Camper van & RV electrics

Start with the energy you need

Begin with a normal day in the van: fridge use, lighting, device charging, cooking and any work equipment. Record watts and hours separately so that a short high-power load does not get confused with a small appliance running all day. Add the energy in watt-hours, then decide how many days you want to stay parked without a dependable charging source. Keep a separate list of appliances that may run at the same time.

Next, choose a battery allowance and a realistic charging plan. Storage bridges a gap; it cannot correct a permanent energy deficit. Solar output changes with season, shade and location, while alternator charging depends on driving time and the vehicle’s permitted auxiliary load. Hook-up can support a different travel pattern, but the campsite supply still limits what can run together. Compare those sources against the same daily demand before selecting products.

Follow the guides below in this order: the complete system overview, battery sizing, charging sources, solar, then wiring and AC power. For each circuit, record the source, current, cable route, protective device and return path. Use the equipment manuals to confirm limits and settings. A product comparison can help narrow the shortlist, but a brand name or a diagram copied from another van cannot establish compatibility with your installation.

Use the free electrical planner to organise the appliances and compare assumptions. The example wiring plans include cable schedules, parts and PDFs so you can see how a complete plan is documented. Replace their route lengths and loads with your own measurements, then arrange the appropriate design review, installation checks and commissioning. Keep photographs of concealed wiring and a record of settings with the finished van so future repairs and upgrades start from reliable information.