Motorhome Power Setup
Learn how to set up motorhome power systems—covering batteries, solar, and inverters for reliable energy on the road and off‑grid camping.
🔌 The Basics: 12V vs. 230V
- 12V system – Powers lights, water pump, USB ports, fridge (on gas/12V), and some fans.
- 230V mains (hook-up) – Powers sockets, microwave, kettle, and charges your leisure battery.
- Inverter – Converts 12V battery power to 230V for short-term use (e.g., laptop, camera).
💡 Tip: Don’t run high-wattage appliances (like kettles or hairdryers) off your inverter unless it’s rated for it.
🔋 Leisure Battery
- What it does – Stores power for your 12V system when not on hook-up.
- Types – Lead-acid, AGM, or lithium (more expensive but lighter and longer-lasting).
- Capacity – Measured in amp-hours (Ah). 100Ah is a common starting point.
- Charging methods:
- Hook-up (via onboard charger)
- Solar panel
- Engine alternator (while driving)
- Generator (less common, noisy)
☀️ Solar Power
- Why it’s great – Keeps your battery topped up off-grid.
- Fixed vs. portable:
- Fixed panels – Roof-mounted, always charging when sunny.
- Portable panels – Can be angled, moved with the sun, stored when not in use.
- Controller – MPPT is more efficient than PWM.
- Size guide:
- 100W = light use (lights, USB)
- 200W+ = moderate off-grid use
- 300W+ = extended off-grid, fridge, laptops, etc.
⚡ Inverters
- Pure sine wave – Best for sensitive electronics (laptops, CPAP machines).
- Modified sine wave – Cheaper, but not ideal for all devices.
- Size matters – Match inverter wattage to your highest-draw device (e.g., 300W for a laptop, 1000W+ for a kettle).
🔌 Hook-Up Tips
- Use a 25m cable – Some pitches are awkwardly placed.
- Check polarity – Especially in Europe; use a tester plug.
- Don’t overload – Most sites offer 6A–16A. Avoid running multiple high-wattage devices at once.
- Use a surge protector – Protects your gear from dodgy site electrics.
🧪 Monitor & Manage
- Battery monitor – Shows voltage, amps, and charge level.
- Smart chargers – Maintain battery health when on hook-up.
- Power audit – Know what each device draws and how long you use it.
🧭 Off-Grid Readiness Checklist
- 100Ah+ leisure battery
- Solar panel (fixed or portable)
- Inverter (pure sine wave if using laptops)
- LED lighting (low draw)
- USB charging hub
- Efficient fridge (3-way or compressor)
- Water tank full, waste tank empty
- Apps for finding wild spots (Park4Night, Searchforsites)