Why Clean, Labeled, and Safe Electrical Matters in Your camper Van Build

When it comes to van life, a reliable electrical system isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. Recently, I had a van come into the shop with solar panels that had completely failed. The owner was running Overland Solar panels, and both had given out after many years of use. We replaced them with a pair of 120W RedArc panels, which are solid and efficient.

The van itself had some quality gear onboard: the RedArc Prime System, a Manager 30, a TVMS 1280, and even a 1500W inverter. These are excellent components, and they’d been running for about four and a half years. The problem wasn’t the equipment, it was the installation.

Here’s what I found:

• No labeling anywhere. If someone else needs to work on the system, it’s a nightmare.

• Improper wire gauges. Some wires were undersized for the loads they were carrying.

• Missing safety features. No breaker for the solar input, no fuse for the inverter, and multiple missing fuses/breakers elsewhere.

• Cluttered wiring. The setup looked like a rat’s nest, making it hard to troubleshoot and a disaster waiting to happen.

Yes, the system technically worked for years. But with electrical, it’s not just about “working”, it’s about working safely, reliably, and in a way that someone else can service down the road.

If you’re building out your own van, take your time. Read the manuals. Make sure your wire gauges are correct, your fuses and breakers are in place, and your system is clearly labeled. And if you’re not sure, don’t guess, ask. There are resources and people out there who can help you get it right.

Your van is your adventure vehicle, your home, and your lifeline. Treat the electrical system with the care it deserves.

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