All You Need To Know About Electric Brakes For Caravans & Trailers

November 7, 2023 | 0

Choosing the right electric brakes for the vehicle is essential for safe and efficient towing. Electric Brakes Perth is designed to work in conjunction with the towing vehicle’s braking system, providing additional stopping power when required. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know how to choose the best electric brakes for your needs. It is important to have a reliable and safe braking system to operate heavy machinery.

Towing heavy loads, such as a trailer or caravan, can be challenging and pose potential dangers even for experienced drivers. It’s essential to follow safe towing procedures to protect the people around you. Upgrading to effective electric brakes is one of the most critical safety measures one can take. They can make all the difference between a fun holiday and a serious accident.

What Are Electric Brakes?

Electric Brakes Perth are a vital safety feature that is mostly used during towing. The caravans and the trailers often weigh more than a tonne. Generally, the car’s brakes are then designed to stop the car itself, but adding a huge extra load can cause the brakes to fail. Thus, to avoid this, the caravans and trailers come with braking systems of their own. The electric brakes allow you to safely stop and control the trailer from the driver’s seat.

How Do Electric Brakes Work?

Most of the electric brake controllers are connected to the brake light circuit of the tow vehicle. One-half of the electric brake system is installed inside the car, when one presses the brake pedal, a low-power signal is sent to the unit that is present under the dashboard. It then communicates with the main unit that is mounted to the trailer and then the brakes get activated.

Factors to choose the right caravan electric brakes –

• Mounting
Electric brake controllers come in various styles and are mounted differently. Typically, they need to be installed on top of or under the dashboard in the tow vehicle. However, this can be a complex and expensive process and may require professional assistance.

• Voltage

Caravan electric brake controllers are available in two voltage options: 12V and 24V. It is essential to choose a voltage that matches the power source of your towing vehicle, which is typically the battery. Most caravan electric brake controllers are designed for 12V tow vehicles.

• Number of axles

Electric brake controllers are designed to match the number of axles on the caravan, which can be single, tandem, or triple. The controller’s power output increases as it can handle more axles. Therefore, a triple-axle controller can be used when towing a single or tandem-axle caravan.

• Proportional vs non-proportional

Proportional brake controllers are a great option for those who want a smoother towing experience. They sense the rate of the tow vehicle’s deceleration and apply the electric caravan brakes at a proportional rate. This means that there is a direct relationship between the deceleration of the tow vehicle and the caravan, making for a smoother ride. However, proportional brake controllers tend to cost more than non-proportional ones.

On the other hand, non-proportional brake controllers are a more affordable option. They apply the electric caravan brakes at a fixed rate, making for a slightly less smooth towing experience. However, the brake controller can be adjusted by the driver to suit different driving conditions. As such, non-proportional electric brake systems tend to cost less.

• Display

When it comes to electric brake controllers, different styles come with different display units. It’s important to choose a display unit that you find easy to use. Simple and affordable controllers might simply use a knob to adjust the brake power and a coloured LED to indicate that the system is working. On the other hand, more advanced controllers might have a digital display that indicates how much brake power is being delivered and a menu to adjust the system. Ultimately, the choice of display unit is a personal preference.

Benefits of the Electric Brakes –

It’s important to note that the electric brake controller needs to be installed by a professional, as it requires knowledge of the electrical systems of both the tow vehicle and the trailer. Additionally, if one wants to tow the trailer with another vehicle, they will need to install a second electric brake controller in that caravan or trailer. It’s an important safety feature that can help prevent accidents and damage to the towing vehicle.

1. Improved safety:

Electric brakes can enhance the safety of the towing setup as they deliver better stopping power and more control when braking. They can help to reduce the risk of accidents and control excessive wear and tear on the towing vehicle’s brakes.

2. Smoother braking:

Electric brakes can also provide smoother, more controlled braking compared to any other type of brakes. This can be specifically important while towing heavy loads or travelling over rough and uneven surfaces.

3. Increased control:

With the help of electric trailer brakes, the driver gets greater control over the braking of the trailer. The brake controller can be adjusted to provide the appropriate amount of braking force for the weight of the trailer or caravan and the load being carried.

4. Easy to install:

Electric trailer brakes are generally easy to install and can be fitted to many types of trailers. They can also be easily adjusted and maintained to secure optimal performance.

5. Versatility:

Electric brakes are compatible with a wide range of towing vehicles and trailers or caravans, making them a versatile option for a variety of towing requirements.

Mostly, it is difficult to stop a caravan at high speed. It might even pose a threat to the tow vehicle, the caravan itself, and the people and cars around.

Some of the additional benefits are –

• The brake controller activates the trailer brakes promptly, as soon as the driver hits the tow vehicle brakes.
• The brake controller can help to detect the amount of braking power needed to stop the trailer safely.
• The system reduces the strain on the tow vehicle brakes.
• One has more control over the brakes of the trailer or caravan.
• Reduce accidents and damages to the tow vehicle or trailer, which means one will have to spend less on caravan repairs.

Choosing the best electric brakes for your towing needs requires careful consideration of several factors. By understanding the towing needs, the different types of electric brakes available, the appropriate size for the trailer, and the importance of quality and durability, one can make an informed decision.

Reach out to us at Ace Mobile Auto Electrics the professionals properly check, maintain, and repair all the electrical parts of the car. An auto electrician is a skilled technician who plays a critical role in keeping our vehicles running smoothly and efficiently. We provide Redarc electric brakes Yanchep that help to efficiently navigate the vehicle when towing in any road condition.