Four features can comprise the RV charging system: engine alternator, inverter/converter, solar panel and a battery maintainer. Depending on make and model, your RV may contain some or all of these charging systems. An understanding of how these systems work and their separate maintenance requirements will help to protect the RV charging system.

The engine alternator is designed to primarily maintain chassis voltage, and sends secondary surface charge to the house batteries. It is not recommended to run large house loads or charge low batteries from the alternator and risk overheating the system. If a heavy power load or battery charging is required while driving down the road, engage the generator. Alternators are typically rated in amps of charge ranging from 160-Amps to 200-Amps. The alternator begins to charge only after the engine is on.

The alternator contains moving parts. Small pieces of grit or dirt can attach to these parts and cause damage. Regularly inspect brushes, bearings and belts. Squeals or loud noises when the engine is running, or diminished alternator performance, could indicate a problem with the alternator.

The inverter/converter is the preferred method of charging the house batteries while plugged into shore power or when the generator is running. Moving parts are nominal on the inverter/converter system, however, the component does require cooling in hot weather to prevent overheat. This movement of air surrounding the component can attract dirt and debris, so it is recommended to keep the compartment housing the inverter/converter as clean as possible.

Solar panels are available in roof mount or stand alone. Solar panels range in size from 40-Watt to 100-Watt. Solar panel size is dependent on wattage rating. Some solar systems may charge both chassis and house battery banks, depending on controller type.

Maintenance involves cleaning the solar panel on a regular basis to achieve maximum use, and regular inspection of the mountings on roof systems to assure fastness. During storage the solar panel is designed to work with the battery cut off switch disengaged. For best results, park the RV with easy access to the battery compartment to perform regular maintenance.

Battery maintainers are available to charge the chassis batteries while the RV is plugged into shore power. Unlike the converter system, which charges the house batteries, the battery maintainer is designed to charge both the house and chassis batteries. Battery maintainers are helpful when the RV is plugged into shore power for long periods of time to keep the chassis battery charged. The only moving part of a battery maintainer system is a simple relay contact.

With all these available charging systems it is important to maintain the batteries on a regular schedule.