Solar panel question

[cbyrd]

I am new to pop up camping. I just purchased a 2022 forest river rockwood 1910 sport pop up camper. I have the solar package and I can't for the life of me figure out how to switch to running the lights off of battery power. I spent about an hour trying to figure it out. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[bikendan]

Moved thread from the Tech and Repair section to the Tent Camper and Popup section since the OP is new to popups.

[SeaDog]

welcome to the forum its a great place to get your questions answered. Are you saying that when it gets dark your lights don't work? If so I think the first thing I would do is test the battery and ensure it is at full charge. JMHO

[Aussieguy]

the lights always run off 12v (Battery) there is no switch to use 120v /12v

The shore power 120v DC is typically used for :
Microwave,
Air conditioner,
Water heater (in electric mode)
Converter or a Inverter/charger... changes 120v AC to 12-14v DC for charging batteries
120v Power outlets ...

your fridge depends on what is installed can run off
Electric 12v DC only
it could be the type that can be switched to use Propane or Electric .

[TacomaJoe]

Running lights as well as turn signals and brakes are powered by the tow vehicle.

[Mr. Dan]

Originally Posted by TacomaJoe

Running lights as well as turn signals and brakes are powered by the tow vehicle.

I don’t believe he’s talking about the trailer’s running lights — but running the interior lights.

[Chuck_S]

You're probably (1) not on shore power, (2) the battery is switched Off, or (3) you have blown fuses typically caused by connecting the trailer battery backwards -- much too common mistake with dozens of threads . Solar power doesn't power anything and is there to charge the battery. And, of course, it doesn't do a thing once it gets dark.

As noted the interior lights are 12vDC. If connected to shore power they will run off the 12vDC from the converter, if not they'll simply run off the 12vDC battery assuming the battery is switched On (and the battery is connected properly).

-- Chuck

[Aussieguy]

PS... just re-read the OP original question
the solar is usually always connected to you battery ... keeps it topped up (hopefully)
Some people have an on/off switch to stop the solar panels charging so you can service the 12v system without having to physically unplug the solar panels.

Normal use is to leave the panels connected so they can always charge the battery ... when there is sufficient sunlight.

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The interior lights and other 12v stuff run off the battery .
There is usually a battery disconnect switch somewhere
so you can disconnect the battery from the 12v Fuse panel INSIDE..

look outside .. near the battery
or Inside near the fuse panel for a switch labeled.... Battery Disconnect

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if you are plugged into shore power 120v

the converter OR inverter/charger will supply 12v EVEN if the battery is disconnected.