120-VOLT ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - Genesis …genesissupremerv.com/media/120-volt_Electrical_System.pdfOwner’s Guide - Towables Chapter 12 / Page 5 of 14 12/ 120-VOLT ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owner’s Guide - Towables Chapter 12 / Page 1 of 14

The 120-volt AC system in your trailer is similar to that inyour home. The system also charges the batteries throughthe converter/charger. 120-volt AC power is supplied tothe load center from either the generator (if equipped)when “dry camping” or through the shore power cordwhen plugged into campground power.

LOAD CENTER CIRCUIT BREAKERS

Circuit breakers for the 120-volt system are usuallylocated under the refrigerator either combined in theconverter/charger or on a separate panel. The locationmay vary depending on model and floorplan.

AC current from the power source or the generator isrouted to the main circuit breakers in the distribution panel.The current is then distributed to the other circuits throughindividual circuit breakers. The circuit breakers open thecircuits if the rated current is exceeded. Never substitute acircuit breaker with a higher value than the originalbreaker installed.

MAIN CONVERTER/CHARGER

Your trailer is supplied with a converter. The converterconverts 120-volt AC current to 12-volt DC. It provides DCpower to operate the DC electrical system and charge thebatteries.

NOTICE

12 / 120-VOLT ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Main AC Circuit Breaker Panel(Location varies with model)

!When packing the trailer, be sure toleave clearance around the converter foradequate ventilation.

CAUTION

Power is supplied whenever the traileris connected to shore power or thegenerator is running. Some convertersinclude a cooling fan that will come onwhen certain temperatures are reached.You may occasionally hear this fanrunning if outdoor temperatures are highor the DC load is high.

Converter/Charger (Layout varies depending on model)

120-Volt ACCircuit Breakers 12-Volt DC Fuses

Always turn off the maincircuit breakers beforeplugging into the sitereceptacle. If the powerconductors (“hot” legs) makecontact before the neutral,unbalanced voltage candamage electronic devicesconnected to the electricalsystem.

Owner’s Guide - TowablesChapter 12 / Page 2 of 14

GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI)The receptacles in the bathroom, galley and exterior

are protected by the GFCI. This device provides groundfault protection from potential electrical shock hazards ofline to ground electric faults and electrical leakage shockspossible when using appliances in damp areas. The GFCIdisconnects the circuit (and other outlets on the samecircuit) whenever a ground fault is detected, limiting yourexposure time to the shock hazard caused by currentleakage to ground. The GFCI device does not preventelectric shock, nor does it protect a person who comesinto contact with both “hot” and neutral sides of thecircuit. It does not protect against electrical circuitoverloads.

Test the GFCI breaker each month while operating on120-volt AC power. To test the GFCI:

1. Press the TEST button on the GFCI outlet. The RESETbutton should pop out indicating that the protected circuithas been disconnected.

2. If the RESET button does not pop out when the TESTbutton is pressed, ground fault protection on theprotected circuit has been lost. Do not use the outlet orother outlets on the same circuit. Have the trailerelectrical system checked by your dealer or a qualifiedelectrician. Do not use the system until the problem hasbeen corrected.

3. Press the RESET button to reset the GFCI and restorepower to the protected circuit.

12/ 120-VOLT ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

NOTE:

Ground Fault Circuit InterrupterOutlet (GFCI)

POWER “SHORE” CORD

Your trailer is equipped with a heavy duty power cord toconnect to an external 120-volt 30- or 50-amp (dependingon model) rated AC service. The cord and plug are amolded, weatherproof assembly. The cord provides acorrect ground connection to the site service. Do not alteror cut the cord in any way. Do not remove the ground pinfrom the plug, or defeat the ground circuit in the trailer. Ifyou have to use an adapter to plug into an electricalservice, make sure the ground is maintained through theadapter. Never use a two-conductor extension cord, orany cord that does not assure correct and adequateground continuity. Never plug the 120-volt cord into anungrounded receptacle.

RESET andTEST buttons

If bath, galley, or exterioroutlets don’t work, check thebath GFCI. Reset it ifnecessary. If it continues totrip, have the electricalsystem checked by aqualified electrician.


ELECTRICAL HOOKUP

Before connecting to the electrical supply, check thesupply rating. Be sure it is 110-volt to 125-volt single phaseAC for 30-amp service or 2-phase 220 to 240-volt AC (two110 to 120-volt legs) for 50-amp service.

