RV power converters are electrical devices whose sole purpose is to convert the higher AC input voltage into a lower DC voltage. This conversion is needed since most camping power outlets have 120 to 240V power while the RV electrical circuit runs on the battery’s 12V DC power. Since power conversion is involved with these converters, certain important factors must be understood.
Power Output: A power converter’s most important parameter is the power output. The devices connected to the RV’s electrical system consume different amounts of power. Having an idea about the total power requirements helps in selecting a converter with a higher output. The power converters are usually selected with a power output more than the total power requirement of the RV. Type of Converter: There are different types of power converters available that offer different working principles. They can be selected as per the type of appliances connected to the RV. The multi-stage converters use equal stages of power conversion to deliver a safer power output for small devices. Other types offer higher power output and portability. Input Voltage: The input voltage of a power converter determines the amount of voltage needed to run it. The electrical outlets of a campsite or household electrical outlets have different voltage outputs. Hence the converter must be able to withstand these voltages when connected to the power socket.
Keeping these factors in mind, a good power converter for your RV can be bought. Various brands have introduced good power converters that offer unmatched performance. These options are further explained in detail along with their important specifications. A “Buying Guide” is also discussed to clear any doubt related to the power converter
Best RV Power Converter Table
Best RV Power Converter Reviews
1. RecPro RV Power Converter
RecPro is one of the brands solely focused on developing and upgrading RV appliances. It has a range of power converters that caters to the power supply demands of the consumers. The luxurious design language and special features make these converters a good deal. The RecPro RV Power Converter is a multi-stage converter. Available in different amperage settings ranging from 35 to 100A, This model has an amperage capacity of 35A. The converter is capable of converting 120V AC power into 12V DC power. It can churn out a continuous power of 510 Watts. Being a multitasking converter, it recharges the RV battery and supplies power to the connected devices simultaneously. The temperature of the converter is maintained by a silent running fan. Equipped with LED lights, a proper indication of the converter’s running status can be received. The overload protection helps in keeping safer operations. Best features:
AC 120V to DC 12V converter An amperage rating of 35A Maximum continuous power of 510 Watts Operating range of 13V to 16.5V Multiple stage charging Cooling fan for temperature control
Pros:
Charging of battery and power supply to the appliance at the same time is possible Multiple amperage options help in selecting the converter for wider applications Overloading and reverse polarity features help in the safer operation of the converter
Cons:
The unit is a bit heavier
2. Powermax 60 Amp RV Power Converter
PowerMax is a brand that specializes in manufacturing battery charging solutions for automobiles. The superior level of quality and performance in its products has helped the brand attain growth in the last two decades. The PowerMax PM3-60 RV Power Converter comes with triple-stage charging. It can churn out a maximum amperage of 60A at the last stage. The unit converts the standard AC 110V into usable DC 12V which is suitable for various appliances. It has a dedicated mode to keep a constant output of the power supply. A cooling fan is installed on this unit to control the temperature when the converter is running. Adding to this, an over-temp feature is also provided to limit the converter temperature from exceeding limits. Being approved by UL-CUL ensures safer operation without electrocuting the user. Best features:
Power conversion from 110V AC to 12V DC Maximum amperage of 60A Three-stage charging feature Cooling fan with a silent working
Pros:
It can maintain a constant power output even in loading conditions, due to the dedicated mode The converter is compatible with lithium and other types of batteries It comes with a 2-year warranty
Cons:
The converter does not have an ON/OFF switch
3. VEVOR 30 Amp RV Power Converter Charger
Being a specialist in tools and equipment, Vevor offers a range of products with premium quality. Built to last long, these tough products are available in the market at affordable price tags. The Vevor RV Power Converter runs on an 85V to 120V AC supply. This unit is capable of converting the input AC voltage of 110V into DC 14.8V. A maximum amperage of 30A offers continuous supply to the connected appliances. A maximum power output of 500 Watts makes it suitable for mid-heavy appliances. Using 3-stage charging, it supplies stable power to the RV battery and helps in extending the overall life. This multi-stage charging allows charging of the battery and supplying power to devices at the same time. For temperature control, the cooling fan is installed in a way to circulate fresh air around heated parts. Best features:
Power conversion from AC 110V to DC 14.8V Operating range between 13V to 16V An amperage rating of 30A The maximum power output of 500 Watts Cooling fan with variable speed
Pros:
The 3-stage charging system helps in charging the RV battery and supplies power to appliances at the same time The installation of the converter is easy and needs no re-wiring It has a metallic construction and weighs lighter than other units
Cons:
Not suitable for connecting multiple heavy electrical appliances at the same time
4. PowerMax PM3-55 RV Power Converter
