11 Best Converters For Your RV

Last updated on May 4th, 2023 at 06:07 pm

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Looking for a new converter for your RV? Does your RV even have a converter? What’s an RV converter anyway?!

RV converters are necessary components of your RV electrical system, doing exactly what their name implies: converting standard shore power into DC power, meant to charge your batteries or run certain appliances that only work on DC power. Although it’s not uncommon for RVers to experience electrical issues from time to time, hopefully, this article should help you understand them better!

For such an important function, you may be wondering how exactly converters work, what type of converter may be right for you, and ultimately what converter you should purchase for your rig.

We’ve put together a complete buyer’s guide along with a list of the best options to get you started. But if you want to skip ahead and see our favorite converters you can see them here:

You can scroll down to see a detailed review or keep reading to learn everything you need to know about purchasing the right converter for your RV!

How Does An RV Converter Work?

Wondering how your converter works and why it’s important to your RV? It’s a necessary component to any and all RVs, whether you’re planning on being hooked up to shore electricity or not!

When you plug your RV into shore power or any other standard electrical source such as at a campground, the converter’s job is to reduce 120v AC power down to 12v DC power. Converters have been made standard in newer RVs to supply power to all of the 12-volt appliances and accessories in your rig. 

If your rig isn’t plugged into shore power or another electrical source, your RV battery or batteries will supply the power to all of the 12-volt appliances and accessories in the RV. A converter is there to recharge your batteries when you are hooked up to shore power, which means your batteries will not drain and risk damage to their overall lifespan.

A converter works simply enough and is either a standard feature or an easy plug-and-play addition to any rig. It is a necessary machine if you plan on utilizing your DC appliances or accessories because your batteries will still drain even if you are plugged into standard shore power.

What’s The Difference Between A Converter And An Inverter?

So you’ve seen a lot of RV products out there and learned a lot of new names for these products. But what do they all mean and how do they affect your RV?

Your RV electrical system is simple once you get to know it, and learning what an inverter and converter are is your first step! A converter, as stated above, converts standard shore power into DC battery power, often charging and maintaining your batteries at the same time.

An inverter does a similar thing, only in the opposite direction: it uses your DC battery power to supply your RV with standard AC 120V power. An inverter and converter work together to maximize your RV’s electrical system, which means you don’t have to worry if everything is working properly!

Types Of RV Converters

There are many different types of converters out there, each with its own special abilities and compatibilities. Choosing one that best suits your needs is a good idea, especially if you are upgrading an old or broken converter! These are some of the most common types of converters, but you may need to do additional research to find one that best suits your needs.

Multi-Stage Or Smart Converter

So you’re looking for a converter to do it all, good news, there’s an option out there for you! A multi-stage converter is an amazing modern converter capable of charging your batteries, keeping them at a consistent level, and shutting off when your batteries have reached an optimum level of charge.

Multi-stage converters are most people’s first choice these days, given their capabilities. This converter takes care of you and your rig’s electrical system at every step of the process so that you always have peace of mind. 

A charged battery is a happy battery, and a multi-stage converter knows the harm of an overcharged battery as well. Single-stage chargers, often found in older RVs, don’t have the same capabilities as multi-stage chargers. For example, single-stage converters or chargers are only capable of a large bulk charge. 

These converters can often overcharge your batteries, leading to permanent damage. A multi-stage converter is designed to avoid this and protect your batteries over a longer period of time.

High Output Converter

Do you need multiple batteries charged and enough juice to power larger appliances running off of a DC current? A high-output converter may suit your needs best. 

This converter is designed to work for you and work hard. It is the best converter for harsher climates, as well as the best option if you need a high output of energy for your DC appliances or accessories. 

This converter also helps out all of your batteries, if you have more than one that needs charging. If you know you’ll have a lot of energy demands for your 12v system, this is a good converter to consider.

Deck Mount Converter

If you’re looking for a converter that can be installed almost anywhere, look no further than a deck mount converter. Just like the name suggests, this converter can be installed anywhere that cords will reach it so that you don’t have to worry about installing it somewhere inconvenient.

