12v Electrics for Off-Grid Campervan - Fiat Ducato Budget Build Ep12
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- čas přidán 8. 07. 2023
- Simply the BEST Campervan Wiring Setup for a budget self-build van.
Using the latest technology to create a simple, cost-effective but fully functional off-grid electrical system for a self-build campervan.
If you would like to purchase any of the items you see in this video here are the links you need...
Portable Power Technology Mains Battery Charger www.portablepowertech.com/sho...
Renogy 175W Solar Panel www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1248769116...
Renogy MC4 Y Parallel Connectors www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1250049752...
Renogy 6mm Solar Extension Cables www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1249630089...
Renogy 30A inline MC4 Fuse Carrier www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1249647315...
Renogy DC-DC Charger / MPPT www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1251190382...
Renogy 1000W Inverter www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1249878333...
Leoch Adventurer AGM Battery www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_fr...
Battery Fuses and Holders www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1249647549...
Battery Cables Various Sizes www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1249646235...
32Amp Solar PV Isolator www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_fr...
Disclosure - As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase using the above affiliate link. Thank you for supporting our channel.
Please do leave me a comment and give the video a thumbs up it really does help me to spread the good word to those that need help.
Subscribe to the channel for the next in this budget campervan build series you will not want to miss these videos, It's all FREE!
If you would like to say thanks with a small donation you can do so here www.paypal.me/gregvirgoe
Thank you very much for watching and best wishes with your own self-build off-grid dwelling whatever it may be.
Best Wishes
Greg Virgoe
#campervanwiring #offgridelectrics #solarpanels - Jak na to + styl
In Africa, we say when a wise elder dies, he takes a whole library to his grave. But Greg lives forever online. Thank you very much sir.
If my videos can help others then the effort is totally worth it. Thank you
Holy smokes! I've been searching the internet for a simple and straightforward video/ explanation like this, as my wife and I are remodeling a 1977 Boler trailer. This is exactly what I needed! Thank you from Canada!
I’m really glad you found it to be useful. Thank you for watching and for the great feedback.
Absolute legend Greg! I’m 25 and building a van out to travel and work and my father is blind! We both sat and watched/listened to your video. He can’t help like he wants to but loves that blokes like you can help a young fella like me learn ! Thank you 🙏
This is what the original internet was for, passing on the knowledge ,Excellent info Greg ,⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars mate. Cheers
I totally agree, we come here to learn the right way to do things, not to argue with keyboard warriors on social media, thanks for a great comment
@@GregVirgoe totally agree .
Exactly, now it’s full of narcissistic people telling lies about their life
Thank you
What can we say, that hasn't already been said about Greg... I don't know, I can only say Greg you are an absolute champion, you have no idea how much you inspire us. Every time a new video drops, I am on that like a Jimmy-hat. This build is shaping up to be a belter. Once again Thank You ✊
Wow what can I say, I’m totally blown away. Many thanks for this high praise. Cheers 🍻 😊
Greg, Clear as mud, need to clean the specs 🤩 get out the calculator 😊and read it again when it will make sense I' sure. Thank you. 😀😀😀
I totally agree. I really like your content, brilliant 👌
I dito that, it's thx to his videos I've now nearly completed my build.
When you fully retire from being a Mechanical Services Engineer, you'd definitely find work as an Instructor. Your manner, delivery and time served knowledge across a wide range of areas is pleasurable to listen to. Thank you for taking the time to put this together. One question please; the interweb gives everyone a voice. There are so many (and I was once one of those people) that don't really understand AGM battery management. Yes we can search for info, however if you did a vid on this and used 'lay man's' terms, it would provide muchly needed, clear detail that isn't out there in abundance. Cheers!
Ok, that's a great idea, I can include some of our energy-saving ideas too.
The battery capacity is directly related to the resting battery voltage.
So keeping a close eye on what the battery voltage is lets you know how much power you have left to use.
