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tomthyme's avatar
tomthyme
Explorer
Jul 13, 2014

Curios about dry-camping

Hey folks! Hope you all are enjoying the summer.

The DW and I were out a few weeks back and I thought I would see what power was available on batteries. I run 2 @ 6v deep cycle batteries for my rig. We have never dry camped before, but would like to try someday. So, with no air only the fridge (on propane setting) on, I tried the tv, audio, etc....no dice. I didn't have time to go through the rig trying sockets and such so I thought you guys might be able to help.

Yes, my sweetie will ask if we can run satellite, etc. so I might as well be ready to answer.

Any experiences would be helpful.

Thanks and stay cool out there!
Tom
2011 Cameo 37CKSLS
  • mpierce's avatar
    mpierce
    Explorer
    Jul 13, 2014
    What make, model, and year trailer?

    Did you have a main disconnect off?

    Are you saying the frog worked on 12v, but nothing else? Most modern fridges require 12v to run the controls.

    Need more specific info.
  • tomthyme's avatar
    tomthyme
    Explorer
    Jul 13, 2014
    mpierce wrote:
    What make, model, and year trailer?

    Did you have a main disconnect off?

    Are you saying the frog worked on 12v, but nothing else? Most modern fridges require 12v to run the controls.

    Need more specific info.


    Thanks mpoerce...you are quick on the draw! We have a 2011 Cameo 37CKSLS (I updated it in the OP). The fridge was working on 12v and I was able to turn on a few, but not all interior lights.
  • tomthyme's avatar
    tomthyme
    Explorer
    Jul 13, 2014
    Mandalay Parr wrote:
    Do you have an inverter to run the TV?


    Great question! I assume so, but will need to check for sure. We have never spent any time in her without shore power or generator.

    I'm guessing that if I don't have one, none of the 110 stuff is going to work...yes?
  • pianotuna's avatar
    pianotuna
    Nomad III
    Jul 13, 2014
    Hi,

    Use the propane setting on the fridge. Get a small inverter such as the Morningstar 300 watt unit.
  • darsben's avatar
    darsben
    Explorer II
    Jul 13, 2014
    Four year old rig and may I assume 4 year old batteries?
    Did you maintain the batteries or have they just sat for 4 + years?
  • markmontana's avatar
    markmontana
    Explorer
    Jul 13, 2014
    tomthyme wrote:
    We have never spent any time in her without shore power

    I'm guessing that if I don't have one, none of the 110 stuff is going to work...yes?


    Correct. You are only able to use the 12v side without an inverter. You have a good start w 2 6 volt batteries. But your regular 110v appliances/TV/lights will not work on 12v.
  • Mandalay_Parr's avatar
    Mandalay_Parr
    Explorer
    Jul 13, 2014
    tomthyme wrote:
    Mandalay Parr wrote:
    Do you have an inverter to run the TV?


    Great question! I assume so, but will need to check for sure. We have never spent any time in her without shore power or generator.

    I'm guessing that if I don't have one, none of the 110 stuff is going to work...yes?


    Yes Tom, all 110 stuff is off the inverter.

    Jerry
  • sch911's avatar
    sch911
    Explorer
    Jul 13, 2014
    tomthyme wrote:
    The fridge was working on 12v and I was able to turn on a few, but not all interior lights.


    FYI: Your fridge works on LP gas, or 120V shore power. In both cases 12V is needed for the control circuits.

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