How does power flow in my trailer? 

Please take a moment to watch the video below for step-by-step guidance, or follow the step-by-step written directions.

If you need additional help, our After Sales team at Escape Trailer will be happy to assist you. You can submit a support ticket using this form. 

1. Sunlight hits the solar panels

• Solar panels capture sunlight.

• They convert sunlight into DC (direct current) electricity.

• The voltage they produce changes depending on conditions:

  • Bright sun: about 18–20 volts

  • Cloudy conditions: about 12–15 volts

2. Power goes to the MPPT charge controller

• Electricity from the solar panels flows into the MPPT charge controller.

• The controller:

  • Finds the most efficient way to use the solar power

  • Adjusts (“converts”) the voltage to safely charge your batteries

  • Example: 18V from panels → reduced to ~14V for batteries

3. Power is stored in the batteries

• The batteries store the converted electricity.

• They act like a reservoir of energy for later use.

• A shunt tracks:

  • How much power goes in

  • How much power comes out

  • Overall battery charge level (state of charge)

4. Power is sent to the inverter (when AC power is needed)

• When you need household-style power (AC):

  • The inverter pulls 12V DC from the batteries

  • It converts it into 120V AC power

• This is what runs normal outlets and appliances

• Note:

  • The process is about 85–95% efficient

  • Some energy is lost as heat

5. Power is distributed throughout the trailer

• DC power (direct from batteries)

  • Runs:

    • Lights

    • Water pump

    • Fans

  • Uses lower voltage directly without conversion

• AC power (from inverter or shore power)

  • Runs:

    • Wall outlets

    • Household appliances

  • Goes through:

    • Breaker panel

    • Fuse box

• These protect and manage the electrical system

6. Full power flow summary

Sun → Solar Panels → MPPT Controller → Batteries → Inverter → Trailer systems (AC/DC distribution)