PowerMax is also a manufacturer of devices that aids in electrical supply. With a strict quality control program, it can develop durable products that maintain good performance throughout its life. The PowerMax PM3-55 RV Power Converter is a multitasking unit. It charges the RV battery while powering the appliances. It is capable of converting a 110V AC power supply into a 12V DC output. The output can be fixed to a constant mode between 13V to 16.5V. The amperage rating of 55A helps in connecting heavy appliances to the converter. To offer protection against higher temperatures, a fan is provided for air circulation. The 3-stage charging of the converter certified by UL-UCL ensures a safe power supply to the connected devices. For updates about the running of the converter, an LED indicator light is also provided. Protective features like overloading detectors help in keeping the converter away from electrical damage. Best features:
AC 110V to DC 12V power conversion The amperage rating of 55A Operating voltage range between 13V to 16.5V Cooling fan for temperature control LED light for converter’s running status Fixed output mode for constant power supply
Pros:
The unit is available in different voltage configurations that suit low and high power requirements 3-stage charging helps in delivering varying power output as per the connected appliance need The reverse polarity protection helps in avoiding electrical damage to the connected devices
Cons:
At high-temperature conditions, the cooling fan makes noises while running
5. WFCO Arterra RV Power Converter
Arterra is a subdivision of the WFCO group that mainly focuses on developing RV-related products. The brand has adapted innovative methods to deliver quality products. It has a wide range of transfer switches, converters, and power-related products. The Arterra WF-8955 RV Power Converter comes with automatic 3-stage charging. This helps in handling all types of power requirements of different appliances. The unit works on a 105V to 130V AC power supply and delivers an output voltage of DC 13.6V. The output voltage ranges from 13.2V to 14.4V allowing different charging modes. The output amperage rating of the converter goes up to 55A. Maximum power of 950 Watts can be achieved through the converter, ensuring power supply to mid-heavy appliances. The lightweight construction and minimum mounting parts help in installing it anywhere. Best features:
Three-stage automatic converter Supports AC input voltage from 105V up to 130V Output DC voltage range of 13.2V to 14.4V An amperage rating of 55A The maximum power delivery of 950 Watts
Pros:
The unit supplies power to the battery in a way to improve the battery life With a minimum number of mounting parts, the converter is easy to install anywhere Suitable for mid-heavy appliances
Cons:
Connecting multiple heavy appliances might cause overloading of the converter
6. Progressive Dynamics RV Power Converter
Progressive Dynamics Inc. offers power and battery-related solutions for RVs. The products manufactured by this brand undergo proper testing before making it to the market. As a result, the products show good durability and performance. The Progressive Dynamics PD4645 Inteli Power 4600 Series RV Converter is an innovative unit. It features a built-in 4-stage “charge wizard” system that charges the RV battery in a way to extend its overall life. The unit is capable of converting a standard outlet’s 110V AC power into 12V DC power, which is suitable for various devices. The converter has an amperage rating of 45A that allows maximum current supply. The converter can be installed easily thereby reducing the overall setup time. A cooling fan is installed as a way to circulate cool air around the heated component of the converter. Best features:
110V AC to 12V DC power conversion 4-stage charging with a charge wizard feature The amperage rating of 45A Cooling fan for temperature control
Pros:
It offers a safer charging of the battery and reduces the risk of the battery boiling under overloading The unit comes with a proper installation manual to assist in the mounting process of the converter Overall battery life increases due to the converter’s multi-stage charging
Cons:
The price of the converter is high compared to the options with the same amperage rating
7. WFCO WF-9855-LIS Deck Mount RV Power Converter
WFCO has a dedicated electronics division that develops innovative products for the RV market. Apart from manufacturing, it also offers the service of power conversion products. The WFCO WF-9855-LIS RV Power Converter converts power in 3-different stages. The multi-stage converter is capable of converting 105V to 130V AC power into 13.2V to 14.6V DC power. The converter has an amperage rating of 55A which allows a high amount of power supply to the connected devices. It is thereby capable of delivering a maximum power output of 940 Watts after the conversion process. For the safety part, the unit comes equipped with current and temperature control features. The reverse polarity feature helps in avoiding electrical damage to the converter if the power supply polarity gets reversed. To control the temperature levels, a cooling fan is installed that sucks hot air out of the heated components. Best features:
Power conversion from 110V AC to 12V DC The variable output voltage from 13.2V to 14.6V depending on loading conditions A maximum power output of 940 Watts An amperage rating of 55A Safety features against reverse polarity, temperature, and current overloading Cooling fan for temperature control
Pros:
The power converter is suitable for lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries Multi-stage charging help in maintaining the RV battery and increase its overall life The unit comes with a 2-year warranty
Cons:
In higher loading conditions, the fan makes noises
8. PROG DYNAMIC Inteli-Power 9100 RV Power Converter
Another Progressive Dynamics product has made it to the list. This below-mentioned model offers optimum power conversion and battery charging for the RVs. The unit is an upgraded version of its previously mentioned sibling. The Progressive Dynamics Inteli-Power 9100 Converter is one of the highest power output-delivering converters on this list. The unit converts an AC 105V to 130V power into a DC 13.6V power. With a conversion efficiency of 80%, the converse is capable of delivering a continuous power output of 1000 Watts. This helps in connecting heavy appliances to the converter. The maximum amperage rating of this model is 60A which allows a maximum amount of power supply to the connected devices in a given time. Safety features like reverse polarity and thermal protection keep the converter from electrical and thermal damage. The converter has a total charge management system (TCMS) to automatically charge the RV battery. Best features:
