Many campsites now have electric hook-up (EHU) on their pitches.
This provides a source of mains electricity for your caravan allowing you to run lighting, refrigerators, water heating, appliances, etc.
Most pitches with EHU do not charge for the amount of electricity used, as this is included in the pitch price. Although sometimes lower, generally in the UK the current limit is 16Amps (approx 3.7KW).
To connect to the power supply on site, use the electric connection supplied with all new caravans, or purchase a new one from a reputable caravan dealer.
Please note; the infrastructure at most campsites is not designed to continuously supply the maximum power to all pitches, so please be mindful of this and limit your electric use during peak hours.
Check the trip current limit at the EHU bollard and ensure that any equipment, or combinations of equipment you intend to use will not exceed this current.
Step One
Please be careful, electricity can kill. If you are unsure or if you have any doubts ask the site warden to help. First, check that the mains isolation switch in your caravan is off, and that all installed and portable electrical appliances are switched off.
Step Two
Uncoil your electrical cable, checking for any signs of damage to the insulation or connections. If either is damaged, replace it with a complete new cable, or seek advice from a qualified electrician.
Step Three
Locate the mains inlet on your caravan that may be mounted directly through the caravan wall, or placed within an external battery box, open the cover and insert the female connector.
Step Four
Find the electricity supply bollard that has been assigned to your pitch and raise the cover on the individual outlet. Visually inspect the socket for any obvious signs of damage. If you are happy that the socket looks good and is in safe working order, if the trip switch is accessible, turn this off and then connect the male end of your cable. Turn the trip switch back on. If the trip switch is not accessible, plug in, and if the circuit trips, you should consult the site owner or warden.
Step Five
There should be a locking mechanism for the plug. This may be achieved by rotating the plug, which also acts as an on/off switch, or the plug cover may clip over a small locating lug to retain it in position. Check that the cable is located securely before leaving the socket.
Step Six
Disperse any unneeded cable length beneath the caravan in large loose loops. If the cable is tightly coiled it can overheat, melt the insulation and cause a short circuit and/or start a fire.
Step Seven
Switch the caravan mains isolating switch back on and check that the circuit breaker (or RCD - Residual Current Device) is working by pressing the test button. Reset and you’re now connected.