Our autonomy and comfort depend a lot on the electrical system of our DIY camper van conversion. No power means no fridge, no lights, no smartphone = no Instagram = no #vanlife as we know it 😛 Therefore, we want our electrical system to be safe, reliable and to work from the first time; trial-and-error is not acceptable here.
After three years on the road full time, we’re happy to report that our system works as we planned, nice! Designing the electrical system was one of the most intimidating tasks of the conversion process and if you’re reading this, you are probably looking for some guidance…
...We're here to help! Here is how this trilogy goes:
(click to jump to a specific section)
PART A: BUILD YOUR KNOWLEDGE
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click a product link and buy anything from the merchant (Amazon, eBay, etc.) we will receive a commission fee. The price you pay remains the same, affiliate link or not.
1- Campervan Electrical System in a Nutshell
1.1- Overview
In its simplest form, a campervan electrical system isn’t really complicated. It includes a battery bank, loads and charge sources:
Modern “off-the-grid” vans normally charge with solar power, alternator, shore power and can power 12V DC & 120V AC loads:
Makes sense so far, doesn’t it? Here is how all components work together to make a typical electrical system:
1.2- Diagrams & Items List
- Hover your cursor / click on each component to learn more!
Standard
Optimized for off-the-grid / energy efficiency
- The inverter and shore power are provided by two separate devices. No transfer switch to bypass the inverter when plugged to shore power.
Features:
- BATTERY BANK: 100Ah and up (one or more batteries)
- SOLAR: None or up to 700W
- ALTERNATOR: None or up to 60A
- SHORE: None or up to 80A DC
- AC IN: 15A (normal house outlet)
- INVERTER: None, 1000W, 1500W or 2000W
- TRANSFER SWITCH: None
- 120V AC Distribution Panel: None (loads are connected directly to the inverter)
Choose this diagram if:
- Your build has modest 120V needs (no device above 1,650W).
- You're mostly off-the-grid (occasionally plug into shore power).
- You're tracking your budget. Some components (bus bars, cables, switch, fuses,etc.) in this diagram are cheaper (and smaller) because they're rated for lower current.
- Maybe you don't need shore power or an inverter at all?
MAIN
| # | Item | Description | Quantity | View on Amazon |
| 1 | Terminal Fuse Block with Fuse 250A | Blue Sea (Catastrophic Fail Safe. Connects directly to battery post.) | 1 | View |
| 2 | System Switch | Blue Sea (Main System Switch) | 1 | View |
| 3 | Bus Bar (250A, 4 studs) | Blue Sea | 2 | View |
| 4 | Cover for Bus Bar (for 250A 4 studs) | Protect the Bus Bar | 2 | View |
| 5 | 40A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between Fuse Block and Bus Bar | 1 | View |
| 6 | Fuse Block (12 circuits) | Blue Sea (12V Distribution Panel) | 1 | View |
| 7 | Fuses Kit | Assorted Fuses (2A 3A 5A 7.5A 10A 15A 20A 25A 30A 35A) | 1 | View |
| 8 | Battery Monitor | Victron BMV-712 with BlueTooth | 1 | View |
| 9 | Cable, 2/0 AWG, 5 ft Red | Between battery and Bus Bar | 1 | View |
| 10 | Cable, 2/0 AWG, 15 ft Black | Between battery and Bus Bar + Ground | 1 | View |
| 12 | Lugs, 2/0 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar, Terminal Fuse Block and Battery (Pack of 5) | 1 | View |
| 11 | Lugs, 2/0 AWG Cable, 3/8″ Ring | Connect to System Switch and Shunt (Pack of 5) | 1 | View |
| 13 | Cable, 8 AWG, 5 ft Black + 5 ft Red | Between Bus Bar and Fuse Block | 1 | View |
| 14 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, #10 Ring | Connect to Fuse Block (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 15 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breaker (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 16 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Battery
Solar
| 1 | 350W Solar | NewPowa 175W Mono Panel | 2 | View |
| 2 | Extension Cables, 8 AWG, 15 ft Red + 15 ft Black | With MC4 Connectors | 1 | View |
| 3 | Double Cable Entry Gland | For 8 AWG or 10 AWG Cable | 1 | View |
| 4 | 40A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between Panels and MPPT Charger | 1 | View |
| 5 | MPPT Solar Charger | Victron 100|30 SmartSolar MPPT | 1 | View |
| 6 | 40A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between MPPT Charger & Battery | 1 | View |
| 7 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breakers (Pack of 3) | 2 | View |
| 8 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Alternator
| 1 | 60A Battery-to-Battery Charger (B2B) | Sterling Power BB1260 | 1 | View |
| 2 | 100A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Blue Sea 285-Series | 2 | View |
| 3 | Cable, 4 AWG, 15ft Red | WindyNation | 1 | View |
| 4 | Cable, 4 AWG, 5 ft Black | WindyNation | 1 | View |
| 5 | Lugs, 4 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breakers (Pack of 10) | 1 | View |
