How Long Does It Take to Install Campervan Electrics?
One of the most common questions when planning a campervan electrical system is how long the electrical installation actually takes. The answer depends heavily on complexity, experience, and whether you're doing it yourself or hiring a professional.
Plan your system first
Use our free calculator to design your complete electrical system before you start. Proper planning saves days of installation time.
Realistic Installation Timelines
Basic System (Weekend Project)
A simple system with a leisure battery, split charge relay, 12V sockets, and LED lighting can be completed in a weekend (2-3 days) by a competent DIYer.
Components: 1 × AGM battery, VSR relay, 12V fuse box, LED lights, USB sockets.
Mid-Range System (1-2 Weeks)
Most typical van conversions fall here. LiFePO4 battery, DC-DC charger, solar panels, inverter, and multiple 12V circuits.
Components: LiFePO4 battery, DC-DC charger, 200W solar, MPPT controller, inverter, consumer unit, multiple circuits.
Full Off-Grid System (2-4 Weeks)
A comprehensive system with large battery bank, extensive solar, shore power, multiple charging sources, and 230V distribution.
Typical breakdown:
- Planning and purchasing: 3-5 days
- Cable routing and conduit: 2-3 days
- Solar panel mounting and wiring: 1-2 days
- Battery and charging installation: 2-3 days
- 12V distribution and circuits: 2-3 days
- 230V installation (if applicable): 1-2 days
- Testing and commissioning: 1 day
What Takes the Longest?
Surprisingly, it's not the wiring itself. The most time-consuming tasks are:
- Planning and cable routing — working out where everything goes and running cables through walls, floors, and ceilings
- Making things look neat — hiding cables, labelling, and making the installation look professional
- Waiting for deliveries — ordering the right parts and dealing with wrong/missing items
Pro tip
Buy all your components before starting. Having to pause mid-installation to wait for a delivery is the biggest time killer. Use our calculator to generate a complete shopping list first.
DIY vs Professional Installation
If you hire a professional campervan electrician, expect:
- Basic system: 1-2 days, £500-£1,000 labour
- Mid-range: 3-5 days, £1,500-£3,000 labour
- Full system: 5-10 days, £3,000-£6,000 labour
See our guide on when you need an electrician for help deciding.
Tools You'll Need
Having the right campervan electrical tools ready before you start will save significant time. At minimum, you need a crimping tool, wire strippers, multimeter, and a good set of screwdrivers.
FAQ
Can I install campervan electrics myself?
Yes, most 12V work is safe for competent DIYers. However, 230V work (shore power, consumer unit, mains sockets) should ideally be done or inspected by a qualified electrician. See our guide on when you need a professional.
How long does a professional campervan electrical install take?
A professional can typically complete a mid-range system in 3-5 days. They work faster than DIYers due to experience and having all the right tools.
What's the hardest part of campervan electrical installation?
Cable routing and planning. Getting cables from the engine bay to the back of the van neatly and safely is often the most challenging and time-consuming part.