This converter may suit your converted or otherwise bespoke rig best, as most conversions require very different setups than standard RVs. Having the option to mount a converter beneath seats, counters, or on a wall is appealing to many RVers!

Distribution Panel Converter

Do you have an older rig in need of a converter replacement? Are you looking for an easy switch? Research distribution panel converters, because it may be the right fit for you!

Most distribution panel converters are designed to replace older models and can usually be installed in the same place. They are newer and more efficient than older models of converters, which means you’re getting an upgrade in every way!

Distribution panel converters are capable of charging your batteries efficiently as well as working silently to power your appliances. Their efficiency is such that you won’t have to worry much about energy loss. 

10 Best Converters For Your RV

Feeling confident about what a converter is and why you need one? Do you have a good grasp of your own needs and what type of converter will best suit your RV lifestyle? Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the best RV converters on the market!

Best Overall: Powermax 110 Volt to 12 Volt DC Power Supply Converter Charger for Rv Pm3-55 (55 Amp)

The reviews are in: the Powermax 110 Volt to 12 Volt DC Power Supply Converter is a fan favorite and a great overall choice for your rig! One of the reasons I am drawn to this particular converter is the state of the art 3 Stage Smart Charging and adjustable power supply modes. I often find RV electrics mind-boggling, but these modes give me the peace of mind I need when charging up my batteries and using appliances.

I like that this converter fully charges and maintains any battery type while providing very clean DC power, taking away the stress I know I often feel when it comes to my rig’s battery. The PowerMax PM3 Series are available in a wide range of amperage sizes, with 24V, 48V versions, and 12Vdc – 220Vac models meant to suit most power requirements, even if you have hefty appliances such as a powerful blender or an AC unit. 

PM3 Series converters can also be wired in a series or parallel to reach even higher power outputs, depending on specific batteries and the requirements involved. I also find the fixed output mode helpful, as the voltage can be set between 13.0 Vdc to 16.5 Vdc, giving me the wide range I know I need when I’m out in my rig.

Electrics can seem a little scary, I felt nervous when I was new to RVing, but these converters have a current limiting design that automatically shuts down power during overload or short-circuits conditions. Safety features like this are a game changer for me, as the last thing needed on a relaxing vacation is the stress of battery or converter issues.

It’s normal to feel worried about the potentially tricky setup of a converter, but this one makes things a whole lot easier as it’s simple to install with built-in mounting flanges and an AC power cord I can simply plug into a standard 110/120v outlet. It measures 11 x 8 x 4 inches and weighs only seven pounds, making it a fairly universally fitting little converter! 

When looking at purchasing a converter, I keep an eye out for a unit able to power everything I need for years to come, and if you’re looking for something similar, it may be worth you looking at more powerful pieces of kit, as some RVers have struggled to reach 55 amps. Overall, however, I think this little converter would suit the needs of an average camper, and at a fair price. Given its easy installation and simple operation, it seems like a no-brainer if you’re looking for reliability and simplicity!

You can read more reviews from other RVers and check the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best Existing Converter Replacement: WFCO WF8955PECB Black 55 Amps Power Center Converter Charger

The WFCO WF8955PECB Black 55 Amps Power Center Converter Charger is a common brand and style of converter sold at RV repair shops, but I have to warn you, it will often have a much higher price tag attached to it in an RV retailer! I sometimes wonder if replacing my existing power center is the way to go, and if you’re thinking similarly, this converter might tick all the boxes.

A big benefit of this power center is its quiet operation, something I always look for when adding features to my RV, as camping in my eyes is all about finding tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of life at home. As the cooling fan only runs when needed, I don’t have to think about disturbing the peace of my partner – a big benefit as no one likes disrupted sleep!

Something that concerns me about converters, however, is the risk of interference with televisions, radios, and other signals. Thankfully, this WFCO power unit has FCC Class B compliance taking away that risk so everything runs smoothly. 

The automatic three-stage battery charging system maintains battery life with three nominal voltage output modes, a big bonus for me as it means the battery will likely last a significant amount of time, saving money in the long run. The modes are 13.2 VDC range “float” mode, 13.6 VDC range “absorption” mode, and 14.4 VDC range “bulk” charge mode.

