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CONNECTING SERVICES
7.17 The electrical system
General Information
It is strongly advised that the mains installation
is inspected periodically to ensure safe use. The
IET (BS7671) wiring regulations recommend
that mains installations in motorhomes are re-
inspected every 3 years or annually if the van is
used frequently. The National Caravan Council
lists the qualifications necessary to perform this
inspection, but an NICEIC approved contractor is
probably the first choice.
On arrival at the campsite
• Check the suitability of the supply, is it AC or
DC, is the voltage and frequency correct.
• Ensure that there is a proper earth (3 pin
socket outlet).
• If in doubt consult site staff.
• Make sure that the supply from the site is
switched off.
• Make sure that the charger switch on the PSU
is switched off.
• Slide up the cover from the bottom on the
electricity inlet on the motorhome, and insert
the connector on the flexible supply cable.
• At the site supply point, connect the other end
of the supply cable to this using the socket
provided.
• Switch on the main switch at the site supply
point.
Note: It is good practice to test the RCD
(Residual Current Device) in the PSU before
switching on. There is a test button on the RCD
to test the lever, put the lever in the up position
(on) before testing.
Note: As with the RCD it is good practice to
check the Miniture Circuit Breaker (MCB) in
the PSU. Switch all to the on position (lever
up). If any do not stay up then there is a fault.
On departure from the campsite
• Switch off supply from the site, disconnect the
cable at both ends.
• Switch off RCD.
Note: Never use a mains supply lead whilst
coiled. Always uncoil the full length before
connecting to the supply and remember to
protect the cable from traffic.
WARNING: Current consumption in the
motorhome must not exceed 16 amps or the
pitch permitted maximum if this is less than
16 amps.
7.18 Overseas connection
• Connection to a mains voltage overseas
requires particular attention.
• Overseas supplies can be of reverse polarity.
• Reverse polarity results in equipment not
necessarily being isolated when turned off,
reverse polarity indicator on the PSU will light
in the event of reverse polarity.
• The only sure way to make equipment safe is
to unplug it.
• It is useful to have a means of checking polarity
when overseas.
• If it can be achieved then connect live to live,
and neutral to neutral to achieve full electrical
protection.
WARNING: Never allow modifications
or repairs of electrical or LPG systems and
appliances except by qualified persons.
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