A Guide to 12V and 240V Power Systems
ZONE RV off-road models are equipped with two power systems - a 12V system and a 240V system. Understanding how these systems work and how to use them properly is important for a comfortable and safe camping experience. This article will provide a detailed guide to both power systems.
Electrical Certificate
All ZONE RV caravans are supplied with a non-prescribed Electrical Certificate. This means that the installation and testing of 240V cabling and components have been completed by a qualified electrician. Any changes or modifications to this system will void the certification and 240V warranty.
12V Power System
The 12V power system in ZONE RV off-road models is run from the battery and is controlled and monitored by the CZONE touch pad or the ePRO unit (for 300AH Lithium). This system powers the Sirocco fans, entertainment, roof fans, airbag controls, water pumps, fridge, and 12V outlets. The touch pad or ePRO will show the Amps in or Amps out depending on whether you have more or less charge than you are using. The amount of charge will vary depending on charge conditions, such as solar input, and the load on the batteries, such as the number of 12V appliances being used.
To check your charge, turn off all 12V appliances (including the fridge) and read the gauge. In normal operation, the fridge compressor will be running 80% of the time, which means it will use 100A per 24 hour period. While lithium batteries have their own fail-safe, it is not recommended to drain them until the low voltage cut out initiates.
Note: For a 200Ah lithium battery to reconnect after the low voltage cut out has engaged (showing 0 volts on readouts), a charge voltage of ≥12.8V must be applied to the battery before the low voltage cut out will de-activate and allow charge current to flow into the battery.
Inverter
The inverter in ZONE RV off-road models converts the battery's 12V power to 240V, which means using 240V appliances on the inverter will drain the battery. It is important to note that there are three points in the ZONE RV that are not run by the inverter - the air conditioner, 240V power point under the fridge (for fridge and hot water), and the power point under the seat for the 240V charger.
240V Power System
The 240V system in ZONE RV off-road models is only available when 240V power is plugged in from an external source, such as a caravan park or generator. This system will automatically provide power to all 240V outlets in the van, 240V power point under the seat (for AC charger), air conditioner, washing machine, hot water service, and fridge.
Important Information: If supplying 240V to your ZONE RV off-road model with a generator, you will need to load shed by turning off the 240V power point under the fridge. If using a low capacity generator, you may need to turn off the 240V power point under the seat for the battery charger if you want to run the air conditioner.
Disclaimer: The following information is specific to ZONE RV off-road models and should not be applied to other RVs or trailers. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult a qualified electrician for any modifications or changes to the electrical system.