Safety is always a top priority for me, so the electronic current limiting feature is a game-changer, automatically shutting down power during overload or short-circuit conditions. This is important because it means any electronics and everyone on board will be safe should the converter short circuit or malfunction, helping prevent accidents or harm.

Although this power center is packed full of great features, from ultimate safety to a range of output modes, I have to bring attention to the installation which may be tricky if it’s vastly different from the existing converter in your RV. Try not to panic though, as the professionals are just a call away if you aren’t sure how to fit this beast in your rig. 

I also think this unit is a bit on the bigger side, not ideal for travelers like me who have very limited space in a travel trailer! The dimensions are 14 x 11.88 x 8.25 inches, which is on the larger side, and not ideal if like me, you have limited space and things are tight already! 

You can read more reviews and see today’s price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best Deck Mount Converter: WFCO WF-9855 WF-9800 Series Deck Mount Converter Charger

Very rarely do I come across products with five-star reviews across the board, but this WFCO WF-9855 WF9800 Series Deck Mount Converter is a customer favorite- at least at the time of writing! I find deck-mounted converters to be a great choice and very beginner friendly, and this converter is easy to install and use, even if you’re only just starting out RVing. 

I like that this converter weighs just over four pounds and has compact dimensions of 11.6 x 6.5 x 4.3 inches, making it easy to install anywhere in a rig! The clean DC power ranges from 35 to 75 amps and utilizes an advanced 3-stage charger, making my life easier as the converter is able to work efficiently without me having to get involved too much! 

I enjoy using WFCO products, as most of their converters only activate the cooling fan when there is a significant electrical load on the system, limiting noise disruption. The fully insulated DC connections with an open-top design are massively appreciated as it means I can use this converter easily, and get it set up quickly.

Life is busy, and I don’t have time to spend hours installing a converter and upgrading my RV electrical system, so the ease of installation with this WFCO is a huge bonus. The deck mounting is a simple design, and since this unit is very affordable, it’s one worth keeping an eye on!

Many RV shops carry this brand and will charge much more for installation, which may mean it creeps outside of your budget, but I think it’s worth taking a look at the installation as it really isn’t too advanced. There are reports of the customer service line having problems, which may be a deal breaker for some, but I find confidence often grows when we try new things, so don’t throw the towel in straight away!

This converter operates just as described, and with a quick setup, your rig should have converted DC power for years to come! 

You can see all the reviews and the latest price on Amazon by clicking here.

Best Smart Converter: Progressive Dynamics PD9260CV Inteli-Power 9200 Series Converter/Charger with Charge Wizard

Wondering what a Charge Wizard is? I did too! But once I learned, it made me massively consider whether I need to ever buy any other type of converter! The Progressive Dynamics PD9260CV Inteli-Power 9200 Series Converter is a premium smart converter with outstanding reviews and impressive features I find hugely helpful such as constant voltage monitoring, battery protection, and current limiting to name just a few! 

The Inteli-Power 9200 Series features a built-in Charge Wizard that constantly monitors voltage status and automatically manages RV batteries, so I never have to worry about my battery’s state again – a huge relief, as this is a part of RV maintenance I find easy to forget. I love that this solid-state converter/charger delivers filtered DC power to all 12-volt lighting and appliance circuits, as it results in a secure and reliable service, making my RV a safe space.

A standout feature for me is the reverse battery protection feature, which protects the converter from damage resulting from improper (reverse) battery lead connection. RV electrical systems are expensive, and the last thing I want to face is a damaged battery, but luckily this feature has everything covered.

Another great safety feature is the electronic current limiting, which automatically reduces output voltage when maximum capacity is reached, protecting the system and bringing continual peace of mind. Along with high and low line voltage protection, I feel as though Progressive Dynamics have made safety a priority as the unit is protected from spikes or surges of voltage over 135V, and shuts the converter down if the input voltage is insufficient, protecting appliances from damage.

Like other converters in this list, there is a variable-speed intelligent cooling fan, that automatically monitors the converter temperature and activates the fan at whatever speed is required. With such an abundance of features, it’s no surprise this unit comes at a premium price, but I like to have the safest and top-of-the-line technology, and if you feel the same, it may be worth the initial investment for years of a safe RV electrical system.

