Hooking Up Your Camper: Recording System Setup

There are a few ways to hook a camper up to a recording system. One way is to use a wireless backup camera system that can be plugged into the camper and connected to a monitor. These systems often come with multiple cameras that can be placed around the camper to provide a 360-degree view. Another way is to use a gaming setup, such as the Steam Deck, which can be hooked up to a TV inside the camper. This allows for modern and vintage titles to be played from the comfort of the camper bed. Additionally, some campers may have built-in recording studios, such as the one in Ryan Bell's Ford Transit camper, which includes a guitar amp, microphone, and speakers.

Understanding your camper's power requirements

Daily Power Consumption

First, you need to understand your daily power usage. Identify all the appliances you'll be using, such as lights, chargers, refrigerators, electronic devices, and so on. Then, determine their power ratings, typically measured in watts (W). Next, estimate how many hours per day you expect to use each appliance.

Calculating Daily Power Consumption

To calculate your daily power consumption, multiply the power rating of each appliance by the number of hours it will be used. This will give you the total energy consumed by each appliance in a day. Finally, sum up the watt-hours per day for all appliances to get your total daily power consumption.

Battery Type and Efficiency

The type of battery you use will also impact your calculations. Consider the usable capacity in amp-hours (Ah) and the number of batteries. Different battery types have varying efficiency losses, such as a 20% loss for lithium batteries and a 50% loss for lead-acid batteries.

Solar Power

If you plan to use solar power, you'll need to calculate the solar power requirements. Multiply the power rating of each device by the number of hours it is used per day to get the watt-hours. Then, sum up the watt-hours for all devices to find your total daily energy consumption. Finally, divide this number by the expected hours of sunlight to get the required wattage for your solar panels.

Power Sources

Your camper's power sources will depend on whether you have a portable or built-in power system. Portable generators are lightweight and easy to transport, while built-in generators are permanent installations that offer high power output. Solar-powered generators are environmentally friendly but may not meet all power demands. Gas, diesel, and propane generators are affordable and easy to use but are noisier and produce emissions.

Inverters

Inverters convert DC power to AC power. The inverter size depends on the total AC power demand of your appliances. Choose an inverter large enough to handle the maximum demand at any given time.

By understanding your camper's power requirements and considering the various power sources and systems available, you can make informed decisions about your power setup and ensure you have sufficient power for your camping needs.

Using a surge protector

Surge protectors are an essential accessory for your camper. They are critical for protecting your vehicle’s electrical system from unexpected surges that can occur from unpredictable campground power supplies.

Choosing the Right Surge Protector

Before you purchase a surge protector, you should check the amperage of your camper. Most RVs will require either a 30-amp or 50-amp shore power connection. You can check this by looking at the plug on your shore power cord. Thirty-amp plugs have three prongs, and fifty-amp plugs have four.

Installation

Surge protectors are available in both portable and hardwired formats. The portable option is best for “plug and play” versatility. You’ll be able to move it back and forth between RVs and it’ll also be able to remove and install every time you get settled in a new RV spot. A hardwired EMS, on the other hand, will need to be installed underneath your RV and in the same compartment you typically use to access the power cord. While this option requires more installation time, it is durable and reliable, and your surge protector will be protected inside your RV’s underneath storage compartment.

Features

When choosing a surge protector, look for one that has a high joules rating, as this dictates the degree of surge suppression or protection that it will provide for your RV. You should also opt for one that has a clear LED display that can provide you with useful information about any electrical issues. Finally, make sure that your surge protector is UL certified, meaning it has been given a product certification by a third-party organization to ensure safety and reliability.

Connecting to shore power

Shore power is a term used to describe plugging your camper's electrical system into a 110v plug to either recharge the batteries or power the camper's electrical system directly. It is called shore power because it is commonly used for ships and boats to recharge their batteries in a marina or harbor.

Understanding Shore Power

Most RVs will require either a 30-amp or 50-amp shore power connection. Thirty-amp plugs have three prongs, and fifty-amp plugs have four. You can check which electrical service your RV requires by looking at the plug on your shore power cord.

• Park, Level, and Stabilize: Before hooking up to shore power, complete parking, leveling, and stabilizing your RV or travel trailer. Ensure your camper is exactly where you want it to be, and check that your power cord will reach the campground's outlet.
• Turn Appliances Off and Find Your Power Cord: Ensure your appliances, especially your AC unit, are turned off. Then, find your power cord and surge protector. In some RVs, the power cord is coiled up in the same driver's side compartment as your holding tank outlets, while others will have it in a separate storage area.
• Connect the Surge Protector First: Some power cords have an indicator light that turns on when plugged in, but this does not indicate the quality of your electrical hookup. Therefore, it is recommended to use a surge protector, which plugs into the electrical stand first. Once you've ensured that the breaker to your required electrical service is turned off, connect the surge protector, turn the breaker on, and check the lights or display to ensure a safe electrical connection.
• Plug-In Your Power Cord: Some power cords are hardwired, so you'll simply pull the cord out and plug it into the surge protector. Others will require you to connect one end to your RV's outlet and the other to shore power. It is recommended to plug into the surge protector before connecting the other end to your RV's power inlet.
• Check Your Systems: To check that you have power, go inside and look at your microwave. If the lights are on, you're connected. If you're not getting power, check your trailer's internal circuit breakers, and contact the campground if you're still having issues.

