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Thank you Stacey!

Hey Rachael, thank you for being a fan! I can help you out, no worries! I have many videos in the pipeline related to 230-volt electrics in a campervan. However, due to my current workload, the videos will be a few months away. Therefore, in the mean time, join my Facebook Group - Campervan Electrics Mastery that will give you direct access to me for help and support. I can discuss your 230v radial circuit dilemma and help with your DC-DC and MPPT. I hope to see you there! I also offer a free 1-1 consultation call for members to discuss how i can help. Regards, Jolly

Hey, thanks for your input. I'm sorry if that wasn't clear in the video. At 35:20, I clearly explain and demonstrate what SP and DP sockets are and how they function, including switching.

Me too buddy. However, i can't find a solution except isolating the power for this short time. I'm hoping from watching the video it will ensure people are aware of this 'unprotected' window and to take care. Thanks for the comment and kind words.

Hey BigJayDog, Thank you for your kind words and support. I'm hoping to have the video uploading in the next few weeks. However, in the mean time can i help you with anything? I provide an inverter charger programming service to ensure it's all setup correctly for your system. Let me know if i can help! Regards, Jolly

Hey there, many thanks for your support. I think you're my first 'binge watcher'. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment and ask questions. Correct, the RCD on the AC output won't function (as an RCD) because the inverter is centre-tapped (no N-E bond). You can carry out a simple test to ensure your inverter has/hasn't got an internal N-E bond relay. See video section - 33:55. The inverter charger must be on for the automatic transfer relay (pass-through) to function. Unfortunately, the cooling fan operates approximately every hour (I've not timed it exactly). I've not tested the fan's operation when there are no loads. I agree that this is a nuisance. What makes a funny noise, the Tassimo coffee machine? Does it make a noise when on hook-up power (pass-through)? Regards, Jolly

Hey, check out our van build playlist, it has follow up videos of the rear wall. Playlist - th-cam.com/play/PLQZOxJBfpgO6DHz_i_uYCT6QmHfdvTlHk.html

As far as I'm aware the N-E bond feature has not been added to the newer units. Some of my customers have noted that Renogy support informed them the N-E bond function is installed. However, after testing they confirmed it hasn't. Please be aware and test the AC output to confirm. Regards, Jolly

@vandercampadventures thank you. I think I'll save and get a victron. I also just noted all my factory fitted sockets are double pole so that's a win.

Great stuff Pete, i hope your back is ok after lifting the unit out of the box. De-beep or you will go insane. Renogy have chosen the worst pitch tone noise possible.

Hey Matthew, thank you for raising your concerns and questions. "At 43:29 wouldn't the appliance/load be earthed back through the inverter then the inverter would trip using it's own internal protection?" Yes. When the inverter charger is connected to an AC input (hook-up), the transfer relay will be in bypass. Therefore, the AC input is connected to the AC output. "The inverter is equipped with a 20A self-resetting magnetic fuse for internal protection." I haven't been able to test or obtain test results from Renogy for this protection, so I can't guarantee the level of protection it will provide. Therefore, I recommend using an external fused setup for added protection that you know and trust. "Given that the system is 'floating' and the risk of shock is the same as in the home (i.e. you would still receive a shock if you touched live and neutral) couldn't you dispense with the RCD on that side?" The residual-current device (RCD) on the AC output side is there to provide earth leakage protection for the inverter AC output power when not connected to the hookup. The RCD's purpose is to protect you (the human) against fatal electric shocks. "Also, I'm wondering if the earth on the inverter casing is connected to the centre-tapped earth in the inverter." I don't know where the inverter casing is directly connected, nor has Renogy provided me with this information. However, I have tested the earthed casing to confirm the earthed connection. "By bonding the earth to neutral it seems like you reintroduce the risk of shock for the purpose of adding an RCD?" When you introduce a Neutral-Earth bond, you are introducing a potential to the earthed system, which is why the N-E bond must be accompanied by an RCD. The RCD will sense the leaked current and isolate the power. A floating AC system is safe to use when it's installed correctly. For a campervan, the safest option is to have RCD protection. More importantly, an RCD is required by the BS7671 wiring regulations. In conclusion, a correctly earthed campervan system with an RCD equals safety for you. The subject of RCDs and earthing in campervans is extensive on its own. I hope I have provided you with sufficient information. Regards, Jolly

@@vandercampadventures Hi Jolly - thanks so much for your reply and taking the time to make this detailed video! It's definitely the most comprehensive out there and the safest design out of everything I've found so far.