You can check out the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best On A Budget: Powermax PM4 55A MBA 110V AC to 12V DC 55 Amp Power Converter with Built-in 4 Stage Smart Battery Charger

If like me, you’re hoping for the best converter you can get but on a budget, it’s worth taking a look at the Powermax PM4 55A MBA 110V AC to 12V DC 55 Amp Power Converter. While it remains on the low end of the price ranges offered on this list, it doesn’t sacrifice features I know I want a converter to have!

This converter unit hard wires into an RV AC and DC power distribution center, and with a built-in smart charger automatically regulating the output between different charge rates of Bulk (14. 7V) Absorption (13. 8V), and Float (13. 2V), you can breathe easy knowing your electrical system is in safe hands with this converter. I can’t stand the stress of trying to keep RV batteries optimal all the time, so this is a great bonus for me.

There are many pros and cons for RVing from maintenance to cost, but the vast range of features with this unit is extremely helpful in my eyes, with reverse polarity, overload, and thermal protection to keep RV electrical systems running safely and efficiently. This reduces the risk of something going wrong substantially, saving money in the long run. The PowerMax PM4 Series provides high output, and reliable, safe, and clean DC power, great for RVers like me who prioritize safe RVing and want to avoid the dangers associated with electricity.

PowerMax is one of the most known manufacturers of RV converters in the business, with many happy customers, and it’s clear to see why! If you have a WFCO 8900 series converter, this unit is the ideal replacement, and as it weighs about five and a half pounds and measures 12.3 x 8.7 x 5.6 inches, it fits right into most converter spots in any RV. However, I need to bring attention to the build and installation of this converter, as I find it to be considerably more complicated than the average install. 

Difficult install aside, this converter packs a real punch, and along with a quiet cooling fan and 4-Stage smart charger, it’s a great feature for RVers like me who prefer the sounds of nature to a loud converter fan! No matter what, PowerMax makes reliable and comprehensive converters on any budget, which means no more sacrificing RV needs in order to have safe and clean DC power!

You can learn more and see the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best For Large Power Loads or High Output: WFCO WF68100A Deck Mount 100 Amps Converter Charger

When I’m out in my RV, the last thing I want to be concerned with is whether or not I can use my appliances, especially when it’s the height of summer and I need to use my AC, blender, and a multitude of other devices! Impressively the WFCO WF68100A Deck Mount Converter is able to do this and so much more! Even though my rig is on the smaller side, having a 100 amp load gives great peace of mind for times when we all need a bit more power.

Many large fifth wheels and toy haulers require a converter capable of amperage higher than 55 amps, which is where this WFCO converter comes in handy. I like its fairly universal size of 10.3 x 10 x 3.9 inches and weight of only four pounds, as it means there’s no need to rearrange a whole section of the RV to accommodate this converter.

It was easy to install, as a plug-and-play converter, something I find useful as there’s nothing worse than doing some RV upgrades alone and having no one around to help with a tricky installation. This WFCO converter, like the others on this list, also only runs its cooling fan when needed, meaning I don’t have to worry about excess noise inside my small RV. The quiet operation allows me to remain relaxed to the soundtrack of nature while the converter works hard. 

This is only a converter, not a smart battery charger, so a downside for me is the fact we RVers are in charge of our battery’s maintenance. This may be a deal-breaker, however, with 240 volts and 1710 watts, it can handle a substantial amount of power.

I do think it’s useful to purchase a battery charger to go alongside this unit, as they are typically an easy and cheap buy, shutting down if a circuit overloads, and alerting you when your batteries need charging. A useful feature if like me you forget about your batteries from time to time!

You can learn more and see the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Fan Favorite: IOTA Engineering DLS30 30 Amp Power Converter/Battery Charger

When searching for new components to bring into my rig, I look for quality, simplicity, and reviews to back the products up. The IOTA Engineering DLS30 30 Amp Power Converter/Battery Charger may be a brand I haven’t reviewed yet, but it’s one worth mentioning! I find the compact nature of this unit a big bonus, and as it’s unassuming and quiet, there’s no loud rumbling noise to worry about.

