Adding extra 12v lights

[Chaps]

After spending 2 weeks away in our Caravan we've come to realise that we could do with a couple of extra 12v spotlights for reading etc.

Would it be a big job to wire a couple up? Or does anyone have any idea how much we could expect to pay if we have them done when the van goes for it's first service? We'd supply them ourselves so it would just be the wiring and labour.

Thanks in anticipation.

 

[rob_jax]

Hi,

Is it a big job to wire in extra 12 volt spot-lights - No, it's an easy DIY job, but it takes time for both you or a professional fitter to do the job.

And whilst a caravan centre would like the profit margin from selling a pair of spot-lights,I believe that's nothing compared to the labour rate you'll be charged for a time consuming job.

Robert

 

[Jennifer2]

Easy DIY job, time taken will depend on your skills and how accessible your wiring is.

 

[Pat_374304630]

Doing it yourself will save you a small fortune.You could probably get instructions through the internet.It is not a difficult job.It depends on where you run the cables to/from.

 

[bigfam]

12v electrics is easy. Just find the nearest supply to where you want your lights and take a feed from it using a connecting block. Basically just take your feeds from the + and -. The currents are so low that you could easily tap into the feed to the nearest light.

 

[Guest]

Check out CAK Tanks web site and on line catalogue for caravan LED lights and replacement LED bulbs for 12v lights.

LED lighting is very bright and easy on the battery, and very good when only charging via solar panel.

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hello Clair & Rob,

In essence 12V wiring is relatively straight forward and you are not likely to suffer any sort of electrical shock from it, BUT as with any electrical wiring there are dangers to consider - even with 12V. Proper insulation and separation must be observed to prevent possible fire hazards.

The caravan battery can store a lot of electrical power, The two most common sizes are 85Ah and 110Ah. These batteries can provide significant currents, and they will easily cause any of the standard 12V wiring used in caravans to heat up and melt the insulation and possibly catch fire to the surrounding wooden structures if the wires short out.

If you are not confident in what you are doing refer the job to an electrician.

 

[Chaps]

Thanks for the advice everyone. Going away with a large group of caravanning friends next weekend so think we'll bring the subject up around the barbie and see if anyone volunteers some hand-on help.

Cheers