Powering Your Camper: How Much Electricity Do You Need?

Powering a camper van is essential, and it's important to know how much power you'll need. The amount of power required depends on the size of your camper and the appliances you plan to use. Small trailers, campers, SUVs, pickup trucks, and minivans may only need a generator that produces under 1000 watts, while larger RVs and motorhomes require more power. The power requirement also depends on whether you're running basic electrical appliances or heavy-duty appliances such as air conditioners, dishwashers, and microwaves.

To determine the power needs for your camper, you should first list all the electrical appliances and gadgets you'll be using. These can be categorised into AC appliances (plugged into a normal household plug), DC appliances (wired directly to your DC distribution block), and DC appliances concealed as AC (plugged into a normal household plug but actually DC appliances). Next, identify the amps each appliance uses, and estimate how long each day each appliance will be in use. This will help you calculate the total amp hours per day you expect to use.

Additionally, it's important to keep in mind the difference between running wattage and surge watts. Running wattage refers to the watts a device needs during operation, while surge watts refer to the high power required for a short time when starting the device.

By considering the size of your camper, the appliances you'll be using, and the running and surge watts, you can make an informed decision about how much power you need for your camper.

Power sources: solar, gas, propane, inverter, lithium, lead-acid, or AGM

Power sources are an essential component of any camper setup. Here is an overview of some popular power sources for campers:

Solar Power

Solar power is an eco-friendly and renewable energy source that has gained popularity among campers. Solar panels can be installed on the roof or sides of a camper to harness sunlight and convert it into electricity. This energy can then be stored in onboard batteries for later use. Solar power is ideal for off-grid camping, as it allows campers to generate power wherever they are parked. It is also quiet and requires minimal maintenance, making it a convenient choice for those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.

Gas Power

Gas, including propane and butane, is a common power source for campers, especially for cooking, water heating, and space heating. Gas systems in campers typically consist of gas bottles or cylinders connected to pipes that run to appliances such as stoves, heaters, and water heaters. Gas installations should be done by certified technicians to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Gas is an efficient and cost-effective way to power essential appliances in a camper.

Propane

Propane is a popular choice for camper gas systems due to its versatility and availability. It can power appliances such as stoves, heaters, and water heaters. Propane cylinders can be refillable or replaceable, with refillable options being more cost-effective in the long run. When using propane, it is essential to follow safety precautions, such as proper ventilation and the use of carbon monoxide and propane detectors.

Inverters

Inverters are crucial devices in a camper's electrical system, as they convert the direct current (DC) power stored in leisure batteries into alternating current (AC) power used by household appliances. When choosing an inverter, it is important to select the correct voltage and consider the total wattage of the appliances you plan to use simultaneously. Pure sine wave inverters are generally recommended as they produce the exact AC waveform found in household sockets, ensuring that all electronics function as intended.

Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries are a popular choice for campers due to their lightweight and high usable energy capacity. They offer a longer lifespan and more usable amp-hours compared to other battery types, making them ideal for long-term van life and full-time RVing. However, lithium batteries come with a higher upfront cost, which can be a significant barrier for some.

Lead-Acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries are a traditional option for campers, but they require careful consideration due to the generation of hydrogen gas during charging. While lead-acid batteries are more affordable than lithium, they may pose safety concerns if not properly ventilated. Hydrogen gas can become flammable if it reaches a concentration of 4% or more, so adequate ventilation is crucial to prevent hazardous situations.

AGM Batteries

Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are a type of lead-acid battery commonly used in campers. While AGM batteries are more affordable and have good cold-weather performance, they have some limitations. It is recommended that AGM batteries should not be drained past 50% of their capacity to avoid significantly reducing their lifespan. Additionally, AGM batteries are heavier than lithium batteries, which can be a factor when considering the overall weight of the camper.

Power requirements: lights, phones, laptops, TV, stove, and appliances

The power requirements for your camper will depend on the appliances you want to use, the size of your camper, and your individual habits. It's important to note that power usage will be different when you're boondocking or on the road without a shore power connection.

• Lights: 12-20 watts
• Phones: 5-15 watts
• Laptops: 15-120 watts
• TV: 200-300 watts
• Stove: Varies depending on the type of stove and fuel used (e.g., electric, gas, or propane)
• Other appliances: Microwaves, hairdryers, and electric kettles can use 600-1500 watts. Refrigerators typically use 500-600 watts for starting and 150-200 watts while running. Air conditioners are major power consumers, with starting power requirements ranging from 1900-3500 watts and running power requirements of 600-1200 watts.

To calculate the total power requirements for your camper, you need to consider the wattage of each appliance and how many hours per day you expect to use them. You can use a watt meter to measure power usage, or you can manually calculate each device's power needs by multiplying the expected hours of use per day by the amps drawn by the device and the voltage it operates at.