Installing a pressure regulator

Installing a water pressure regulator is an important step in setting up your RV's water system. Water pressure in campgrounds can vary, and RV water lines are delicate, so a pressure regulator is crucial to preventing damage to your RV's plumbing.

Step 1: Purchase a Water Pressure Regulator

There are a few different types of water pressure regulators available for RVs:

• Single-stage: These are the most common type, with one pressure reduction stage, adjustable, and typically sufficient for most RVs.
• Preset: These are set to a specific output pressure, usually 40-45 PSI, simple to use, but less flexible.
• Dual-stage: These have two stages of pressure reduction, offering finer control and greater stability, but they are heavier, bulkier, and more expensive, so they are not common for RVs.

When selecting a water pressure regulator, consider the following:

• Pressure range: Ensure it can handle the typical water pressure range of RV parks and campgrounds, and ideally, get one that is adjustable.
• Material: Brass is more durable and offers better longevity, but plastic regulators are cheaper. Ensure any brass regulator is lead-free to comply with drinking water safety standards.
• Connection type: The regulator should have standard hose fittings to easily connect to the RV and water source. Check for compatibility with your RV's hose threading.
• Flow rate: Choose a regulator that provides at least 11-15 liters per minute (3-4 gallons per minute) to ensure an adequate flow rate for daily tasks.
• Integrated gauge and filter: Some regulators have a built-in gauge to monitor water pressure and make adjustments. A built-in filter can trap sediment and protect your RV's plumbing.

Step 2: Install the Water Pressure Regulator

The most effective approach is to fasten the regulator directly to the city water supply spigot and then attach a water filter to the regulator. Certain water pressure regulators have an integrated pressure gauge and filter. After the filter is in place, connect the city water hose (designed for potable water) to the filter, and then attach the other end of the hose to the RV's city water inlet.

Use plumber's tape on the threads for a better seal, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions. If the regulator strains the hose or connections, use a hose protector or an L-shaped elbow to relieve stress and prevent damage.

Step 3: Inspect and Maintain the Regulator

Inspect the regulator and connections before each use and look for signs of damage or wear over time. Always carry a spare regulator as a precaution. Drain the regulator and hoses before freezing temperatures to prevent damage.

Troubleshooting

If you experience low water pressure, high water pressure, leaks, or intermittent water pressure, the water pressure regulator may be set too low, clogged, faulty, or have a loose connection. Use a water pressure gauge to check the pressure and adjust or replace the regulator as needed. Ensure all connections are secure and use plumber's tape to create a better seal.

Setting up a water filter

Step 1: Purchase a Potable Water Hose

Buy a hose that is certified for potable water, usually in white or blue colours, and long enough to reach the water source. These hoses are made with BPA-free materials, ensuring that your drinking water doesn't come into contact with harmful chemicals.

Step 2: Choose a Water Filter

There are two main types of water filters commonly used in campers: residential-style filters and portable RV water filters. Residential-style filters are larger and offer more filtration options, but they also take up more space. Portable RV water filters, on the other hand, are smaller and easier to install inline with your hose.

Step 3: Connect the Hose to the Water Inlet

Connect one end of the potable water hose to the RV water inlet on the outside of your camper. Use a quick-disconnect adapter to make connecting and disconnecting easier.

Step 4: Install the Water Filter

If you're using a residential-style filter, run a short drinking water hose from the inlet side of the filter and a longer hose from the outlet side. For a portable RV filter, simply install it inline with the hose. Do not attach the filter directly to the RV; instead, attach it to the end of the hose closest to the water source.

Step 5: Attach a Pressure Regulator (Optional)

If you're camping at a campground, the water pressure may be higher than what your camper's water lines can handle. To avoid potential damage, you can attach a pressure regulator to the hose before connecting to the water source. This will help maintain a safe water pressure level.

Step 6: Connect to the Water Source

With your water filter and pressure regulator (if used) in place, connect the potable water hose to the water source. If you're filling up your tank, look for the "Fresh Water Connection." If you're connecting to campground water, find the "City Water Connection."

Step 7: Check for Leaks

Once everything is connected, turn on the water pump and check for any leaks at the connections. Make sure there is no dripping water, as it can damage your camper over time.

Step 8: Test Water Quality (Optional)

If you're concerned about water quality, you can use digital readers available at camping or home repair stores to test it yourself. Alternatively, you can go to the campground office and request to see an MSDS sheet to ensure the water has been properly tested and certified.

Frequently asked questions