| 6 | Lugs, 4 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 2) | 1 | View |
Shore
| 1 | 50A Charger | Samlex SEC-1250UL 12V | 1 | View |
| 2 | 60A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between Charger and Bus Bar | 1 | View |
| 3 | Cable, 8 AWG, 5 ft Black + 5 ft Red | WindyNation | 1 | View |
| 4 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breaker (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 5 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Inverter
| 1 | 1000W Inverter | Samlex PST-1000-12 PST Pure Sine | 1 | View |
| 2 | Remote Control for Inverter | Samlex RC-15A for 600W/1000W Inverter | 1 | View |
| 3 | Terminal Fuse Block with Fuse 175A | Blue Sea (Connects directly on the Bus Bar. To protect inverter’s cable.) | 1 | View |
| 4 | Cable, 2 AWG, 5 ft Black + 5 ft Red | WindyNation | 1 | View |
| 5 | Lugs, 2 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Terminal Fuse Block and Bus Bar (Pack of 10) | 1 | View |
Optional Items
Hardware
| 1 | 8 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (8/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 2 | 10 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (10/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 3 | 12 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (12/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 4 | 14 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (14/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 5 | 16 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (16/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 6 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, #10 Ring | To connect to Fuse Block (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 7 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 10-12 AWG Cable, #8 Ring | To connect to Fuse Block (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 8 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 14-16 AWG Cable, #8 Ring | To connect to Fuse Block (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 9 | Heat Shrink Butt Connector, Ancor Marine | To connect to Loads (75 Pack Kit) | 1 | View |
| 10 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 10-12 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Female | To connect to certain loads (i.e. 12V Sockets) , to make “removable” connections (i.e. Fridge, LEDs) and to connect cable of different gauge together (i.e. LED Dimmer) (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 11 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 10-12 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Male | 1 | View | |
| 12 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 14-16 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Female | 1 | View | |
| 13 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 14-16 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Male | 1 | View | |
| 14 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 18-22 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Male | 1 | View | |
| 15 | 3M Scotchlok Quick Splice with Gel (14 AWG stranded) | We used that to parallel our LED lights (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 16 | Heat Shrink Tubing Kit (with adhesive) | To protect lug after crimping | 1 | View |
| 17 | Split Loom Tubing, 3/8″ diameter 25 feet | To protect wire bundles | 1 | View |
| 18 | Split Loom Tubing, 1/2″ diameter 25 feet | To protect wire bundles | 1 | View |
| 19 | Split Loom Tubing, 3/4″ diameter 10 feet | To protect wire bundles | 1 | View |
| 20 | Nylon Cable Clamps Kit | To secure cable/split-loom to wood | 1 | View |
| 21 | Zip Tie Mount with Adhesive | To secure cable/split-loom to metal | 1 | View |
| 22 | Nylon Zip Ties Kit | To secure cable/split-loom | 1 | View |
| 23 | Rubber Grommet Kit | To protect wire from sharp edge (going through metal hole) | 1 | View |
12V Loads
| 1 | Maxxair 6200K Roof Fan | Fan Installation | 1 | Amazon |
| 2 | LED Ceiling Lights (Dimmable) | 3 | Amazon | |
| 3 | PWM Dimmer for LED Lights, 12V, Slider | 1 | Amazon | |
| 4 | Blue Sea 12V Socket | Electrical System Guide | 4 | Amazon |
| 5 | Shurflo Revolution Water Pump, 3 GPM | 1 | Amazon | |
| 6 | ON/OFF Switch for Water Pump | 1 | Amazon | |
| 7 | Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Gasoline Heater | Webasto Installation | 1 | Amazon |
| 8 | Propex HS2000 Propane Heater | Propex Installation | 1 | Dealers |
| 9 | Novakool R5810 Fridge, 12V only | Fridge Guide | 1 | Campervan-HQ |
| 10 | Sirocco ii Gimbal Fan, 12V | Sirocco ii Installation / Review | 1 | Amazon |
| 11 | Nature’s Head Composting Toilet | Toilet Installation | 1 | Amazon |
| 12 | Propane Solenoid Shutoff Valve | 1 | Amazon | |
| 13 | ON/OFF Switch for Propane Solenoid | 1 | Amazon |
High-Power
Optimized for high-power devices (induction cooktop, microwave, etc)
- The inverter, shore power and transfer switch are combined into a single device (Victron Multiplus).
