How to Bypass Converter in RV | Check Right Now

The RV converter is a crucial component that converts high voltage 120V AC from the shore power to 12V DC to run all the interior lights, fans, and electronics, as well as charge the house batteries. However, there may come a time when you need to bypass the converter in your RV due to an emergency or for routine maintenance. Knowing how to safely bypass the converter is an essential RVing skill. 

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about bypassing your RV converter. I’ll also cover the tools required, safety precautions, step-by-step bypassing procedure, maintenance tips, and alternative power sources. Equipped with this knowledge, you can troubleshoot converter issues or upgrade your RV electrical system confidently. So let’s get started!

The Things You Need to Know About Bypassing the Converter in RV

A. Emergency Situations

Bypassing the converter may become necessary in case of unexpected converter failure while on the road or boondocking without shore power. Being prepared for such situations ensures you are not stranded without power.

Power Failure: Suppose the converter stops functioning entirely while you are traveling or camping off-grid. In that case, you will need to quickly bypass it to restore power for essential lighting and appliances. Having the right tools and some basic electrical know-how allows you to troubleshoot and bypass the converter safely until repairs can be done.

On-the-Road Repairs: If the converter starts malfunctioning on the road – making buzzing noises or overheating – you cannot wait until reaching a campground. In such cases, bypassing the converter quickly lets you limp along with limited power until proper repairs can be made. This may involve directly connecting the battery or using a generator/inverter as alternative sources.

B. Battery Charging Strategies

Bypassing the converter also allows you to explore other battery charging options to maximize energy efficiency and redundancy.

External Charging: The converter may not be powerful enough to quickly recharge large house batteries, especially while running other appliances. Bypassing the converter and using an external battery charger instead allows faster, high-amperage charging.

Solar Power Integration: You can bypass the converter and connect solar panels directly to the batteries and electrical system. This provides cleaner and quieter power generation, reducing reliance on the converter.

Tools and Equipment Required

Bypassing the converter requires some basic tools and safety gear for protection. Let’s look at the essentials.

1. Essential Tools

Screwdrivers and Wrenches: You will need standard and Phillips head screwdrivers along with adjustable wrenches to remove the converter housing panel, disconnect wiring terminals, and make new connections.

Multimeter: A digital multimeter is crucial for checking voltage and troubleshooting before and after the bypass procedure. It ensures components are safely powered down before disconnecting.

2. Safety Gear 

Gloves and Safety Glasses: Wearing insulated gloves and safety glasses is vital when working around electrical systems to avoid accidental shocks or shorts.

First Aid Kit: Having a first aid kit nearby provides quick access to bandages, antiseptic, etc. in case of minor cuts or injuries during the bypass process.

Reasons to Bypass RV Converter

Some common reasons for bypassing the converter include:

– Converter failed and needs replacement

– Converter makes buzzing or humming noise

– Converter runs too hot

– Need more power than converter can provide 

Knowing why you need to bypass helps determine the best alternative power source. Now let’s look at how to actually perform the bypass step-by-step.

Procedure of Bypassing Converter in RV

Follow these key steps to safely bypass your RV converter:

Step-01: Locating the Converter Panel

First, you need to locate the converter panel which is typically:

1. RV Interior- In most RVs, it is mounted on a wall, floor, or ceiling inside a storage compartment or dedicated electrical bay.
2. External Connections- In some cases, it may be located outside with electrical hookups on the exterior.

Step-02: Switching off Power Supply

Before disconnecting anything, power needs to be safely switched off:

1. Disconnecting Shore Power: Unplug the shore power cord from the outlet to cut AC supply to the converter.
2. Turning Off the Generator: If running a generator, turn it off to disconnect any live AC power.

Step-03: Removing Converter Connections

With the power off, you can now detach wiring from the converter:

1. Battery Disconnection: Disconnect the positive and negative battery cables attached to the converter output.
2. AC and DC Wires: Unscrew and detach the AC input and DC output wires from the converter terminals.

Step-04: Connecting External Power Source

Now bypass the converter by connecting to an alternative power source:

1. Using External Charger: Connect the battery to a portable high-amp charger to recharge it directly.
2. Solar Panel Integration: Connect solar panels through a charge controller directly to the battery.

Steps-05: Use Generator Power

– Run generator to power RV directly

– Allows testing system without converter  

– Provides 120-volt AC to appliances

– Can charge batteries directly if wired properly

Steps-06: Install Inverter

– Use inverter to convert battery power to 120-volt AC

– Allows use of appliances without shore power 

– Make sure inverter is sized adequately

Steps-07: Connect Batteries Directly

– Wire batteries directly to 12-volt system

– Provides power for lights and 12-volt appliances

– Need to monitor battery voltage carefully

Steps-08: Install New Converter

– Replace old converter with new unit

– Make sure converter is properly sized  

– Get converter with advanced monitoring/charging

Step-09: Testing the Bypass

Once everything is connected, test operation:

Voltage Check: Use a multimeter to verify 12V DC output from the new power source.

Appliance Functionality: Turn on lights and appliances to confirm they run properly off the bypass.

Exciting Tips and Precautions

To ensure proper and safe converter bypass, keep these top tips in mind:

A. Safety Precautions

• Electrical Awareness: Understand RV electrical systems before attempting to bypass yourself. Improper procedures can cause injury or damage.
• Professional Assistance: If unsure about any steps, hire a certified RV technician to perform the bypass safely.

B. Regular Maintenance

• Periodic Checks: Inspect the converter monthly for damage, overheating or abnormal noises.
• Battery Health: Regularly test RV battery voltage and condition to catch any charging issues early.

Queries and Solutions (Q&S)

Q1: Is it okay to permanently bypass my RV converter?

A: It’s not recommended to permanently bypass the converter unless you install an alternative source like a larger converter, inverter, or solar system. The converter is designed to run and charge the RV electrical system.

Q2: How long can I safely run my RV on a converter bypass?

A: You can run on a bypass for a few days or weeks assuming batteries are charged and the generator/inverter can provide sufficient 120V AC power. Extended bypass is risky without a permanent solution.

Q3: Will bypassing the converter drain my RV battery?

A: Yes, directly connecting appliances will drain the battery without recharging, so monitor voltage and limit usage. Use a generator or external charger to recharge.

Q4: Can I damage my RV if I bypass the converter incorrectly?

A: Improper bypass connections can send incorrect voltage or backfeed to components, damaging appliances, fuses, wiring or tanks. Hire a pro if unsure.

Q5: Do I need an electrician to bypass my RV converter?

A: If you understand electrical systems and use caution, you can bypass yourself. But for liability and safety, an RV technician is recommended.

Q6: Where is the converter typically located in an RV?

A: Usually mounted on a wall, floor or ceiling in an electrical compartment or bay. In some RVs it’s outside with external hookups. Consult manuals.

Q7: How do I know if my RV converter is not working properly?

A: Signs include no 12V power, flickering lights, buzzing/humming, lack of battery charging, frequent tripped breakers or melted connectors.

Q8: Can a portable generator be used to bypass an RV converter? 

A: Yes, a generator provides 120V AC to directly power appliances and charge batteries through a working 120V system, bypassing a bad converter.

Final Words

When your RV converter fails, you have options to bypass it and restore power. Carefully evaluate your needs and RV setup to choose the best method, whether installing a new converter, integrating solar panels, using a generator, or wiring batteries directly. With proper tools, safety precautions, and electrical knowledge, you can perform necessary upgrades or emergency bypasses safely. Plan ahead so you can troubleshoot converter issues and keep your RV powered up.