Inverter only runs when when generator runs or shore power.

Also the test panel shows the batteries fully charged.

Checking the batteries at the battery post was 12.6 volts, I didn't check the voltage with shore power or the Motor Home engine running. I will put the meter on next time I see daylight...

You are presenting two problems: the 12v system doesn't work, and the inverter doesn't invert off batteries.

Sounds like dead batteries.

Mihand
It's possible you have a combination charger/ inverter
The control panel will say inverter
This is two sets of electronics in one box
The 13 volt battery charge side will only work when 120 vac is present
To work without 120v
The batteries have to be connected and in good shape, to have the 12v lights and systems working

The inverter output 120v side will be connected to the entertainment systems and maybe the kitchen outlets
Only one side can work at a time, it does not invert aka make 120v unless the batteries are connected and charged
It does not charge unless you have a120v source
The house 12v systems must be connected to the CHARGED batteries if there is no shore or generator power

Maybe I should have asked if you have plugged the MH into shore power to allow batteries to be charged for a full day or two. Too fully understand what is working you need to use a multi-meter to check DC voltage.

First locate the house-battery(s) (might be in stair-well). Check the battery voltage at the battery terminals while unplugged. Voltage will be 12.7 volts or lower. Plug into shore-power and make sure "disconnect" is "on". Check the voltage at the battery-terminals again. The voltage should rise to at least 13.6 volts (14.4v if multi-stage charger in "bulk" mode).

If you do not see the rise in voltage the battery may not be actually connected to the circuit yet. The solenoid does not function if battery voltage is around 10.5 volts or less (dead battery).

Next step would be to start the MH engine. The engine alternator normally by-passes the "disconnect" solenoid and will charge the house-battery. Checking the voltage now at the battery terminals should show around 14.4 volts.

Let the engine alternator charge the batteries for 15 minutes or more. Try the "disconnect" switch again. You may hear a click from solenoid near the batteries if working, and the monitor panel should work.

Now if you shut down the engine and the MH is plugged into shore-power you should not see at least 13.6 volts charging from the converter/charger.

An "inverter" only converts 12v,dc, from battery to 120v, ac, for some outlets. It only works if you have a well charged battery-bank capable of handling the ac appliance you expect to use.

How old is the RV you just purchased?

How big is the "house-battery" bank? One, or more batteries? Group 24, or larger?

To use the inverter both it and the "House-battery" disconnect switch must be "on" (note! monitor panel will not function without batteries connected and charged). Exception is that plugging into shore-power will allow the converter/charger to power both 120v,ac, items and outlets along with the 12v,dc, circuit (panel will work). BUT! The batteries are not connected yet so no charging taking place.

The batteries may not have been charged recently. If they have been allowed to discharge too many times they may no longer hold a charge and will need replacement.

This is a typical 30AMp wiring configuration setup for trailers from GOOGLE Search.

Sounds like you are mixing up an INVERTER with the CONVERTER. In the RV world they are two different animals.

This layout is really for trailers but the motorhomes follow the same basic ideas.


The POWER INVERTER statement above should say 12VDC to 120VAC.

Hope this helps...

Roy Ken

sounds like EITHER
the battery disconnect switch is in use and batteries are disconnected
OR
the batteries are dead

converter charges the batteries and supplies 13v+ when 120v is present (shore or genset}

Inverter, takes 12v input from batteries to make 120vac for TV etc.. maybe some kitchen circuits

The converter powers the 12v items when plugged in or generator running and battery is disconnected. While driving you need to turn on the house battery switch for 12v power use in the house. The power will be replenished by the alternator.

If you have an inverter it would be used to power 120vac items without plugged in or generator.

Generally the house battery switch should be ON while the RV is in use.