We see a good number of people that have electrical troubles with their caravan TVs. Normally these problems are simply not powering up or unexpectedly power down. Upon reviewing the cases, the TVs that normally have this problem are the domestic type TVs you can buy from the likes of Harvey Norman, Dick Smiths etc. Although they are a "12V" powered TV, putting them in a "12V" powered caravan causes problems. Why? Well, it's because "12V" in a caravan, isn't simply 12v.

In a caravan that has house batteries, your DC voltage may vary from 11.5 – 14.8V in most situations. This is simply the level of charge of your batteries, and whether your battery charge or solar system is running. This house voltage, is the same as what is being supplied to your "12v" appliances in your van. Many appliances like lights and most LEDs can cope with a range of voltages. But some sensitive electronics can't. When they say they accept 12v, they mean just that – only 12V. Hence, when they get a varying voltage it can wreak havoc with the electronic internals.

What's the solution? The best option is to buy a TV that is designed for mobile use in an RV. Common brands are Sphere, Camec & Majestic, as these are designed for a range of DC voltages.