Setting Up Electricity In Your Trailer: A Guide

Adding electricity to a trailer is essential for modern conveniences like charging devices, powering lights, and running appliances. The process involves installing an electrical system, which typically includes a power source, wiring, outlets, and a circuit breaker. Different trailers, such as cargo or RV trailers, may require specific electrical packages, such as 12V DC or 110V AC power, and the wiring process can vary depending on the trailer's intended use and power requirements. Safety considerations, such as tripped breakers and electrical surges, should also be taken into account to protect against electrical shocks and potential fires.

Installing an electrical package

If you're looking for a basic setup, you can follow these steps:

• Install a deep cycle marine battery: This will provide you with a portable power source. You can also consider upgrading to a 12V electric pedestal jack for your trailer.
• Add a wired box with a trickle charger: This will ensure that your battery always has a full charge.
• Create an inlet through a wall: This will allow you to plug your trailer into an extension cord.
• Install a small panel with breakers: This will protect your electrical system in case of a sudden power surge. You can connect a charger and additional receptacles to the panel.
• Wire your devices: Depending on your needs, you can wire LED lights, phone chargers, computers, or fans.

For a more comprehensive setup, you may want to consider the following:

• 110V Power Package: This package requires a generator or a motorbase plug. ALCOM offers Package 1, which includes a 15A motorbase plug, a wall switch, a receptacle, and an LED light. Package 2 offers more features, including a 30A breaker, a longer shore line, additional switches, and lights.
• Direct Current (DC) Power: This type of electricity travels in one direction and is commonly used for charging devices and powering lights. You can run a 10-gauge wire from a 6-way or 7-way connection to a deep cycle 12V battery.
• Alternating Current (AC) Power: This type of electricity is similar to what you have at home and powers appliances like washers, dryers, and refrigerators. If you're looking for AC "shoreline" wiring, consult a trailer dealership or electrician.
• Solar Power: Consider using solar panels to charge your trailer battery. This can be a sustainable and efficient way to power your trailer.

Remember to assess your power needs and choose the appropriate electrical package and power type accordingly.

Understanding AC and DC power

To power your trailer, you'll need to understand the basics of electricity. Electrical power is transmitted via two methods: direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC).

Direct current is a unidirectional flow of electricity, usually from batteries, solar cells, or AC/DC converters. It is the type of electricity you use when charging your phone or laptop, or when powering lights on your trailer. It is also the standard for most portable battery-powered electronics. The voltage and current can vary, but the direction of the flow does not change.

Alternating current, on the other hand, is the type of electricity you get from power outlets in your home or office. Its flow periodically changes direction and can travel longer distances than DC power. It also uses higher voltage. AC is used to power large appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators, washers, and dryers. It is easier to transform between voltage levels, which makes it more suitable for high-voltage transmission. AC is produced using a device called an alternator, which is a type of electrical generator.

When adding power to your trailer, you can choose between 12V DC and 110V AC power packages, depending on your needs. If you plan to use devices that require DC power, such as phones, laptops, or other electronics, you will need an AC/DC converter to transform the AC power from your trailer's power source into DC power.

Adding a deep cycle battery

Choosing the Right Deep Cycle Battery

First, you need to select an appropriate deep cycle battery for your trailer. There are various types of deep cycle batteries available, including standard lead-acid batteries, lithium batteries, and AGM batteries. Consider factors such as cost, capacity, and maintenance requirements when making your choice. Lithium batteries, for instance, offer superior performance but come at a higher price point.

Installing the Deep Cycle Battery

Once you have your deep cycle battery, it's time to install it in your trailer. Decide on a suitable location for the battery, ensuring it is secure and won't move around while the trailer is in motion. You may need to install a wired box or battery tray to hold the battery in place. Additionally, consider adding a battery isolator, which prevents the trailer from draining your vehicle's battery if the trailer's battery runs low.

Wiring the Battery

Now, you'll need to connect the battery to your trailer's electrical system. If your trailer already has some electrical fixtures, such as LED lights, you can wire the battery to these components. Consult a professional or a wiring diagram specific to your trailer model to ensure proper connections. You may also need to install a charger for your deep cycle battery to maintain its charge when not in use.