Usually, I prefer items in my RV to have an old-school aesthetic, but the rectangular and industrial appearance of this IOTA DLS30 is sleek and refreshing. Measuring 13 x 4.5 x 4 inches and weighing about four and a half pounds, it’s not hard to carve out a small space for this converter, and if you’re lucky, it may even be a direct replacement for your old converter! Many reviewers report this as being an easy install and that it directly replaces their old IOTA models found in toy haulers and other trailers, no problem!

A downside of this unit is the lack of smart charging features, and although it offers surge protection for more sensitive electronics or appliances, I want a bit more out of a converter such as reverse polarity and thermal protection. The DLS-30 does provide 400 watts of power at 30 continuous amps, so is great for use with a high-power charger, or for charging lead-acid batteries directly, as discussed in the video below.

I like that this little converter packs a punch but is also budget-friendly, making it more widely available to more RVers. It may not have all the features I would personally want from a converter, but it is a good option, especially if you’re new to RVing and are not sure how much power you will need when you’re out on the road full-time. 

You check out more reviews and see the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best Distribution Panel or Power Center Converter: Parallax Power Supply 8355 DC Converter/Charger

One of the worst things about RV electrical systems is when something big goes wrong, such as the entire power center needing replacing when the converter goes out. This seems like a huge investment, but thankfully the Parallax Power Supply 8355 DC Converter/Charger will give you the peace of mind needed once the installation is done!

The 8300 Series brings output amperage to 30 amps with a three-stage 55 amp converter charger, making it a powerful unit, something I think is especially important for using hefty appliances. I like that it’s been manufactured to operate on 15 amps of AC power, resulting in plenty of energy for running other 120V devices.

As I’ve said before, safety is paramount in all different types of RVs, so this unit being built with a durable steel enclosure and having an 11-position fuse block with blown fuse indicators is beneficial for the safety of your RV. The installation, however, isn’t the easiest and can be complicated if you aren’t confident with RV electrics, but don’t worry, as the pros are just a call away. 

There’s such a wealth of information available from instruction booklets to videos and forums, and I find it’s useful to take a look at some before diving into an RV upgrade, as I can pick up some useful tips for future upgrades too.

This Parallax unit does come with a considerably high price tag, but I think it’s well worth the cost if you are needing to replace your entire power center. I also have to bring attention to the size of this bad boy as it measures 11.5 L x13.38 H x15 W. This is on the larger side, especially when Parallax advertises additional purchases to maximize your converter’s power and charging, taking up even more space and budget! However, if you’re capable of committing financially to this converter, it won’t disappoint for years to come.

You can see today’s price and check out the reviews on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best For Small Spaces And Conversions: WFCO WF-9845 WF-9800 Series Deck Mount Converter Charger – 45 Amp

On the other end of the spectrum, is the smaller-sized WFCO WF-9845 WF-9800 Series Deck Mount Converter Charger, which may be the Cinderella slipper for anyone like me who has a tight space, but is in need of a reliable converter!

While many converters on this list fit the bill, this little guy comes in just slightly smaller than others while still maintaining all the necessary smart features and at a great price. Measuring 11 x 5.88 x 4 inches and being deck-mountable are two huge benefits in my eyes, and I like that it doesn’t draw attention in a room, as some RV equipment often does!

Many reviewers mention this being an easy replacement for their existing RV converters, and while it only generates up to 45 amps, I think this is enough for the average camper. WFCO’s patented 3-stage charging system is a fantastic feature of this unit, as it keeps batteries happy. I’ve always found WFCO to be a reliable and common brand, but in times of need, it’s easy to seek help online should anything prove difficult.

If you have heavy electrical usage in your RV, I would consider looking at more powerful converters, especially if you’re looking to run an AC unit and multiple appliances at the same time. I find it’s best to invest in a converter that ticks the boxes for everything you need, as otherwise, you may have to splash out and buy another one in the future – something I definitely don’t have the budget for!

