Motorhome Upgrades Archives - Bristol Caravans and Motorhomes

My Ultimate Guide to Motorhome Self-Leveling Systems – Functionality Q&A FAQ

Campervan Upgrades Motorhome Levelling Systems Motorhome Upgrades

When I’m touring, comfort and stability are essential for an enjoyable motorhome or campervan experience. Uneven terrain can lead to discomfort, appliances can stop working, and even structural strain on your vehicle. This is where self-leveling systems come into play. Brands like E&P, AL-KO, MA-VE, and Amplo offer cutting-edge solutions designed to make motorhome leveling effortless and efficient. My name is Oakleigh, and in this Q&A FAQ review, we’ll explore some of the regular questions I’m asked regarding self-levelling systems and real life answers.If you are thinking about a levelling system, and like our approach, Click Here to drop us […]

Levelling-System-MA-VE-MAN

Best motorhome self-levelling system for UK campsites?

Motorhome Levelling Systems Motorhome Upgrades

When researching the best motorhome self-levelling system, there are a number of factors to consider and rank in order of preference. Here are our top 5 options to consider: Price: How much to install a motorhome levelling system? At the time of writing you can pay from £5,695 up to £12,000 for a hydraulic levelling system, depending on system and the Make/Model of motorhome. Imagine the difference between and Fiat Ducato based campervan and a Mega top of the range Morello motorhome. To obtain a specific price book in for a free assessment. That said here are two motorhome levelling […]

Motorhome levelling system

Motorhome Levelling Systems – Hydraulic vs. 12v: Which Is Best?

Motorhome Levelling Systems Motorhome Upgrades

When choosing a motorhome levelling system, one of the key decisions is between hydraulic and 12v. Both are for the purpose of lifting and levelling vehicles, comparative in their function, but come with differing benefits and considerations. Motorhome Levelling Systems – Hydraulic: Motorhome levelling systems hydraulic vs 12v which is best? Hydraulic? Advantages: Hydraulic systems are known for their power and speed, capable of lifting heavier motorhomes rapidly while also offering enhanced stability, particularly on uneven surfaces.Drawbacks: These systems are usually heavier and more expensive. Installation is more complex, often taking longer. Hydraulic systems require maintenance in the form of […]

Smart Alternator Fiat Ducato

Can 12v Accessories damage Motorhomes with a Smart Alternator?

Campervan Maintenance Campervan Repairs Campervan Upgrades Motorhome Maintenance Motorhome Repairs Motorhome Upgrades

Motorhome Issue: Smart Alternator This article is positioned as an overview of “smart alternators, motorhomes and accessories”, describing basic principles.It is meant for discussion, if you have any comments or suggestions please contact the author direct at:oakleigh@bristolcaravans.com Issue Can incorrect accessory fitting damage the engine battery or engine battery charging? Background EU legislation was introduced to help reduce vehicle emissions. “Smart alternators” are part of the EU emissions initiative.Smart alternators were introduced to the UK car market around 2015, some motorhome brands were slower to implement. We recommend that you check. Do not assume your motorhome or campervan has a […]

Motorhome solar panel

What’s the Best Solar Panel Kit?

Caravan Upgrades Motorhome Upgrades

What’s the best solar panel kit for beginners, including installation, be it caravan, motorhome or campervan? Before starting on any new accessory or upgrade, reflect and ask youself a few questions: Here are a few reasons leisure vehicle owners consider solar panels: Depending on your power consumption, it is possible to design and build a 12v system so that you can run without 230v EHU. The solar panel then becomes a key part of your 12v system, and is one way to re-charge your leisure batteries. Please also read our articles on Lithium Batteries. It this article we hope to […]

Lithium battery

Lithium Battery Top Tips

Lithium Batteries Motorhome Upgrades

Leisure Batteries come in many different shapes, sizes and types, no wonder it’s difficult choosing the right one. Leisure Batteries discharge (run flat) as you use your on-board 12v devices/appliances/accessories (example: inside LED lights), but don’t forget, appliances like your fridge, heater, cooker need 12v to run the PCB control panel and ignite the LPG. If you are in the South West, we are happy to help solve your battery issues, whatever your battery needs. Like many things in life, it helps if you have knowledge and a process to follow. In this article we will layout our thinking around […]

How much electric does the ALDE System use?

Caravan Upgrades Motorhome Upgrades

Alde, how much mains power? The following article is based on Alde’s June 2022 newsletter. Image © Alde. With the UK electric costs rising, Caravan, Motorhome and Campervan owners are counting their kWh £’s. In short, the price question can only be answered accurately after the you have seen your metered bill. This is because the you determine when you put the heating and hot water on, whether you shower, wash dishes, what temperature you set the thermostat, etc.. But here is some guidance. Mains Electric / 230v The Alde system is very efficient when running on 230v (mains electric), equivalent […]

Wild caravan camping in Scotland - going off-grid

Off Grid – Lithium Battery, Solar, 230v & B2B Chargers

Lithium Batteries Motorhome Upgrades

Are you planning to take your Caravan, Motorhome or Campervan off-grid?Fancy going off-grid, but a little nervous?Need your leisure battery to last the whole trip?Planning to be a digital nomad, and need your laptop to work whilst you are away? Unlike many retailers, we don’t just sell products and boxes. We understand Off-Grid systems, your challenges as an owner, and what you might need to achieve your dreams. Be it one part of an off-grid system, or a complete review or new install we can help you every step of the way. Caravan, Motorhome or Campervan owners often look at […]