Features:
- BATTERY BANK: 200Ah and up (two or more batteries)
- SOLAR: None or up to 700W
- ALTERNATOR: None or up to 60A
- SHORE: up to 120A DC
- AC IN: 30A (campground hookup) or 15A (normal house outlet, via adapter)
- Inverter: 2000W or 3000W
- TRANSFER SWITCH: Yes (automatically bypass inverter when plugged into shore)
- 120V AC Distribution Panel: Yes (each load is protected by an appropriate breaker)
Choose this diagram if:
- Your build includes any high-power device: air conditioning, induction cooktop, electric water heater, electric space heater, etc.
- You frequently plug into shore power (serviced campgrounds).
- You simply prefer an inverter/charger (Victron) instead of a separate inverter & battery charger.
MAIN
| # | Item | Description | Quantity | View on Amazon |
| 1 | Class T Fuse, 400A | Blue Sea (Catastrophic Fail Safe) | 1 | View |
| 2 | Class T Fuse Block | Blue Sea (Holds the Class T Fuse) | 1 | View |
| 3 | System Switch | Blue Sea (Main System Switch) | 1 | View |
| 4 | Bus Bar (600A, 4 studs) | Blue Sea | 2 | View |
| 5 | Cover for Bus Bar (for 600A 4 studs) | Protect the Bus Bar | 2 | View |
| 6 | 40A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between Fuse Block and Bus Bar | 1 | View |
| 7 | Fuse Block (12 circuits) | Blue Sea (12V Distribution Panel) | 1 | View |
| 8 | Fuses Kit | Assorted Fuses (2A 3A 5A 7.5A 10A 15A 20A 25A 30A 35A) | 1 | View |
| 9 | Battery Monitor | Victron BMV-712 with BlueTooth | 1 | View |
| 10 | Cable, 4/0 AWG, 5 ft Red | Between battery and Bus Bar | 1 | View |
| 11 | Cable, 4/0 AWG, 15 ft Black | Between battery and Bus Bar + Ground | 1 | View |
| 13 | Lugs, 4/0 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar, Terminal Fuse Block and Battery (Pack of 2) | 1 | View |
| 12 | Lugs, 4/0 AWG Cable, 3/8″ Ring | Connect to System Switch and Shunt (Pack of 10) | 1 | View |
| 14 | Cable, 8 AWG, 5 ft Black + 5 ft Red | Between Bus Bar and Fuse Block | 1 | View |
| 15 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, #10 Ring | Connect to Fuse Block (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 16 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breaker (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 17 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 3/8″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Battery
Solar
| 1 | 350W Solar | NewPowa 175W Mono Panel | 2 | View |
| 2 | Extension Cables, 8 AWG, 15 ft Red + 15 ft Black | With MC4 Connectors | 1 | View |
| 3 | Double Cable Entry Gland | For 8 AWG or 10 AWG Cable | 1 | View |
| 4 | 40A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between Panels and MPPT Charger | 1 | View |
| 5 | MPPT Solar Charger | Victron 100|30 SmartSolar MPPT | 1 | View |
| 6 | 40A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between MPPT Charger & Battery | 1 | View |
| 8 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breakers (Pack of 3) | 2 | View |
| 7 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 3/8″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Alternator
| 1 | 60A Battery-to-Battery Charger (B2B) | Sterling Power BB1260 | 1 | View |
| 2 | 100A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Blue Sea 285-Series | 2 | View |
| 3 | Cable, 4 AWG, 15ft Red | WindyNation | 1 | View |
| 4 | Cable, 4 AWG, 5 ft Black | WindyNation | 1 | View |
| 6 | Lugs, 4 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breakers (Pack of 10) | 1 | View |
| 5 | Lugs, 4 AWG Cable, 3/8″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 2) | 1 | View |
Inverter/Charger
| 1 | 3000W Inverter/Charger | Victron Multiplus 12|3000|120 | 1 | View |
| 2 | Remote Control for Inverter | Victron Digital Multi Control 200/200A GX | 1 | View |
| 3 | Class T Fuse, 400A | Blue Sea (To protect inverter’s cable) | 1 | View |
| 4 | Class T Fuse Block | Blue Sea (Holds the Class T Fuse) | 1 | View |
| 5 | Cable, 4/0 AWG, 5 ft Black + 5 ft Red | Between Inverter/Charger & Bus Bars | View | |
| 6 | Lugs, 4/0 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Inverter/Charger (Pack of 5) | 1 | View |
| 7 | Lugs, 4/0 AWG Cable, 3/8″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 5) | 1 | View |
| 8 | 30A Shore Inlet | Furrion 30A Marine Power Smart Inlet | 1 | View |
| 9 | 30A AC Main | Breaker Between Power Inlet and Inverter/Charger | 1 | View |
| 11 | 10/3 AWG Triplex AC Marine Wire | Between power inlet & inverter/charger | 1 | View |
| 12 | Lugs, 10 AWG Cable, #8 | Connect to AC Main (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 13 | Lugs, 10 AWG Cable, #10 | Connect to AC Main (Pack of 3) | 2 | View |
| 14 | 120V AC Distribution Panel (4 Positions*) | Blue Sea Panel: AC Main + 4 Positions* | 1 | View |
| 15 | 6/3 AWG Triplex AC Marine Wire | Between inverter/charger & AC distribution panel | 1 | View |
| 16 | Lugs, 6 AWG Cable, #10 | Connect to distribution panel (Pack of 10) | 1 | View |
| 17 | 120V AC Wall Outlet | GFCI, 20A | 1 | View |
