Rewiring Your Camper: A Comprehensive Guide

Rewiring a camper is a complex task that requires a good understanding of electrical systems and safety measures. It involves removing old wiring and installing new wires, connectors, and electrical components to ensure the camper's lights, appliances, and other electrical systems function properly. The process can vary depending on the camper's age, features, and specific needs, such as including modern conveniences like USB outlets or electric brakes.

Understanding the electrical needs of your camper

Before rewiring your camper, it's important to understand the electrical needs of your camper. This will help you determine the scope of work required and ensure that the new system meets your current and future demands. Here are some things to consider:

• Trailer lights: These are the lights that illuminate when you're driving, including tail lights, marker lights, and blinkers. You will need to ensure that these lights are properly connected and grounded to function correctly.
• 12-volt system: This system powers the battery-operated interior lights and water pump. You will need to decide if you want to include any additional 12-volt appliances, such as a fan or cell phone charger.
• 110-volt system: This system runs your lighting and outlets when you're plugged into shore power. Consider whether you will be using any high-power appliances, such as an air conditioning unit or electric water heater, as these will require a more robust electrical system.
• Wiring and fixtures: Evaluate the condition of your current wiring, sockets, light fixtures, and switches. If they are old or worn, you may need to upgrade them. Consider modern options such as USB-equipped outlets or push-button light switches.
• Electrical panel: The electrical panel, or breaker box, is the heart of your camper's electrical system. Older campers may have inadequate panels for modern electricity usage. Determine if you need to upgrade to a higher-amp panel to meet your needs.
• Appliances and electronics: Create a comprehensive list of all current and future appliances and electronics you plan to use in your camper. This will help you ensure that your electrical system can accommodate all your needs.
• Electrical layout: Make a simple drawing of your camper that includes the locations of major appliances, electronics, lights, switches, and outlets. This will help you plan the electrical circuits and ensure that everything is properly connected.
• Budget: Rewiring your camper can be expensive, so it's important to establish a budget and understand the cost factors involved. Consider the size of your camper, the extent of rewiring needed, labour and material costs, and any permit and inspection fees. Don't forget to set aside a contingency fund for unexpected issues.

By considering these factors, you can gain a clear understanding of your camper's electrical needs and make informed decisions during the rewiring process.

Removing old wiring

Removing the old wiring from your camper is a crucial first step in the rewiring process. Here is a detailed guide to help you through this complex task:

• Safety First: Ensure the trailer is securely parked on a flat, hard surface, and chock the tires to prevent any unintended movement. Disconnect all wiring from the tow vehicle, and if possible, keep the trailer hooked up to the vehicle with the parking brake on for added safety.
• Assess the Existing Wiring: Before you begin removing the old wiring, take the time to assess its condition. In many cases, old wiring may be crumbling or damaged due to age, exposure to the elements, or pest infestation. If the insulation is deteriorating, it's best to replace the wiring entirely.
• Disconnect and Label: Start by carefully disconnecting the old wiring. Label each wire and take note of its function, colour, and connection points. This information will be crucial when installing the new wiring. Take pictures or make diagrams to help you remember where each wire goes.
• Cut and Remove: Using wire cutters, carefully cut and remove the old wiring. Be cautious of any remaining electrical tape, wire nuts, or connectors that may be holding wires together. Remove these carefully to avoid any damage to the trailer's structure.
• Clean and Prepare: Once all the old wiring has been removed, clean the areas where the new wiring will be installed. Use a grinder or a Dremel tool to remove any rust, dirt, or debris from the mounting surfaces. This will ensure a good connection and proper grounding for the new wiring.
• Dispose of Old Wiring Properly: Old wiring, especially if it's damaged, should be disposed of responsibly. Check with your local waste management guidelines to ensure you're disposing of the old wiring in an environmentally friendly manner.
• Create a Diagram: Before installing the new wiring, create a detailed diagram of the wiring system. This should include the location of all lights, appliances, and connections. This diagram will be your guide as you install the new wiring and will help you identify any potential issues or improvements.

Remember, always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with electrical systems, and ensure all power is turned off before beginning any work.

Grounding your camper

Why Grounding is Important

Excess electricity in your RV can lead to a phenomenon called "hot skin," where the metallic skin or hull of the RV gives a slight shock when touched. This shock can be strong enough to cause electrocution if you touch the hull with wet hands or bare feet.

How to Ground Your RV

Your RV's electrical panel may have a designated grounding screw, which you can use to connect a ground wire. If not, look for a bare metal area where you can attach a ground strap or other grounding aid, connecting it to a ground wire.

If your electrical panel is not accessible or suitable for grounding, you can use the RV's chassis. Find a bare metal area on the chassis, preferably with a bolt you can loosen, and attach a ground wire. You may also use a trailer hitch or an area in the engine compartment, though this may require disconnecting the ground wire when you move.

