Running 12 Volt Appliances on Generator While Boondocking

When boondocking in your RV, there are a number of 12 volt appliances that you might use that require power supply from a generator. It’s important to factor each of these appliances into your plans, so you know you have enough juice for the trip. Our expert RV repair and maintenance guide Dave Solberg teaches you about each of these appliances, from makeup lights and powered vents in the bathroom to LP-fueled appliances in the kitchen. Consider the power they’ll draw, and keep the total in mind when making plans for your next boondocking adventure!

5 Responses to “Running 12 Volt Appliances on Generator While Boondocking”

1. PHILIP February 20th, 2020

   I need to run a Cpap with humidifier all night Need to replace my batteries-2 original in motor home. They won’t last thru night anymore. Any recommendations?

   Reply

   • Customer Service February 24th, 2020

     Philip,

     If you are operating both of those machines off of the 120v system that is powered from the batteries using an inverter you will have to at least double the battery capacity to handle that. When powering things like that it is best to use a generator. Using batteries to power 120v items doesn’t last long. You can always increase your battery bank but you would also have to make sure it fully charges the next day if you plan on using it again at night. The best thing to do is use a generator, not only will it power the 120v system but it will also charge your batteries as well.

     Sincerely,

     Dan
     RV Repair Club Technical Expert

     Reply

   • Robert April 18th, 2021

     1. If you need replacement batteries due to age of the equipment, you might consider upgrading to Lithium cells, but you’ll also need to make sure your converter/charger is right for Lithium batteries.

     2. Consider getting a 12v travel CPAP. This eliminates the 12v DC to 110v AC inverter losses. It takes a good amount of power to convert 12v DC to 110v AC. So a 12v DC CPAP will save you that much in conversion losses. It’s also a dirty little secret that MANY home electronics actually run on 12 volts DC, but because it’s used in the home, they have a 110 cord, and step-down transformers and diodes to convert it to 12v power internally.

     Reply

2. Dennis M Arinello February 20th, 2020

   would have liked for you to discuss how exactly to calculate some of the appliances you mentioned against the life of the batteries while boondocking.

   Reply

3. Stan Hume September 9th, 2019

   You forgot to mention the furnace.

   Reply