| 18 | 14/3 AWG Triplex AC Marine Wire | To wire load that requires 15A or 10A breaker | 1 | View |
| 19 | Lugs, 14 AWG Cable, #8 | Connect to distribution panel (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 20 | Lugs, 14 AWG Cable, #10 | Connect to distribution panel (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Optional Items
| 1 | 50A Breaker (Double-Pole) | To upgrade 120V AC distribution panel to 50A instead of 30A | View | |
| 2 | 20A Breaker | For load that requires 20A breaker (e.g. A/C) | View | |
| 3 | 10A Breaker | For load that requires 10A breaker | View | |
| 4 | 120V AC Distribution Panel (6 Positions*) | *6 Positions panel is sometimes cheaper, check it! | View | |
| 5 | 12/3 AWG Triplex AC Marine Wire | To wire load that requires 20A breaker (e.g. A/C) | View | |
| 6 | Lugs, 12 AWG Cable, #8 | Connect to AC Main (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 7 | Lugs, 12 AWG Cable, #10 | Connect to AC Main (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Hardware
| 1 | 8 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (8/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 2 | 10 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (10/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 3 | 12 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (12/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 4 | 14 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (14/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 5 | 16 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (16/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 6 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, #10 Ring | To connect to Fuse Block (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 7 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 10-12 AWG Cable, #8 Ring | To connect to Fuse Block (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 8 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 14-16 AWG Cable, #8 Ring | To connect to Fuse Block (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 9 | Heat Shrink Butt Connector, Ancor Marine | To connect to Loads (75 Pack Kit) | 1 | View |
| 10 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 10-12 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Female | To connect to certain loads (i.e. 12V Sockets) , to make “removable” connections (i.e. Fridge, LEDs) and to connect cable of different gauge together (i.e. LED Dimmer) (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 11 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 10-12 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Male | 1 | View | |
| 12 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 14-16 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Female | 1 | View | |
| 13 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 14-16 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Male | 1 | View | |
| 14 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 18-22 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Male | 1 | View | |
| 15 | 3M Scotchlok Quick Splice with Gel (14 AWG stranded) | We used that to parallel our LED lights (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 16 | Heat Shrink Tubing Kit (with adhesive) | To protect lug after crimping | 1 | View |
| 17 | Split Loom Tubing, 3/8″ diameter 25 feet | To protect wire bundles | 1 | View |
| 18 | Split Loom Tubing, 1/2″ diameter 25 feet | To protect wire bundles | 1 | View |
| 19 | Split Loom Tubing, 3/4″ diameter 10 feet | To protect wire bundles | 1 | View |
| 20 | Nylon Cable Clamps Kit | To secure cable/split-loom to wood | 1 | View |
| 21 | Zip Tie Mount with Adhesive | To secure cable/split-loom to metal | 1 | View |
| 22 | Nylon Zip Ties Kit | To secure cable/split-loom | 1 | View |
| 23 | Rubber Grommet Kit | To protect wire from sharp edge (going through metal hole) | 1 | View |
12V Loads
| 1 | Maxxair 6200K Roof Fan | Fan Installation | 1 | Amazon |
| 2 | LED Ceiling Lights (Dimmable) | 3 | Amazon | |
| 3 | PWM Dimmer for LED Lights, 12V, Slider | 1 | Amazon | |
| 4 | Blue Sea 12V Socket | Electrical System Guide | 4 | Amazon |
| 5 | Shurflo Revolution Water Pump, 3 GPM | 1 | Amazon | |
| 6 | ON/OFF Switch for Water Pump | 1 | Amazon | |
| 7 | Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Gasoline Heater | Webasto Installation | 1 | Amazon |
| 8 | Propex HS2000 Propane Heater | Propex Installation | 1 | Dealers |
| 9 | Novakool R5810 Fridge, 12V only | Fridge Guide | 1 | Campervan-HQ |
| 10 | Sirocco ii Gimbal Fan, 12V | Sirocco ii Installation / Review | 1 | Amazon |
| 11 | Nature’s Head Composting Toilet | Toilet Installation | 1 | Amazon |
| 12 | Propane Solenoid Shutoff Valve | 1 | Amazon | |
| 13 | ON/OFF Switch for Propane Solenoid | 1 | Amazon |
| Optimized for Off-the-grid / Energy Efficiency | |
| Optimized for High-Power Devices (Induction Cooktop, Microwave, etc) |
- Tap on each component to learn more!