Brilliant. This video just answered all the questions I had about my van electrics. Thanks so much
Phenomenal! I am busy doing my conversion and your clear explanation just made my job so much easier! I’ll copy your exact schematics! Thanks
I haven’t even bought a van yet at least another 6 months away but the information you provide Greg allows not only to budget accurately towards a build but to also start buying products towards the build. Thanks mate for fantastic presentations great format thanks again Clint in Tasmania
That is awesome! I'm excited fro when you get your new van, glad that you find these videos to be helpful to you, good luck with your build.
I agree 👍
Another Tasmanian here, and I’m doing the same thing! Learning as much as I can first, working out what I’ll need, buying bits and pieces as I can afford them, etc.
Thanks Greg for putting these videos up. Without great people like you who give so much time to create this content, I don’t know if I’d stand a chance of fitting out a van.
@@NoName-ds5uq the best advice I can give is to have a clear plan of where everything needs to go and create an ordered task list that you can tick off as you go. Gives you little goals along the way. Hope all goes well for you 👍🏼😎
Such a detailed and simply put video Greg. Thank you from all those who will need this advice. It is just so clear with no jargon.
My pleasure! I enjoy making these type of videos and it’s a bonus when they are so well received. Thank you 😊
@@GregVirgoe well it’s helping me. I’m re wiring my boat at the moment so I am using some of your advice. It’s really helpful.
This video is pure gold !
Thanks allot!! Hope you are well.
Hello Greg,
Thank you so much, your help and advice through these videos has given me the confidence to intake installations which I otherwise may not have done.
Your videos are always very clear and concise, not only advising what to do, but why and as such invaluable to me.
In addition to that which I've already mentioned you do seem to think of everything a novice like me will not only need in terms of advice, materials and links to purchase those, but also any questions that I may have.
I would also like to mention your generosity and philanthropic nature towards others in providing all that you do free of charge to those who perhaps would be unable to afford to pay for others to undertake their installations and in so doing I'm sure you have helped avoid costly mistakes and perhaps even saved lives.
Thank you Greg.
Regards,
Leslie
That comment has made my day and people like yourself are the reason I do what I do. It’s a great feeling to know that the information is helpful and appreciated so much. Thank you very much 🙏🏼
Can’t express enough how your videos are helping, in depth, fully informative and massively helpful advice and knowledge. Thanks very much for taking the time on this build series, for the benefit of anyone wanting to take on the project themselves 👏🏻👏🏻
I’m really very grateful for your very kind comment. It makes all the effort so worthwhile to hear that. Thank you 🙏🏼
wow, classic am tour through youtube, and here we go Greg Bundy with even video thumbnail being that full of clear info, many channels fail to provide
Best video on this subject of DIY installation.
Thank, this must be the best van electrics video I've ever seen with clear guidance in an understandable format. The bonus is that you've kept an eye on the costs as well as some CZcamsrs put in the best kit available regardless of cost because they are sponsored by suppliers.
Thanks again, I'm looking forward to the next installment.😁
Cost was the main driving factor here. I wanted a fully functional system with lots of options but as cheap as possible. Main reason I haven’t accepted any sponsorship offers as it loses its credibility 😊
Just a quick one to echo everyone else's thoughts, Greg. My build would never have happened without your first set of videos and I'm hugely grateful. Looking forward to the next installment. Also looking forward to the vid about earthing - it really is a minefield of info out there! Cheers. 🙂👍
Thank you very much, I've done a ton of research and learning regarding grounding and earthing and how everything works so I am sure I can help to explain it in simple terms.
You could replace that DC switch and 30amp fuse coming from the solar with one single 30amp breaker. You then have both and fuse and switch combined into one small unit!
Yet again Greg another great video and very simple to follow and a lot cheaper than the last van I did in Victron equipment keep them coming you are an inspiration to all us van builders.
Great to hear! I managed to get all this equipment, fuses and cables for £950 which considering the functionality i have included is great value.
