly.
5.
Check literature supplied by battery manufacturer, and follow
warnings or cautions outlined.
The converter is used to switch 120V electricity from an external supply, or from the
generator, to 12 Volt electricity to power interior lights and 12 Volt accessories. The
converter requires no maintenance under normal circumstances.
If the converter does not have a 120V supply to convert to 12 Volt, it automatically
switches the batteries into the electrical circuit to power 12 Volt functions. When
reconnected to a 120V supply, it will again operate from this power source.
The converter will run warm and this is normal. If, however, it gets too hot, it will turn
itself off. After it cools down, it will come back on. In most cases, when this happens
it is because something has been put around or too near the converter preventing it
from receiving adequate ventilation. Make sure not to put anything near the converter
that could obstruct ventilation.
A slight hum during operation is also normal for the converter, if you do not have 12
Volt power and no hum, check to see if 120 volt power to the converter has been
interrupted.
Even with GFCI protection, persons with severe heart or
other health problems may still be seriously affected by
an electrical shock. The GFCI outlet is not a substitute
for good electrical safety. It DOES NOT protect against
contact of the hot and neutral wire at the same time.
The 120 volt outlet in the kitchen and/or bath and outside recepts are equipped with
a protective circuit interrupter. The ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), is designed
to break the flow of current to the protected outlet when an imbalance of current is
detected. Imbalances include electrical leakage in an appliance such as a shaver or
hair dryer that have developed a weak spot in electrical insulation. The possibility
of electrocution exists when using a faulty appliance, while at the same time being
in contact with an electrical ground such as water, plumbing, or the earth. If an
imbalance is detected, the GFCI will trip and shut off power to the outlet.
The GFCI also does not protect against short circuits or system overloads. Circuit
breakers in the main panel which supply power to the circuit, will trip if either of these
conditions exist.
Electrical Systems
Battery Charging
POWER
CONVERTER
GROUND
FAULT CIRCUIT
INTERRUPTER
97
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