Using a CPAP machine while dry camping

  • 12/14/2019 10:34 AM
    Message # 8276615
    Anonymous

    We have a 2011 Southwind 32v and from time to time we dry camp. Other than running the generator all night what do people do that use a CPAP machine. I am looking into installing an inverter in the bedroom as I can't find a plug back there that works off the factory inverter.

    Any help ?????? Dennis

  • 12/14/2019 12:24 PM
    Reply # 8277340 on 8276615
    Bill & Laura Johnson (Administrator)

    I would ask the folks in Decatur for your wiring schematic. If you are electrically inclined, swapping one of the circuits from the bedroom to the existing inverter shouldn't be too major an issue. If not inclined, any electrician worth their title should be able to handle it for you. I know our 08 Discovery had one side of the bed on inverter and the other was not. The TV was also on inverter.

  • 12/15/2019 2:26 PM
    Reply # 8287516 on 8276615

    Hard to believe there is not a plug connected to the inverter.  I would take Bill's advise and have it rerouted to bedroom.  I know ours is on all the plugs and I use a CPAP everynight and no problem running all night.  Thanks for inquiring.

  • 12/15/2019 3:48 PM
    Reply # 8288043 on 8276615
    Deleted user

    I just run an extension cord from the inverter to the CPAP machine.

  • 01/29/2020 7:32 AM
    Reply # 8699942 on 8276615
    Anonymous

    A solution that we've used on boats and older RVs that didn't even have an inverter, was to tap into any 12v reading light at the head of your bed, and install a 12v outlet, like the old cigarette lighter style.  Then just plug a basic inverter into it.  If you look at your CPAP it should tell you how many watts it uses, so just be sure to get an inverter that can handle that wattage.  Most units will use between 30-60 watts and since most plug-in interters are at least 100 watts, then you're in good shape.

    Ironically, once you plug in your CPAP into a 120 volt outlet, it usually goes to a transformer that converts it to 12 volts before going to your CPAP.  That means if you wanted to bypass all that stuff, then you could simply wire it directly to a 12 volt plug and then plug that into your cigarette lighter outlet.

  • 02/06/2020 6:24 AM
    Reply # 8730105 on 8276615
    Anonymous

    Thanks for all the replys, We cured the issue by buying a portable CPAP machine and then recharge it during the day running the generator.



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