The question on the minds of most people boarding a caravan for the first time is the same: "Where does the electricity come from, how does the water flow?" The answer is actually quite simple; a caravan runs on two separate but complementary systems.
Two separate electrical lines: 12V and 220V
The 220V line comes into play when you connect to the socket at the campsite. It is fed by an extension cable from the locked entry point (ABL) on the outside of the caravan. It works like at home; you use your sockets normally.
The 12V line runs on the battery and lets you keep living even when there is no grid. Lighting, the water pump, the control panel and the USB / Type-C sockets are on this line.
In our models there is a separate fuse box for each line, a main system cut-off switch, and a residual current device on the 220V side. The wiring uses halogen-free (non-flammable) marine cable — the type also preferred on watercraft because it does not release toxic gas in the event of fire.
What does the control panel show?
Through the plexiglass control panel you can see the battery voltage and the fresh water level in real time. These two indicators are the most important information telling you how much longer you will be comfortable at an off-grid camp.
Water system
The 100-litre fresh water tank (80 litres in the LuXon series), filled from the locked filling point on the outside of the caravan, is pressurised by a 12V water pump. When you open the tap the pump starts; when you close it, it stops. Hot and cold water are carried to the kitchen and bathroom through high-pressure-resistant hoses.
Practical tips for efficient use at camp
- Wash the dishes in a basin, not under running water; 100 litres run out surprisingly fast.
- Turn off the water while soaping in the shower. A handheld shower fitting makes this easier.
- Try not to drop the battery below 50%; its lifespan lengthens noticeably.
- On long stays, a solar panel boost multiplies the time you can stay off-grid.
- If you will not use it for a long time in winter, always drain the water system; freezing water bursts the pipes.