12v/240v?

[4AM]

Hi. New to this, just got an 84 Holdsworth Villa 2 and I'm a bit confused on the power. I'd assumed it would only run 12v appliances, but there's a standard 3 pin socket fitted so will we be able to run standard household appliances as well? My other half is asking about hairdryer & straighteners (typical) but I was thinking phone charger and maybe a digital radio. I seem to recall mixing 12v/240v is a no no, so thought I'd ask. Thanks. Ade.

[California Dreamin]

It just means that whilst camping at certain sites with 'hook-up' facility, you will be able to use the 3 pin 13amp socket as you would at home.
12 volt & 230 volt mains power are totally separate in your van, although you may have Zig charger unit that might have a built in battery charger (that works off the 230 volt mains supply) charging the leisure battery whilst the hookup is connected (I am not totally familiar with the setup on this particular van)
Either way, 12 volt supply, as I said, has nothing to do with 230 volt mains supply.

Martin

[kentishvanman]

Hi,
Suggest you check what the max permissible amps are on the 240v circuit as you mention hairdryer and so forth.
It is probably 10amps but you can upgrade to 16amps but check the wiring on the 240v circuit is suitable.

[nesty]

Hi Kentish
I have the same van as you a Holdsworth 2.
You have a hook up facility.
As the previous poster said. You need to get a idea of AMPS.
I have vastly upgraded my 12v plug in system on my van. I rarely use hook up.
Hair straighters, Kettles anything with heating elements and motors are going to be very high draw current on hook up.

[4AM]

Ah, so the 240 socket is for hook up, 12v stuff off the caravan battery. Makes more sense. Thanks gang.

[kentishvanman]

HI,

Ah, so the 240 socket is for hook up, 12v stuff off the cara van battery. Makes more sense. Thanks gang.

Yep the socket is for when your van is plugged into the mains electrics. Apart from what you plug into the socket the 240v will also probably run your fridge. You can add more sockets; check wiring.
If you add your location you might find someone else who is local who might be able to help out.