Van Conversion Electrical System Basics
A van electrical system is usually 12V DC for lights, fridge, and charging—sometimes an inverter for laptops. Think in circuits: battery, fuses, loads, and charging sources.
Core components
- Leisure battery (house bank) separate from starter battery
- Bus bars or fuse block with each circuit fused at the wire rating
- Battery monitor (shunt-based) so you know state of charge
- Charging: alternator, solar, or shore power charger
Safety rules
- Fuse as close to battery positive as practical
- Wire gauge matched to load and run length
- No loose batteries—strap heavy banks to structure
- Vent lithium and lead-acid per manufacturer