Awesome video Greg, thank you so much. Hope you had a great holiday. I have started with the planning for my own build soon with the help of your videos. I love that you put links to all the items. It makes it so easier to find everything 😀 Cheers
We did have a great time at the TT sorry there was a gap in the videos but I’m pleased you are finding them to be useful.
Good luck with your build
I am very glad I ran into your channel. Cleared up some things for me, and I subscribed. Thanks man.
Amazing .. pls keep up update🎉🎉
What a fantastic system simplified as much as possible with minimum components which keeps the space required down too.
All the best, David 👍
Exactly, it gives you everything you need in a really easy system and the whole thing inc wiring only cost me £950
As per usual, hands down the best and easiest to follow explanation available on CZcams. Great job!!
Wow, thanks! I'm really pleased you liked it. Thank you for the nice comment too.
Thanks for the video, very helpful
Absolutely brilliantly explained as an electrician of 30 years I learned a lot.
Thank you Gregg for the time and effort you have put into making this and all the video’s in this van series. I am an absolute beginner and I am getting all the info and knowledge I need to build my own camper. Electric’s and plumbing is the most daunting, but I feel like I am on a expensive training course getting all I need to build my own van.
It can be very daunting when you see complicated wiring diagrams so I hope that these videos break it down into easier chunks and wish you all the best with your new van build
Thanks greg for the videos, you make it look so easy and also easy to understand, keep them coming and happy travels!!! maybe you could also do one for camping motorbikes!
I think when you break it down into its component parts it becomes easier to follow and more logical. I’m glad that you liked it.
Can you explain more about camping motorcycles? I’m intrigued 😊
Thanks Greg!!!
you are welcome
Thanks for creating confidence, Greg.
Excellent work greg👌 well explained and easy to follow. The best van build series on CZcams by far. Looking forward to that earthing and grounding video as I need a bit of clarification myself on my own van build. Top man👍
I know that I can add a lot of value to that subject as it's the one thing that causes so much confusion
@@GregVirgoe did you do a video on grounding? I can't see one. Is there an advantage to running a negative cable all the way back to the starter battery rather than attaching to the chassis /bodywork nearer the leisure battery or dc-dc unit? I read such mixed things and some seem to say don't run a negative cable back to the starter battery if you have a smart alternator and put it on the chassis instead. It would be great to have a video clarifying this for people as you do the best step by step explanations. Thanks for anything you can contribute here.
Greg you're my hero! I've been dragging my heels on doing electrics on my self build as was always bamboozled by electrics. You've explained everything so clearly I think i can actually do it. Thank you so much!
That’s good to hear. If you break it down into logical sections it does make more sense. Hope it all goes well for you 👍🏼😃
thanks for explaining all this its well worth a subscription thanks again
Thank you for leaving nice feedback glad you liked it.
Greg I was a construction lecturer for 22 years, that was a superb grade 1 teaching/learning session I now feel empowered to put the learning into practice ( but obviously will have the installation checked ) many thanks. Mike
Sitting next to the radio and listening to the BBC broadcast children's hour... All attentive and glued back ears. Heck, Greg & Lou you have our attention. Another well planned and simply thoroughly informative video. Thank you. 👍📹
:D Thank you I will take that as a compliment, I'm guessing my delivery was to your liking :D
@@GregVirgoe most definitely 👍📹
Hi Greg, fab video! I’ve been following this series and currently converting my own Relay, all the electrics are in and so close to what you’ve put together here! Your next video can’t come sooner, we’re also a bit confused with 230v grounding. Keep up the good work
It’s such a great area for lots of people and so many CZcamsrs confuse the situation even more so hopefully I can add some clarity there 😊
I run two battery banks charging is switched by a relay , and an isolator on downstream to select each bank. This allows me to diversify the brands so I’m never stuck to having to always have the same brands , makes, models etc.
Thank you Greg
You are welcome 🙏🏼
Good to see a new vid
Thank you :D
Amazing video with great step by step explanation. Makes a complicated system more understandable to the average person! Thank you
Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching
Simply the best video I have seen on this. Brilliant 👏
What a fantastic easy to follow video.