This converter comes in on the lower end of the budget in terms of comparing it to other converters on this list. Although this WFCO converter still boasts many of the impressive features I look for such as quiet operation, ease of use, and simple installation, it’s worth looking at more advanced converters for elements such as reverse polarity and surge protection.

You can check out the latest price on Amazon by clicking here.

Best Converter Replacement: Parallax Power 45RU Converter Replacement

The PARALLAX POWER 45RU Converter is an awesome choice for directly replacing any old Parallax brand converters! I love that this converter is the smallest on this list, measuring 4 x 10 x 7.5 inches and weighing barely four pounds, without skimping on features. The 45RU is a three-current stage 45 Amp converter and battery charger, a great feature in my eyes as RVing can be busy, and although it’s essential to keep your batteries happy, it’s easy to forget about them.

A big plus point of this converter in my eyes is the fact it will charge, maintain, and stop topping up my RV batteries when they are fully charged! The 45RU is also a direct replacement for the Parallax and MagneTek 7345 power centers, ideal for those needing to replace one of these models.

I like that this unit can also be upgraded to TempAssure technology by installing an additional Parallax module to maximize battery charging, as it gives me the freedom to choose the feature that will work best for my specific setup. This does come at an additional cost though, and as this converter isn’t the cheapest on the market, it may dent your budget substantially.

I think it’s worth the investment if you feel the additional piece of Parallax technology will make life on the road easier for you, as you don’t want to be regretting not purchasing it further down the line! Parallax does boast a great customer service line, which I find invaluable as questions often pop up in my head and I want to be able to find the answers easily! The ability to dial a number and reach a customer service center with helpful, friendly staff makes things a lot easier for me when it’s time to complete any installation.

You can see the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best Value Converter: Go Power! GPC-55-MAX 55 Amp 4-Stage Converter/Battery Charger

RVing is a lifestyle that has taken me to so many different locations, but I wouldn’t have been able to go very far at all without a converter at my side. This Go Power converter keeps batteries healthy as dead batteries while on vacation with the whole family wouldn’t be an ideal situation! Impressively, this converter can be used with battery banks that have no more than 6 batteries, and with 4-stage charging, I know my batteries are getting the attention they need to keep functioning at their best.

I like my RV to be neat and tidy inside, as it’s a small space and wouldn’t be able to handle too much mess! Therefore, the compact construction of this converter means I can either plug it in, out of the way, or hard-wire it into my system and give it more of a permanent home. The 15-ampere male plug on this Go Power piece of kit makes installation a breeze. 

It’s also worth mentioning there have been reports of this 55-amp model not quite charging at full capacity and instead staying around the 44-45 amp mark. Fitting a converter into your system correctly is essential, and if even the slightest thing isn’t connected right, the converter may struggle to work. Go Power does have a dedicated customer service team, so if you come across any issues, I would recommend giving them a call or email for some additional support.

You can see the latest price and reviews on Amazon by clicking here.

How To Take Care Of Your RV’s Converter?

If you already own a converter, or if you plan on purchasing a new one for your RV, maintenance, and upkeep are essential for the health and life of this piece of technology! How can you take care of your RV’s converter?

There are a few things you can do to lengthen the life of this handy device. However, the upkeep of your converter also depends on the upkeep of your RV’s batteries, so keep that in mind when reading forward!

1. Take Care Of Your Converter’s Cooling Fans

One of the most important components of your converter is the cooling fan. Converters give off a lot of heat while doing what they are designed to do: converting energy if you hadn’t already guessed. This means that the cooling fan is a necessary feature of all converters, and most often the first thing to fail.

Taking care of your fan is a fairly easy task. Much like any other fan used to cool electronic devices, it needs consistent cleaning and maintenance to keep your converter cooled down. An easy fix you can perform as part of your maintenance process is keeping the fan blades clear of dust and debris.

This may be a slightly involved task with some converters as the fans may be more difficult to access than other parts of the device. However, canned air or other electronic cleaning supplies may make the process easy for you.

If your converter fan is malfunctioning or has quit operating, you may need to reach out to an RV repair center to get it repaired. Your converter can’t work at full capacity without a fan, and chances are, it won’t work for long no matter what!

