Tiffin Motorhomes 2011 Phaeton, Owner'S Manual

Page: 70 / 173

E L E C T R I C A L F E A T U R E S
7-2
General Information
There are two electrical systems in your Phaeton motor home—these are the 12-volt DC (VDC) system and
the 120-volt AC (VAC) system. Most standard appliances require the 120-VAC system, while the majority of
the lighting systems used in the Phaeton use the 12-VDC electrical system. The electrical power for the 12
VDC system is supplied by the batteries of the Phaeton; those batteries are, in turn, charged by a power
converter.
The electrical power for the 120 VAC is supplied by the power cord when the Phaeton is connected to an
external power source or when the on-board electrical generator is in operation. If installed, the optional
inverter can also supply 120 VAC electrical power (to limited outlets and limited appliances)—the inverter
transforms the 12 VDC electrical power from the batteries into the 120 VAC electrical power for the basic
appliances.
Caution
Failure to turn off the 120 VAC appliances when starting or stopping the generator may
damage the transfer switch and/or electrical appliances.
To connect the Phaeton to an external source of 120 VAC electrical power, it is first recommended that all of
the circuit breakers are in the “off” position—this is done to prevent any power surge upon connecting the
motor home to the external power source. Then unwind the power cord from the electrical compartment
located in the compartment behind the driver’s-side rear tires. The standard, flexible, power cord supplied with
the Phaeton is designed to handle up to 50 amperes. Make sure that the pins in the male end of the plug are
oriented correctly so that they match the power cable, and that they are in good condition (i.e., aren’t bent or
damaged).
If there is a circuit breaker switch at the “plug” end of the power cord, that breaker should be turned “off”
before making the connection. Insert the plug into the mating outlet and then turn the circuit breaker “on.”
Close and lock the electrical compartment door to protect the contents and to keep them clean and dry. Close
the cover on the power box, if so equipped, to avoid an unintentional disconnection and to keep the contents
clean and dry. Then switch the main breaker to the “on” position. When properly connected, the 120 VAC
system provides power to all the 120 VAC circuits and outlets when the main breaker is turned “on.”
Circuit-Breaker Boxes
For the Phaeton, the 120 VAC and 12 VDC breaker boxes (Figure 7-1) are typically located beneath the
refrigerator or in the bedroom. The circuit breakers and associated fuses are installed to protect the electrical
system of the Phaeton from any overloads. Do not attempt to change the electrical circuitry or to add
appliances yourself. Please consult an authorized Tiffin Motorhomes Dealership or Tiffin Motorhomes,
Incorporated in Red Bay, AL to determine whether any changes you desire are appropriate and acceptable.