I have just wired up my car with 12s electrics using a split charge relay. When I connect it to my caravan(engine off) the 12v electrics all work ok inside the caravan. However, after I start the engine and the fridge starts to operate, all the 12 volt electrics inside turn off. Even when I switch between car/battery,it makes no difference.
I am assuming that I should be able to use 12 volt lights and the 12 volt fridge at the same time while connected to the car.
This depends on your van, but most likely the habitation relay will kick in to provide a supply charge for your battery and 12v feed for the fridge only when the towcar's engine is running.
It sounds like it has been wired up incorrectly and sounds like it's something to do with the cars ignition feed as the circuit operates with engine off but not when it's switched on. I would get it out checked professionally just in case the wiring is unsafe and causes a fire as your car insurance is unlikely to pay out in a case of DIY wiring.
Hi guys. I contacted the seller of my caravan who tells me this is a normal thing for caravans. He says all 12 volts appliances are switched off within the van when the car engine is running so all electricity is used to charge both the fridge and recharge the vans battery. This does sound plausible and also it would discourage people from being in a van while the van is in motion.
It sounds like it has been wired up incorrectly and sounds like it's something to do with the cars ignition feed as the circuit operates with engine off but not when it's switched on. I would get it out checked professionally just in case the wiring is unsafe and causes a fire as your car insurance is unlikely to pay out in a case of DIY wiring.
I am really surprised that you do not seem to know how your caravan operates in this situation!!
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Topic: fridge and 12 volt light problem
