Led light burned out on new camper?!

[raforan]

The over head light in our bunk house burned out? I am assuming anyway. In the one picture you can see a light on the strip lit but that is a flicker when I turn the switch on. Only about 3 tiles flicker then it's out. I was hoping you could change out the led strip but it doesn't appear so.
Has anyone experienced this? Or a solution to the problem. Or do I have to replace the whole light? Thank you

[pgandw]

In many cases of LEDs not working (they don't burn out like incandescent bulbs), the supporting electronics fails. The failure of the electronics causes too much or too little current and voltage to the LEDs. In the case of too much, the magic smoke escapes from the LEDs. In the case of too little, they sit there looking stupid, and don't turn on.

These types of LED failures are more likely in RVs, boats, and car applications than you would expect in a house due to the variable voltage supply (anywhere from 10 - 14.5V with higher spikes when a motor or pump shuts off), vibration, and poorly (and cheaply) designed and built support electronics. LEDs require voltages and currents within specified ranges to work at all.

In most cases, you should (or have to) replace the whole assembly, including the support electronics. In my Rockwood A-frame, both the roof lights (similar overhead fixture) are hard-wired in. I had to replace the fixture in total (approx $30) to get matching lights when one failed.

If you keep the fixture, make sure the replacement LEDs and electronics are rated for 10-20 volts or similar, and not just a fixed 12V (computers are highly regulated 12V uses of LEDs).

LEDs that fit in a bulb socket have the support electronics built-in to the LED "bulb".

just my experiences
Fred W
2014 Rockwood A122 A-frame

[raforan]

Thank you for the knowledgeable answer. i will have the dealer replace it, which should date 8-10 weeks. thanks again

Rob

[DutchRv]

Rob,

You could replace the whole assembly yourself. Just unscrew those the 4 white phillips head screws.

Cut both wires (this is 12V, both on battery or shorepower). White is negative and the black (or green or red) is positive, and reconnect the new assembly such as these: New 2 PC Sunlink 12V Low Profile LED Ceiling Light 3W RV camper LaSalle Bristol | eBay with your choice of wire connectors.

[head gamez]

I noticed that one in our second bathroom was very dim within a few weeks of ownership. I never noticed if it was brighter before that though. I ordered a couple of replacement assemblies and replaced the one that was dim (only one "bulb" lit). In my case, the one that went bad was wired with the incorrect polarity. I always thought they wouldn't work at all of wired backwards, but in my case it did.

OP. Don't take it to the dealer. Order the assembly through a RV dealership and replace yourself. Takes only a few minutes... Not 8-10 weeks.


2016 Sandpiper 376BHOK
2500HD Chevrolet

Sent from my iPhone using Forest River Forums

[DutchRv]

Just read it is a new camper.

Contact your Forest River warranty person and tell them to ship you the part!!! (a whole new assembly) Don't wait so long for the dealer and have the inconvenience to drive it there and possibly leave it there!

[raforan]

thank you i have emailed the rep and as suggested i am seeking a replacement light unit

Rob