If connected incorrectly, solar regulators with current shunts can register twice your true solar input. Here’s why – and how you can to fix it.
Solar regulators with current shunts – how to fix misleading readings
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Electrical (general)
Lithium battery rival
Lithium-ion and lithium-iron-phosphate (a lithium battery rival) are two types of rechargeable batteries. They share some similarities but differ in high-energy-density, long life-cycles, and safety. Lithium-ion is used in smartphones and laptop PCs. Lithium iron phosphate (LiFEPO4) is that used in RVs etc.
Blade fuse problems in caravans – they may burn or melt
Blade fuse problems in caravans include fuses and fuse holders burning or melting. Fire risk is high because the fuses may continue to conduct. Ongoing current flow, however, may heat the fuse holder to burning point. This article by RV Books explains why and how to overcome the risk.
Lighting for caravans – it makes every sense to install LEDs
Lighting for caravans has changed. Now, by far the most practical and least energy drawing are LEDs (light emitting diodes). This article shows why.
RV supply cables – choices of current capacity and length
This article shows the sizes and lengths of electric supply cables for caravans and motor homes legally required in Australia and NZ.
Fast battery charging from generators – cheap, effective and relatively simply
Speeding battery charging from generators is cheap, effective and relatively simple. This article by RV Books’ Collyn Rivers explains how to do it.
Quietening caravan water pumps – easy and cheap to do
Quietening caravan water pumps is simple to do at no or trivial cost. This article from RV Books’ Collyn Rivers shows how.
Grid connect solar modules for RVs – here’s how you can use them
Using grid connect solar modules for RVs is readily done but needs an MPPT regulator. This article by Collyn Rivers explains how and why it is done.
Make caravan fridges work as claimed – here’s how to do it
To make caravan fridges work as claimed, and draw less energy, is cheap, simple and easy. Many can be transformed. This article shows how.
Dc-dc charging – how to speed alternator charging
Initial charging of a deeply discharged battery is generally limited to a basic dc-dc charger’s capacity: not the alternator’s. Dc-dc chargers under 20 amps thus usually take longer to charge close to flat batteries to half charge. Thereon, charging is hugely faster.
Battery charging and battery chargers – how to do it properly
Battery charging and battery chargers are often misunderstood – causing batteries to die before their time. This article explains why and how to avoid it.
RV Fuel cells – great idea, but cost is too high
Fuel cells for RVs are non-polluting and ultra-quiet. Whilst initially promising their initial and running costs still excludes general RV use.
Electrical converters in RVs – they’re unsuitable for free-camping
Electrical converters in RVs supply 12 volts from 230 volt power. They work well from 230 volts, but not for long-term camping. Here’s how to fix the problem.
RV electrical wiring – twin-wire or chassis return – here’s why twin-wire is usually better
Twelve-volt caravan systems may be twin-wire or chassis return. Twin-wire is usually best. This article explains why – and which to choose to avoid problems.
Variable voltage alternator problems with caravans – how to fix
Variable voltage alternator problems with caravans and motor homes arise when charging auxiliary batteries. Here’s why and how to fix them. These alternators are, in particular, installed on many post-2013 vehicles.
TV interference from LEDs – here’s what causes it
TV interference from LEDs is an issue worldwide. It is mostly caused by LEDs in the same home (or RV) as the TV. This can be checked by turning them off. Another indicator of TV interference from LEDs is good daytime reception until lights are turned on. In the worst cases, TV reception is unwatchable, or not even obtainable.
Caravan fridge problems – how to fix the most common faults
Caravan fridge problems are due to poor ventilation, inadequate cable size and/or insufficient power to drive them. Here’s how to fix them.
Inverters for caravans – and motor homes too
Buying inverters for caravans can confuse. Prices vary for products that may seem identical but are not. Here’s what to buy.
LiFePO4 jump starters really do work – they power other things too
Despite their very small batteries LiFePO4 jump starters really do work. This article by Collyn Rivers explains how and why. A lot of power (the rate at which energy is used) is needed. The amount of energy (the ability to perform work) required, however is surprisingly small. In the days of vintage cars, a strongish 55 kg (120 lb) girl could hand crank start a 4.5 litre Bentley with relative ease.
Caravan Fuses and Circuit Breakers – how to know which to use
Circuit breakers and fuses in caravans both cut the current, but in different ways. Here’s how to know which best suits circuits and appliances protected. Those for 230 volt grid or inverter supplied circuits must be specified and installed by a certified electrician – who will install circuit breakers etc anyway. Circuit breakers and fuses for RVs (for 12/24 volt circuits) can be self-installed by those familiar with such work.
How to Choose and Buy an RV
How to Choose and Buy an RV is the ultimate guide for those times when you want to, well, choose and buy an RV.
eBook versions
Paperback version
Prices for the paperback version including delivery can vary dramatically. RVBooks recommends you shop around. We've included a number of reputable booksellers you may wish to consider. Any bookshop, whether online or bricks and mortar, can order copies of How to Choose and Buy an RV. Just ask.
ISBN: 978-0-6487945-5-4.
The Caravan & Motorhome Book
The Caravan & Motorhome Book covers every conceivable aspect of campervan and motorhome usage. If you own a camper van or motor home, you'll want this book.
eBook versions
Paperback version
The book retailers set their own prices which can vary substantially. We'll aim to keep a selection of the better prices above.
Any bookshop, whether online or bricks and mortar, can order copies of The Caravan & Motorhome Book. Just ask.
ISBN: 978-0-6483190-5-4.
Solar That Really Works!
Solar that Really Works! covers the design, installation and use of solar in cabins, camper trailers, caravans, fifth wheelers, campervans and motor homes.
eBook versions
Paperback version
The book retailers set their own prices which can vary substantially. We'll aim to keep a selection of the better prices above.
Any bookshop, whether online or bricks and mortar, can order copies of Solar That Really Works! Just ask.
ISBN: 978-0-6483190-3-0
How to Choose and Buy an RV
How to Choose and Buy an RV is the ultimate guide for those times when you want to, well, choose and buy an RV.
eBook versions
Paperback version
Prices for the paperback version including delivery can vary dramatically. RVBooks recommends you shop around. We've included a number of reputable booksellers you may wish to consider. Any bookshop, whether online or bricks and mortar, can order copies of How to Choose and Buy an RV. Just ask.
ISBN: 978-0-6487945-5-4.