A reliable electrical system makes the difference between a van that works comfortably off-grid and one that constantly leaves you worrying about battery levels, charging problems and unexpected power loss.

WeConvert designs, installs, upgrades and repairs electrical systems for campervans, motorhomes and self-build conversions from our private workshop in Blackburn.

Whether you need a straightforward leisure battery installation, a complete off-grid electrical system or help correcting an existing setup, we can recommend a solution based on how you actually use your vehicle.

We serve customers across Blackburn, Darwen, Accrington, Burnley, Rossendale, Bolton, Chorley, Preston and the surrounding Lancashire and North West area.

Campervan Electrical Installations

Every electrical system should be designed around the equipment it needs to run, how long the vehicle will be used away from hook-up and how the batteries will be recharged.

A weekend camper with basic lighting and USB charging does not need the same system as a full-time off-grid motorhome running an inverter, compressor fridge, water heater and multiple appliances.

Our electrical installation services can include:

• Leisure battery systems
• Lithium battery upgrades
• Solar panel systems
• DC-to-DC charging
• Split-charge systems
• 230V mains hook-up
• Battery chargers
• Inverters
• 12V lighting
• USB and 12V sockets
• Fridge power supplies
• Water pump wiring
• Heater power supplies
• Battery monitoring
• Control panels
• Consumer units and protective devices
• Electrical preparation for future equipment

We can install a complete new system or improve individual parts of an existing installation.

Complete Off-Grid Electrical Systems

A properly designed off-grid system allows you to use your campervan or motorhome without relying constantly on campsites and electric hook-up.

The correct setup depends on:

• Your daily power consumption
• The appliances you want to run
• How many days you want to remain off-grid
• Whether you travel regularly or stay parked for long periods
• The amount of available roof space
• Your vehicle’s alternator type
• Your preferred battery technology
• Your available budget
• Whether you need 230V appliances away from hook-up

We can help specify a balanced system rather than simply installing the largest battery or solar panel available.

A complete off-grid installation may include:

• Lithium or AGM leisure batteries
• Roof-mounted solar panels
• Solar charge controller
• DC-to-DC charger
• Mains battery charger
• Battery protection and isolation
• Fuses and circuit protection
• Battery monitor
• Inverter
• 12V distribution
• 230V hook-up equipment
• Lighting and accessory circuits

The goal is to create a system that is safe, understandable and suitable for your real usage.

Solar Panel Installation

Solar panels can help maintain your leisure battery while the vehicle is parked and reduce your reliance on driving or campsite hook-up.

We install solar systems for campervans and motorhomes, including:

• Fixed roof-mounted solar panels
• Rigid solar panels
• Suitable low-profile panel installations
• Solar charge controllers
• MPPT solar controllers
• Solar isolation and circuit protection
• Cable entry glands
• Battery monitoring
• Integration with existing leisure battery systems

Before recommending a panel size, we consider your roof space, battery capacity, expected power use and the other charging methods available.

A larger solar panel does not automatically solve every charging problem. Battery condition, shading, winter light levels, controller capacity and daily consumption all affect performance.

Lithium Leisure Battery Upgrades

Lithium batteries can provide more usable capacity, faster charging and a longer service life than traditional lead-acid leisure batteries when installed as part of a compatible system.

However, changing to lithium is not always as simple as replacing the battery.

An upgrade may also require changes to:

• DC-to-DC charging
• Mains battery charging
• Solar controller settings
• Cable sizes
• Fuses and circuit protection
• Battery monitoring
• Battery isolation
• Low-temperature charging protection
• Equipment settings

We can assess the existing system and explain which components can remain and which may need replacing.

A lithium upgrade may be suitable if:

• Your existing battery runs flat too quickly
• You regularly stay away from electric hook-up
• You need more usable capacity
• You use an inverter
• You want faster charging while driving
• Weight and available battery space are important
• Your current lead-acid batteries are due for replacement

We will recommend a system based on your expected usage rather than battery capacity alone.