- The inverter and shore power are provided by two separate devices. No transfer switch to bypass the inverter when plugged to shore power.
Features:
- BATTERY BANK: 100Ah and up (one or more batteries)
- SOLAR: None or up to 700W
- ALTERNATOR: None or up to 60A
- SHORE: None or up to 80A DC
- AC IN: 15A (normal house outlet)
- INVERTER: None, 1000W, 1500W or 2000W
- TRANSFER SWITCH: None
- 120V AC Distribution Panel: None (loads are connected directly to the inverter)
Choose this diagram if:
- Your build has modest 120V needs (no device above 1,650W).
- You're mostly off-the-grid (occasionally plug into shore power).
- You're tracking your budget. Some components (bus bars, cables, switch, fuses,etc.) in this diagram are cheaper (and smaller) because they're rated for lower current.
- Maybe you don't need shore power or an inverter at all?
MAIN
| # | Item | Description | Quantity | View on Amazon |
| 1 | Terminal Fuse Block with Fuse 250A | Blue Sea (Catastrophic Fail Safe. Connects directly to battery post.) | 1 | View |
| 2 | System Switch | Blue Sea (Main System Switch) | 1 | View |
| 3 | Bus Bar (250A, 4 studs) | Blue Sea | 2 | View |
| 4 | Cover for Bus Bar (for 250A 4 studs) | Protect the Bus Bar | 2 | View |
| 5 | 40A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between Fuse Block and Bus Bar | 1 | View |
| 6 | Fuse Block (12 circuits) | Blue Sea (12V Distribution Panel) | 1 | View |
| 7 | Fuses Kit | Assorted Fuses (2A 3A 5A 7.5A 10A 15A 20A 25A 30A 35A) | 1 | View |
| 8 | Battery Monitor | Victron BMV-712 with BlueTooth | 1 | View |
| 9 | Cable, 2/0 AWG, 5 ft Red | Between battery and Bus Bar | 1 | View |
| 10 | Cable, 2/0 AWG, 15 ft Black | Between battery and Bus Bar + Ground | 1 | View |
| 12 | Lugs, 2/0 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar, Terminal Fuse Block and Battery (Pack of 5) | 1 | View |
| 11 | Lugs, 2/0 AWG Cable, 3/8″ Ring | Connect to System Switch and Shunt (Pack of 5) | 1 | View |
| 13 | Cable, 8 AWG, 5 ft Black + 5 ft Red | Between Bus Bar and Fuse Block | 1 | View |
| 14 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, #10 Ring | Connect to Fuse Block (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 15 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breaker (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 16 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Battery
Solar
| 1 | 350W Solar | NewPowa 175W Mono Panel | 2 | View |
| 2 | Extension Cables, 8 AWG, 15 ft Red + 15 ft Black | With MC4 Connectors | 1 | View |
| 3 | Double Cable Entry Gland | For 8 AWG or 10 AWG Cable | 1 | View |
| 4 | 40A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between Panels and MPPT Charger | 1 | View |
| 5 | MPPT Solar Charger | Victron 100|30 SmartSolar MPPT | 1 | View |
| 6 | 40A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between MPPT Charger & Battery | 1 | View |
| 7 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breakers (Pack of 3) | 2 | View |
| 8 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Alternator
| 1 | 60A Battery-to-Battery Charger (B2B) | Sterling Power BB1260 | 1 | View |
| 2 | 100A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Blue Sea 285-Series | 2 | View |
| 3 | Cable, 4 AWG, 15ft Red | WindyNation | 1 | View |
| 4 | Cable, 4 AWG, 5 ft Black | WindyNation | 1 | View |
| 5 | Lugs, 4 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breakers (Pack of 10) | 1 | View |
| 6 | Lugs, 4 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 2) | 1 | View |
Shore
| 1 | 50A Charger | Samlex SEC-1250UL 12V | 1 | View |
| 2 | 60A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between Charger and Bus Bar | 1 | View |
| 3 | Cable, 8 AWG, 5 ft Black + 5 ft Red | WindyNation | 1 | View |
| 4 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breaker (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 5 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Inverter
| 1 | 1000W Inverter | Samlex PST-1000-12 PST Pure Sine | 1 | View |
| 2 | Remote Control for Inverter | Samlex RC-15A for 600W/1000W Inverter | 1 | View |
| 3 | Terminal Fuse Block with Fuse 175A | Blue Sea (Connects directly on the Bus Bar. To protect inverter’s cable.) | 1 | View |
| 4 | Cable, 2 AWG, 5 ft Black + 5 ft Red | WindyNation | 1 | View |
| 5 | Lugs, 2 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Terminal Fuse Block and Bus Bar (Pack of 10) | 1 | View |
Optional Items
Hardware
