Shore Power Kits

[wooster]

Can you install a motorhome one on a boat or is this a major nono?

[Vaughan]

Can't give a definitive answer but personally, I would prefer not to.  Caravans and camper vans tend to approach the problem from a different angle.  On boats, we keep the domestic and starter batteries separate and only connect them via a charging circuit, whereas vehicles tend to use battery "combiners" which, when switched on, effectively parallel the full power of the batteries.  There are also versions which will provide domestic power from both batteries until the starter gets down to a certain voltage, and then separate them.

Shore power must be installed safely and is not really a DIY job.  I recommend Peachments in Brundall, who make shore power panels specially for Broads boats.

[MargeandParge]

We have a ring main through 16 amp trip fuses one of which feeds a  3 port charger because the charger has separate outputs it doesn't connect the two battery banks together. Your  battery banks should already be separated by the engine charging system somehow

We also have a galvanic isolator which stops your anodes or steel work being eaten when connected through a common shore power earth

Kindest Regards Marge and Parge 

[annv]

Hi Caravan equipment  tends to be cheaper as it's not made from non corrosive metal unlike marine that is,  hence the higher cost of marine items over caravan. Although on the surface they can look identical. John

[wooster]

Thank you for your replies. I have done a fair bit of reading since my post as I've had a bit of an enforced stay at home, and it seems that I really don't need to worry about a kit. I currently have shore power but all the components are very old and the wiring has grown into an unmanageable jumble over the years. I will probably just be able to follow the lines from component to component, upgrade them and stick in new wiring. I might get an electrician to give it the all-clear once I've completed the job just to be safe.