Thank you for your kind words Matthews, it's reassuring to know I'm helping and making systems safe. You know where I am if you need any help or support 👍

Hey Dave, good to hear from you, hope your well. No worries at all. I'm hoping to get the custom battery settings video uploaded in the next week. Give me a shout if you need any additional help or support 👍. Regards, Jolly

Hey Chris, We've been down the single use bag road in our previous van. I agree its better to have the waste out of the van straight away. Even so, we empty our toilet every 3-4 weeks and it's never been a issue for smells or discomfort, even in 40 deg temperatures. Also, I prefer to have a sit-on toilet rather than a folding bucket haha.

Hey there, i can confirm that all PCL Renogy Inverter chargers, even the new REGO inverter charger coming soon to the UK, does not have a N-E bond relay switch. Maybe they misunderstood. However, i'm happy for you to prove me wrong with your results. Feedback from my customers has been that Renogy are offering an external relay setup at an additional cost. However, the setup and instructions are poor. If it turns out there is no N-E bond relay, i have wiring diagrams for an external RCD contactor installation here - vandercampadventures.com/downloads/renogy-inverter-charger-rcd-contactor-wiring-diagram-uk/ Keep us posted and let me know if you require additional support. Regards, Jolly

Thanks for the comment Marc. I will update your question after our e-mail conversion.

Hey Josh, thank you for the kind words and support. It sounds like a wiring issue, send me a wiring diagram of your setup and I'll have a look for you 👍. Regards, Jolly

Hey Chris, We used tek screws and an adhesive sealant to secure the unistrut that sits on the roof.

Thanks Paul

Hey Mark, Yes, the inverter charger transfer relay switch is rated to 30 amps, which is 6900 watts at 230 volts. It must not be greater than 30 amps or the relay may become damaged. However, i would advise that you switch off the loads, where possible, during changeover to prevent a high current 'spike' when switching over. I hope this helps. Regards, Jolly

Hey Graham, Sorry for my late reply. I'm currently looking into this for you to ensure i can provide the most accurate advice. What generator are you planning to use? Also, are you comfortable with setting up the generator program settings on the inverter charger? I can help with this if you require support. Speak soon, Regards, Jolly

@@vandercampadventures I'm planning on using my generic portable 2.0kva inverter generator if required, it doesn't have a N-E bond. I'll be just plugging it into the vans external power inlet via extension cord. The inverter is still on the bench at present but plan on having it fitted in my van in the next month. Just want to be sure the AC side safety works as intended.

Hey @@grahamfabian3458, I would like to discuss this directly with you. Is that okay? If so, please send me an email at jolly@vandercampadventures.com.

I tripped the breaker to demonstrate what would happen if the hook-up power was turned off. If the AC input power (hook-up) is lost, the inverter will kick in immediately. A faulty appliance will trip the protective device on both hook-up and inverter power. This installation ensures it meets current wiring regulations and is safe. Regards, Jolly

Cheers mate.

Hey, I'm more than happy to help but would need a lot more information from you to determine what the issue is here. Please go to my support website here - www.vandercampadventures.com/renogy-inverter-charger-installation/

Hey there, thanks so much for the support and kind words 👍. Greg is a legend in the field 🤘

Hey Lucas, that's a good question! Thanks for the kind words. Earthing and bonding in a campervan can be tricky because the right answer depends on your specific setup. The simple answer is yes. There could be issues if the electrical system is not installed correctly. A campervan's AC and DC bonding and earthing create a continuous bonded system, which can potentially energize the entire system in the event of a fault. Therefore, an RCD MUST be installed. The RCD will isolate the system in the event of a fault to earth. When inverters and 230v AC electrics are installed in a campervan, an RCD MUST be installed on the AC input (hook-up) and AC output of the inverter. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you need any help with earthing and bonding your electrical system. I can offer 1:1 support and wiring diagrams to suit your system. Kind regards, Jolly

The 35mm tri-rated cable I used has a current carrying capacity of 240A. The link to this cable is in the description.