| 1 | 8 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (8/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 2 | 10 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (10/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 3 | 12 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (12/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 4 | 14 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (14/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 5 | 16 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (16/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 6 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, #10 Ring | To connect to Fuse Block (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 7 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 10-12 AWG Cable, #8 Ring | To connect to Fuse Block (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 8 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 14-16 AWG Cable, #8 Ring | To connect to Fuse Block (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 9 | Heat Shrink Butt Connector, Ancor Marine | To connect to Loads (75 Pack Kit) | 1 | View |
| 10 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 10-12 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Female | To connect to certain loads (i.e. 12V Sockets) , to make “removable” connections (i.e. Fridge, LEDs) and to connect cable of different gauge together (i.e. LED Dimmer) (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 11 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 10-12 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Male | 1 | View | |
| 12 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 14-16 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Female | 1 | View | |
| 13 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 14-16 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Male | 1 | View | |
| 14 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 18-22 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Male | 1 | View | |
| 15 | 3M Scotchlok Quick Splice with Gel (14 AWG stranded) | We used that to parallel our LED lights (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 16 | Heat Shrink Tubing Kit (with adhesive) | To protect lug after crimping | 1 | View |
| 17 | Split Loom Tubing, 3/8″ diameter 25 feet | To protect wire bundles | 1 | View |
| 18 | Split Loom Tubing, 1/2″ diameter 25 feet | To protect wire bundles | 1 | View |
| 19 | Split Loom Tubing, 3/4″ diameter 10 feet | To protect wire bundles | 1 | View |
| 20 | Nylon Cable Clamps Kit | To secure cable/split-loom to wood | 1 | View |
| 21 | Zip Tie Mount with Adhesive | To secure cable/split-loom to metal | 1 | View |
| 22 | Nylon Zip Ties Kit | To secure cable/split-loom | 1 | View |
| 23 | Rubber Grommet Kit | To protect wire from sharp edge (going through metal hole) | 1 | View |
12V Loads
| 1 | Maxxair 6200K Roof Fan | Fan Installation | 1 | Amazon |
| 2 | LED Ceiling Lights (Dimmable) | 3 | Amazon | |
| 3 | PWM Dimmer for LED Lights, 12V, Slider | 1 | Amazon | |
| 4 | Blue Sea 12V Socket | Electrical System Guide | 4 | Amazon |
| 5 | Shurflo Revolution Water Pump, 3 GPM | 1 | Amazon | |
| 6 | ON/OFF Switch for Water Pump | 1 | Amazon | |
| 7 | Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Gasoline Heater | Webasto Installation | 1 | Amazon |
| 8 | Propex HS2000 Propane Heater | Propex Installation | 1 | Dealers |
| 9 | Novakool R5810 Fridge, 12V only | Fridge Guide | 1 | Campervan-HQ |
| 10 | Sirocco ii Gimbal Fan, 12V | Sirocco ii Installation / Review | 1 | Amazon |
| 11 | Nature’s Head Composting Toilet | Toilet Installation | 1 | Amazon |
| 12 | Propane Solenoid Shutoff Valve | 1 | Amazon | |
| 13 | ON/OFF Switch for Propane Solenoid | 1 | Amazon |
- The inverter, shore power and transfer switch are combined into a single device (Victron Multiplus).
Features:
- BATTERY BANK: 200Ah and up (two or more batteries)
- SOLAR: None or up to 700W
- ALTERNATOR: None or up to 60A
- SHORE: up to 120A DC
- AC IN: 30A (campground hookup) or 15A (normal house outlet, via adapter)
- Inverter: 2000W or 3000W
- TRANSFER SWITCH: Yes (automatically bypass inverter when plugged into shore)
- 120V AC Distribution Panel: Yes (each load is protected by an appropriate breaker)
Choose this diagram if:
- Your build includes any high-power device: air conditioning, induction cooktop, electric water heater, electric space heater, etc.
- You frequently plug into shore power (serviced campgrounds).
- You simply prefer an inverter/charger (Victron) instead of a separate inverter & battery charger.
