How to Run 12V Devices on a 24V System | Victron Orion DC-DC Converter Explained

Stepping Down 24V to 12V the Right Way

When upgrading your RV to a 24-volt lithium battery system, one of the most common questions we get at Big Beard Battery is:

“If I switch to 24 volts, how do I still power my 12V lights, fans, and accessories?”

It’s a great question—and one that comes up often as more RV owners make the jump to higher-voltage systems for efficiency, faster charging, and cleaner power management. The good news is: you can have both. With the right DC-DC converter setup, you can enjoy the power and performance of a 24V system while still running every 12V component in your RV safely and reliably.

Why Switch to a 24V System?

Before we get into the technical side, let’s talk about why many RV owners upgrade to 24 volts.

A 24V lithium system offers several major benefits over traditional 12V setups:

• Higher efficiency: You move more power with less current, meaning smaller cables and less voltage drop.

• Faster charging: 24V systems can charge at higher wattage with lower amp draw.

• Better performance for large builds: Perfect for rigs with multiple A/C units, induction cooktops, or high-demand solar systems.

However, since most RVs are designed around 12V appliances and accessories, you’ll still need a way to step your 24V power down to 12V.

The Solution: Victron Orion DC-DC Converter

Enter the Victron Orion 24-to-12V DC-DC converter—the perfect bridge between high-performance lithium systems and standard RV electrical needs.

This small but powerful converter takes in 24V DC and outputs a steady 12V DC, providing up to 70 amps of current. That’s plenty for your lighting, fans, control boards, and other low-voltage systems.

Key features include:

• 24V input, 12V output

• 70A continuous output current

• Fully isolated, smart-controlled operation

• Compact, durable design perfect for mobile environments

For most RVs, a single Orion unit can handle your entire 12V load. But in larger rigs, there are a few things to consider.

When One Converter Isn’t Enough

Todd from Big Beard Battery explains it best:

“It’s not so much about the lights and fans—70 amps can totally handle that. The real question is, how big are your slides, and are you trying to start your generator?”

If your RV includes large slides, hydraulic leveling, or an onboard generator, those systems can create large current spikes that exceed what a single converter can handle. In that case, you’ll want to run two Orion converters in parallel to share the load and maintain stability.

And if you’re using a generator to start from battery power, it’s often better to leave one dedicated 12V starter battery in place. That way, you’re not stressing the converter during high-amp startup loads.

Real-World Applications for Fifth Wheels and Motorhomes

For large fifth wheels or luxury motorhomes, Big Beard Battery’s standard approach for full 24V conversions includes dual Orion converters running in parallel. This configuration ensures reliable performance for all onboard systems—even those that draw heavy spikes when operating hydraulic pumps or power slides.

It’s a clean, efficient, and professional solution that keeps your rig’s electrical system balanced while maximizing the benefits of lithium power.

Why Professional Design Matters

While DIY solar installs can be tempting, voltage conversions require precision. Sizing the converters, cables, and breakers correctly is essential for system safety and performance.

At Big Beard Battery, our certified solar and lithium experts design every system with your RV’s unique load profile in mind—ensuring that every fan, fridge, and furnace gets the right amount of power every time.

Ready to Design Your System?

If you’re ready to upgrade to a 24V lithium battery system or need help integrating your 12V loads safely, our team is here to help.