Inverter- how to use?

[fulltime2016]

Just purchased a used Roadtrek in a private sale. Since we are new to rving we are still getting to know the rig.

A stupid question- we can not get the appliances to work that require power from the inverter.

- from the console the batteries are charged
- from the inverter it appears power is going to it from the solar panel
- no power for tv, DVDs, furnace, stove top, outlets
- power for lights, frig, awning work assume on cab battery?

My guess it is something simple- please help

[twinboat]

The inverter need power coming from batteries to work. Look for a battery switch.

I don't believe the stove top will work on the inverter. Just to much power.

The TV, DVD and a few outlets should work.

The furnace if gas should run off the 12 volt house batteries and propane.

If the furnace is electric it will not run off the inverter. You need to be plugged in or running a generator, like the stove top.

Good luck

[alvo]

The solar panel charges batteries which are hooked up to the inverter. You need to have sufficient charge for the inverter to work (10+ volts for most inverters). The inverter has to be switched on. Turning it off and back on should reset it.

Is the output hard wired or are there outlets on it? If you're connected through an outlet, are they GFCI outlets? Is the breaker tripped? Are there any indicator lights on the outlet or the inverter?

If you have a digital multimeter, measure the input voltage (should be around 12-14 volts DC) and the output voltage (should be between 105-120 volts AC). If you don't have one and live near a Harbor Freight Tool store, you can pick one up for a few dollars or get one off of Ebay for under $5 delivered.

[GracieK]

What year and model Roadtrek?

[Tony Lee]

Inverters have three possible ways to switch them off - battery disconnect switch on the 12V feed, 120V mains circuit breaker on the inverter, control switch on the inverter panel (and maybe on a remote panel as well)

You didn't say whether all this stuff works when you are on shore power or generator power

[fulltime2016]

Thank you for the responses.

It appears that the batteries were drained so the inverter shut down.

We disconnected the communication to the inverter to reset the system- everything is now working.

It is a 2014 Etrek

The furnace is electric and runs off the batteries through the inverter.

We have not hooked the unit up to shore power yet.

Thanks

[BFlinn181]

If you have an LP tank, I'd bet the furnace is 12 v LP forced air model. An inverter will discharge your batteries if left on when there's no 120 v shore power to keep the charger part of the inverter/charger maintaining your batteries.

A little time with pad and pencil noting each system you find in the RV, make and model #. Then spend time on Google searching for owner's manuals and service manuals. I tried to research your 2014 E Trek, but they had 9 models in 2014 so I couldn't see how yours is equipped.

Brochures | Roadtrek

Also available from Roadtrek is the Owner's manual for your RV:

Support & Contact | Roadtrek

[OldKansan]

Seriously looked an an Etrek, before getting our Pleasure Way Ascent. Looked like a good unit. It is pretty much total electric & I believe has no propane. Generator is run off of the vehicle engine which is diesel.

Enjoy!