What sort of power sources do motorhomes use?
Motorhomes are powered by V8, V10, or diesel engines. The water heater, furnace, range top, refrigerator, and oven are powered by propane gas also known as LPG. Refrigerators, water heaters and furnaces can be dual powered with electricity when the generator or shore power is activated. These units usually have switches and are ‘smart’ and choose the best alternative available to them automatically. The dash air conditioner and heater is powered by the engine while driving; and the overhead air conditioners, microwave, and other items are powered either by the outside 110-volt shore hookup, an inverter, or by the generator. Coaches with inverters can generally run all 110-volt electronics off the batteries for a time even with the engine off. There is no sense adding to your fuel expense using a generator if the inverter will do. Generally motor homes with inverters will only need the generator while driving for overhead roof air conditioners. All other 110-volt items should be usable.
Today’s motorhomes can make use of many different power sources. This is so that you can enjoy modern conveniences under all circumstances. Your rental representative will demonstrate all of this to you. These systems are designed to be easy to use and to provide you with power when you need it. Motorized RVs are powered by large V8, V10, or diesel engines. RVs also make use of AC power from a generator, inverter, or from an outlet. They make use of DC electricity from a dedicated “house” battery, from the alternator, or from a converter that produces DC power. A motorhome also uses propane or LPG for the water heater, stove, and refrigerator. Your rental company will show you how all of this works.
