If you’re going on an off-grid caravan trip, you’ll require the most energy-efficient television.
An energy-efficient TV consumes less power. It doesn’t compete with the other electronics in your caravan, enabling you to enjoy an extended caravanning experience without access to mains electricity.
An energy-efficient television set enhances your viewing experience as you journey off the beaten paths. Since the device utilizes minimal power, you can keep up with your favorite television shows without sacrificing other travel comforts.
Now, the 12-volt television is widely touted as one of the most energy-efficient caravan TVs. But does it live up to that reputation?
Let’s find out.
What Are 12-Volt TVs?
12-volt TVs are televisions that run directly from a 12-volt direct current (DC) power source.
A 12 volt tv is remarkably energy-efficient. It uses minimal power, extending your viewing experience.
The fact that vehicles typically utilize DC power sources explains why 12-volt televisions are notably popular with caravanners. With a proper TV set, you can explore enchanting scenery while keeping tabs on the news.
Many 12-volt televisions can also absorb vibrations remarkably well. They’re precisely what you need when going off-roading in your touring caravan!
How Do 12-Volt TVs Differ From Regular Televisions?
A 12-volt television works similarly to your household TV. The principal difference is how the devices obtain their power.
As mentioned, 12-volt televisions run directly off a 12-volt DC power source. They differ from regular household TVs, which you must plug into a 240-volt mains electricity.
12-volt televisions derive their power from your caravan’s house battery.
What Makes 12-Volt Televisions Energy-Efficient?
Direct Power Source
12-volt televisions obtain their power directly from 12V battery systems.
Therefore, you don’t need an inverter to convert the energy from alternating current (AC) to DC. This minimizes any energy wastage during the conversion process.
By estimate, a 24-inch, 12-volt television consumes around 21 watts. That’s lower than the wattage rating of standard iPad chargers.
Minimal Power Draw
Many 12-volt television sets draw considerably less power than regular household TVs.
Unlike standard televisions that require more power to operate, 12-volt TVs run on far less electricity. That enables them to deliver in low-power environments, such as your caravan.
It’s more exciting to know that you can lower power consumption in your caravan by making smart adjustments to your 12-volt TV.
For instance, adjust the brightness depending on the ambient conditions.
Be sure to also choose energy-efficient picture modes. And most importantly, turn the television off when not viewing.
Innovative Design
12-volt television sets are typically designed for vehicles. Besides being inherently portable, these TVs also have smaller screens.
Diminished screen size translates into less power.
12-volt TVs also come with smart energy-saving features, including wide viewing angles and anti-glare screens.
A wider viewing angle increases the television’s peripheral view, making up for its reduced screen size. The feature is particularly critical if you’re planning an all-family caravanning trip.
Meanwhile, anti-glare screens provide optimal viewing during bright conditions. It prevents you from increasing the brightness excessively, which could drain the battery faster.
Voltage Flexibility
Bringing your household TV to a caravan trip would drain the vehicle’s battery a lot faster. Besides, the device could sustain damage from frequent voltage fluctuations common with caravan batteries.
In contrast, 12-volt caravan televisions function safely within wider voltage ranges.
A 12-volt TV can sustain voltage surges up to 36V. It may also take dips down to 9V, ensuring extended viewing even during periods of erratic voltage fluctuations.
Charging Compatibility
12-volt televisions are engineered for off-roading. Therefore, you’d expect them to be compatible with different chargers.
Power your 12-volt TV with your caravan’s standard battery at night or in overcast conditions. And when the sun rises, connect the device to your solar panels.
Harnessing solar power ensures uninterrupted viewing while further minimizing the strain on your caravan’s battery.
Moreover, you can use 12-volt televisions at home. Just be sure to connect it to an AC adapter.
If you won’t be hitting the woods in another twelve months, why not bring your 12-volt TV home? Repurposing the television can minimize your household energy bills, even if only momentarily.
Types of 12-volt TVs
Like household televisions, 12-volt TVs come in two varieties – satellite and smart. It’s important to understand the difference between the two while choosing the right TV service for your caravan or motorhome.
Satellite 12-volt TVs utilize satellite dishes. They’re relatively affordable, making them suitable for low-cost caravanning.
If you crave the comfort of modern entertainment, consider smart 12-volt TVs. These television sets let you stream your favorite shows and movies from services like Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify.
However, note that smart TVs require a stable internet connection. They may not deliver effectively in areas with poor Wi-Fi reception.
There are also hybrids, which offer the best of both worlds.
Wrap Up
A 12-volt television runs directly on 12-volt power sources. That makes it incredibly energy-efficient and notably preferable for off-grid caravanning.
With a 12-volt television set, you don’t require an inverter to convert 12-volt direct current to 120-volt alternating current power. This saves both time and energy.
A 12-volt TV also has a lower power draw. The device won’t drain your caravan battery faster, providing hours of uninterrupted viewing experience.
However, energy efficiency shouldn’t be the sole aspect when shopping for a television for your caravan. Consider factors like size, portability, picture quality, and internet connectivity as well.
