Campervan & Motorhome Upgrades
Many campervans and motorhomes leave the factory with systems designed primarily for campsite use. Individual component upgrades are one of the most practical ways to improve how your vehicle performs — better reliability, greater comfort and improved off-grid capability without necessarily overhauling the entire electrical system.
At Keltie Campers Ltd we carry out a wide range of individual upgrades on campervans, motorhomes, caravans and horseboxes, advising on the most useful improvements for each vehicle and how it's used.
Lithium Battery Upgrades
Replacing a factory lead-acid or AGM battery with a lithium LiFePO4 system is one of the most popular and effective single upgrades available. More usable capacity, faster charging, longer service life and less weight. A lithium upgrade transforms how a vehicle performs off-grid without requiring a full system rebuild.
A lithium upgrade will typically involve fitting the new battery, upgrading the charging system to suit, and configuring everything correctly. See our dedicated Lithium Battery Upgrades page for full details.
Solar Panel Additions
Adding solar panels to a vehicle that doesn't currently have them — or upgrading an undersized or outdated solar installation — is a straightforward upgrade that significantly improves off-grid capability. We install Victron SmartSolar MPPT controllers as standard for maximum efficiency and compatibility.
See our dedicated Solar Panel Installations page for full details.
DC-DC Charger Upgrades
Many campervans and motorhomes rely on a simple split-charge relay to charge the leisure battery from the alternator while driving. This works adequately for lead-acid batteries but is not suitable for lithium, and is significantly less efficient than a modern DC-DC charger.
A DC-DC charger — such as the Victron Orion range — provides a controlled, efficient charge from the vehicle alternator regardless of the state of the start battery, and is compatible with both lead-acid and lithium leisure batteries. This is often one of the first upgrades we recommend.
Fridge Upgrades
Older absorption fridges are inefficient and can struggle to maintain temperature in warm weather or when the vehicle is not level. Upgrading to a modern compressor fridge provides consistent cooling, works at any angle, and uses significantly less power — particularly important for off-grid use.
Heating System Upgrades
A popular upgrade for owners wanting to reduce or eliminate gas dependency is replacing a Truma gas combi system with a diesel heater. Diesel heaters draw fuel directly from the vehicle's main tank, removing the need for LPG cylinders and providing reliable heating and hot water from a single fuel source.
We carry out Truma combi removal and diesel heater installations regularly. This upgrade is particularly common for customers moving to a fully gas-free setup. See our blog for more on upgrading from Truma to diesel heating.
Inverter Additions
Adding a pure sine wave inverter allows a campervan or motorhome to run 230V appliances — laptops, coffee machines, induction hobs — directly from the leisure battery. Where a full inverter charger is required (combining an inverter with a mains battery charger), we install Victron MultiPlus units as standard.
Need a Complete System Build?
If you're looking for a complete off-grid electrical system rather than individual upgrades, see our Off-Grid Power Systems page for information on full system design and installation.
Frequently Asked Questions — Campervan Upgrades
What is the most worthwhile single upgrade?
For most vehicles used off-grid, a lithium battery upgrade combined with a DC-DC charger gives the greatest improvement in usable power and charging performance. Solar panels are the natural next addition for extended off-grid use.
Do you supply and fit, or fit only?
We supply and fit equipment as standard. We can also fit customer-supplied components in some cases — contact us to discuss your requirements before purchasing.
Can you replace my gas heating with diesel?
Yes. We carry out Truma combi removal and diesel heater installations. Contact us to discuss your specific heating system and requirements.
Do you offer a mobile or call-out service?
No — all work is carried out at our workshop in Callander, Perthshire. Please bring your vehicle to us.
Where are you based?
Callander, Perthshire — 45 minutes from Edinburgh and Glasgow, within easy reach of Perth, Stirling and the Highlands.
How much do upgrades cost?
Costs vary depending on the upgrade. See our Prices page for indicative costs and contact us for a quotation based on your vehicle and requirements.
Discuss Your Upgrade
Get in touch to tell us about your vehicle and what you're looking to improve. We'll advise on the most practical upgrades for your situation and provide a clear quotation.