For a simple overnight camping trip with just phone charging and basic lights, a power station of 100-200 Wh is usually sufficient. For longer trips or if you plan to use multiple devices, you will need a higher-capacity power station. For example, a family of four on a weekend camping trip with phones, laptops, lights, and other devices may require a 500-800 Wh power station.

It's important to choose a power station that can handle the total power requirements of all the appliances you plan to use simultaneously. Additionally, consider the weight and size of the power station, especially if you're backpacking or hiking. Solar panels can also be a great way to recharge your power station during daylight hours.

Power calculations: watts, volts, and amps

When it comes to powering your camper, understanding the relationship between watts, volts, and amps is crucial. Let's delve into these electrical concepts and how they apply to your camper's power needs.

Watts, Volts, and Amps: The Basics

• Watts (W): Watts represent the total amount of electrical energy consumed per second. In simpler terms, watts measure power. When you see a device rated in watts, it tells you how much energy it consumes when it's turned on.
• Volts (V): Volts refer to the electrical force or pressure behind the flow of electrons in a circuit. Think of volts as the "push" that drives the electrons through the wires. Volts indicate how much voltage or electrical pressure the system can handle.
• Amps (A): Amps measure the number of electrons flowing past a point in a circuit per second. In other words, amps tell you the volume or intensity of the electrical current. Amps indicate how much current the system can handle at any given time.

Calculating Power Requirements for Your Camper

Now, let's apply these concepts to your camper's power needs. The amount of power you require depends on various factors, such as the size of your camper, the appliances you plan to use, and your usage patterns.

First, identify the appliances and devices you'll be using in your camper. Common appliances include lights, a water pump, refrigerator, microwave, air conditioner, and entertainment systems. Each of these devices will have a certain wattage rating, indicating how much power they consume.

Next, you need to calculate the total wattage requirement for all the appliances you intend to use simultaneously. This calculation is crucial because it will determine the size and capacity of the power source you need, whether it's a generator, solar panels, or batteries.

To calculate the total wattage, you can use the formula:

> Watts = Volts x Amps

For example, let's say your camper has a 120-volt electrical system, and you want to run a microwave that draws 800 watts. To determine how many amps this appliance requires, you can rearrange the formula:

> Amps = Watts / Volts

> Amps = 800 watts / 120 volts

> Amps = 6.67 amps

So, running the microwave will draw approximately 6.67 amps from your 120-volt system. You can perform similar calculations for each appliance to find their amp requirements.

Once you have the amp requirements for all your appliances, you can sum them up to get the total amp draw when running multiple devices simultaneously. This calculation will help you choose an appropriately sized generator or solar power system for your camper.

It's important to note that some appliances, such as air conditioners and refrigerators, may have higher starting wattage requirements due to the initial surge of power needed to start their compressors or motors. Therefore, when calculating your power needs, consider both the running wattage and the surge or starting wattage of each appliance.

Additionally, keep in mind that RVs typically have either 30-amp or 50-amp electrical service capacities. A 30-amp service can handle up to 3,600 watts (30 amps x 120 volts), while a 50-amp service can handle up to 12,000 watts (50 amps x 120 volts x 2 volt wires).

Examples of Power Requirements for Different Camper Types

To give you a better idea, here are some estimated power requirements for different types of campers:

• Small Trailer (under 20 ft): Lighting, water pump, and charging may require around 1500W. Adding a television, fridge, and personal device charging may bring the total to 2500W. So, a 2000-3000W portable generator or solar generator should suffice.
• Mid-size Travel Trailer (20-30 ft): Lighting, space heater, water heater, and charging may require around 2000W. If you add a microwave, instant pot, and other cooking appliances, the total may reach 3500W. A 3000-4000W portable generator or solar generator is recommended.
• Large 5th Wheel/Travel Trailer (30-40 ft): Running an air conditioner, lighting, and slides may require around 3000W. If you have two rooftop ACs and multiple TVs, the total power requirement could be around 6000W. A 5000-75000W portable generator or solar generator should be sufficient.
• Class C Camper Van (under 25 ft): Charging, water pump, and refrigerator may consume about 1500W. Adding laptop charging, phone charging, and mobile WiFi may bring the total to 2000W. A 2000-3000W portable generator or solar generator is a good choice.
• Class A Motorhome (30-40 ft): Running an air conditioner, water heater, and lights may require 5000W. If you add two air conditioners, a microwave, fridge, and an induction cooktop, the total power requirement could be around 8000W. Consider a 6000-8000W generator or portable power station.

Remember, these are just estimates, and your specific power needs may vary based on the appliances you use and your usage patterns. It's always a good idea to calculate your power requirements based on the actual wattage ratings of your appliances to ensure you have sufficient power for your camper adventures.