Classic Caravan

Caravan & motorhome presents

Caravan Upgrades Motorhome Upgrades

Need a last-minute gift that is going to blow them away? Here at Bristol Caravans’, we have come up with five quick, easy ideas to solve your Christmas Shopping quarrels. Already finished your Christmas Shopping? Then download this blog as a PDF for your fellow caravaners next Birthday or Event. Awning Accessories: Spruce up your awning with FIAMMA’s adaptable accessories. Modified Chopping Board: Does your kitchenette have a big enough worktop to make your favourite meals? Get a bespoke chopping board, made to fit over the sink of your Caravan or Motorhome. Not only will you have more workspace, but […]

Bike rack

Bike rack issues solved

Motorhome Upgrades

Cannot go on holiday without your bike?Have difficulty lifting and loading the family’s bikes? Update to a bike rack which best suits you and your Caravan/ Motorhome. At Bristol Caravans we are here to help you find the best solution whether it is a new bike rack or electrical bike lift. Important things to keep in mind are, how many bikes do you have, where will the bike rack go, can my caravan/ motorhome withstand the weight? Before you purchase a bike rack, we recommend a visit to our AWS approved workshop. Upon visit, we will make sure your vehicle […]

leisure battery

What is the best leisure battery

Lithium Batteries Motorhome Upgrades

Need help choosing the right battery? If you can email us a list of appliances in your caravan, motorhome, or camper van, we can estimate the power needed for your caravan and recommend a few battery options. If you are considering a new Habitation Battery, please give us a call with your vehicle’s Make, Model, Age, and information on the current Leisure Battery fitted. What is a leisure battery? The leisure battery will power all 12v appliances including your lighting, and water pump! Accessories can be run off the 12v system, however accessories will increase the rate at which the […]

CTEK Lithium Battery

What are the benefits of a Lithium Battery?

Lithium Batteries Motorhome Upgrades

What does a leisure battery do? The leisure battery will power all 12v appliances including your lighting, and water pump! Your habitation 12v system needs to be above 11 volts for appliances to work. Benefits of a Lithium Battery Maintenance of a Lithium Leisure Battery Lithium batteries require little maintenance. Simply remove after a season and store in a cool place, out of direct sunlight. Ensure it is left at a minimum of 50% charge. It is not a requirement out of season to keep the battery on charge. Unlike other batteries Lithium (Li-on) batteries can re-charge hundreds of times […]

Solar Panels

What is the right size Solor Panel for my Caravan, Motorhome or Campervan?

Motorhome Upgrades

There are a few items to consider when thinking about a new solar panel: What type of leisure battery are you going to charge, and how many amps can it take when being charged? Only a Lithium battery can accept more than 10 amps, therefore if you have “standard” leisure batteries i.e. Lead Acid, Gel or AGM you should aim for a max or 10 amps charging. To put 10 amps into context, solar panels are usually sold based on a Watts rating. A 120w Solar Panel in theory without any loss, will give 10 amps, in reality it is […]

Maxx Fan to keep your motorhome cool

How to keep your Caravan / Motorhome Cool

Caravan Upgrades Motorhome Upgrades

Do you suffer from a hot and stuffy Caravan or Motorhome?Have sleepless, uncomfortable nights?Have little air flow, despite all the windows being open? Bristol Caravans are here to help you make your Caravan or Motorhome cool and comfortable through the summer months. It is important we make the most of the summer season. Setting up your Caravan for Summer Keep Blinds and Curtains closed Blocking the sunlight from entering your Caravan or Motorhome keeps the air inside from heating up. Although a simple trick, it can be very effective! Next time you go to the beach for the day, leave […]

Off-Grid Lithium Battery

Considerations when you plan to go off-grid

Caravan Upgrades Lithium Batteries Motorhome Upgrades

Are you planning to take your Caravan, Motorhome or Campervan off-grid?Fancy going off-grid, but a little nervous?Need your leisure battery to last the whole trip? If you are a keen explorer, here are some lithium battery considerations to ensure you get the most out of your Caravan, Motorhome or Campervan. If you are considering installing an inverter, battery charger, or solar panel, contact us and request our short questionnaire to help us identify exactly what you need. An example of an off-grid system: How it works: Without having 230v mains electricity, you will need alternative power solutions in its place. […]

How does an Inverter work?

Caravan Upgrades Motorhome Upgrades

An inverter is used to convert your 12v into 230v. This is perfect for going off-grid as you do not have access to mains electricity hook-up. In conjunction with your inverter, we recommend having a lithium battery. Due to inverters using a lot of energy, you must ensure you have a powerful battery. Having a lithium battery is the perfect solution because they have a higher energy density, a longer life, and the ability to maintain voltage even when heavily discharged. Why should I install an Inverter? Caravan and Motorhome owners use inverters because sometimes, they will want to power […]

Lithium Installation

Why should I fit a new Lithium Battery?

Lithium Batteries

Do you enjoy spending time off-grid? Have you always wanted to try going off-grid, but have been deterred by the limited facilities? Here at Bristol Caravans, we aim to provide a solution to all your leisure vehicle needs… A case study is probably a good way to discuss the benefits of a new Lithium Battery. A new customer asked how we could breathe life into an older motorhome. A great question from the customer, but we needed a little more info, so asked about his aims, and how he would like to use his leisure vehicle. He said his hobby […]