Hey Pork-Chop, I manually switched the breaker on and off to demonstrate how the contractor works. You don't need to operate the RCD and breakers manually every time you're on hookup; leave them on. The inverter charger has a slight delay when switching over to AC bypass and charge, so it's safe to use the hook-up plug as the on/off "switch." Yes, double-pole appliances can be used without an RCD and N-E bond. They are double-insulated, so there is no earth connection. However, they must plug directly into the inverter, not via an extension lead. If you're referring to the Renogy inverter and not the inverter charger, the installation of the N-E bond will depend on whether you're using the AC input on the inverter. I have a wiring diagram for the Renogy inverter that details the N-E bond, RCD, and contactor installation. Here's the link - vandercampadventures.com/renogy-inverter-charger-wiring-diagram-rcd-contactor/ Centre-tapped inverters are safe to use as long as the electrical installation is done correctly. Regards, Jolly

Hey Pork-Chop, You may be reading 60 volts because there is a load on the AC output. Slight variations in tolerance and capacitance can cause the voltages to change. Try testing it with all loads switched off. Some new Renogy products in the US now have built-in N-E bonds, which is promising. However, even though an inverter states it has an RCD, protective device, N-E bond, etc., I would still install an external setup. This way, you know the safety devices and can ensure they work and will protect you. A small price to pay to be safe, I think! Regards, Jolly

Hey Gavin, Great to hear from you. I know about their automatic neutral grounding relay. The video and installation guide are not very clear and certainly not suitable for Mr and Mrs Laymen. Also, it doesn't include how to install it in regards to wiring regulations. I have a much better and much simpler wiring diagram for installing an automatic N-E bond. I also, offer support for installing it. The wiring diagram can be found here - vandercampadventures.com/renogy-inverter-charger-installation/. We have the 2000w Inverter Charger (PUH) installed. It's been used every day for 2 years with no issues. There are pros and cons to using a separate inverter and charger. Regards, Jolly

Hey Darren, i feel your pain. It's very dangerous and misleading which is why I've tried to reach people who have the product to educate them on the dangers and more importantly, a solution. There are only a few inverters that incorporate a N-E bond. Even so, i would still recommend installing an external N-E bond to ensure it functions correctly. I have a wiring diagram for installing an automated N-E bond switch, here's the link - vandercampadventures.com/renogy-inverter-charger-installation/. If you need any help or support, please give me a shout. Regards, Jolly

Hey, it depends what the weight is, if its a person then the roof would need replacing with a suitable wood sheet because it's made from fiberglass, fiberglass + human = disaster. Also, the roof batons would need to be thicker. Personally i would use thicker roofing batons and run them front to back and up against the metal roof supports. We did consider this but would have added to much weight with the extra wood and we didn't have the time. Another method we considered was installing an aluminium extrusion frame onto the roof that would act like a roof rack. Good luck with your project Regards, jolly

​@@vandercampadventures thanks guys, much appreciated

Thank you 👍

Hey, thanks so much for your comment and kind words. Yes, you can install more than one socket on a radial circuit. The important things to consider are: - The radial circuit cable must be able to carry the current of the total load of the sockets. - The MCB must be suitably sized to protect the cable. Regards, Jolly

Hey, good question! The chassis ground wire does not require a fuse. Fuses are only required on the positive cables that carry the current. Regards, Jolly

Hey buddy, we don't have the T5 campervan anymore, we sold it a few years ago, so can't comment on how it is holding up now. However, we used the van for 2 years with it installed and it worked without issues. If anything it was too powerful for the small space in the T5. If the gas ran out it would need resetting but this wasn't an issue. Like you, we travel 'off the beaten track' so the heater was exposed to the elements and was fine. Installing it underneath the van saved us so much space inside. If you do install it underneath i would highly recommend fitting it as high as possible under the sub frame to protect it from damage. Good luck! Regards Jolly

Hey there, thank you so much for the comment and kind words. Well, we're happy you eventually found us. We still have a lot of content to upload when we can find the time around our current projects, one of which includes being a parent haha. Feel free to drop us an e-mail if you have any questions about the build - info@vandercampadventures.com. Regards, Nemi & Jolly

Hey Gavin, thank you so much for the comment and positive support, it means a lot to know were helping. We swear by and highly recommend the Renogy inverter charger because of it's high quality at an affordable price compared to the competitors. Also, the lack of a N-E bond and RCD can put people off but i have designed a way to install an RCD with an addition of a N-E bond - I have a detailed wiring diagram for this. RCD & RVD - An RCD must be installed and an RVD is not required by regulations. However, an RVD can be installed with an RCD for additional protection. Additional Switch - The contactor and N-E bond setup in the video is not the same as a bypass switch. The contactor is designed to introduce a N-E bond when the AC output power is supplied from the inverter (not on hook-up). This N-E bond is required to ensure an RCD will function on the AC output and protect you. Changeover Switch - A changeover switch can be installed to bypass the inverter. However, in my opinion, a changeover switch is not necessary because the inverter has a built in bypass switch that will automatically bypass the inverter when it senses an AC input. There is a lot more to cover in this topic so would agree that this would make a great TH-cam video. Ide be more than happy to go into more detail and work with you to find the best solution for you. I can also design detailed wiring diagrams to suit your setup. However, i do charge for consultations, support and wiring diagrams. Please drop me an e-mail if your interested, at jolly@vandercampadventures.com. Regards, Jolly