Thank you.
PLEASE PAY ATTENTION TO THIS NOTICE.
In accordance with the latest UK wiring regulations the incoming mains hook up connection will need to be connected to a small consumer unit which includes a RCD and double pole MCBs for short circuit protection and overcurrent protection of the 230v mains distribution.
Please watch my new video on this
Should You Install A Consumer Unit In Your Campervan?
czcams.com/video/kdvm0TFvfVQ/video.html
Please do read the other comments below to avoid multiple questions on the same topics. Thank you 😊
Great insight to a novice Greg😊
As a caveat, to be code compliant just about anywhere, you would need to include a RCD "TYPE A" and MCB on the output of the inverter with the simple solution here to be to wire the hookup between the inverter and the board.
In all honesty though this inverter does not seem to have ECE R10 Certification for Automotive use, so could not be legalised in many countries as part of a van conversion project and registration, it would certainly be reason for a MOT fail where I am!
@justinbolt1356 it wouldn't even come under MOT regulations in the UK .An inverter is not part of a. UK MOT .
@@justinbolt1356 I wrote to Renogy and they confirmed that the inverter has residual current detection on the ac output so that combined with a fused plug means the outlet is protected and no further devices are needed off the outlet. Here in the uk the internal campervan components do not fall into a vehicle MOT and it is up to the individual to get them check and certified by qualified electrician but that it not a legal requirement either. 😊
@@GregVirgoe Hi Greg, do you know if when the renogy inverter is connected to EHU does it allow you to use more than the 1000w rating? So you can use larger watt appliances when on campsites etc.
I can't find a clear answer anywhere
Many thanks
Love the videos Greg! Only person to trust with detailed DIY ❤ Any thoughts on voltage sensing relay for charging via alternator as another option over the renogy charger / mppt?
Hello Josh, I would always recommend using a DC to DC charger, The only problem with VSR is they are just a switch and do not know the battery type or state of charge of your leisure batteries so do not meter the charge accordingly. They simply turn on and open the circuit to the van when the van is running. A baatery charger will know the state of charge and meter the charge to the lesiure battery to look after them much better. They can change the charging profile depending on the type of battery connected too.
@@GregVirgoe thanks so much! That’s changed my plans 😂
Just done a bit more reading / thinking, does the alternator not regulate charging voltage making voltage sensing relay (VSR) useable?
Edit: for anyone interested. Smart alternators aren’t compatible with VSR so may be why. Answering my own question
Mate 100% presented and explained! Fantastic info Greg, very much appreciated.
Thank you for such an easy-to-follow video :) I love the combo unit to make it easy.
Yaaaaaaayyyyy❤ a new installment!!
Yes!! at long last we have stopped enjoying ourselves to get some work done LOL
@GregVirgoe it was fun though 🤣
@@FionanDavidatNo12 it was fantastic to see you both and spend some time together. Hope we can do that again soon 😃
@@GregVirgoe David's just started a months leave. We'll sort something out 😀
@@FionanDavidatNo12 that’s fantastic we can have a few days away I’m sure 👌🏼😃
Great video. Well explained. I've installed that exact controller and it's worth noting that when solar and alternator are connected unless the solar is switched off the alternator can only put in 15 amps, not the full 30. You could switch the solar off manually before travelling or I fitted an ignition switched relay which turns the solar off automatically when the engine ignition is turned on. Otherwise it works very well.
That’s interesting. I will do some clamp meter readings to verify that when I get it up and running. That won’t be an issue if you’re driving during the day as it should be made up with solar and at night the solar should be off. Not sure that would have much of an affect. Have you taken any working readings yourself?? 😊
I have the renogy meter and it does show the difference. I'm sure it was in the manual somewhere. I only have a 100w panel and don't often see more than 5 amps coming in, if I'm driving with the solar on in daylight ,I'm only getting a max of 20 amps in(5+15) instead of the full 30 with solar off.
