Converter question

[Max Freedom]

How often does a person need to replace a converter? I've only replaced one so far but how long should one last? It seems like an item that should last 10 years not 6! Just want to know what your experiences have been with this piece of equipment.

[caissiel]

Never on 11 and 15 years old trailers. And never on present 4 year old one.

[smiller]

There is no set life, like any electronic device you hope for a long life but it can fail at any time. Converters usually have a reasonably long life but they do handle a lot of current, generate heat, etc., so they are somewhat more stressed than many other devices. And of course quality units will probably last longer than cheap ones, the less-that-stellar WFCO unit supplied with my and many brands of RVs died within a year. I used the opportunity to upgrade to a higher-quality unit (superior in many ways besides longevity) so I didn't miss the OEM junk.

[rgreen45]

Smiller offered great advice. I've replaced many and seems like the ones that failed early were the ones mounted in the most restricted places. Sure, the fan worked but if a convertor is mouinted behind the dresser drawers and once that 3 cubic feet of air gets hot, all the fan does is circulate the overheated air.

[Shadowcatche]

If they cheeped out and used a poorly made unit i.e. Magnetek/Parallax/WFCO (China) then you might be lucky if it lasts much beyond the warranty. Country of origin seems to be a big factor, You seldom hear of problems with Progressive Dynamics (made in the US). As pointed out where it resides and how much ventilation can make a difference.