12 v plug locations

dave1 · 05-06-2013, 03:25 PM

I have a 19 on order for an aug completion and would like suggestions for the 12v plugs. So far I have one in the top shelf area over the front dinette. Open to suggestions for other locations. Was thinking of one next to the 110 plug in the dinette also

Thanks

Dave

Jubal · 05-07-2013, 10:25 AM

Our build:
12v outlets (3)
One on the left side of the galley cabinet (door side).
One on the outside of the left front upper storage cabinet for use in the shelf above the dinette window.
One by the bed out of the right side galley cabinet.

Jim Bennett · 05-07-2013, 10:48 AM

We have one just to the left of the upper kitchen cabinets. This is hidden behind the gable. We have a shelf there to hold whatever is charging out of sight, and can be used for a 12V if we ever use on.

The other is on the driver side front of the dinette seat to be used for a laptop or whatever else might be on the table.

We have not felt we were lacking at all, though probably would have done a third one if we did it again, as we have two phones and a tablet to keep charged.

Dave Walter · 05-07-2013, 10:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim Bennett

...We have not felt we were lacking at all, though probably would have done a third one if we did it again, as we have two phones and a tablet to keep charged.

If you do decide that you need additional 12V outlets, they are very easy to retrofit later on in your trailer.

With GPS, cell phone, brake controller, IPods/IPads, DVD player, etc, there is quite a demand in our vehicle for electrical outlets. I just recently installed two additional 12V outlets in my truck, which was probably a little more difficult than it would be in the trailer. I purchased the electrical outlets on-line from a Chinese website (SiteMap - Worldwide Free Shipping - DX). The quality was comparable to components I could buy here, cost was less and they provided free delivery. Was also reasonably fast service. I would use them again.

cpaharley2008 · 05-07-2013, 07:42 PM

You may also want a 12v where your tv will be and give thought to your 120v outlet locations.

NorTexCamper · 05-07-2013, 10:59 PM

We also have a 19' on order and since one (1) 12v was included, we asked that it be installed on the bottom side of the overhead storage above the bed, close to the wall between the bed and kitchen area. We plan to install a holder of some kind for phones and iPad there and use a dual USB plug. Since most of our charging needs require USB ports I didn't think additional 12v outlets were needed (will use the 110 outlets if we really need more connections). I've seen some nice outlet covers that contain built in USB ports, which eliminates the need for the plug adapter.

gbaglo · 05-07-2013, 11:22 PM

My Sirius satellite radio, my TV, my iPod dock are all running on 12V so I have a 12V outlet at the front and one at the back. I use 12V extension cords and 12V power outlet splitters to put power where I need it ( like outside ).
Wish I just had more outlets.
But, we normally camp without full service, or any.

Dave Walter · 05-08-2013, 08:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NorTexCamper

...Since most of our charging needs require USB ports I didn't think additional 12v outlets were needed (will use the 110 outlets if we really need more connections). I've seen some nice outlet covers that contain built in USB ports, which eliminates the need for the plug adapter.

If you are boondocking without AC service, you can still use your DC outlets to charge your devices. Just need something like this:

They are quite easy to find at various locations and are quite cheap. I bought a bunch for use in my truck and my trailer and they are very useful.

Vermilye · 05-08-2013, 08:51 AM

I had 3 installed in my 17B, one for the added cell phone amplifier & 2 general purpose. The general purpose outlets are in the front & back dinette seats near the floor. Since I use them quite a bit I found it more convenient to move them to the top of the cabinets (I didn't move them, just added 2).

cpaharley2008 · 05-08-2013, 09:26 AM

Three in mine, front/middle and rear so that I can operate off 12v while not hooked up.

GaryH · 05-08-2013, 12:13 PM

I've also put one in the front & one in the rear cabinets. One thing to keep in mind would be how to manage the associated wires that seem to tangle with everything. I like that USB charging unit!

santacruzer · 05-08-2013, 04:52 PM

I'm wishing I had put in a couple more 12v outlets, if for no other reason than to have easy access to the wiring. Escape hides the wiring VERY well, and it's usually pretty taut, making pulling a new set of wires no easy task! A few J boxes in strategic locations would be helpful.

Dave Walter · 05-08-2013, 05:49 PM

We have a total of four 12V outlets in our 19', two in front and two in rear. One of the rear outlets is dedicated for the television, so there are three outlets available for charging phones and other devices. Given that there will often be four of us traveling together for the forseeable future, there is likely going to be some fighting involved in deciding who gets which one. I have been practicing my arm wrestling for weeks now in anticipation of having to compete with my 11 yr old daughter for an outlet.

cpaharley2008 · 05-08-2013, 06:12 PM

There is always one of these to spread the wealth...Amazon.com: Powerline By Original Power 0900-79 12-Volt DC Dual Socket Splitter with USB Charging Port: Patio, Lawn & Garden

dave1 · 05-09-2013, 08:47 AM

Thanks everyone for your replys. This is such a great forum. Will be fun once I have the trailer and can comment on what I wish I had done! Really a challenge trying to put yourself in the trailer and figuring out what you will need.

Dave

gbaglo · 05-09-2013, 03:45 PM

It's handy to have a 12V extension cord or two so you can run it out a window to an air compressor to top up the tires. A lot less hassle than trying to position the tow vehicle and its 12V outlet.

Dave Walter · 05-09-2013, 04:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gbaglo

It's handy to have a 12V extension cord or two so you can run it out a window to an air compressor to top up the tires. A lot less hassle than trying to position the tow vehicle and its 12V outlet.

I am not sure that a 12V extension cord would be a lot of help to me with my compressor.

cpaharley2008 · 05-09-2013, 05:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gbaglo

It's handy to have a 12V extension cord or two so you can run it out a window to an air compressor to top up the tires. A lot less hassle than trying to position the tow vehicle and its 12V outlet.

I would check the amp draw on the compressor, most of them should be attached directly to your battery. I installed a 12v on my tongue box and used heavy wire. You may blow a fuse if you plug it inside.

gbaglo · 05-09-2013, 05:31 PM

Hasn't been a problem...so far.
Have to add that I was hooked up to AC.

cpaharley2008 · 05-09-2013, 05:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gbaglo

Hasn't been a problem...so far.
Have to add that I was hooked up to AC.

Hooked up should not make any difference as long as your battery is fully charged. Your set up maybe different than mine.

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