Camper specifications and how things work
Here we provide answers to some of the things you might wonder about if you have never used a camper or motorhome before:
The length of the camper is about 5 metres - a little over 20ft.
The height of the camper is 3 metres, about 10ft.
The width of the camper is 2.7 metres - a little over 6ft.
The engine is a 2.5litre Turbo Diesel.
The camper has 3 Power supplies:
1.
The van living accommodation has a van battery which is separate from the engine (car) battery - this is called the leisure battery. It is situated under the driver's seat.
2.
There is also the option to use mains electricity via the special heavy duty hook up lead supplied free with the van. Electricity 'hook up' spots are available at most campsites. When using mains hookup, the leisure battery is not in use but is being charged up automatically.
3.
There are two gas bottles in the outside cupboard which supply power to some of the appliances in the living accommodation. One will be full. In the unlikely event that you run low, just replace with exactly the same type of canisters. Any replacement is your responsibility. (The regulators/connectors fit specific bottles/canisters)
The camper leisure battery:
Provides 12V power, to most of the devices fitted in the motorhome.
The battery is charged when you use the electric hookup - which means you plug in to the mains power ie. at a camp site, or will charge automatically while you are driving. A short charge can be held by running the van engine for 15 - 20 minutes whilst stationary.
The fridge, lights, the water pumps for taps shower & toilet, the electric ignition for hob, water heater and fridge, There is the option to request the use of a small hot air heater stored in the left locker for use on mains hook up only (saves on your gas!). Laptops can be plugged in when on mains hook up but not on the 12v. We use a mobile dongle for internet access when travelling.
There are round sockets in the living section of the van (like cigar lighters) for using things like the TV/DVD and 12 v hair dryers. The 12v hair dryer is not hugely powerful though.
General day to day driving of the vehicle will re-charge the leisure battery for lights and water pump etc. If however, you are staying put somewhere without driving or electric hook up, the leisure battery can last two or three days without requiring a charge - but it does depend what you use and for how long.
Camper Fridge:
The fridge is one device which can be operated from all three power sources. It can be powered by the engine while driving, and when stationary via mains electricity or by the gas bottles. The fridge is kept cold when driving via the engine battery. It shows a little red light when it is powered whilst driving. If you stop for any length of time though it is best to ignite the gas to power it. We will connect the camper up to the mains prior to your arrival so that the fridge is cold enough to chill your beer or wine and keep ice and pre frozen food frozen.
Camper Hot water
Water for your taps and shower is heated via the 12 volt leisure battery or 240v mains. It takes about 12-16 minutes to heat up a tank of hot water. The water will stay hot for some time. The water can be very hot, so you should mix the hot water with the cold supply to find the right temperature
Camper Electricity
Mains Electricity - Hook Ups
Most camp sites have electric hook up pitches. Behind the driver seat you will find a biag containing a long length of cable for connecting to the mains. The 240v hair dryer, electric kettle, games consoles and any outside camping lantern used, all plug into the 240V sockets in three locations 1 x front kitchen and 2 x rear seating area.
Overseas visitors please note: UK mains electricity runs on 240v rather than 110v/120v. Overseas visitors should therefore ensure they use correct chargers for phones etc
Phones can be charged via the cigar lighter in the cab of the vehicle as you drive - not when stationary.
The camper Gas supply:
Camper Heater
The Heater in the camper runs off gas. It is very effective, has an electric ignition and is easy to operate. (but we suggest you request the small electric fan heater if using mains)
Camper Oven
The Oven, grill and 4 burner hob run off gas. The oven cooks well and quickly. The gas hob & grill operate off automatic electric ignition.
The Camper Toilet:
The design of these camper toilets have come a long way and are completely hygienic to use and to empty. An electric pump operates the flush which runs off 12 v. A water tight cassette system is used to capture waste. Empty regularly to make life easier though.
The van is well maintained, regularly serviced and has an up to date VOSA (Ministry of Transport) Certificate.
Seat Belts:
2 in the cab - there are no seat belts in the rear. This is quite legal for this vehicle. It is also legal for passengers to sit in the rear when travelling even though there are no seat belts in the rear. We do not however recommend children travel in the rear. They must be seated in the passenger seat with seat belt secured.
|
