Here are some steps you can take to fault-find any 240v electrical issues you may be having with your van.
Here are some steps you can take to fault-find any electrical issues you may be having with your van. Some vans will have slightly different layouts and electrical appliances used, but this will give you a general idea and should be able to guide you in the right direction to fault-find.
1. Start by verifying that the 15-amp inlet and the Residual Current Device (RCD) breaker are in good condition. Make sure the inlet connections are clean and secure. If the RCD has tripped and is in the down position, you will not have power to the van, also check the backs of the RCD from inside the van either under the lounge or behind the electrical hatch to see if there are any burn marks on the unit which will indicate if the power inlet is the issue.
2. On the top right of the RCD breaker, there will be a white button with the letter T. Press this button. If your breaker trips to the down position, it means you have power going to the van, and there may be an issue inside the van. If the breaker has not tripped, this indicates there is no power going to the van, and the problem lies within the extension lead or site power.
3. Inspect the Extension lead: Check the Power Lead for any visible damage, or loose connections. If possible, try using a different power lead to connect your caravan to the power source. This helps determine whether the issue lies with the lead or with another component in the caravan's electrical system. You can also try your Extension lead on another caravan to see if its tripping there breaker which will help determine if you need a new power lead. (do note running a 10amp appliance from your lead can not determine if the lead is faulty due to the fact it is not running 15amps)
4. Inspect the Inverter: Check the inverter for any visible damage, loose connections, or warning lights. Make sure it is properly grounded and that the input and output wiring are secure. Test the inverter by turning it on and connecting an appliance to its output to see if it functions correctly, depending on model there may also be a RCD breaker on the Inverter make sure this is not tripped, (Enerdrive inverters also have a reset button, see owners manuals).
5. inspect for Faulty Appliances: Unplug all devices and appliances from the circuit, including the hot water system, cooktop/stove, kettle, washing machine, and any other appliances you can think of. Once everything is unplugged, start by plugging them in one by one to see if a particular appliance is causing the issue. If one specific appliance consistently trips the circuit, it may be faulty and in need of repair or replacement.
6. Inspect the Breaker under the fridge: (depending on van)
Check this breaker to ensure it is not tripped. If it is, reset it and monitor whether it trips again. If it keeps tripping, it may indicate a appliance in the van causing this
7. Examine the Change-Over Switch: If your caravan has a change-over switch, inspect it for signs of damage or loose connections. Make sure it's set to the correct position (between inverter and shore power). Test the switch by switching between the inverter and shore power modes and ensure it functions as expected.
Consult the Manual:
Refer to the user manual for your caravan's electrical system, inverter, and any other components. The manual can provide specific troubleshooting tips and guidance.
Seek Professional Help:
If you're unable to identify or resolve the issue, or if there are concerns about the electrical systems safety, contact a qualified electrician or technician who specializes in caravan electrical systems. They can perform more advanced diagnostics and repairs.
Remember that dealing with complex electrical systems, especially in a mobile environment like a caravan, can be challenging. When in doubt, it's best to seek professional assistance to ensure your safety and the proper functioning of your electrical system.if you have a Redarc system or Enerdrive System and believe the fault lies within there system you will need to contact them with the provided details below.
Redarc:
1300 733 272
power@redarc.com.au
https://www.redarc.com.au/warranty
https://www.redarcelectronics.com/au/finder
Enerdrive:
Email: support@enerdrive.com.au
Phone: 1300 851 535
https://enerdrive.com.au/support