Running a 12v line

[charlesk]

We have a 2016 30’ International. I need to run a 12v line from the fuse box to under the kitchen sink (other side of coach).

1. What gauge and type of insulation should be used?

2. I’m assuming the easiest route is through the ceiling ?

Thanks.

Chuck

[markdoane]

Will depend mostly on the size fuse and the length of the wire.

[Acheron2010]

https://www.wirebarn.com/Wire-Calculator-_ep_41.html

[woodfox45]

Good luck getting it through the ceiling .

[carl2591]

first what you are need power for??

depending on what it is there is already a bunch of 12v power in that area. If for example you have a light switch and the light is LED and you want to hook up another light that is LED you can tap off the power side and use that.

most of the wire they run is like a 12 ga which can take a good number of watts.

[gklott]

Originally Posted by charlesk

We have a 2016 30’ International. I need to run a 12v line from the fuse box to under the kitchen sink (other side of coach).

In many Airstreams, there is a metal channel under the floor, street side to curb side, in the center, just forward of the wheel wells, through which wires run. It comes out in our Classic inside the kitchen cabinet and under the dinette bench.

On the wire sizing, you should follow:
- ANSI/RVIA Standard for Low Voltage Systems in Conversion and Recreational Vehicles, which tells you to size wiring based on NEC Table 310-13, or
- ABYC E-11, Table VI.

I most strongly recommend that you only use UL 1426 certified marine cable, which meets the 105C temperature requirement specified by Airstream for DC wiring. Most AC electrical supply wiring (like THHN) is only rated to 90C - so you need to use MTW/TEW wire if not the UL 1426 marine wiring. I use Ancor or similar marine primary wire or duplex cable, which is available via Amazon and many other vendors.

Is this to be a new circuit in addition to the existing Airstream circuits? If so, don't forget the new circuit breaker.

73/gus

[gklott]

This image shows you the street side of the side-to-side wiring raceway in our trailer. This is the end under the dinette bench seat.



73/gus

[fwjumper]

Don't know what your purpose for the 12v is, but most uses that come to mind could probably be coupled with an existing circuit. i.e., changing an existing light fixture to an LED and tying a low amp use to that circuit. Would still be protected by existing system. All depends on how many amps you need. Running it in the ceiling would be tough, unless you run it along window line, drapes, cornice, cabinets, etc. Using existing circuit would be much better, if it's safe.