CONNECTING TO SHORE POWER

1. Be sure the site power source breakers are OFF (both legs on50-amp service).

2. If the site power source breakers are not accessible, turn OFFthe main breakers inside the trailer.

3. Insert the plug of the cord into the site source receptacle,seating the connector squarely and completely.

4. Turn site source breakers ON.

5. Turn trailer main breakers ON.

Depending on model, the power cord is either wiredpermanently to the trailer electrical system, or isremovable. Removable cords attach to the trailer inletwith a twistlock connector and locking ring. Whenattaching the cord to the trailer, be sure to align the pinscorrectly before locking the cord in place. The locking ringprovides extra strain relief and a weather-resistant seal.

When connecting the cord to the service, push theplug straight into the receptacle until it seats completely.On models equipped with a generator but without auto-transfer switching in the converter, the power cord mustbe plugged into the generator outlet when using thegenerator for AC power. Plug the cord into the generatoroutlet before starting the generator on these models.

Shore Cord (Typical) Generator Outlet (Location variesdepending on model)


Twistlock Shore Cord Inlet (30-amp shown; 50-amp is similar.)


GENERATOR (If Equipped)The generator will provide 120-volt AC power when

shore power is not available. It can be controlled bothat the generator and from the remote START/STOPcontrols located inside the trailer. IMPORTANT: BE SURETO READ AND UNDERSTAND THE GENERATOR OPERATOR’SMANUAL BEFORE OPERATING THE GENERATOR. Observeall operating instructions and warnings as well as allrecommended maintanance schedules andprocedures.

Depending on model, the output of the generator isconnected to the trailer AC electrical system eitherautomatically through a transfer switch in the converterwhen the generator is started, or by plugging the shorecord into the generator outlet. In either case, power isrouted through the load center main breakers.

GENERATOR CONTROL PANEL OPERATION

See the generator Operating Guide in your Owner’sPackage for complete operating and maintenanceinstructions. The generator control panel features:

Hourmeter - Indicates total generator operating time inhours and tenths of hours. Use the hourmeter with thegenerator maintenance schedule for periodicmaintenance.

Start/Stop switch - To start the generator, press and holdat the RUN position. Release the switch when theengine starts (the GEN RUN lamp will come on). To stopthe generator, hold the switch at the STOP position untilthe engine stops.

To disconnect:

1. Turn trailer main breakers OFF.

OR

Turn site source breakers OFF.

2. Pull the plug end of the cord straight out of the sourcereceptable.

3. Coil and stow the shore power cord.


WARNING!

WARNING!Do not place flammablematerial or store any othermaterials in the generatorcompartment.

Do not modify the generatorinstallation or exhaust in anyway.



Every time before starting the generator:

Check the fuel level in the fuel tank.

Check the oil level.

Check all fuel lines for fuel leaks.

Inspect generator for loose or damaged componentsand fasteners.

Correct any problems before operating the generator.

Inspect the generator exhaust system for damage orleaks. Be sure the exhaust pipe is clear of walls, snowbanks or any obstruction that would prevent exhaustgases from dissipating.

Be sure the trailer is not parked in high grass or brush.

Set the main circuit breakers to OFF.

Connect the shore power cord to the generator and/orthe shore power receptacle.

1. Press and hold the START/STOP switch in theSTART position at either control panel until thegenerator starts. Release the switch when thegenerator starts. Do not hold the switch in theSTART position for more than 10 seconds. Theindicator light will remain on after the switch isreleased.

2. If the generator does not start, release the switch.Wait two minutes and try again. If the second trydoes not start the generator, try starting using theSTART/STOP on the generator control panel. If theindicator light still does not light, there may be anopen in the remote wiring. Contact a service centerfor assistance.

3. Do not turn on the main breakers until the generatoris running smoothly and is warmed up. Check thatthere are no fuel or exhaust leaks.

4. Turn off the individual breakers, and set the mainbreakers ON. Turn on the individual circuit breakersone at a time to prevent generator overloading.

5. To stop the generator, turn off the main breakers.Let the generator run three to five minutes to cooldown. Press and hold the START/STOP switch tothe STOP position until the generator stopscompletely and the indicator light goes out. If theswitch is released before the generator stops andthe light goes out, the generator will continue to run.

NOTE: The output from thegenerator may be interruptedif the main generator circuitbreakers trip. These breakersare located on the maingenerator control panel. Ifthere is no power when thegenerator is running, checkand reset these breakers.

IMPORTANT SPECIALNOTE:

If you store your RV over thewinter, or don’t operate it oftenenough to refuel the gas tankevery month, a fuel varnishingproblem could develop in yourgenerator engine and fuelsystem.