2. Keep RV Batteries Healthy

Your converter’s power and longevity are directly linked to the health of your RV’s batteries. While no RV battery is designed to last forever, you can perform a decent amount of maintenance on it to extend its life and, in turn, your converter.

Whether you have one battery or multiple to power your RV, it is important to take care of them. Batteries are prone to corrosion, improper off-season storage, and improper charging. All of these things have simple solutions, however, and it may be worth doing should you wish to extend the life of your batteries and converter.

3. Clean Off Any Sulfate Crystals

Corrosion is the most common issue with RV battery maintenance but is a very easy fix. Should you notice any sort of sulfation or corrosion, don’t be alarmed. A battery’s normal process of charging and discharging forms sulfate crystals on any parts of a battery’s lead plate. 

The easiest thing for you to do should you notice these crystals is to clean them off. Disconnect your battery, purchase a terminal cleaner (or make one yourself using baking soda and water!), and use the solution and a metal scrub brush to scrape away the corrosion. There’s even terminal sealant spray to deter future corrosion so that you can save your time and money the next time maintenance is needed!

4. Store RV Batteries Correctly

Another cause of battery failure is improper off-season storage. Your RV’s batteries should be kept inside while not being used for maximum health and longevity, which means disconnecting them when you store your RV for the winter. 

The batteries should still be kept at a full charge, however, so you may not have a dedicated space in a garage or workshop for them. This is not something that will cause too much of an issue, and RV batteries have been known to survive a season or two still installed and uncharged in an RV.

However, removing and storing your batteries is a necessity if you live somewhere cold. Batteries can freeze in winter and cause irreparable damage to them and potentially your converter as well.

5. Avoid Over or Undercharging RV Batteries

The final step you can take with your RV’s batteries is properly charging them. This may seem like a no-brainer, but batteries are often over or undercharged. Many factors play into why this might happen, but an easy solution is purchasing a converter or battery charger that automatically turns off when your battery is fully charged!

No matter what, happy batteries make for a happy converter, so don’t hesitate to perform these extra maintenance plans!

My RV Doesn’t Have A Converter. Do I Need One?

Unfortunately for a lot of RV owners out there, a converter or inverter may not come standard. I know I had a moment of panic the first week I tested out my vintage travel trailer and my overhead fan (powered by DC energy) died! I had no idea what a converter was, but I quickly learned that a converter is a necessary part of your RV’s electrical system.

If you plan to convert literally all of your RV’s appliances to 120V AC shore power, a converter may not be a necessity for you. However, the cost of converting these appliances may be outlandish compared to the cost of a converter, as well as the availability of these appliances. 

Your RV is designed to have certain appliances and accessories run on battery or DC power, so you may not find what you are looking for in an AC or shore power version. Besides, your RV’s brake lights, tail lights, and other usual vehicle necessities require a charged battery to run. No matter what, you will still need a battery and something to charge said battery, so a converter is a no-brainer in my book!

How Much Does It Cost To Replace My RV’s Converter?

So you found out your RV has a converter. Great! However, after troubleshooting everything, you’ve discovered that your RV’s converter is broken. Not so great!

Like most things in an RV, the cost of replacing a part depends on your needs and your own skill level. There are many converters on the market, and if you feel comfortable installing a converter on your own, you will save some money on installation.

However, a converter may be a more complicated installation than you are used to, and you may need professional advice and help when it comes time to get your new converter up and running. An RV expert will have no trouble installing a new converter for you if it is something you think is beyond your abilities!

In terms of cost, the number of converters on the market should make options available to every budget. However, if you find that the entire converter needs replacing and it isn’t an easy fix such as the fan or an updated battery charger, you may be looking at a larger budget. The converters on this list range in price, but hopefully there is one that suits your budget!

Replacing your RV’s converter can cost between $100-$2,000 which is an unfortunately large range. However, the cost of it all depends on the amperage needed to power your RV as well as any other features you are hoping for from your converter.

The average cost of replacing an RV converter starts at about $500, which may seem steep. However, your converter is an important part of your RV’s electrical system and is worth the investment. 

