Converting your caravan or Winnebago to an off grid caravan in the Bellarine Peninsula setup lets you explore remote spots around Ocean Grove, Curlewis, Drysdale, Portarlington and beyond, with independence and reliability. At Salt Electrical, based in Geelong, we specialise in designing and installing off-grid solar systems using Victron 12 V and 24 V gear, along with professional solar PV array cleaning, testing, and repair services to keep you powered in every season.
Benefits of Victron 12 V and 24 V systems for off‑grid caravans
Victron Energy systems, engineered in the Netherlands, are known for their modular design, high reliability, and compatibility with advanced lithium or AGM battery banks. They’re supported in Australia with warranty coverage and strong technical support networks.
- A 12 V setup suits mid-sized caravans for lighting, fridges, small inverters, and charging devices.
- A 24 V configuration offers improved efficiency and is ideal for larger Winnebago-style rigs or when powering heavier loads.
Victron systems also deliver seamless energy monitoring and robust surge capacity, perfect for extended off-grid travel on the Peninsula and beyond.
Solar PV installation, repairs and cleaning on the Bellarine Peninsula
We install solar panels tailored to your caravan’s roof space and energy needs, with quality panel options and Victron-compatible controllers. Salt Electrical provides repairs for wiring faults, underperforming panels, or battery issues across the Bellarine, from St Leonards to Curlewis.
Cleaning matters. Accumulated dust, salt air, bird droppings, and sap significantly reduce panel output, sometimes cutting efficiency by 5–10% or more. Professionally cleaning caravan panels maintains peak performance. For optimal results, clean every six to twelve months, depending on conditions
Recommended service schedule for off‑grid solar systems
To keep your system reliable and efficient, we recommend:
Annual full service, including:
- Testing and calibrating your charge controller and inverter
- Performing a health check on batteries and wiring
- Inspecting seals where panels attach to avoid leaks and corrosion
- Thorough cleaning of the solar PV array
Post‑trip visual checks, especially after coastal or dusty travel, look for dirt buildup, panel damage or reduced output.
Salt Electrical’s preventative servicing helps prevent power failures and extends system lifespan before they become costly issues.
Why upgrade to an off grid caravan on the Bellarine Peninsula
Caravaners benefit from coastal views, national parks, and quiet campsites across Australia, but many sites lack powered bays. A well-installed solar system gives you the flexibility to stay longer, avoid powered sites, and reduce running costs. You’ll minimise reliance on power hook‑ups, save on caravan park fees, and enjoy peaceful, low‑impact travel.
Victoria is increasingly becoming a global leader in electrified caravans, some energy systems in Victoria now even allow RV owners to run household appliances or charge EVs from their mobile battery packs.
Tips to maximise your caravan solar system’s performance
To get the most from your off-grid caravan setup:
- Position panels for maximum sun; avoid shadows from trees or structures that reduce output significantly.
- Ensure spacing and airflow under panels; they overheat less, perform better, and last longer.
- Never mix old and new batteries; it can damage battery health and reduce lifespan.
- Avoid high‑pressure washing; soft water rinsing is safer for seals and surface integrity.
Choosing Salt Electrical for your off‑grid caravan needs
- We customise off-grid caravan systems using high-quality Victron products.
- We offer expert installation, testing, cleaning, and troubleshooting.
- We install in Geelong and service towns across the Bellarine Peninsula, including Ocean Grove, Curlewis, Drysdale, Portarlington, and surrounding areas.
Contact Salt Electrical today to discuss your off-grid solar system needs or maintenance requirements. Visit saltelectrical.com.au or call us to arrange a quote or consultation.