12V DC — Runs Directly Off the Battery
Lighting, water pump, furnace fan/control board, most vent fans, and slide/leveling systems typically run on 12V DC directly from the house battery — no inverter required, and generally lower draw.
Owner guide
12V vs. 120V RV Appliances Explained
Every RV runs both systems side by side. Knowing which is which changes what you can actually run off-grid.
Active corridor: Montana · Wyoming · Idaho · Washington — case-by-case beyond.
Field notes
Every RV runs both systems side by side. Knowing which is which changes what you can actually run off-grid. Lighting, water pump, furnace fan/control board, most vent fans, and slide/leveling systems typically run on 12V DC directly from the house battery — no inverter required, and generally lower draw. This is why these keep working even with the inverter off.
120V AC — Needs Shore Power, Generator, or an Inverter
Microwave, residential-style fridge, AC unit, and standard household outlets are 120V AC — off-grid, that means running through an inverter, which draws from the battery bank far faster per watt-hour than an equivalen.
Why It Matters When Buying or Upgrading
A 12V compressor fridge draws far less off-grid than a residential 120V fridge run through an inverter, even though the 120V fridge may have a larger interior.
Related
Off-Grid Power Budget PlanningInverter Sizing GuideElectrical & Power SystemsBack to Field Guide
Related: All guides · Book a Service · Pricing
Pricing teaser
Trip fee $75 within 30 miles, then $1.50/mi. Labor ~$150/hr (1-hour minimum, billed in 30-minute increments). Diagnostic $175 applied toward repair if you proceed.
Active corridor: Montana · Wyoming · Idaho · Washington — case-by-case beyond. Credentials (text): Victron Professional Certified Installer · weBoost Authorized Installer · Peplink Certified Associate · Dometic Professional Certified.