Leisure Battery Installation

We install and replace leisure batteries for campervans, motorhomes and self-build vans.

Battery options may include:

• AGM batteries
• Gel batteries
• Traditional lead-acid leisure batteries
• Lithium iron phosphate batteries
• Single-battery systems
• Multiple-battery banks

The right battery depends on how the vehicle is used, how it is charged and which equipment it supplies.

When replacing a failed battery, we can also check whether an underlying charging fault or electrical drain may have contributed to the problem.

Simply fitting a new battery without addressing the cause can lead to the same failure happening again.

DC-to-DC Charger Installation

A DC-to-DC charger uses the vehicle’s alternator to charge the leisure battery while driving.

This is particularly important on many modern vehicles fitted with smart alternators, where older split-charge methods may not provide reliable charging.

We can install DC-to-DC chargers suitable for:

• AGM leisure batteries
• Lithium batteries
• Smart alternators
• Traditional alternators
• Single leisure batteries
• Larger battery banks

A DC-to-DC installation typically involves:

• Charger selection
• Correctly sized cables
• Suitable fusing
• Battery and ignition connections
• Safe cable routing
• Charger configuration
• Testing under operating conditions

We can also investigate systems where the leisure battery is no longer charging properly while the vehicle is being driven.

Split-Charge Systems

Some older campervans and simpler installations use a voltage-sensitive relay or split-charge relay to charge the leisure battery.

These systems can remain suitable in certain vehicles, particularly where a conventional alternator is fitted and the installation is correctly designed.

We can assess existing split-charge systems and investigate problems such as:

• Leisure battery not charging
• Relay failing to activate
• Blown fuses
• Damaged or undersized cables
• Poor earth connections
• Excessive voltage drop
• Overheating terminals
• Incompatibility with a smart alternator

Where the existing system is no longer appropriate, we can discuss upgrading to a DC-to-DC charger.

Mains Hook-Up Installation

A mains hook-up allows suitable equipment to operate from a campsite or external 230V supply.

Depending on the vehicle and intended use, a hook-up system may include:

• External hook-up inlet
• Consumer unit
• Residual current protection
• Circuit breakers
• 230V sockets
• Mains battery charger
• Appliance supplies
• Isolation
• Labelling
• Protective bonding and earthing arrangements

Mains electrical work is undertaken only where it falls within our competence and agreed scope.

Where independent inspection, certification or specialist sign-off is required, this will be discussed before the work begins.

Inverter Installation

An inverter converts leisure battery power into a 230V supply for suitable appliances when the vehicle is away from mains hook-up.

Inverters are available in a wide range of power ratings, but the correct size depends on the equipment being used and the capacity of the battery system.

We can install:

• Small inverters for light loads
• Pure sine wave inverters
• Larger inverter systems
• Inverter-chargers
• Remote inverter controls
• Dedicated inverter sockets
• Battery cables and protection
• Isolation equipment

High-powered appliances can place a very large demand on a 12V battery system.

Before installing an inverter, we consider:

• Appliance starting and running power
• Battery capacity
• Maximum discharge current
• Cable length and cable size
• Fuse requirements
• Ventilation
• Charging capacity
• Expected run time

In some cases, replacing a high-powered appliance with a lower-energy alternative may be more practical than installing a larger inverter and battery system.

12V Lighting and Sockets

We install and upgrade low-voltage equipment including:

• LED ceiling lights
• Reading lights
• Kitchen worktop lighting
• Under-cabinet lighting
• Garage and storage lighting
• Exterior lights
• USB charging sockets
• USB-C charging points
• 12V accessory sockets
• Control switches
• Dimmable lighting
• Bedside charging points
• Switch panels

Lighting and sockets can be installed as part of a full conversion, partial conversion or standalone upgrade.

We can also correct existing wiring where lights flicker, switches become hot, sockets stop working or circuits repeatedly blow fuses.

Battery Monitoring

A battery monitor provides a clearer picture of how much energy is entering and leaving the leisure battery.

Basic voltage displays can be useful, but they do not always give an accurate indication of remaining capacity, particularly with lithium batteries.

