Power Converter gone bad or not?

[rockytop]

I have a Apache popup (78 Ramada) with a Schauer Power Converter (DC output 12v-6amps) for lights/vent fan. There are no power appliances in the camper. There are two additional 110 volt outlets which are fed through the converter when I am plugged into a campsite electrical supply. Recently in checking out the camper, I was plugged into a portable generator that has an idle down feature when there is no demand for power. I noted that when the camper is plugged in, the generator does not idle down, (it does so when camper is unplugged however). I disconnected the DC line to the lights (plug-in) and no change. Next, I physically disconnected the 110v line supplying the camper 110 outlets (line coming from of the converter). I also had inspected outlets and visible wiring prior to this also and no battery backup at this time either. Now with power going into the converter and with the DC and AC outs disconnected, the generator still does not idle down! My conclusion is that the converter has a problem, or is it that the converter will use power w/o any demand. What do you think?

[Tim1972Mesa]

The transformer and rectifier portion of the converter will draw some power even if there are no 12V accessories turned on. I had my camper plugged in at my last site and wanted to turn off the converter, but wanted to leave the trailer plugged in for the 120v ac items plugged in. So, the next time I have the converter out, I am going to add a switch for the converter input.

[rockytop]

Thanks, I was unsure about the internal operation of a converter and my initial concern was that a short circuit existed somewhere in the trailer. Having looked and checked several times for an electrical problem, I concluded the possibility of the converter failing. I had not experienced any problems in the past, but I did have the camper sitting up for awhile. Again the only happening that alerted me to a potential problem was the idle down feature on my potable generator. After seeing your reply, I like the idea of switching the converter off when not needed, and may just set that up as an additional feature.

Again many thanks for your feedback,
Rockytop