Electrical System; Overseas Connection - Swift Motorhome Owners Service Manual

T HE ELECTRI CAL SY STEM
The electrical system
General Information
It is strongly advised that the mains installation
is inspected periodically to ensure safe
use. The IET (BS7671) wiring regulations
recommend that mains installations in
motorhomes are re-inspected every 3 years
or annually if the van is used frequently. The
National Caravan Council lists the qualifications
necessary to perform this inspection, but an
NICEIC approved contractor is probably the
first choice.
On arrival at the campsite
• Check the suitability of the supply,
is it AC or DC, is the voltage and frequency
correct.
• Ensure that there is a proper earth
(3 pin socket outlet).
• If in doubt consult site staff.
• Make sure that the supply from the site is
switched off.
• Make sure that the charger switch on the
PSU is switched off.
• Lift the cover on the electricity inlet on the
motorhome, and insert the connector on the
flexible supply cable.
• At the site supply point, connect the other
end of the supply cable to this using the
socket provided.
• Switch on the main switch at the site
supply point.
Note: It is good practice to test the RCD
(Residual Current Device) in the PSU before
switching on. There is a test button on the
RCD to test the lever, put the lever in the up
position (on) before testing.
Note: As with the RCD it is good practice
to check the Miniture Circuit Breaker (MCB)
in the PSU. Switch all to the on position
(lever up). If any do not stay up then there
is a fault.
60
On departure from the campsite
• Switch off supply from the site, disconnect
the cable at both ends.
• Switch off RCD.
Note: Never use a mains supply lead whilst
coiled. Always uncoil the full length before
connecting to the supply and remember to
protect the cable from traffic.
!
WARNING: Current consumption in the
motorhome must not exceed 16 amps or
the pitch permitted maximum if this is less
than 16 amps.

Overseas connection

• Connection to a mains voltage overseas
requires particular attention.
• Overseas supplies can be of
reverse polarity.
• Reverse polarity results in equipment not
necessarily being isolated when turned off,
reverse polarity indicator on the PSU will light
in the event of reverse polarity.
• The only sure way to make equipment safe is
to unplug it.
• It is useful to have a means of checking
polarity when overseas.
• If it can be achieved then connect live to live,
and neutral to neutral to achieve full electrical
protection.
!
WARNING: Never allow modifications
of electrical or LPG systems and appliances
except by qualified persons.