Phaeton Owner's Manual - Tiffin Motorhomes | Wherever You

ELECTRICAL FEATURESGeneral InformationThere are two electrical systems in your Phaeton motor home—these are the 12-volt DC (VDC) system andthe 120-volt AC (VAC) system. Most standard appliances require the 120-VAC system, while the majority ofthe lighting systems used in the Phaeton use the 12-VDC electrical system. The electrical power for the 12VDC system is supplied by the batteries of the Phaeton; those batteries are, in turn, charged by a powerconverter.The electrical power for the 120 VAC is supplied by the power cord when the Phaeton is connected to anexternal power source or when the on-board electrical generator is in operation. If installed, the optionalinverter can also supply 120 VAC electrical power (to limited outlets and limited appliances)—the invertertransforms the 12 VDC electrical power from the batteries into the 120 VAC electrical power for the basicappliances.CautionFailure to turn off the 120 VAC appliances when starting or stopping the generator maydamage 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 ofthe circuit breakers are in the “off” position—this is done to prevent any power surge upon connecting themotor home to the external power source. Then unwind the power cord from the electrical compartmentlocated in the compartment behind the driver’s-side rear tires. The standard, flexible, power cord supplied withthe Phaeton is designed to handle up to 50 amperes. Make sure that the pins in the male end of the plug areoriented correctly so that they match the power cable, and that they are in good condition (i.e., aren’t bent ordamaged).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. Closethe cover on the power box, if so equipped, to avoid an unintentional disconnection and to keep the contentsclean and dry. Then switch the main breaker to the “on” position. When properly connected, the 120 VACsystem provides power to all the 120 VAC circuits and outlets when the main breaker is turned “on.”Circuit-Breaker BoxesFor the Phaeton, the 120 VAC and 12 VDC breaker boxes (Figure 7-1) are typically located beneath therefrigerator or in the bedroom. The circuit breakers and associated fuses are installed to protect the electricalsystem of the Phaeton from any overloads. Do not attempt to change the electrical circuitry or to addappliances 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.7-2