Depending on the system, monitoring options may include:

• Battery voltage displays
• Shunt-based battery monitors
• Bluetooth battery monitoring
• Solar generation monitoring
• Charging status displays
• Combined system control panels
• Remote equipment monitoring

A properly configured monitor can help you understand:

• Current battery capacity
• Power consumption
• Solar charging performance
• Alternator charging
• Time remaining at the current load
• Whether an appliance is using more power than expected

Campervan Electrical Fault Finding

Electrical problems are not always caused by the component that appears to have failed.

A fridge that keeps switching off, for example, may be affected by low voltage, poor cable connections, an undersized supply cable, battery condition or a charging problem elsewhere in the system.

We can investigate issues including:

• Leisure batteries losing charge
• Batteries not charging while driving
• Solar panels not producing power
• Inverters cutting out
• Lights flickering
• Sockets losing power
• Fuses repeatedly blowing
• Chargers displaying errors
• Control panels behaving incorrectly
• Equipment switching off under load
• Cables or terminals becoming warm
• Unexplained electrical drains
• Poorly installed or incomplete wiring

Where fault finding is required, we normally begin with a chargeable diagnostic assessment.

Once the cause has been identified, we explain the findings and provide a quote for any further repairs or replacement equipment required.

Correcting Existing and Self-Build Electrical Systems

We can assess electrical systems installed by another converter or as part of a DIY campervan build.

Common issues can include:

• Incorrectly sized cables
• Missing circuit protection
• Fuses positioned incorrectly
• Untidy or unsupported wiring
• Inaccessible electrical components
• Poorly made cable terminations
• Incorrect charger settings
• Incompatible equipment
• Insufficient battery capacity
• Inadequate ventilation
• Unlabelled circuits
• Systems that have grown without a clear design

Before altering an existing system, we may need access to concealed wiring, batteries, chargers and distribution equipment.

Where parts of the installation cannot be inspected, we will explain any limitations before beginning work.

We do not automatically condemn an entire self-build installation because one problem has been identified. Where practical, we aim to retain suitable components and correct only the areas that need attention.

Electrical Systems for Full and Partial Conversions

We can install electrical systems as part of a full campervan conversion or as a standalone stage within a self-build project.

This can suit customers who want us to complete the technical electrical work before they continue with furniture and finishing themselves.

A staged electrical installation can include:

• System design
• Equipment specification
• First-fix wiring
• Battery and charger installation
• Solar preparation
• Lighting circuits
• Appliance supplies
• Control panels
• Final connections
• Testing
• Handover information

Early planning is important because electrical equipment needs appropriate space, ventilation and future access.

It is much easier to design cable routes and equipment locations before walls, floors and furniture have been permanently installed.

Our Electrical Installation Process

1. Initial enquiry

Tell us about your vehicle, how you use it and what you want the electrical system to power.

Include details of any equipment already installed and any known problems.

2. Power requirements

We establish your likely energy use based on the appliances, lighting, heating, refrigeration and charging equipment you plan to use.

This helps determine the appropriate battery, solar and charging capacity.

3. Vehicle assessment

We inspect the available space, roof layout, current wiring and existing equipment.

For upgrade work, we assess which parts of the existing system can be retained.

4. System proposal

We recommend a suitable system and explain the main components.

Where options are available, we can provide different levels of specification based on your budget and off-grid requirements.

5. Installation

The agreed equipment is installed with suitable cable routing, circuit protection and access for future maintenance.

6. Testing and handover

The completed system is tested as appropriate to the installation.

We explain the controls, charging methods, isolation points and normal system operation before the vehicle is returned.

Why Choose WeConvert?

Systems designed around your usage

We consider what you actually need to power rather than recommending equipment based only on headline capacity.

Campervan and motorhome experience

We understand how electrical systems interact with heating, refrigeration, water systems, ventilation and interior layouts.

New installations and upgrades

We can design a system from the beginning or improve an existing installation in stages.

