energy management system

thumbtack · 11-15-2010, 06:24 PM

I'm having a problem with my energy management system. Everything works fine but the amp meter flashes with either "0" amps or very low amps in use. I've replaced the main circuit board but don't know which way to go from here.

Thanks

**RV Wizard** · 11-16-2010, 03:03 AM

Hello and

. We are glad to have you join us here and we look forward to Reading of your adventures and experiences. I am sure you will enjoy he website and forums. Good luck, stay safe and keep us posted. Did a new current transformer come with the new board? Do you have a 30 amp or 50 amp coach shore power and what source are you plugged into. Please provide as much information as possible, especially year make and model of your coach. This can be put into a signature through your profile by clicking on the "User CP" button (top, left below panoramic scene).

thumbtack · 11-17-2010, 11:32 AM

The amp meter and also the amp source light blinks. This only happens when I'm hooked to 30 amp service. While the unit is flashing I'm unable to select 20 amp service. I did not change the transformer when I changed the main circuit board. I have unpluged the connection to the doughnut (transformer) but no change in monitor function. I have a green light on the circuit board saying the board is communicating with the monitor.
I have a 2007 Itasca Suncruiser model 35L with a powerline EMS.

Thanks

**RV Wizard** · 11-18-2010, 03:13 AM

I would certainly try installing a new CT (current transformer). The main supply conductor must go through the CT for monitoring. Let us know what you find and good luck.

thumbtack · 12-01-2010, 03:50 PM

Well folks I changed out the transformer today and the problem is still there. The amp meter and also the 30 amp light just blinks and no other action on the monitor panel. I cut some AC appliances on and no amp useage indicated. I'm thinking the monitor panel might be bad. What do you experts think?
Thumbtack

jackrobinryan · 12-01-2010, 04:56 PM

I've got an '07 Winnie Adventurer and had similar, strange behavior from my EMS. (same as yours)

Do you have a parallax 7400 series converter charger? (probably located under the lowest sink drawer) It changes 110vac to 12vdc for internals and charges the house batteries. The ems uses it's output for 12v supply.

On my rig the old converter was "bleeding" AC voltage into the DC output side. This can be damaging to some DC powered equipment. The ems seemed to be the most sensitive to this issue and exhibited problems first.

I got a new converter from winnie, under warranty, and solved the problem before it caused major damage. The ems has worked fine since replacing it.

I did however replace that newer parallax junk with an Iota intelligent converter charger and have not cooked any house batteries since. Would have replaced the parallax anyway.

do a search for EMS and you'll see some of the problems others have had...
jack

KIX · 12-01-2010, 05:05 PM

If you want to replace the display I have a good one. Contact me if you want it.

thumbtack · 12-02-2010, 06:49 AM

By what means can I contact KIX? I might still change out the monitor panel to maybe avoid the cost of a new converter mentioned by jackrobinryan.

jackrobinryan · 12-02-2010, 07:29 AM

you can click on their name to the left in the reply and select Send a Private message to them.

Ask them to do the same in your next post here. He's probably following it.

Try the replacement panel first if you can.

And for the sake of battery health, I would not suggest replacing the parallax with another one. Use a better, smarter type. I liked the Iota but if you search other threads, you'll find other brands folks here have had good results with.

jack

KIX · 12-02-2010, 07:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by thumbtack

By what means can I contact KIX?

You coulod either send me a private message or email KixRock@Gmail.com

thumbtack · 12-09-2010, 07:27 AM

jackrobinryan you hit the nail on the head. As soon as I read your post I went out and unplugged the converter and the monitor started working fine. I ordered a Itoa and replaced it yesterday. Things are working perfect now. I had that parallax 7400 converter installed. Now I can start growing my hair back from pulling it out trouble shooting. Thanks so much for the info and also thanks to everyone who replied.