BEGIN SCROLLING
Allbrand Caravan Services
Generally, when AllBrand installs an electric brake controller into a rig, we will run an auxiliary as well. This allows the caravan’s refrigerator to run on the tow vehicle’s 12V source whilst you are driving, and the internal lighting of the van to work from the vehicle’s battery. These are standard features on most vans and are definitely worth taking advantage of.
No. This is mostly because a charging circuit has very specific requirements which are quite different from those of general-use auxiliary power. This includes much heavier wire (generally twin 10mm gauge runs) and a secondary outlet plug (typically of the Anderson type).
When deciding whether to or how best to use the Auxiliary circuit, give consideration to the following:
An auxiliary is a circuit which runs to the van via circuit breaker from the tow vehicle’s battery, to the trailer plug on the rear of the vehicle. Generally linking to the second pin in the socket, it will match up with standard wiring in the caravan.
As a general rule, a 3-way fridge will have a 150W element fitted which will need a heavy duty wire (at least 6mm, preferably heavier gauge) to work as efficiently as possible. Ideally, this wire will run directly to the vehicle’s power source (via a fuse) and not come from other points on the vehicle. This single heavy wire is the most effective option and generally proves to be the most popular.
Consider this scenario: you’re driving along and find a nice spot to stop off for lunch. If there is no means to stop it happening, the refrigerator will continue to draw power from the vehicle’s battery. Before long, you will have drawn enough power to make it impossible to start the vehicle again when you get back in to leave. To help combat this problem, AllBrand has several options for switching to consider:
No. This is mostly because a charging circuit has very specific requirements which are quite different from those of general-use Auxiliary power. This includes much heavier wire (generally twin 10mm gauge runs) and a secondary outlet plug (typically of the Anderson type).
| Summary of Auxiliary Wire Options and Considerations | Basic Auxiliary Wire | Auxiliary Wire with Automatic Switch | Basic Auxiliary Wire and Fridge Switch |
| Means of preventing draw on car battery when stationary | Pull the plug out or turn the fridge off when stopped | Auxiliary wire cuts off when you turn the vehicle off | Fridge switch turns off when caravan is stationary |
| Plug & socket description | Utilises standard 7 pin plug and socket | ||
| Advantages | Cost effective | Automatic cutoff | Automatic fridge cutoff but retain option to use internal lights |
| Cost for work on the vehicle (bracket values are assuming we are fitting a brake controller at the same time). Allbrand has the price of hot wire in quoted electric brake fitment. | $0 | $240 ($95) | $240 ($0) |
| Cost for work on the van | N/A | $240 | |
| Fridge performance on 12V | Adequate |
Get the latest caravan news, tips, and tricks right here.
Book a 15-minute call with our head technician now for free (normally $65) to get started.