Caravan Power: Why Caravans Use 15-Amp Electrical Circuits - And what do I do about it?

Unlike a house, Australian caravans and trailers have a single 240V electrical circuit. You may have noticed that your van has just one 16A residual current device (RCD). Therefore, in order to run more than a few appliances at once – depending on their current draw – a 15A circuit is necessary.

Every electrical appliance draws current, measured in amperage, from about 5A for a typical microwave to 9A for a typical toaster. For example, a caravan air-conditioner might draw 7A, which leaves 8A for other appliances.

 

Caravan 15Amp Inlet

 

At any one time, the electrical circuit of a caravan might be running a battery charger, a fridge, charging a computer, and perhaps running an air-conditioner.

If all of that current was running through a single 10A circuit, it would constantly trip to prevent an overload and potential fire.

It is possible to plug a caravan into a domestic 10A supply. However, rigging up your own extension lead, by chopping off the 10A plug and replacing it with a 15A plug so that it fits the van is a recipe for disaster. And illegal in Australia.
Caravan 15Amp Plugs
15Amp Caravan Plug
The safe and legal way to plug a van into a 10A power source is to use an power adaptor (see images below), a device that contains an RCD to prevent an electrical overload. When plugged in, the adaptor will provide 10A to the van. If current exceeds 10A/2400W, the unit will cut the current off.

The Amphibian brand adaptors are available in three variations, from the Mini – which is suitable for use in undercover areas, such as in a carport – to the weatherproof RV Plus and Max. Below are some photos of the Amphibian product which are readily available in hardware and caravan stores in Australia.
Amphibian
Amphibian
Amphibian
Amphibian
Amphibian
Amphibian Mini