During Electrical Warrant of Fitness (EWOF) inspections, one issue we regularly find in motorhomes, campervans, and food trucks is the incorrect use of circuit breaker connections.
While the system may appear to work normally, an incorrect breaker setup can create serious safety risks and lead to a failed inspection.
Why Circuit Breaker Size Matters
Circuit breakers are designed to protect:
Electrical equipment
The vehicle or trailer
The people using it
In many cases, we see setups where the circuit breaker is not correctly rated, meaning it may not trip fast enough during an overload.
For most campervans, motorhomes, and food trucks, a 16amp circuit breaker is required.
What Happens If the Breaker Is Incorrect?
If the circuit breaker rating is too high:
An overload may not trip the breaker in time
Cables and components can overheat
The risk of fire or electrical damage increases
People using the vehicle or trailer may be put at risk
A correctly rated 16amp breaker ensures that if there’s an overload on the trailer or vehicle, the power is disconnected quickly and safely.
Why This Causes EWOF Failures
Incorrect circuit breaker connections are a common reason for EWOF failures because they:
Don’t meet New Zealand electrical standards
Compromise safety
Fail to provide proper protection during faults
This applies not only to campervans and motorhomes, but also to food trucks and mobile trailers, which often run high electrical loads.
How to Avoid This Issue
To stay compliant and safe:
Ensure your electrical system uses the correct 16amp circuit breaker
Avoid DIY electrical changes
Have your setup inspected by a qualified electrician if you’re unsure
Correcting this issue early can prevent failed inspections, downtime, and safety risks.
Need an EWOF or Electrical Inspection?
If you’re booking an Electrical WOF or want peace of mind that your setup is safe and compliant, Alectrics can help.
📞 Contact Alectrics to book your EWOF inspection today.
