Electrical Systems
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5•136
EXECUTIVE
The AC output of the generator powers the motorhome air conditioners, the
AC inverter/converter charger, all appliances and items plugged into the elec-
trical outlets of the motorhome. The number of electrical appliances that can be
operated at any given time depends upon how much power is available from
the generator. If the generator is “overloaded” or a short circuit causes “over
current,” either the generator will shut down or the circuit breaker will trip. If
power consumption, in total, exceeds the generator power output, compensa-
tion for temperature and elevation may be necessary to operate some appli-
ances in sequence, rather than all at the same time.
NOTE: The generator may shut down when it is loaded nearly
to full power and an air conditioner (or other large motor
load) cycles on. For a brief moment during start up, an
electric motor can draw up to three times the rated power.
For this reason, it may be necessary to operate some
appliances in sequence when air conditioners or other large
motor loads are on.
It is important to remember that air density decreases as altitude increases,
causing the generator engine power to decrease. Power decreases at approxi-
mately three percent of the rated power each 1,000 feet (305M) of increase in
elevation above sea level. It may be necessary to operate fewer appliances at
the same time when the camping location is at a higher elevation. For example:
7,500 watt generator @ 5,000 ft. = 6,375 watts net. Temperature also affects
maximum output watts. For example: @ 120º a 7,500 watt generator produces
6,000 watts net.
REFERENCE: The diesel generator may shut down for other
reasons beside “overloads.” A blink code may appear on the
control switch. Refer to the manufacturer’s manual to obtain
an explanation of the codes.
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If a circuit breaker trips in the main AC breaker panel, or on the generator
control panel, there may be a short circuit or too much load.
NOTE: The generator will continue to run after a circuit
breaker trips.
If a circuit breaker trips, disconnect or turn off as many loads as possible.
To reset the circuit breaker, switch the circuit breaker to OFF; then switch to
ON to reconnect the circuit. If the circuit breaker immediately re-trips, the
electrical distribution system has a short or the circuit breaker is faulty. Call a
qualified electrician. If the circuit breaker does not re-trip, reconnect a combi-
nation of loads that will not overload the generator or cause the circuit breaker
to trip again. Remember to compensate for elevation and temperature changes
when reconnecting loads.
Powering the
Equipment
Resetting the
Circuit Breaker
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