Testing and Maintenance

After installation, test the battery to ensure it is functioning correctly. Check that all connected electrical components are operational and monitor the battery's performance during use. Regular maintenance of your deep cycle battery is crucial to prolong its lifespan. Keep the battery charged, especially when in storage, and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for care and maintenance.

Upgrading Your Electrical System

Depending on your power requirements, you may want to upgrade your trailer's electrical system. Consider adding more LED lights, USB ports, or outlets to enhance the functionality of your trailer. You can also explore power packages offered by trailer manufacturers, which typically include features such as heat, lights, and power outlets. These packages can provide higher wattage and additional conveniences during your travels.

By following these steps and considerations, you can successfully add a deep cycle battery to your trailer, creating a reliable and versatile power source for your mobile needs. Remember to consult professionals or seek advice from experienced individuals when tackling electrical installations and upgrades.

Using a power inverter

An inverter is a device that allows you to use your appliances when you are not hooked up to shore or generator power. It does this by taking 12-volt DC power from your RV deep-cycle batteries and converting it to 120-volt AC power. This makes it a crucial part of your electrical setup, especially if you plan on dry camping or utilising solar power.

There are two main types of inverters: modified sine wave inverters and pure sine wave inverters. Modified sine wave inverters are less expensive but are also less compatible with today's technology and appliances. They create a blocky electric signal to transform DC power to AC power. Pure sine wave inverters, on the other hand, produce electricity that is cleaner, smoother, quieter, and more efficient than modified inverters.

When choosing an inverter, it is important to consider the power capacity. Inverters can only provide as much AC power as the battery's capacity allows, which can limit which appliances will work. For example, refrigerators and air conditioners may struggle to be powered by batteries. Therefore, it is recommended to determine the wattage you intend to draw based on the gear you need to run off the inverter. Inverters are rated in watts, and electrical appliances and devices have a corresponding rating.

To install an inverter, you may need some or all of the following: AC wiring, household extension cords, fuses, bus bars, transfer switches, split panels, electrical boxes, electrical connections, and any necessary tools. The AC (Connecting the inverter to the RV electrical system) side of the installation can be more complicated. You need to ensure that you do not have shore power or generator power connected to the output of the inverter. There are several ways to wire your inverter, and whichever option you select, you can use standard 14 AWG, household-type non-metallic cable for wiring.

Additionally, it is important to remember that the converter and inverter should never be on at the same time. This is because the inverter pulls current out of the batteries, while the converter pushes current back into them, quickly draining the batteries.

Locating the circuit breaker

First, you need to identify the electrical panel that houses the circuit breakers. This is usually a metal or plastic box located near the main electrical service entrance of the trailer. It may be inside a closet, basement, garage, or utility room. If you're having trouble locating it, try looking for a grey or beige box with a door that can be opened to access the breakers.

Once you've found the electrical panel, you'll need to open it and identify the individual circuit breakers inside. Breakers are typically labeled, so look for labels indicating which parts of the trailer they correspond to, such as "bedroom," "kitchen," or "lights." If the breakers are not labeled, you may need to turn them off one at a time to determine which circuits they control. Be sure to exercise caution and turn off the main breaker before handling any electrical components.

When working with the circuit breakers, it's important to understand their function. Breakers are safety devices designed to protect your electrical system from overload. Each breaker is rated for a specific amperage, such as 15 or 20 amps, and will trip (turn off) automatically if the current exceeds this rating. This helps prevent electrical fires and other hazards.

To ensure the safety of your trailer's electrical system, it's crucial to choose the appropriate breaker rating for your devices and appliances. For example, if you plan to use a 15-amp plug, you should connect it to a 15-amp breaker to avoid overloading. Similarly, if you intend to use multiple devices, consider using a 12-gauge cord to minimize voltage drop over long distances.

Lastly, when installing additional electrical components, such as outlets or lights, always consult a professional electrician or refer to reliable sources for guidance. Proper wiring and breaker selection are essential to prevent electrical issues and ensure the safety of your trailer's electrical system. Remember to follow local regulations and guidelines for electrical installations.

Frequently asked questions