Diagnostic approach

Where something has failed, we investigate the cause rather than replacing equipment without testing.

Clear explanation

Campervan electrical systems can become unnecessarily confusing. We aim to explain the available options in straightforward terms.

Local workshop service

Our Darwen workshop serves customers from Blackburn, Accrington, Burnley, Rossendale, Bolton, Preston, Chorley and the wider Lancashire area.

Vehicles We Work On

We can install and upgrade electrical systems in many popular campervans and motorhomes, including vehicles based on:

• Citroën Relay
• Peugeot Boxer
• Fiat Ducato
• Ford Transit
• Ford Transit Custom
• Volkswagen Transporter
• Volkswagen Crafter
• MAN TGE
• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
• Renault Master
• Vauxhall Movano
• Factory-built campervans
• Coachbuilt motorhomes
• Self-build panel vans

Suitability depends on the vehicle, the intended equipment and the condition of any existing installation.

What We Do Not Cover

Our work is focused on the campervan or motorhome habitation electrical system.

We do not normally provide:

• Engine management diagnostics
• Starter motor repairs
• Alternator replacement
• General automotive wiring repairs
• Vehicle lighting repairs
• Airbag or safety-system diagnostics
• Mechanical servicing
• MOT repairs
• Chassis electrical diagnostics

Where a problem relates to the base vehicle rather than the conversion system, an auto electrician or suitable vehicle garage may be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much solar power does my campervan need?

This depends on your battery capacity, daily energy use, roof space, time of year and how often you drive or use mains hook-up.

A smaller weekend camper may need much less solar than a motorhome used for extended off-grid travel.

Can you add solar panels to my existing system?

Yes, subject to assessing the existing battery, controller, cable routes and charging setup.

We will confirm whether the current equipment is compatible or whether any components need upgrading.

Can I replace my AGM battery with lithium?

Often yes, but the chargers, solar controller, cable sizes, protection and monitoring equipment must also be checked for compatibility.

A lithium battery should not be treated as a direct replacement without assessing the rest of the system.

Do I need a DC-to-DC charger?

Many modern vehicles with smart alternators require a DC-to-DC charger for dependable leisure battery charging.

Older vehicles may use a different type of charging system.

We can check what is suitable for your vehicle.

Can you install a mains hook-up?

We can install suitable mains hook-up systems where the work falls within our competence and agreed scope.

Any inspection or certification requirements will be explained before installation.

Can an inverter run a kettle or microwave?

Potentially, but high-powered appliances require a suitable inverter, large battery capacity, heavy cabling and adequate charging.

Running these appliances from a 12V system can use a substantial amount of energy.

We will assess whether the proposed setup is practical.

Can you repair an electrical system installed by someone else?

Yes. We can inspect and repair systems fitted by another converter or as part of a self-build.

Access to the batteries, chargers, wiring and distribution equipment may be required.

Why does my leisure battery keep going flat?

Possible causes include a worn battery, insufficient charging, incorrect charger settings, an electrical drain, poor wiring connections or simply using more energy than the system can replace.

Testing is normally required to identify the actual cause.

How long does an installation take?

This depends on the size of the system, the condition of the vehicle and how much of the interior needs to be removed for access.

A small upgrade may be completed in a day, while a full off-grid installation can require several workshop days.

Do you install customer-supplied equipment?

This may be possible where the equipment is suitable, compatible and supplied with the required installation information.

We cannot guarantee customer-supplied products and may decline equipment that we consider unsuitable for the installation.

Request an Electrical or Solar Quote

To help us understand what you need, please provide:

• Vehicle make, model and year
• Campervan or motorhome type
• Wheelbase and roof height
• Existing battery type and capacity
• Existing charging equipment
• Appliances you want to power
• How many days you want to stay off-grid
• Any current electrical problems
• Photographs of the battery and electrical equipment
• Your postcode
• Your preferred timeframe
• Your approximate budget

Whether you need a simple charging upgrade or a complete electrical system, we can assess the vehicle and recommend a practical solution for the way you intend to use it.