Replacing / Upgrading Electrical Panel
Hello, Rookie RVer :C here!!!!! Is there a "need" or benefit(s) to changing the electrical panel? My Class A is a 1996, no problems with electric. I have been upgrading/modifying "this and that" in...
Forum Discussion
Replacing the converter (which may be built into the electric panel)? There's a very good chance that that would be well worthwhile.
Otherwise replacing the AC or DC distribution panel? There's no advantage so long as it's in good shape, which basically means that it hasn't overheated due to loosened connections or something like that. A new panel will have exactly the same technology, and identical or virtually identical components. Even in a house, the main difference between a new electric panel installation and one from twenty (or forty) years ago is the mandated use of arc fault breakers rather than plain breakers. I don't think arc fault breakers are required for RVs as yet, so that wouldn't apply here.
If you have a 30A panel and need more electric capacity, it might make sense to upgrade it (and the shore power inlet and transfer switch) to a 50A panel...but it doesn't sound like you're in that situation.
Otherwise replacing the AC or DC distribution panel? There's no advantage so long as it's in good shape, which basically means that it hasn't overheated due to loosened connections or something like that. A new panel will have exactly the same technology, and identical or virtually identical components. Even in a house, the main difference between a new electric panel installation and one from twenty (or forty) years ago is the mandated use of arc fault breakers rather than plain breakers. I don't think arc fault breakers are required for RVs as yet, so that wouldn't apply here.
If you have a 30A panel and need more electric capacity, it might make sense to upgrade it (and the shore power inlet and transfer switch) to a 50A panel...but it doesn't sound like you're in that situation.
