How to select reliable products for your caravan power set-up.

Here is a question that we often get asked.

“You guys are not a fan of the (add brand name here) gear in general? Have you had bad experiences with it or is it just poor quality?

Here is the long answer…

At Outech, we have a rigorous criteria for selecting products to ensure that we offer our customers the best quality and performance. Here are some key factors we consider when selecting products:

1. Quality: We prioritise products that are built to last and meet high-quality standards. We thoroughly evaluate the materials, construction, and overall durability of the products to ensure they can withstand the demands of their intended use. Here’s an example of a failed caravan upgrade.

2. Performance: We look for products that deliver exceptional performance and functionality. Whether it's a solar panel for the caravan roof, lithium battery, or any other electrical component, we assess their efficiency, power output, and reliability to ensure they meet or exceed our customers' expectations.

3. Compatibility: We consider the compatibility of products with different caravan models and setups. It's important for us to offer products that seamlessly integrate with existing systems or can be easily incorporated into new setups.

4. Customer Reviews and Feedback: We value the experiences and feedback of our customers. We take into account their reviews and opinions on products to gain insights into their performance, reliability, and overall satisfaction.

5. Warranty and Support: We prioritise products that come with a solid warranty and reliable customer support. This ensures that our customers have peace of mind and can rely on us for assistance if any issues arise.

How to select a caravan battery for a reliable caravan power set-up ?

Here are some key factors we consider when selecting a caravan battery. 

The battery in your caravan or RV is one of the most important pieces of the caravan power system and it is the most expensive. Therefore, it must be the right size for the calculated load, have an appropriate discharge rate and the cells used must be of a high quality that is compliant with IEC 62619 Standards as Recommended by AS/NZS 3001.

What are the best lithium batteries for caravan power systems?

At Outech OffGrid we recommend using custom lithium batteries that have been specifically designed and manufactured for use in caravans and RV’s. If you’re planning to upgrade your caravan with an off-grid power setup this is a very important point to note.

What you need to know about batteries in caravan?

Since the review of AS/NZS3001.2:2022, batteries must be;

(1) Sealed from all accommodation spaces; and

(2) Vented to the exterior of the vehicle in accordance with Clause 5.4.11.3.

(3) Lithium batteries must be provided with a battery management safety system (BMSS) in accordance with Clause 5.4.12.3, either integrated into a battery

pack or as a separate component.

(4) Battery terminals and terminal blocks must have protective cover

(5) Batteries must have overcurrent protection in accordance with Clause 5.4.7 for their connecting cables. 

Many battery manufactures have failed to keep up with the regulations, and few offer a product that is ‘off-the-shelf’ compliant with AS/NZS3001.2:2022.

Frustratingly, we have witnessed too many off-grid specialist failing to keep up with minimum battery installation requirements, and simply not complying with the Australian Standard for installing batteries into caravans and RV’s. As a result caravanners are being cheated by unqualified and incompetent installers of 12 volt caravan power solution that is non-compliant and not able to be covered by caravan insurance.

Enerdrive, has a range of lithium batteries, knowledgable technical support and customer support. BUT, from an installation perspective the lithium batteries need a specific enclosure to make them compliant when installed inside a caravan.

LifeTek is leading the way among Australian battery manufacturers with their RV Custom Lithium Battery range, which complies with AS/NZS3001.2:2022 regulations and is ready for installation in caravans.

The LifeTek VanLiFe range of custom lithium batteries are our leading choice thanks to their 5 year warranty, qualified technical expertise, and exceptional customer support.

It is reassuring for both installers and consumers to know that the LifeTek team responsible for manufacturing the batteries is also the team that offers technical support. This is invaluable because it ensures that the company will continue to provide assistance even after the battery has been purchased, giving customers peace of mind.

By carefully evaluating these criteria, we aim to provide our customers with products that meet their needs, offer exceptional performance, and provide long-term value. Our goal is to ensure that our customers have a positive and satisfying experience with the products they purchase from us. Take a look at some of our previous off-grid 12v and 240v power upgrades here.

If you have any specific inquires product-related inquiries or need further information, please reach out to us. We are here to assist you in finding the right caravan power set-up for your needs.

✍️EC14408 | MRB9303

✅ Licensed Electrician | Qualified 12 volt and 240 Volt Electrician

✅Compliant to AS/NZS3001.2:2022

✅Electrical Safety Certificate issued by Outech and not an by an outsourced external contractor or third party!!