Power storage: battery size, type, and number

Power storage for a camper van is a crucial consideration, and the battery setup will depend on several factors, including the type and number of appliances, usage patterns, and the duration of off-grid travel. Here is a detailed guide to help you determine the battery size, type, and number for your camper van:

Battery Size:

The size of your battery bank is determined by your daily power usage, the desired number of days between charges, and the usable capacity of the batteries.

Step 1: Calculate Daily Power Usage:

First, list all the appliances you plan to use, along with their power consumption in watts. Then, convert watts to amps by dividing the wattage by your system voltage (commonly 12V, 24V, or 48V). Next, estimate the number of hours per day you'll use each appliance and multiply it by the current draw in amps. Sum up the amp-hour usage for all appliances to find your total daily power usage.

Step 2: Determine Charging Frequency:

Calculate how often you'll be able to charge your batteries. If you're frequently on campsites or taking weekend trips, one to two days between charges may be sufficient. For full-time off-grid living, consider a three-day power reserve to account for periods without sunlight or driving. Multiply your daily amp-hour usage by the number of days to find the total usable capacity required from your battery bank.

Step 3: Account for Usable Capacity:

Batteries should not be fully discharged to avoid damage. The safe depth of discharge (DoD) depends on the battery type and usage. For lithium batteries, a DoD of 90% is recommended for full-time use, while AGM batteries are typically discharged up to 60%. Divide your required usable capacity by the chosen DoD to determine the necessary battery bank size.

Battery Type:

There are two main types of batteries commonly used in camper vans:

Lead-Acid (AGM) Batteries:

Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are a type of lead-acid battery that is widely used in camper vans. They are known for their leakproof design, ability to handle harsh weather conditions, and longer lifespan compared to other lead-acid options. AGM batteries are more affordable than lithium batteries but have lower efficiency and can only be discharged up to 80%. When calculating battery size with AGM batteries, you need to double the daily energy usage twice and then round up to the nearest 100Ah.

Lithium (LiFePO4) Batteries:

Lithium or LiFePO4 batteries are considered the premium choice for camper vans due to their superior performance and durability. They deliver more power, charge faster, weigh less, and can be discharged without damaging the battery. Lithium batteries are also highly efficient, with minimal energy loss, and can be discharged up to 99% of their capacity. When calculating battery size with lithium batteries, simply double your daily energy usage and round up to the nearest 100Ah.

Battery Number:

The number of batteries you need depends on the total amp-hours required to meet your daily power needs. Camper van batteries are typically available in capacities ranging from 100Ah to 200Ah or more. To determine the number of batteries, divide your total amp-hours by the capacity of a single battery. For example, if you require 400Ah and choose 100Ah batteries, you would need four batteries wired in parallel.

In summary, determining the battery size, type, and number for your camper van involves a detailed analysis of your power requirements, usage patterns, and off-grid travel plans. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure you have sufficient power to meet your needs while also avoiding unnecessary weight and cost.

Power usage: estimate daily usage and double for winter

When it comes to powering your camper, it's important to consider your daily power usage and plan accordingly, especially for winter. Estimating your daily power consumption and doubling that estimate for the colder months will ensure you have enough power to keep your camper comfortable and functional.

To start, make a list of all the electrical devices and appliances you plan to use in your camper. This might include lighting, a fridge, a heater, a TV, a laptop, a phone charger, and any other items specific to your setup. For each appliance, note the wattage it consumes, which can usually be found on a label or in the specifications provided by the manufacturer.

Next, estimate how many hours you expect to use each appliance daily. For example, you might use the lighting for four hours a day, the fridge continuously, the heater for two hours, and so on. Multiply the wattage of each appliance by the number of hours used to get the daily watt-hours consumed by that appliance. Sum up the watt-hours for all appliances to get an estimate of your daily power usage in watt-hours.

Now, to prepare for the winter, it's a good idea to double this estimated daily usage. Winters tend to bring colder temperatures, and you may find yourself using heating more frequently and for longer durations. Additionally, shorter daylight hours may result in increased lighting use. By doubling your estimate, you can ensure you have sufficient power to maintain comfort and functionality in your camper during these colder months.

Let's put this into perspective with an example. Suppose your daily power usage estimate, excluding any heating appliances, totals 2,000 watt-hours. For a five-day trip, you would typically expect to need 10,000 watt-hours for the entire trip (2,000 watt-hours x 5 days). However, by doubling this estimate, you should plan for 20,000 watt-hours (2,000 watt-hours x 2 x 5 days) to account for the increased power needs during winter.

Remember, this estimate assumes you will use all your appliances as planned. If you intend to conserve power by limiting certain appliance usage, you can adjust your calculations accordingly, knowing that you have this higher power threshold as a buffer. By following these steps and planning ahead, you can confidently meet the power demands of your camper during winter and fully enjoy your off-grid experiences.

Frequently asked questions