If your RV lights not working on shore power, restart the circuit breaker. Oftentimes, when you turn it back on after 5 – 10 seconds, it will work again. However, there might be a breaker, a fuse, or a faulty light problem.
Don’t worry, though – it’s an issue that you can easily troubleshoot. Here are some things you could do if you run into your RV plugged in but no lights working.
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Basics of Shore Power Connection
But before tackling how you can troubleshoot your RV lights, you have first to understand the basics of shore power connection – or if you set it up correctly.
Shore power is like plugging your RV into an electrical outlet, just like you do with your gadgets at home. It’s what gives your RV all the electricity it needs to power things up, from your RV’s interior lights to your appliances.
To switch RV to shore power, connect it to an electrical source using a power cord. This power cord carries electricity from the campground’s hookup to your RV’s electrical system.
Your RV lights are supposed to be powered by the 12-volt system, which is powered by your RV battery. The 120-volt AC system, on the other hand, powers the bigger appliances in your RV, such as your fridge and TV.
Once you are connected to the right one, your RV should be ready to light up like a starry night.
But what are you supposed to do if your RV lights won’t turn on – especially when your manual says that the lights should work on an RV 12 volt system?
If it’s not working when plugged in, there may be some culprits that could cause such.
Common Causes of RV Lights Not Working on Shore Power
The following are the most known causes of why your RV interior lights aren’t working on shore power.
1. Tripped Circuit Breakers
Just like your home, your RV has circuit breakers to prevent electrical overload. If too much power is being used at once, these breakers can trip, cutting off the power to certain parts of your RV, including the lights.
2. Blown Fuses
Fuses act as safety guards for your electrical system. If there’s a sudden surge of electricity, the fuse can blow to protect your RV’s wiring. This might cause your lights to go out as the wires may melt or burn from the great amount of voltage.
3. Faulty Light Fixtures
Sometimes, the problem is right in front of you. Check your RV light fixtures to make sure they’re securely screwed tight and not burnt out.
Troubleshooting Tips for RV Lights on Shore Power
Now that you know what might be causing the issue, let’s roll up our sleeves and do some RV electrical troubleshooting.
1. Check the Circuit Breakers
Locate your RV’s circuit breaker panel if you have a newer RV model. It’s usually in a cabinet or hidden spot. If you see any breakers in the “off” position, flip them back on. This could restore power to your lights.
2. Inspect the Fuses
If you own an older RV, find your RV’s fuse panel – it’s often near the circuit breaker panel. If you spot a fuse that’s burnt out, replace it with one of the same amperage ratings. Do not use a fuse that has a higher rating. Always keep spare fuses handy.
3. Inspect the Light Fixtures and Power Cord
If you suspect it’s a fixture problem, gently twist and remove the light bulbs from the fixtures that aren’t working. Check the bulbs to see if they’re burned out or damaged. If they are, replace them with new bulbs.
It may also be an issue with the power cord itself. Make sure it’s plugged in securely at both ends and isn’t damaged.
4. Ask for Help
If you’ve tried everything and your lights still won’t cooperate but has power, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Reach out to fellow RVers, campground staff, or an RV technician. Sometimes, a fresh pair of eyes can spot something you’ve missed.
Conclusion
In the world of RVing, having well-functioning interior lights is key to enjoying a cozy and comfortable space. While it can be frustrating when your RV lights aren’t working on shore power, remember that troubleshooting is part of the adventure.
We hope that such mishaps, such as your RV lights not working on shore power, will be something that you can handle in the blink of an eye. So, the next time your RV’s lights decide to take a break, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to fix the issue and continue your journey hassle-free. Happy RVing!
“Hi, I’m Francis’ husband—Calvin. Our story began with our shared passion for traveling. I have had a career journey for over 11 years at Ford Motor Company, where I took on the role of BMS SW Process Engineer.
Together with my wife, I have dedicated countless hours to exploring every nook and corner of the world. Ten years living in an RV may seem long, but time seems to fly by when I’m doing what I love with the person I love.
FMCA’s 103rd International Convention & RV Expo in Gillette, WY,
Like my wife, I hope to help you see the beauty of traveling off the beaten path by sharing insights into this lifestyle. In addition to my corporate roles, I also launched our website – Outdoorbits, in 2015 and continue to contribute my knowledge and skills to the present day. And I’ll be completely honest with you—no hiding the truth or sugarcoating the possible challenges.
So, if you want to run away from the busy lifestyle to embrace nature, I’m your guy.”