Thanks jolly. Watching the video are we concluding if ALL your 230-240v sockets are double pole, that's Means there is no need for a contactor switch ? Secondly, if there is no need for a change over switch from battery power to inverter power, how would this work if you plug in a generator into the external 15amp into the caravan? No need for may change over switch in that regard? I will run the 3000w RENOGY inverter as it's $400AU and already have a lithium charger,.so the weight of the inverter charger and the fact it's no earth bond anyway seems better option to run separate 240v charger imo. 3. Do you run battery to chassis ground or buss bar or shunt to chassis ground?

Hey Garry, thanks for the comment and kind words. The Renogy inverter (none charger) is also centre-tapped. The AC output is similar to what's explained in the video. I have a detailed wiring diagram to show how to wire an RCD to the inverter. It will be available on the website this week. I'll keep you updated. Here is the link to the webpage - www.vandercampadventures.com/renogy-inverter-charger-installation/ Give me a shout if you need any assistance. Regards, Jolly

Hey Pablo, 40A will be fine 👍. I should have said anything higher than 30A. Regards, Jolly

@@vandercampadventures legend mate thanks for the video it's helped me a lot!

The Renogy Rover is compatible with a 24v battery supply 👍. In the settings, you can select the input battery voltage (12, 24, 36 and 48v). There is an auto detect but I believe this is for non-lithium batteries. Regards, Jolly

6:10

Thank you Amy. English weather, fine. However, in Bosnia last year in 36deg heat the sealant melted a bit and caused them to leak. Also, a gust of wind got under one and cracked the perspex. We've changed the perspex and used C1 adhesive and sealant and they're much better.

Hey John, thanks for raising your concern. I presume your watching the video to gain knowledge and help with installing the product and how to get an RCD to function? As an expert on the I've provided a clear and concise wiring diagram to ensure your system is safe and meets current UK wiring regulations and standards. Something the product manual doesn't provide. The wiring diagram and product design have taken a few years of design and testing. This is to ensure the setup meets current regulations and will ensure anyone with a little knowledge can install it and be safe. Also, 20 years of electrical experience, time to make the TH-cam video and designing the wiring diagram. The price also includes 1:1 e-mail support from myself if you need any help or guidance. Based on this, we feel the £15 price is very reasonable. However, if you still have concerns please e-mail me.

Hey Trevor, thank you for the comment. I hope the information was useful even though it's based on a UK specification. I'm currently building my knowledge of the US and Canadian electrical regulations and working on wiring diagrams. See my consultancy page for more information (link in the description). Regards, Jolly

Hey Tony, thank you for the comment and your kind words. The link to the contactor used in the video is here - amzn.to/3Iwk9JS. It can also be found in the video description. The contactor is 4-pole with 2x NO and 2x NC contacts. If required, I can provide a detailed wiring diagram for the RCD contactor setup and support. Please see here for more information - vandercampadventures.com/renogy-inverter-charger-installation/#our-services If you need anything else, give me a shout Regards, Jolly

@@vandercampadventures thanks Jolly! Just ordered it. 👍🏻 I’m not sure if you would know but I’m struggling to find a video on this.. I decided to get an Automatic Transfer Switch instead of a rotary selector switch. Do you know if this would be installed in between the RCD and the contactor, or after the contactor? I know the inverter has a bypass mode but we didn’t want to be limited by the inverter when on hook up. So decided to get a ATS to auto switch over when hook up is on. Thanks again mate! You’re a legend!

Hey Eddie, we're in the process of setting up the payment system on the webpage that will allow you to download the drawing. My apologies for the delay. However, if you fill out the contact form, select RCD and request the RCD contactor drawing I can send the invoice and drawing to you via e-mail. Here's the contact form link - www.vandercampadventures.com/renogy-inverter-charger-installation/#contact-jolly Regards, Jolly