Excellent video Greg, very simple and easy to follow 👌👍
Having spent many many hours researching a basic but effective electrical installation process for my self conversion, I almost gave up. Alas, this video has done what countless other have failed to do. Clear, concise & idiot proof if followed to the T. Many Thanks
This is the best video I have seen on basic van wiring. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Greg. Excellent info as always. The theory is great and explained so carefully. Are you making a video on the physical process of connecting the cables to follow this? Tools and fittings for battery connection would be a massive help. Rich
Yes exactly that, you’ll see the physical items and exactly how they are fitted in the van 👍🏼😃
got in there first🥃
You were very close Chris :D Thanks
Absolutely superb video ! You’re a star !!
Have to say, this has been a very simple and easy guide to follow, taking the headache out of what’s what. Thank you for this, as going through a camper project now.
Thanks again.
Tim
Hi Greg great video, would this system work with a 2000W inverter? We have just started our boxer conversion, just started doing the prep on the floor in readiness for the false floor.
You would really need to look at fitting lithium batteries because 2kw could potentially pull 160A out of the batteries
The Renogy 100Ah lithium battery is now under £500 so it’s coming down in price.
You may also wish to look at eco tree and Roamer too.
Can I ask what appliances do you want to use that need that much power?
@@GregVirgoe I am currently planning to install a truma combi boiler either LPG & Electric or Diesel & Electric. That was the main reason.
Far be it for me to jump in here. I would not advise using your combi electric elements through an inverter. Save that for hookup. Just use your gas or diesel if not hooked up.
Nice to see you back 👍
Do you have any thoughts on the Fogstar Drift lithium batteries? Their 105 Ah is heated and has a good warranty and is about £370. And it weighs 10kg. Admittedly the price starts to get a bit more cheeky if you need two, but it sounded tempting to me.
@@davidknights866 ok 👍🏼 you won’t need a lot of power for the Truma boiler. You would use LPG or diesel while off grid and only use the electric elements when on hook up. The boiler uses a 12v 10amp supply from the battery to run controls and supply fan.
Do not run the electric heating off an inverter it will kill your batteries in minutes. The boiler has two 900W electric elements so that’s a total of 144amps on a 12v system.
Hope that helps 👍🏼😃
The only downfall of having a combined dc-dc and mppt combined is that if you have any problem with the unit you have lost both charging sources
Yes I agree this is always a compromise with all in one systems. Renogy are a reputable brand and quality should be there 😊
Thank you so much for taking the time to make these videos Greg, it really is appreciated.
Electrics is a confusing subject for most of us but this has helped so much. I've just ordered most of the bits, thanks for the links.
Hi Greg. I have seen so many videos and was still confused and stressed about how to do the wiring for my van. You have so well simplified the connections with every minute detail from fuses to wiring and the appliances. Really hats off to you and my salute to you. You are really a true online teacher...thank you once again....Gavin from Australia.
1st
Thank you for commenting so fast, :D
good to see you back from your break. Another great video for beginners top notch effort
I am gradually catching up with all your videos. This has to be one of the very best, concise and comprehensive guides to what can be done today. Your explanations and alternatives are there and, combined with your Edition 18 upgrades, is a model of best practice and bang up to date use of new technology.
This is absolutely fantastic! As someone who is just in the initial stages of planning a van build this information is amazing. Thank you.
Best video I've seen on camper van electrics ! Excellent, thank you
I am still learning SO MUCH from your videos! THANK YOU! ☺
Greg, Thank you so much! I've never seen van electrics be explained so clearly. This part of my van build has seemed so daunting, but this video is giving me enough ground to stand on to start. Thank you.
You are very welcome, im really pleased it has helped to make it clearer for you, best wishes Greg
You broke it down simply and straight to the point.
Thanks for the time and effort you have put into making this video. I am a beginner in the camper universe and I am getting all the info and knowledge I need to renovate my camper. Keep up the good work.
