Forum Discussion

Kalob3211's avatar
Kalob3211
Explorer
Jul 09, 2024
Solved

Lights in camper are dimming randomly

The rv is a 2016 so not new but new to me.

The converter is giving the proper voltages, the battery terminals are clean, the batteries are giving the proper voltages, the 30amp socket is giving proper voltages, the batteries are holding a full charge, none of the fuses are blown, the converter fan is running fine, the plug is getting slightly warm but there's no burning on the terminals or any other signs if damage on the plug itself, and I've been using the camper without this problem since I got it a year ago. However as of a few days ago the camper lights have started dimming randomly during my normal use. Could this be a sign something is going bad, or am I just drawing too much power at points throughout the day and making the lights dim? 

  • opnspaces's avatar
    opnspaces
    Jul 09, 2024

    I would suspect the converter is not able to keep up with the load when the charger kicks on.

    What is the voltage when the lights are bright and what is the voltage when the lights are dim?

  • way2roll's avatar
    way2roll
    Navigator II
    Jul 09, 2024

    Does this happen when other 12v items turn on, like a water pump or thermostat?

  • opnspaces's avatar
    opnspaces
    Navigator II
    Jul 09, 2024

    I would suspect the converter is not able to keep up with the load when the charger kicks on.

    What is the voltage when the lights are bright and what is the voltage when the lights are dim?

    • Kalob3211's avatar
      Kalob3211
      Explorer
      Jul 09, 2024

      Ahh crap I didn't mean to do that, I can't check the voltage when it dimes because it only dims for a fraction of a second each time but the non dim voltage is 12.6

      • StirCrazy's avatar
        StirCrazy
        Moderator
        Jul 10, 2024

        if your voltage when the lights are bright is 12.6 it means your converter isn't working at all if you are plugged in.  what is starting that causes it to dim, the battery can only handle so much especial when it is down to 12.6v already.  you threw me off as in your original post you said the converter is giving the proper voltage but 12.6 when the converter is on isn't proper, not even close.  

  • MNtundraRet's avatar
    MNtundraRet
    Navigator
    Jul 09, 2024

    I would look for a bad grounding near the battery(s). 

    If you are plugged in to an outside outlet on a camping site, have you checked the outlet for correct wiring and voltage. This could cause a brown-out condition. 

     

About Technical Issues

Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,187 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 14, 2025