Transformers for caravans and motorhomes

Our caravan and motorhome transformers

A transformer converts one AC voltage into another. A caravan transformer is needed when the voltage of the campsite hook-up does not match that of the equipment: American 120 V equipment on a European campsite, or a European vehicle hooked up in North America. We make two dedicated models, for caravans, motorhomes and campervans alike, and each product page shows the price of every rating and every version:

• Reversible 230 V to 120 V autotransformer, from 100 VA to 10 kVA: North American 120 V appliances, or an American RV, on a 230 V hook-up in the UK or Europe, or the reverse.
• 110 V to 230 V transformer, from 63 VA to 20 kVA: 220 V on a 110 V supply and 230 V on a 120 V supply, isolated from the mains, for a European vehicle or European appliances.

For on-board 12 V and batteries, see also our AC/DC power supplies, DC/DC converters, 12 V to 230 V inverters and lithium batteries.

From 230 V to 12 V: a power supply or charger, not a transformer

In a caravan, the 12 V lighting, water pump and fridge run on direct current (DC), like the leisure battery. A 230 V to 12 V transformer delivers alternating current (AC), so it does not suit this equipment. On a 230 V hook-up, the 12 V DC comes from an AC/DC power supply or a battery charger. Conversely, to get 230 V from the battery, you need an inverter (a DC/AC converter).

American RVs in Europe, and trips to North America

A 120 V RV or appliance on a European hook-up

An American RV wired for 120 V, or an air conditioner, coffee maker or power tool designed for the 110–120 V supply of the United States or Canada, runs on a UK or European hook-up through the 230 V to 120 V autotransformer, which steps the 230 V down to 120 V. It is reversible and also works the other way round.

A European motorhome on a 110–120 V supply

In North America, campsite hook-ups supply 110 to 120 V. The 110 V to 230 V transformer provides 230 V on a 120 V supply (220 V on a 110 V supply) for your appliances and your vehicle, with two separate windings: the on-board installation is isolated from the mains. The reversible autotransformer is also suitable, without this isolation.

The frequency does not change

A transformer changes the voltage, not the frequency: on a 60 Hz supply, your European appliances receive 230 V at 60 Hz, and an American appliance used in Europe receives 50 Hz. Check the rating plate of each appliance: “50/60 Hz” is fine; an appliance designed for a single frequency (some motors and clocks) may run at a different speed or overheat.

Choosing the rating of your caravan transformer

Add up the power of the appliances that will run at the same time, multiply by 1.25 and choose the next rating up. Motors, compressors and air conditioners draw a high current when starting, so allow a margin. Connection must be made with the power off, by a qualified person, with upstream protection.

Made in Gailhan, France, dispatched within 24 to 48 hours

Our transformers and autotransformers are wound and 100 % tested in our workshop in Gailhan, in the Gard (southern France), where ABL Transfo has been manufacturing since 1993. Standard models are dispatched from France within 24 to 48 hours. With a trade account, professionals see prices excluding VAT, with a 5 % discount. For another voltage, see our autotransformers and single-phase transformers, or request a quote: we reply within 48 hours.

See also our custom transformers.