installing a 12vdc accessory outlet in rear b/r

[denamy1]

I have a 2019 Cougar 373FL. I want to install a 12vdc outlet in the rear bedroom because we dry camp a lot. Is there any 12vdc source in the rear that I can tap into? Not sure if the light switch has both pos & Neg feeds.

I really don't want to have to run the wires all the way to the front of the camper underneath.

[chuckster57]

Your light switch will have both. The grounds are all connected together and the positive wire is through the switch. Just use an ohm meter or test light to determine which side of the switch is live.

[JRTJH]

Originally Posted by denamy1

I have a 2019 Cougar 373FL. I want to install a 12vdc outlet in the rear bedroom because we dry camp a lot. Is there any 12vdc source in the rear that I can tap into? Not sure if the light switch has both pos & Neg feeds.

I really don't want to have to run the wires all the way to the front of the camper underneath.

What are you planning to use the outlet to power? If you're considering plugging in an inverter or a large TV, then the 16 ga light switch wiring probably won't be large enough to carry the load.

Typically, with the battery in the front of the RV and a plug in the rear of the RV, there's 15-30 feet of wire between the source and the outlet. That distance, when using DC voltage requires a significantly larger wiring gauge than a similar AC system would require. That's one of the reasons we use AC voltage distribution systems in the US rather than a DC distribution system.

If you're looking to power a TV in the bedroom, it may be easier and cheaper to install the inverter near the battery and run a dedicated 120 VAC outlet to the location where you need power. If, however, all you're looking to power is a USB charging station, then tapping into the light switch wiring should be fine.

[denamy1]

I am only looking to power a small fan that does not draw that much. I am not looking to install another inverter. I'll take the light switch out and check it.

[JRTJH]

If you're going to only use "low draw items" then as long as you stay under the circuit fuse rating you should be OK tapping into the light switch circuit. On "large draw items" that usually won't work and you'll risk melting the insulation on the supply line or sometimes even worse.

If it's a 3 or 4 amp fan, you should be fine with your plan.

[denamy1]

I just checked. The fan draw on high is only 3 amps.