Whether you're a weekend warrior or a full-time tourer, your caravan's battery is the heart of your great Aussie adventures. But if you're looking to upgrade or build a new rig, there's a set of rules you need to pay close attention to: AS/NZS 3001.2:2022.
What is AS/NZS 3001.2:2022?
This is the Australian and New Zealand Standard for "Connectable Electrical Installations". Think of it as the rule book for how electricity must be handled in vehicles like caravans, motorhomes, 4WDs, and camper trailers.
The standard has been strictly enforced since 2023 and specifically addresses the rise of lithium batteries. It outlines installation requirements to ensure batteries are safely installed to protect you from a potential fire or gas outbreak.
It's important to note that the standard applies to any battery chemistry - not just lithium.
Read more: Why lithium is the better battery
Who does AS/NZS 3001.2:2022 apply to?
If you have a caravan built or significantly modified after November 18, 2023, these rules apply to you.
- New Builds: Must be fully compliant.
- Upgrades: If you are swapping an old battery for a new Lithium system, the new installation must meet the AS/NZS 3001.2:2022 standards.
Read more: Upgrading your dual battery system to lithium
Vehicle types that must conform with the new standards:
- Caravans
- Campervans
- Motorhomes
- Camper trailers
- Pop top caravans
- Tent trailers
- Fifth wheel caravans
- Slide on campers
- Converted buses or trailers
How to comply with AS/NZS 3001.2:2022
AS/NZS 3001.2:2022 states that batteries, including lithium-ion, must be installed in one of two places in your caravan.
Option 1
External
On the chassis or in a dedicated external locker.
Option 2
Internal (with caveats)
Under seats or in cupboards, provided they are separated from the living area. Any battery installed internally must be in a compliant sealed enclosure and include vents to the exterior. A compliant enclosure must be vapour-sealed, externally vented, tool-accessible only, and clear of fuel or diesel lines. Section 5.4.12 covers internal installation requirements.
Option 1 is the optimal solution to ensure that compliance has been met. Compliance isn't just about safety; it's about insurance. If your van and battery installation isn't deemed compliant, an electrical fire might not be covered.
It's also important to note that Clause 5.4.5 governs that batteries must be secured to prevent movement in any direction by more than 25mm when subjected to a force twice the battery weight.
More ways to comply:
- Certification: Ensure your lithium battery is certified to AS IEC 62619. If it doesn't have this certification, it cannot legally be installed.
- Monitoring: You must have a battery management system (BMS) that monitors voltage and temperature, with a visible monitoring device for the user.
- Professional Install: A licensed auto-electrician should sign off on the installation to ensure it meets all wiring and venting rules.
Read more: What's needed for a dual battery system?
Why install a battery in your caravan
Caravanning isn't synonymous with "roughing it" anymore. A high-quality lithium battery system allows you to:
- Go Off-Grid: Run lights, pumps, and fridges without needing a powered site.
- Power High-Draw Appliances: With lithium and an inverter, you can run coffee machines, hair dryers, and microwaves.
- Save Weight: Lithium batteries offer more usable power at roughly half the weight of traditional lead-acid batteries.
Read more: How to design a 12V system for a Ford Ranger
Springers Solar | Your Trusted 12V-48V Components & Accessories Supplier
We only stock the best brands in the extra-low voltage industry for the best prices - you can trust that when you buy gear from Springers, you are setting up your system to perform long-term. We don't waste our time or your time with low-quality products.
With an in-house team of 12-48V experts, we can offer advice and support as you set up your off-grid, off-road, or DIY battery system. We are Queensland-based and house our stock, so check out our online store here or visit us at Lawnton, Warana, or Capalaba for in-store help.
Where to Install Batteries in Your Caravan