Determining The Right Power Distribution Center For A DIY Camper Van

Question:

Hello, I am searching for a distribution center for my DIY camper van. I see several products to choose from so looking for help narrowing the best choice for my application. I will be boondocking so want power for as many days as reasonable. My load consists of high wattage items like conduction cooktop and a sort of Ninja oven. Also home office monitor, docking station, etc. Planning on using lithium batteries. Air conditioning also. My refrigerator is a 12v Dometic sp?. My water heater is diesel based. Can you recommend the best distribution centers? I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you, Anna

asked by: Anna M

Expert Reply:

Hi Anna,

Finding the right fit for your motorhome is going to depend on a few factors. The first being space, power centers do range in size but most are quite large if your motorhome is a Class B. The next thing to determine is how many circuit breaker and fuse ports are going to be needed to power the equipment you have. Along with that you'll also need to size the converter amperage to the battery bank and take special notice of any requirements for the batteries since you mentioned you want lithium. Certain lithium batteries won't accept a charge over a certain amperage.

The Progressive Dynamics # PD4135K you were looking at is a super common size for most RV's so it would likely be a great option. These power centers only distribute power so you'll have to be connected to shore power in order to power an 120v AC appliances. If you wanted to power AC appliances while boondocking then you'd need to measure the power draw per hour for each appliance and add them all together to see how large of a battery bank you'd need to boondock for your entire stay. We have a solar calculator to help walk you through this process, which I've attached a link to below.

Based on what you're wanting to power you'll most likely have to purchase a generator to power all of the equipment or you'd have to have an extremely large battery bank.

expert reply by: Kevin C