5 Common Travel Trailer Electrical Problems And How To Fix Them

Photo by Blake Wisz on Unsplash

Travel trailers are the best option for traveling long distances or planning outdoor adventures. They provide you with privacy and security. You can cook, clean, and sleep in one place without external interference. However, you have to face issues with travel trailers as well. One of them is the electrical problems that can ruin your entire trip.

It’s easy for any vehicle to face a few electrical problems and travel trailers are no exception. Being in charge, you should be aware of every issue and its solution. There could be a power failure or issues with the wiring if you face such a situation; there is no need to panic.

Every electrical problem has a solution, and you can fix your vehicle in time for your trip. Your journey becomes safer when you keep electrical issues in check.

Fuses

No matter what trailer model you have, there can always be a problem with fuses and circuit breakers. If a fuse blows out, your trailer will face power problems. Without proper checking, you cannot determine the problem. Whether you have the all-new 2509S Rockwood Mini Lite or any other trailer, keep a tight check on the condition of the fuses and breaks.

You should check every fuse in depth to be sure about the root cause of the problem. Once your suspicions are correct, you can start with a solution. Start by cutting off the trailer’s main power supply. Unplug every electrical connection in your vehicle and reset it to default.

When everything is unplugged and switched off, replace the faulty fuse. Make sure the amperage value of both fuses is equal, or else the new fuse might burn out. To find the correct fuse, use the color coding scheme present on the surface.

Battery Issues

An electrical problem seen in several travel trailers is the battery issue. Either the battery doesn’t charge, or the charge level remains low. In both cases, there is a genuine issue with the battery.

You will need a multimeter to check the charge of your battery. When you connect the leads to the positive and negative terminal of the system, you get a reading. A charged battery will give a 12.7-volt reading. This is for a 12-volt battery. Similarly, for a 6-volt battery, the multimeter reading should be near 6.4 volts.

When your batteries give a lower reading, it indicates the need for charging. In case the batteries are holding a charge, the problem might lie within the charging system of your trailer.

Still, the batteries of your RV are its heartbeat. If you feel your trailer is giving you trouble, check the batteries before anything else.

Blown Out Light Bulbs

Anyone can experience this electrical issue. Your RV has different bulbs, but the most common ones are the push-in and round-end bulbs. If a bulb blows out, the easiest solution is to replace it with a new one.

Every bulb has a wattage and type. Consider both values before buying a new bulb. Only the right LED bulb will work smoothly in your RV. Still, the issue is not worth worrying about because these bulbs have a short life span.

However, if the problem becomes more frequent, check the wiring. Sometimes, burnt wires can be the reason for a blown-out bulb. If that is the case, the issue is more dangerous and needs professional assistance.

Bare Wires

You must be careful about bare wires. Rust, corrosion, or any unwanted circumstances can lead to this electrical issue. Even traveling on rough terrains can harm the insulation covering the wiring. It could lead to life-threatening situations.

So, be cautious when traveling with your family. The best way to fix the issue is by covering every wire in your travel trailer. If possible, apply a second layer of insulation so that no such problems occur in the future.

It’s better to call an expert in such matters. Being inexperienced, you could harm yourself. A professional electrician will safely handle the task.

Broken Ground Fault Indicator

Travel trailers have a ground fault indicator that acts as a circuit breaker. If the excessive current passes through it, the circuit breaker will switch off to cut off the excessive supply. Even a minor surge in power will cause the breaker to trip.

Such systems are installed within RVs to keep passengers safe. Since you have various facilities within a trailer, like a bathroom and a kitchen, there is a chance that the wires may come in contact with a metal surface. It might result in a deadly electrical shock.

So these lifesaving systems must always be working. Faulty circuit breakers need to be replaced with new ones as soon as possible. However, when conducting such changes, take the help of an experienced person. You must be careful while handling electrical components, or else you could harm yourself.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *