Motorhome Self Levelling System – Why I Recommend
Personal review of five Motorhome Self Levelling Systems on the market in the UK in 2025.
Motorhome Self-Levelling Systems – My Ultimate Guide
Motorhome Self-Leveling Systems, which brands, top tips and FAQs
Best Motorhome Self-Levelling Systems (UK)
When researching the best motorhome self-levelling system, there are a number of factors to consider and rank in order of preference. Before we jump into the detail, please can I introduce myself, I’m Oakleigh and I started Bristol Caravans to deliver great customer experiences, don’t take my word for it, please read our reviews. If you are looking to buy a motorhome, campervan or caravan self-levelling system, here is a link our main levelling page, which links to all the systems we sell. Here are our top suggestions to consider: Price: How much to install a motorhome levelling system? At […]
Motorhome Levelling Systems – Hydraulic vs. 12v: Which Is Best?
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 […]
Can 12V Accessories Damage Smart Alternator Motorhomes?
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 […]
What’s the Best Solar Panel Kit?
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 Top Tips
Before we jump into Lithium Battery Top Tips, a little about us. Bristol Caravans is an independent workshop, as well as offering Habitation Service & Mechanical Repairs, we also supply and fit a range of upgrades, including; Motorhome Self-Levelling Systems, Lithium Installs, Damp Repairs, Motorhome Tow bars, and a range of other accessories, please check out our website, if you can’t find what you are looking for, please give us a call on 01454 612 893. Hope to meet you and your Motorhome, campervan or Caravan soon. Leisure Batteries come in many different shapes, sizes and types, no wonder it’s […]
How Much Power Does the ALDE System Use?
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 […]
Going Off Grid with your vehicle?
Fancy Going Off Grid with your Caravan, Motorhome or Campervan? Here is a brief overview of the key parts of an off-grid 12v system that will help make your trip a success. Let’s face it, it’s a big step to say “Good Bye” to a 230v electric hook-up post! If you planning to take your Caravan, Motorhome or Campervan off-grid?, you will rightly be feeling a little nervous… You might be concerned that your leisure battery is going to last the whole trip!You might be planning to become a digital nomad and need your laptop to work whilst you are […]
Caravan & motorhome presents
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 issues solved
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 […]
What is the best leisure battery
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. But before we dive into all things leisure battery, quick heads up. Bristol caravans is designed as a one-stop-shop for your caravan, motorhome & campervan. We have experienced & qualified staff that can help you with Engine Chassis Service, Habitation Service, Damp Repairs and popular upgrades like Self-Levelling Systems, Rear Air Suspension, Lithium Installation ( leisure battery upgrade ) and much more, just […]
What are the benefits of a Lithium Battery?
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 […]
What is the right size Solor Panel for my Caravan, Motorhome or Campervan?
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 […]
How to keep your Caravan / Motorhome Cool
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 […]
Considerations when you plan to go off-grid
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 in a motorhome or caravan?
If you are wondering “How does an Inverter work in a motorhome or caravan?” this article should help as a first step. 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 […]
Why should I fit a new Lithium Battery?
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 […]