Fuel varnish is a gummy residuethat clogs the generatorcarburetor and fuel pump and iscaused by the deterioration offuel. Depending on fuel qualityand storage conditions, gasolinecan deteriorate in as little as 30days. As long as you refuelfrequently with fresh gasoline,and exercise the unit regularly,fuel varnishing is less likely tooccur. But if you leave the samegasoline in the tank for severalmonths, you’re very likely tohave problems.

The only way to prevent fuelvarnishing is to add a fuelpreservative to the fuel(gasoline) tank and to run thegenerator.

For more information, see theOnan generator operating andmaintenance manual.



GENERATOR OPERATING SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

The generator produces carbon monoxide while it isrunning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless, odorlessgas. CARBON MONOXIDE IS DEADLY. Before you start anduse the generator, inspect the exhaust system. Do not usethe generator if the exhaust system is damaged. Test thecarbon monoxide detector every time you use the RV. Toprotect yourself from the effects of carbon monoxidepoisoning, please read and understand the followingprecautions.

There are a number of symptoms of carbon monoxidepoisoning:

Dizziness Intense headacheThrobbing in temples NauseaVomiting Muscular twitchingWeakness/sleepiness Inability to think clearly

If you or others (including pets) experience any of thesesymptoms, get out into fresh air immediately. Get medicalattention if any of the symptoms persist. Turn the generatoroff and do not operate it until it has been inspected and

repaired by a generator repair facility.

Review the safety precautions for fuel and exhaustfumes elseshwere in this manual.

DO NOT operate the generator if exhaust gasescannot be discharged away from the trailer or othervehicles. Do not block the exhaust pipe. Do notpark the trailer where the exhaust gases canaccumulate either outside, underneath, or insidethe trailer or other vehicles. Make sure exhaustgases are clear of walls, snow banks or anyobstructions that can prevent exhaust gases fromdissipating.

DO NOT operate the generator while sleeping. Youwould not be aware of exhaust entering the trailer,or alert to symptoms of carbon monoxidepoisioning.

DO NOT operate the generator in an enclosedbuilding or in a partly enclosed area such as agarage.

DO NOT operate the generator when the trailer isparked in high grass or brush. Heat from theexhaust could cause a fire in dry conditions.

DANGER!

WARNING!

CARBON MONOXIDE ISPOISONOUS ANDCAN CAUSEUNCONSCIOUSNESS ANDDEATH.

Follow all instructions in thissection as well as the onesoutlined in the generatoroperator’s manual.

Do not under anycircumstances operate thegenerator while you aresleeping. You would not beable to monitor outsideconditions to assure thatengine exhaust gases arebeing safely dissipated, andare not entering the trailerinterior. You would not bealert to exhaust odors or thesymptoms of carbonmonoxide poisoning.



DO NOT operate the generator when parked inclose proximity to vegetation, snow, buildings,vehicles, or any other object that could deflect theexhaust under or into the vehicle.

DO NOT simultaneously operate the generator anda powered ventilator which could result in theentry of exhaust gas. When exhaust ventilators areused, open a window on the opposite side of thetrailer upwind of exhaust gases to provide crossventilation.

When parked, position the vehicle so that the windwill carry the exhaust away from the vehicle. DONOT open nearby windows, ventilators, or doorsinto the passenger compartment, especially thosedownwind, even part of the time.

Never operate your tow vehicle or generatorengine longer than necessary when parked.

Do not fill the fuel tank while the generator isrunning. Fuel contact with the hot generator orexhaust is a fire hazard.

Do not smoke or have an open flame near thegenerator or fuel tank.

Never store anything in the generatorcompartment. Aways keep the compartment cleanand dry.

Do not start the generator while a load isconnected. Make sure the MAIN circuit breakersare OFF before starting.

Disconnect the generator from the battery beforeperforming any generator maintenance.

DO NOT touch the generator while it is running, orimmediately after turning it off. Heat from thegenerator can cause burns. Allow the generator tocool before attempting maintenance or service.

NOTE: During long periods of inoperation, or if theengine does not reach operating temperature,moisture can condense in the engine makingstarting difficult and causing damage to theengine. Operate the generator with a 50% capacityload for two hours once a month. A long exerciseperiod that allows normal operating temperaturesis preferable to short periods.

WARNING!Do not block the generatorventilating air inlets oroutlets. Restrictingventilating air inlets oroutlets can cause enginefailure or fire from engineoverheating.



GENERATOR MAINTENANCE

Details of service and maintenance are in thegenerator Operator’s Guide in your Owner’s Package.

