Airstream Basecamp 2020, Owner'S Manual

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Maintenance
8-20
2020 Basecamp
FAQs and Answers
Electrical
1. What size of generator is needed to operate my
Airstream?
Answer: A 1000 watt generator may be used to charge
just the batteries. However, if wanting to run appliances
such as microwave or AC units, it is recommended to
have at least 4,000 watts or more* (This is for a 30-
Amp system).
* Many Airstreamer’s accomplish this using two
portable generators run in parallel.
2. I was told my Airstream is pre-wired for solar
panels. What does this mean?
Answer: Wiring has been installed throughout your unit
for the solar package Airstream is currently using. For
more information on solar packages, you may wish to
contact your Airstream dealer.
3. What size batteries are in my Airstream?
Answer: Basecamp models will have the Interstate
SRM-24 batteries standard. When solar panel
equipped an AGM GPL-24 battery is installed.
4. Do you recommend using a surge protector
when plugged into shore power?
Answer: Your Airstream is breaker protected. However,
with the use of more personal electronic devices and
the number of RV users in parks, added protection is
always a plus.
5. What is the battery disconnect switch function?
Answer: It is a switch that disengages or engages
the 12-volt power supply from the house batteries to
everything but the LPG detector. The switch is used to
cut power when the trailer is not being used or put into
storage to preserve battery charge.
6. What does the power converter do in my
trailer?
Answer: The converter takes 120-volt AC shore power
and turns it into 12-volt DC to keep batteries charged
and power 12-volt items in your trailer.
Plumbing
1. While parked at my site do you recommend
leaving my dump valves open?
Answer: You cannot leave your black water valve open.
This would cause a buildup inside the tank. You need
to keep this closed until you are full or ready to leave.
2. Do I need a water regulator?
Answer: No, your Airstream is equipped with a built in
regulator rated for 50 PSI.
3. How do I get fresh water into my trailer?
Answer: You can use the on board fresh water tank
and 12-volt pump for your water supply when boon
docking, or hook to an external water source via
garden hose to exterior water inlet when parked at a
campground.
4. What is the difference between a gray water
tank and the black tank?
Answer: The gray water tank holds water from shower
and sink drains. The black water tank holds sewer
water from the toilet.
Appliances
1. I am planning for a trip in my Airstream. How
should I get the refrigerator cooled down?
Answer: Cooling time will vary with exterior
temperatures and time of day. Start by pre-cooling
your refrigerator at least 12 hours prior to loading your
refrigerator. Always pre-cool food in your refrigerator
or freezer to reduce cooling time. Do not pack food too
tight in the refrigerator as to prevent circulation around
food items. Normal refrigerator operating temperatures
are 34ºF to 40ºF�
2. The heat pump in my trailer does not seem
to be providing any heat, yesterday it worked
great.
Answer: The heat pump is designed to knock the
chill out of your trailer. It functions when the outside
temperature is 45ºF or greater by removing heat from
the outside air. Below 45ºF it will not provide heat.
3. My air conditioner freezes up. What is the
problem?
Answer: In high humidity conditions, the AC
manufacturer recommends you operate the AC on the
high fan setting and all vents should be open to have
maximum air flow over the coils; this helps reduce
icing. Also, dirty air conditioner filters can restrict air
flow and cause the AC to ice up.