Connecting the Grounding Wire to the Earth

There are two popular ways to connect the grounding wire to the earth. The first is to use a ground rod, which is a metal post that you hammer into the ground and attach the wire to. The second option is to find something metal already sticking out of the earth, like a street sign or water pipe, and secure the grounding wire to it.

Testing Your Grounding

To test if your RV is properly grounded, use an Ohm meter. This device measures resistance, which is the unit of electrical conductivity. A low resistance reading indicates a good connection, while infinite resistance means there is no connection.

When to Seek Professional Help

While grounding your RV is generally a task you can do yourself, there may be situations where you need to consult an electrician, especially if there is a complex issue with your grounding system or if you feel uncomfortable performing the task.

Installing a 12-volt system

Step 1: Wiring Multiple Batteries Together

If you are using more than one 12V battery, you should wire them in parallel to increase power capacity without increasing voltage. This involves connecting each battery's positive terminals with red wire and each negative terminal with black wire.

Step 2: Wiring Batteries to the Bus Bars

Now, connect the batteries to the positive and negative bus bars, which allow you to link other devices like 12V fuse panels, inverters, and solar charge controllers.

Step 3: Wiring the Bus Bar to the 12V Panel

Next, connect the bus bars to the 12V fuse panel, which distributes 12V power from the batteries to each device, such as lights, fans, and fridges.

Step 4: Wiring the 12V Panel to Each Device

In this step, you'll connect the fuse panel to each 12V device using 14 AWG wire, which can handle up to 180W of power. This wire is ideal for connecting all 14V devices and provides protection against vibrations and short circuits.

Step 5: Grounding the 12V System

Finally, connect the inverter to a designated ground point on the van's chassis. The size of the ground wire depends on the size of your inverter.

Additional Tips:

• Prioritize 12V products over their 120V counterparts to increase power efficiency.
• Lithium batteries are generally recommended due to their longer lifespans and better value in the long run.
• Always ensure your camper is grounded to avoid problems and irritation.
• Use a 12V distribution block to make a nice, organized spot for your accessory runs.
• When wiring 12V plugs, use red for positive wires and black or yellow for negative wires.
• When chaining multiple 12V outlets, be aware of the total amps and size your fuse and wire accordingly.
• For most 12V accessories, 12-gauge duplex wire is recommended.
• Use lever nuts for connecting 12V accessories like fans, refrigerators, etc.

Installing a 110-volt system

Understanding the Electrical System

Before starting the rewiring process, it's crucial to understand the basics of electrical systems in campers. The electrical system in a camper typically consists of two types of electricity: 120 Volt AC power and 12 Volt DC power. The 120 Volt AC power is used for "luxury" appliances like air conditioning units and water heaters, while the 12 Volt DC power is used for essential items like lights, water pumps, and charging devices.

Gathering the Necessary Tools and Materials

To install a 110-volt system in a camper, you will need various tools and materials, including:

• Electrical wires (12-gauge and 10-gauge)
• Electrical connectors (heat shrink butt connectors, ring connectors, etc.)
• Electrical tape
• Crimpers and strippers
• Voltage meter
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Fuses and fuse block
• Converter/charger
• Inverter
• 12V deep cycle marine battery
• Shore power inlet
• Junction box
• Heavy-duty extension cord
• Surge protector

Planning and Safety Considerations

Before beginning any electrical work, it's important to turn off all power and put on appropriate PPE for safety. Additionally, creating a detailed plan and diagram of your electrical system is crucial. Consider the power requirements of each appliance and device you plan to use, and calculate the total wattage and amperage needed. This will help you determine the appropriate wire sizes, fuse ratings, and any necessary adapters.

Wiring the 110-Volt System

The wiring process will depend on the specific layout and requirements of your camper. Here are some general steps to follow:

• Remove the old wiring and clean the surfaces.
• Install a junction box to organize and secure the electrical connections.
• Run the 120-volt wires from the shore power inlet to the junction box and then to the respective appliances and devices.
• Use appropriate connectors and electrical tape to secure and insulate all connections.
• Connect the negative and positive wires to the battery terminals, ensuring proper grounding.
• Test each connection with a voltage meter to ensure functionality and safety.

Additional Considerations

When installing a 110-volt system in a camper, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind:

• Always use stranded wire for AC power and solid wire for DC power.
• Use bigger wire sizes than recommended to compensate for voltage drop under load.
• Avoid using wire nuts; instead, crimp and solder the connections.
• Choose the appropriate wire gauge based on the amperage and length of the circuit.
• Prioritize grounding the electrical system to the chassis and clean aluminum walls to prevent issues and irritations.
• Regularly inspect and maintain the electrical system, checking for any signs of damage or wear.

By following these steps and considerations, you can successfully install a 110-volt system in your camper, ensuring a safe and functional electrical setup for your adventures on the road.

Frequently asked questions