How to Connect a DC Camper Converter

The electrical system in a motor home is designed to draw power from a couple of different sources. When the engine is running the alternator charges the batteries, one for the engine and one for the interior at the same time. When the engine is not running the motor home draws power from one of these two batteries or can draw power from an 120-volt AC (alternating current) outlet, but this power must first pass through a DC (direct current) converter in order to be used.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the location for your DC converter. It needs to be installed in an area that will remain dry and also provide ventilation to allow the heat to exit the area. Consult the instruction book that comes with the convertor to see if there are any brand specific installation requirements in addition to the ones mentioned.

    • 2

      Turn the motor home engine off and confirm that the motor home is not plugged into any power source. Disconnect the ground cable from the battery that provides power to the camper portion of your motor home.

    • 3

      Secure the converter to the camper using the included mounting brackets and hardware. Refer to the instruction booklet for connection instructions. There should be three connectors. A black or blue connector that is the "Hot" or "Live" connection, a white connector that is the "Neutral" connection and finally a "Ground" connection that is usually painted green. Attach the appropriate wires to each of these connections.

    • 4

      Reattach the battery ground wire that you disconnected, plug in the motor home's power cable to an outlet in the camp site and your motor home can now run off of this power source.