12v versus 110 ?

[D&D]

My wife and I have just purchased our first AS, (1971 ambass) learning as we go along. We have stripped the interior down to the bare frame and now we're trying to decide if we should go all 110 or buy new panel and stay with 12v. The fridge is 110 only and we also need to replace the furnace from the way it looks. Were thinking elec heat only, (eden pure?) and using elect tank heaters on black and fresh tanks. Thus making the only thing that would run on 12v would be the lights and the water pump. All thoughts and suggestions will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance!!! Dale & Denise

[moosetags]

First off, welcome to the Forums. We're glad to have you with us.

If you plan to actually travel and camp in your Airstream, it is probably not a good idea to go total 110 AC. The systems in a travel trailer are designed to use a combination of AC and DC power. Going total AC would put you in a position of needing shore power or a generator to do about anything. You would also be redesigning the wheel trying to make all systems operate on AC.

You mention keeping the water pimp on DC. This alone would require that you keep the converter unit and batteries on board. Also remember that an electric tongue jack works only on DC.

Brian

[Gene]

I generally agree with Brian. But you could get rid of the batteries and converter and use 120v to 12v transformers for the 12v things. You'll still need a distribution panel for the transformers and 12v wiring. However, when you want to sell your trailer you will find it hard to do. I am guessing, but think propane heat will cost less than electric. You will have to find replacement parts eventually for a lot of things and may have trouble finding 120 v. versions. The monitor panel also is 12v. If you have a propane detector, that's also 12v.

If you are going to travel with this, a 120v/propane refrigerator will work better to keep food cold or frozen. Otherwise running the refrigerator will be like having one at home with the power off 1/3 of the day. If I had a 120v only frig, I would bring along a bunch of gel packs that I could freeze in the freezer (that frig has a freezer, doesn't it?) and use to keep things cold while unplugged.

Originally Posted by moosetags

You mention keeping the water pimp on DC.

Brian

And thanks for the unplanned laugh, Brian.

Gene

[wahoonc]

Keep the 12 volt system. I have had to haul mine out ahead of a bad snowstorm, it was great to be able to pull over and run things on 12 volt to get warmed up and take a quick nap. More than once the power has gone out at the house, usually happens in the dead of winter (go figure) no problem, just move into the AS for a bit, have a warm place to curl up out of the weather.

Aaron

[GR8DANE]

In my 66 Safari, I believe the job of the water pimp is to keep the water hose in line. I could be wrong...

[Kevin245]

Originally Posted by GR8DANE

In my 66 Safari, I believe the job of the water pimp is to keep the water hose in line. I could be wrong...

Exactly what kind of "Ho"se do you use with a water pimp?

[D&D]

Thanks for the advice everyone, we do appreciate it, think we'll keep the 12v system!
Dale & Denise

[bibbs]

While you are at it, get rid of that 110v noise maker,I love how quiet my rv frige is and
it works any time any place. Next house I build I am going to use 2 of them side by side.
And I will have propane,for back up,when the power goes out.

Bibbs