Inverter (location varies depending on model)

INVERTER (If Equipped)The inverter uses 12-volt DC power to create 120-volt AC

power for the main and bedroom TV outlets and onegalley outlet. These outlets can be used when shore poweris not available or when the generator (if equipped)cannot be operated. A built-in transfer switchautomatically detects when generator or shore powerstatus changes to ensure power is always available atthese outlets. A detailed operating guide for the inverter isin your Owner’s Package.

If operating on battery power only, the inverter willconsume your available battery power. Your batterycharging source will probably be your tow vehiclealternator if you are operating the inverter in a drycamping situation. To charge the trailer battery(s) fromthe tow vehicle alternator, you must connect the 7-wayconnector to the tow vehicle and run the tow vehicle

Invertercontrol panel

DC powerinput cables


engine at high idle long enough to charge thebattery(s).

The inverter is equipped with the following protectionand alarm features:

Low battery alarm Alerts you if the battery has becomedischarged to 11.0 volts or lower.

Low battery voltage shutdown Shuts the inverter downautomatically if the battery voltage drops below 10.5 voltsto keep the battery from being completely discharged.

High battery voltage shutdown Shuts the inverter downautomatically if the input voltage rises above 15.4 volts.

Overload alarm Alerts you if the loads connected to theinverter are close to the inverter’s operating limits.

Overload shutdown Shuts the inverter downautomatically if the loads connected to the inverter exceedthe inverter’s operating limits or if a short circuit isdetected in the circuitry connected to the inverter’s output.

Over-temperature alarm Alerts you if the inverter isrunning hot and is approaching the over-temperatureshutdown level.

Over temperature shutdown Shuts the inverter downautomatically if its internal temperature rises above anacceptable level. These values and thresholds are set atthe factory and cannot be adjusted.

OPERATING PANEL CONTOLS

On/Off button. Press once to turn the inverter on or off.

Three-digit LED display shows status information andfault codes.

Status LED Indicates the mode of operation with a three-color LED.

Utility (green) indicates the inverter is in shore powermode, using utility power to operate loads connected to theinverter.

Battery (yellow) indicates the inverter is in inverter mode,using the battery to provide AC power.

Fault (red) indicates the inverter has shut down because ofa fault.

Select button. When the inverter is in inverter mode, pressthe Select button to choose what appears in the three-digitLED display: Input Voltage, Input Current, or Output Power.



OPERATING MODESSHORE POWER MODE

The inverter is in shore power mode when an AC source(a generator or shore power) is present to power thecircuits connected to the inverter. The status LED glowsgreen to indicate that the inverter is using shore (orgenerator) power. The inverter draws minimal power fromthe battery. Whether or not the on/off button is on, shorepower will pass through the inverter. When the inverter ison, if the AC source drops to less than 90 VAC or isdisconnected, the transfer switch automatically transfersthe appliances to inverter power. The status LED glowsyellow to indicate the inverter is using the battery to powerthe circuits.

INVERTER MODE

The inverter is in inverter mode when it is using thebattery (inverting DC to AC) to power the circuitsconnected to the ionverter.

TURNING THE INVERTER ON AND OFF

The ON/OFF button on the remote panel turns theinverter on and off.

When the inverter is ON and shore power is present, theincoming shore power is passed to the output to powerappliances connected to the inverter, and the inverterdraws minimal power from the battery. The status LEDglows green. If the shore power goes away, the transferswitch automatically transfers the appliances to inverterpower. The status LED glows yellow to indicate the inverteris using the battery to power the appliances.

When the inverter is turned OFF, the inverter is disabled.Incoming shore power is passed to the output to powerthe inverter circuits. If the shore power becomesdisconnected (or the generator is stopped), the invertercircuits do not transfer to inverter power. Transfer toinverter power only occurs if the inverter is ON.



PORTABLE GENERATOR (If Equipped)Your RV may have been optionally equipped with a

portable generator. Portable means that the generator isnot rigidly and permanently attached and connected tothe RV structure. This Owner’s Guide Supplement discussessafety and operational information you need to knowwhen operating the portable generator.

The portable generator will provide 120-volt AC andDC power for operating portable tools and applianceswhen shore power is not available. IMPORTANT: BE SURETO READ AND UNDERSTAND THE PORTABLE GENERATOROWNER’S MANUAL BEFORE OPERATING THE PORTABLEGENERATOR. Observe all operating instructions andwarnings as well as all recommended maintananceschedules and procedures.

PORTABLE GENERATOR OPERATING PRECAUTIONSThe generator produces carbon monoxide while it is

running. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless, odorlessgas. CARBON MONOXIDE IS DEADLY. Before you start anduse the generator, inspect the fuel and exhaust systems.Do not use the generator if the fuel system is dripping fuelor the exhaust system appears damaged. Test the carbonmonoxide detector every time you use the RV. To protectyourself from the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning,please read and understand the following precautions.

