When on inverter am I using the batteries?

devildog1971 wrote:
If your inverter is off will your batteries still charge? I am new to the class A R V they are a lot different from the truck campers I have had until now. sorry to cut into the thread but maybe the op might need to know also.

It depends on the make and model of the inverter / converter. On coaches that have an inverter and a separate converter (common on Class C and Class A gas rigs) then the converter will charge the batteries with the inverter off. On coaches that have a combination inverter converter (common on Super Class C and Class A diesel rigs) then it depends on the model and configuration. Usually you can turn off the inverter part while leaving the charger part operating. There is usually a control panel that allows this. How to tell what you have is easy. Look for the inverter control if it has no buttons or controls that say anything about charging then you have a stand alone inverter. The combination units tend to be larger and usually are wired to all the outlets on the coach. Typically the stand alone ones are wired to only one or two outlets. You can tell by disconnecting from shore power with the inverter on and the generator off check several outlets. If they all have power then you probably have a combination unit. The standalone ones usually only power the TV and possibly a residential refrigerator.