You may be able to save some money on installation, or perhaps on a converter that doesn’t produce as much power as another model. Your DC system shouldn’t be powering anything too extreme, which means you probably don’t need a high-output converter. However, if you find this to be a necessity for your rig, just be prepared for the cost of such an upgrade.

Will An RV Converter Work Without A Battery?

Wondering if your RV converter will work without a battery? This is an interesting question, and one that may not apply to all of you RVers out there. However, the answer may not be the one you’re hoping for.

Your RV converter is designed to convert the power from your rig into 12v power that your battery then stores up for future use. In theory, can’t you use a converter without a battery if you are consistently hooked up to shore power?

The short answer is, yes, you can indeed run only your converter without a battery and enjoy 12v power, but only if you are consistently hooked up to shore power. There are also many reports of ruining converters using this method. Why might this be?

Your electrical system is designed to store excess power and energy in your RV’s batteries, meant for later consumption or use when your energy needs are high. Without these batteries being utilized, the chances of burning out your converter are much higher. 

Many RVers have tried using their built-in RV converters without a battery and most people report success for a short period of time. However, if your RV is permanently hooked up to shore power, it is recommended that you still utilize your batteries to ensure proper maintenance and care of your RV’s electrical system.

Converters are designed to work in tandem with batteries, and nearly every RV comes with them, standard. So unless you are struggling with your storage and need the battery’s compartment for an upcoming trip, keep your electrical system happy by leaving it be! 

Do I Need A Battery Charger As Well As A Converter?

When shopping for a new converter, you may be overwhelmed by what it all means, especially the features regarding battery charging. Do you need to keep your batteries charged? Will a converter do that? Or will more purchases need to be made?

The easy answer is yes, you must have a way of keeping your batteries charged if you desire to use any appliances or features that utilize DC power. Your converter may or may not automatically charge your batteries for you, however.

If you don’t already own a separate battery charger and your converter needs replacing, you may want to consider a converter with battery charging capabilities. It is necessary to keep your batteries charged up if you want to use your converter to the best of its abilities; if your batteries aren’t charged, your converter will have no energy to convert and utilize for your rig!

Thankfully, many converters these days have charging built into them. While some of these converters can cost more than others, you may find it’s worth keeping everything simple and buying an all-in-one option. However, if you’re accustomed to keeping your batteries charged in your RV and already own a battery charger, you may have better luck finding a more budget-friendly converter without smart charging capabilities.

How Much Power Do I Realistically Need?

Let’s say your budget depends on how many amps you can afford, as converters often base their prices on the amperage output needed. This is an easy way to moderate your budget, but it comes down to knowing how many amps you realistically need. What might this number be?

If you are hoping to be exact, it’s going to take some math. You’ll need to determine what appliances in your RV utilize DC power. This won’t be all of them, but it may be a decent amount, as some RV appliances run on both AC and DC power. 

You may not ever find yourself in a situation where you only have DC power, but it isn’t a bad idea to keep in mind in case there is ever a power outage or other electricity complication. So it is a wise idea to calculate your needed amperage with all appliances in mind!

Your appliances have two different amperage rates: the start-up amount and the running amount. The starting rate of amps will always be higher than the running rate, and this is the number that matters more. If your converter can’t handle the start-up amperage of all of your appliances, then you may want to consider a higher output converter.

However, once you’ve done your math, chances are you need a converter of average amperage output. Many appliances don’t require very many amps, save the microwave and air conditioner, and these units rarely run solely on DC power. 

Keeping your power needs in mind can be useful for many different aspects of your RV, and not just your converter! Knowing your average amperage usage will matter when shopping for batteries, a generator, and a host of other things. You will be a responsible camper knowing the amount of power you need, as the worst that can happen is you blow a fuse in a campground!

Conclusion

Shopping for an RV converter can be an overwhelming task, let alone knowing your needs and hoping you can install it without professional help! No matter your situation, the converters on this list are reliable, top-rated, and affordable. Replacing your converter can be a daunting task, but a necessary one to improve your RV electrical system.

Take care of your batteries, know what amperage you need, and grab a friend. A new converter installation can be a breeze, especially with these products in mind! So take things slow, and steady, and don’t be afraid to call the professionals for some extra advice.