There are a number of symptoms of carbon monoxidepoisoning:

Dizziness Intense headacheThrobbing in temples NauseaVomiting Muscular twitchingWeakness/sleepiness Inability to think clearly

If you or others (including pets) experience any of thesesymptoms, stop the generator and move into into fresh airimmediately. Get medical attention if any of the

symptoms persist.

Review the generator operating and safetyprecautions found in the portable generatoroperating manual.

DANGER!

WARNING!

CARBON MONOXIDE ISPOISONOUS ANDCAN CAUSEUNCONSCIOUSNESS ANDDEATH.

Follow all instructions inthis section as well as theones outlined in thegenerator operator’smanual.

Do not under anycircumstances operate thegenerator while you aresleeping. You would not beable to monitor outsideconditions to assure thatengine exhaust gases arebeing safely dissipated, andare not entering the trailerinterior. You would not bealert to exhaust odors orthe symptoms of carbonmonoxide poisoning.

WARNING!Do not modify the generatorexhaust system in any way.

WARNING!Do not block the generatorventilating air inlets oroutlets. Restrictingventilating air inlets oroutlets can cause enginefailure or fire from engineoverheating.



DO NOT operate the generator if exhaust gasescannot be discharged away from the trailer or othervehicles. Do not block the exhaust pipe. Do notpark the trailer where the exhaust gases canaccumulate either outside, underneath, or insidethe trailer or other vehicles. Make sure exhaustgases are clear of walls, snow banks or anyobstructions that can prevent exhaust gases fromdissipating.

DO NOT operate the generator while sleeping. Youwould not be aware of exhaust entering the trailer,or alert to symptoms of carbon monoxidepoisioning.

DO NOT operate the generator in an enclosedbuilding or in a partly enclosed area such as agarage.

DO NOT operate the generator beneath the traileror beneath an extended slideout room or under anextended awning.

DO NOT operate the generator in high grass orbrush. Heat from the exhaust could cause a fire indry conditions.

DO NOT operate the generator when parked inclose proximity to vegetation, snow, buildings,vehicles, or any other object that could deflect theexhaust under or into the vehicle.

DO NOT simultaneously operate the generator anda powered ventilator which could result in theentry of exhaust gas. When exhaust ventilators areused, open a window on the opposite side of thetrailer upwind of exhaust gases to provide crossventilation.

Position the generator so that the wind will carrythe exhaust away from the vehicle. DO NOT opennearby windows, ventilators, or doors into thepassenger compartment, especially thosedownwind, even part of the time.

Do not fill the fuel tank while the generator isrunning. Fuel contact with the hot generator orexhaust is a fire hazard.

Do not smoke or have an open flame near thegenerator or fuel tank.



TRANSPORTING AND STORAGEThe portable generator can be transported or stored

inside the trailer, or secured to the storage frame on thetrailer tongue.

DO NOT OPERATE THE GENERATOR INSIDE THETRAILER.

DO NOT OPERATE THE GENERATOR WHILE IT ISPOSITIONED ON THE STORAGE FRAME ON THETRAILER TONGUE. The storage frame is designedfor temporary storage of the generator while it isnot running.

If you transport or store the generator inside, secure itupright in its normal operating position, with the engineswitch OFF. Be sure it cannot move while traveling. Allowthe engine to cool well before turning the fuel cap ventlever counterclockwise to OFF.

If you transport or store it on the outside frame, be sureit is tightly secured. A weatherproof covering will helpprotect it from water or dirt.

Do not start the generator while a load isconnected. Make sure the MAIN circuit breakersare OFF before starting.

DO NOT touch the generator while it is running, orimmediately after turning it off. Heat from thegenerator can cause burns. Allow the generator tocool before attempting maintenance or service.

WARNING!Do not operate the generatorwhile it is positioned in thestorage rack. Hot exhaustgases can cause overheatingof the propane cylinders,may cause pressure reliefventing of propane gas andcause a fire or explosion.

WARNING!The portable generatorweighs over 100 pounds.Attempting to lift or move thegenerator alone may causeserious injury. Lift or movethe generator only if you andat least one other personcapable of lifting the weightcan assist you. Do notattempt to lift or move thegenerator alone.


Battery rack

Portable generatortemporary storage


Owner Notes


Documents

120-VOLT ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - Genesis …genesissupremerv.com/media/120-volt_Electrical_System.pdfOwner’s Guide - Towables Chapter 12 / Page 5 of 14 12/ 120-VOLT ELECTRICAL SYSTEM