MAIN
| # | Item | Description | Quantity | View on Amazon |
| 1 | Class T Fuse, 400A | Blue Sea (Catastrophic Fail Safe) | 1 | View |
| 2 | Class T Fuse Block | Blue Sea (Holds the Class T Fuse) | 1 | View |
| 3 | System Switch | Blue Sea (Main System Switch) | 1 | View |
| 4 | Bus Bar (600A, 4 studs) | Blue Sea | 2 | View |
| 5 | Cover for Bus Bar (for 600A 4 studs) | Protect the Bus Bar | 2 | View |
| 6 | 40A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between Fuse Block and Bus Bar | 1 | View |
| 7 | Fuse Block (12 circuits) | Blue Sea (12V Distribution Panel) | 1 | View |
| 8 | Fuses Kit | Assorted Fuses (2A 3A 5A 7.5A 10A 15A 20A 25A 30A 35A) | 1 | View |
| 9 | Battery Monitor | Victron BMV-712 with BlueTooth | 1 | View |
| 10 | Cable, 4/0 AWG, 5 ft Red | Between battery and Bus Bar | 1 | View |
| 11 | Cable, 4/0 AWG, 15 ft Black | Between battery and Bus Bar + Ground | 1 | View |
| 13 | Lugs, 4/0 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar, Terminal Fuse Block and Battery (Pack of 2) | 1 | View |
| 12 | Lugs, 4/0 AWG Cable, 3/8″ Ring | Connect to System Switch and Shunt (Pack of 10) | 1 | View |
| 14 | Cable, 8 AWG, 5 ft Black + 5 ft Red | Between Bus Bar and Fuse Block | 1 | View |
| 15 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, #10 Ring | Connect to Fuse Block (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 16 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breaker (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 17 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 3/8″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Battery
Solar
| 1 | 350W Solar | NewPowa 175W Mono Panel | 2 | View |
| 2 | Extension Cables, 8 AWG, 15 ft Red + 15 ft Black | With MC4 Connectors | 1 | View |
| 3 | Double Cable Entry Gland | For 8 AWG or 10 AWG Cable | 1 | View |
| 4 | 40A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between Panels and MPPT Charger | 1 | View |
| 5 | MPPT Solar Charger | Victron 100|30 SmartSolar MPPT | 1 | View |
| 6 | 40A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Between MPPT Charger & Battery | 1 | View |
| 8 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breakers (Pack of 3) | 2 | View |
| 7 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, 3/8″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Alternator
| 1 | 60A Battery-to-Battery Charger (B2B) | Sterling Power BB1260 | 1 | View |
| 2 | 100A Breaker/Switch, Surface Mount | Blue Sea 285-Series | 2 | View |
| 3 | Cable, 4 AWG, 15ft Red | WindyNation | 1 | View |
| 4 | Cable, 4 AWG, 5 ft Black | WindyNation | 1 | View |
| 6 | Lugs, 4 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Ring | Connect to Breakers (Pack of 10) | 1 | View |
| 5 | Lugs, 4 AWG Cable, 3/8″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 2) | 1 | View |
Inverter/Charger
| 1 | 3000W Inverter/Charger | Victron Multiplus 12|3000|120 | 1 | View |
| 2 | Remote Control for Inverter | Victron Digital Multi Control 200/200A GX | 1 | View |
| 3 | Class T Fuse, 400A | Blue Sea (To protect inverter’s cable) | 1 | View |
| 4 | Class T Fuse Block | Blue Sea (Holds the Class T Fuse) | 1 | View |
| 5 | Cable, 4/0 AWG, 5 ft Black + 5 ft Red | Between Inverter/Charger & Bus Bars | View | |
| 6 | Lugs, 4/0 AWG Cable, 5/16″ Ring | Connect to Inverter/Charger (Pack of 5) | 1 | View |
| 7 | Lugs, 4/0 AWG Cable, 3/8″ Ring | Connect to Bus Bar (Pack of 5) | 1 | View |
| 8 | 30A Shore Inlet | Furrion 30A Marine Power Smart Inlet | 1 | View |
| 9 | 30A AC Main | Breaker Between Power Inlet and Inverter/Charger | 1 | View |
| 11 | 10/3 AWG Triplex AC Marine Wire | Between power inlet & inverter/charger | 1 | View |
| 12 | Lugs, 10 AWG Cable, #8 | Connect to AC Main (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 13 | Lugs, 10 AWG Cable, #10 | Connect to AC Main (Pack of 3) | 2 | View |
| 14 | 120V AC Distribution Panel (4 Positions*) | Blue Sea Panel: AC Main + 4 Positions* | 1 | View |
| 15 | 6/3 AWG Triplex AC Marine Wire | Between inverter/charger & AC distribution panel | 1 | View |
| 16 | Lugs, 6 AWG Cable, #10 | Connect to distribution panel (Pack of 10) | 1 | View |
| 17 | 120V AC Wall Outlet | GFCI, 20A | 1 | View |
| 18 | 14/3 AWG Triplex AC Marine Wire | To wire load that requires 15A or 10A breaker | 1 | View |
| 19 | Lugs, 14 AWG Cable, #8 | Connect to distribution panel (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 20 | Lugs, 14 AWG Cable, #10 | Connect to distribution panel (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Optional Items
| 1 | 50A Breaker (Double-Pole) | To upgrade 120V AC distribution panel to 50A instead of 30A | View | |
| 2 | 20A Breaker | For load that requires 20A breaker (e.g. A/C) | View | |
| 3 | 10A Breaker | For load that requires 10A breaker | View | |