The input power of AC 105V-130V converts to DC 13.6V 4 charging modes with operational voltage from 13.2V to 14.4V The maximum output power of 1000 Watts The amperage rating of 60A 80% power conversion efficiency
Pros:
The total charge management system (TCMS) helps in maintaining the RV battery’s charging by sensing power levels Reverse polarity protection avoids electrical damage to the converter in case the power supply polarity reverse accidentally This model has a 2-year warranty
Cons:
The converter is large
9. PARALLAX PWR RV Power Converter
Parallax Power Supply is one of the pioneers of RV power solutions. Its products offer superior reliability along with higher quality. It develops products by keeping the consumer’s needs at the topmost priority. The Parallax PWR 4000 Series 4455 RV Power Converter works on a 105V to 130V AC power input. It is capable of converting this input voltage into an output voltage of DC 13.8V. The amperage rating of 55A offers a maximum power supply to the connected devices. The converter is thereby able to produce a continuous output power of 975 Watts. The cooling fan is controlled by the inner temperature of the converter and starts working as soon as the temperature rises. The converter offers different battery charging options that maintain the battery life while supplying power to the connected devices. Best features:
Input voltage support of AC 105V to 130V A maximum output voltage of DC 13.8V An amperage rating of 55A The converter produces a power output of 975 Watts Higher-efficiency fan to control the temperature
Pros:
Smart charging helps in maintaining the battery and extends its overall life The steel construction adds ruggedness to the converter body and makes it durable The converter comes with a 2-year warranty
Cons:
The unit is priced more expensive than other options on the list
Buying Guide For The Best RV Power Converter
The power converter is an important device for your RV’s electrical system. It promotes safer running of the connected devices by converting the electrical grid’s higher voltage into a lower voltage. We have already discussed various power converters from different brands along with their specification. These specifications play an important role when selecting a power converter. To clear any confusion regarding these specifications, we advise you to go through this buying guide.
1. Power Output
The appliances connected to the RV’s electrical circuit draw different amounts of power. The total power requirements of the appliances must be lower than the maximum output of the power converter. Installing a low-power output converter will cause overloading of the converter and even damage it. The converter with 15 to 20% extra power output than the gross power requirement is selected to ensure no overloading occurs. The converter must be able to deliver an efficient power output with a lossless energy conversion
2. Type Of Converter
An RV has heavy electrical appliances like AC, refrigerators, and light electrical appliances like smartphone chargers, lamps, etc. Hence different types of converters are developed by keeping these applications in mind. The multistage converters undergo multiple stages of power conversion to deliver lower voltage output for small devices. Similarly, a high-output converter is capable of delivering higher power output without overloading. They are suitable for heavy applications. Deck-mounted converters are used as a portable option and can be easily mounted wherever the user wants.
3. Input Voltage
As explained earlier, the power converter has to convert the electrical grid voltage to the RV’s battery voltage. Hence the input voltage supplied to a power converter must be within its acceptable limit. The power converters accept AC voltage or DC voltage in a single or three-phase configuration. The normal range of the electrical voltage supply is 120V to 240V. The level of input voltage varies as per the power converter model. A power converter will not work if the supplied voltage is lower voltages than the prescribed level.
4. Size
The size consideration is always the most neglected factor when it comes to selecting a power converter. The RV has very limited space to mount or store the converters. A very big converter will lead to space congestion and might not fit into the RV. Similarly, a small and compact power converter saves space and can be mounted anywhere. The size selection must be done without compromising the power output.
Conclusion
The Progressive Dynamics Inteli-Power 9100 Converter is the most powerful unit on the list. This converter runs on a 105V to 130V AC supply and converts it into 13.6V DC power. It offers 4 different modes which adjust to the voltage range of 13.2V to 14.4V. This helps in offering a constant power supply in different loading conditions. The amperage rating of 60A delivers maximum power to the connected devices in less time. Hence a resultant output power of 1000 Watts is achieved, which is suitable for heavy appliances.
The Vevor RV Power Converter is the most affordable option on the list. The affordable price tag does not come with any compromise over power delivery. Running on a 110V AC power supply, a maximum voltage output of DC 16V is achieved. To fulfill the power requirements of the connected devices, the converter produces a continuous output of 500 Watts. The amperage rating of 30A ensures the delivery of this power to the devices at faster rates. Using 3-stage charging the converter maintains the battery and extends its overall life.
The Multitasking PowerMax PM3-55 RV Power Converter is a blend of performance and affordability. This multi-stage charging unit charges the RV battery and supplies power to the connected devices at the same time. Running on a 110V AC power supply, it can deliver a maximum voltage of DC 16.5V for the appliances. The amperage rating of 55A ensures fast power transfer between devices and the converter. Certified with UL-UCl the converter also possesses safety features to keep the converter away from any electrical damage. A fan is installed for air circulation which leads to good temperature control.
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