A lovely, clear video. Thank you.
Huge thanks Greg, liked and subscribed as it's the first video from you I've seen and it is superb!! We live off grid in Maui and I am very comfortable with our home systems, just about to move into a camper van for three months on the (US) mainland and do it's solar (picking up an IW puppy and we have a rabies quarantine period before import) - your explanation of the systems was excellent, I just need to integrate an onboard generator van came with and will be good to go. You really have made a positive difference to the world with your efforts. Aloha.
This is the most helpful video ever! Thank you so much!
Brilliant thanks Greg, really well explained and plainly put, great to include fuse and cable size explanation as well.
I'll definitely be watching the other videos and recommending your channel 👍
Just purchased a Fiat Ducato L3H2 to convert, I do not have a clue, never done anything like this before, but your Videos are SO informative AND Interesting!! You are a very clever guy and your input/advice on ALL your videos on here are actually quite mesmerising. I will be taking my time and will be watching each video several times to try and make sure I get it right.
Many thanks .
Gerry
Glad you found the channel. I’m sure they will help with your build.
That was so educational and easy to understand. Thank you very much. Looking at doing a setup in our van from Australia thank you.
Excellent video. Thank you.
Thank you 🙏🏼
I can't express enough how helpful this video was for me as I'm just now starting a van conversion. Thank you so very much.
Thanks Greg for the really helpful video
Will do something similar for a Canadian van !
Fantastic video, so easy to follow and understand. Many thanks Sir.
Really informative video, thanks Greg!
Excellent series as always Greg.
Always look forward to your videos.
Thank you 🙏🏼 really appreciate your support 😃
Brilliantly explained as usual . Thank you Greg .
Glad you enjoyed it 😃👍🏼
brilliant explanation as always. Thanks Greg.
It’s a pleasure. Thank you 😊
Excellent video. You have a fan in Denmark 😊
Greg, I find your videos so helpful and your voice just calms us down when we are stressing out about how to do stuff! Thank you and please keep on making these videos.
Absolutely brilliant.. a man of great knowledge.. so simply put and consistant tone in his instructions.. well done.. and thank you from across the poodle dublin, ireland
excellent, easy to follow video, thanks for posting it
Brilliant video thanks Greg 👍
Thank you once again for this video.
I've used it as a guide for my installation upgrade.
Your simplified circuit diagram at the beginning has provided me with a useful/readable guide.
Brilliant, well explained as always... the man's a genius. Well done Greg. Huge thanks.
Glad you enjoyed it :D
Greg Thank you so much for all your valuable information! I just purchased a new van That I’m starting to build out as a camper van. I plan on using your info in this video to get me started. Thanks again Joe
What a fantastic straight forward explanation, great job 👌
I’m glad that you liked it 👍🏼😃
Very thorough very complete...thank you
Hi Greg, many thanks for your time and efforts into what can be a complete maze of "how to". I'm planning on re-wiring my current van, primarily as a result of watching your videos. Really looking forward to seeing the separate ground/earthing video as I'm finding that a complete minefield. Many thanks.
I need to thank you for this video. It has really put my mind at rest. Its answered so many questions for me. I will do exactly what you have shown in my new build. Thank you 👍
Greg you are an absolute legend! The best explanation I have seen of an electrical set up in a campervan. This is incredibly useful for all future upgrades to my van. Cheers champion!
Thanks Greg, another very straightforward informative video. Keep them coming.
Thank you very much 👍🏼😃
I'm watching your video from Mozambique/ Africa. I can't thank you enough, you're doing great work, Sir , truly appreciate that.
Great to have a new Vlog Greg and as always excellent quality and detail, looking forward to the future Vlogs and progress on the Van.
Thanks for watching Gary, will be cracking on with the build now and no more holidays till it's finished :D
Another absolutely brilliant video. Thanks so much Greg. You make everything easy to follow and understand. 👍🏼
Im glad you liked it, Cheers