| 4 | 120V AC Distribution Panel (6 Positions*) | *6 Positions panel is sometimes cheaper, check it! | View | |
| 5 | 12/3 AWG Triplex AC Marine Wire | To wire load that requires 20A breaker (e.g. A/C) | View | |
| 6 | Lugs, 12 AWG Cable, #8 | Connect to AC Main (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
| 7 | Lugs, 12 AWG Cable, #10 | Connect to AC Main (Pack of 3) | 1 | View |
Hardware
| 1 | 8 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (8/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 2 | 10 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (10/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 3 | 12 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (12/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 4 | 14 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (14/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 5 | 16 AWG Black/Red Duplex Cable (16/2), Ancor Marine Grade | 100 feet | 1 | View |
| 6 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 8 AWG Cable, #10 Ring | To connect to Fuse Block (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 7 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 10-12 AWG Cable, #8 Ring | To connect to Fuse Block (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 8 | Heat Shrink Terminal Ring, 14-16 AWG Cable, #8 Ring | To connect to Fuse Block (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 9 | Heat Shrink Butt Connector, Ancor Marine | To connect to Loads (75 Pack Kit) | 1 | View |
| 10 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 10-12 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Female | To connect to certain loads (i.e. 12V Sockets) , to make “removable” connections (i.e. Fridge, LEDs) and to connect cable of different gauge together (i.e. LED Dimmer) (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 11 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 10-12 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Male | 1 | View | |
| 12 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 14-16 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Female | 1 | View | |
| 13 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 14-16 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Male | 1 | View | |
| 14 | Heat Shrink Disconnect, 18-22 AWG Cable, 1/4″ Tab, Male | 1 | View | |
| 15 | 3M Scotchlok Quick Splice with Gel (14 AWG stranded) | We used that to parallel our LED lights (25 Pack) | 1 | View |
| 16 | Heat Shrink Tubing Kit (with adhesive) | To protect lug after crimping | 1 | View |
| 17 | Split Loom Tubing, 3/8″ diameter 25 feet | To protect wire bundles | 1 | View |
| 18 | Split Loom Tubing, 1/2″ diameter 25 feet | To protect wire bundles | 1 | View |
| 19 | Split Loom Tubing, 3/4″ diameter 10 feet | To protect wire bundles | 1 | View |
| 20 | Nylon Cable Clamps Kit | To secure cable/split-loom to wood | 1 | View |
| 21 | Zip Tie Mount with Adhesive | To secure cable/split-loom to metal | 1 | View |
| 22 | Nylon Zip Ties Kit | To secure cable/split-loom | 1 | View |
| 23 | Rubber Grommet Kit | To protect wire from sharp edge (going through metal hole) | 1 | View |
12V Loads
| 1 | Maxxair 6200K Roof Fan | Fan Installation | 1 | Amazon |
| 2 | LED Ceiling Lights (Dimmable) | 3 | Amazon | |
| 3 | PWM Dimmer for LED Lights, 12V, Slider | 1 | Amazon | |
| 4 | Blue Sea 12V Socket | Electrical System Guide | 4 | Amazon |
| 5 | Shurflo Revolution Water Pump, 3 GPM | 1 | Amazon | |
| 6 | ON/OFF Switch for Water Pump | 1 | Amazon | |
| 7 | Webasto Air Top 2000 STC Gasoline Heater | Webasto Installation | 1 | Amazon |
| 8 | Propex HS2000 Propane Heater | Propex Installation | 1 | Dealers |
| 9 | Novakool R5810 Fridge, 12V only | Fridge Guide | 1 | Campervan-HQ |
| 10 | Sirocco ii Gimbal Fan, 12V | Sirocco ii Installation / Review | 1 | Amazon |
| 11 | Nature’s Head Composting Toilet | Toilet Installation | 1 | Amazon |
| 12 | Propane Solenoid Shutoff Valve | 1 | Amazon | |
| 13 | ON/OFF Switch for Propane Solenoid | 1 | Amazon |
NOTE: The items list above is a pretty good overview of what's needed. But you can use our calculator (faroutride.com/van-electrical-calculator) to generate a precise, customized list that defines entirely your electrical system. It doesn't get any easier than this!
Well, that escalated quickly… If you can’t “read” the wiring diagram above, don’t give up just yet. Keep reading to build your knowledge and work your way up! Be patient, sleep on it; it might take multiple reads before it all starts to make sense…
2- Battery Bank
Because power from the charge sources is not available at all times, a battery bank is mandatory in every van electrical system. The role of the battery bank is to accumulate energy from the charge sources, store it, then release it to the loads when needed.