Forum Discussion

deltabravo's avatar
Jan 01, 2021

Adding a new 120 vac circuit and outlet

In my last several RVs, I've installed a new, dedicated circuit and outlet for a space heater.

It's not often that I have electric hookups, but when I do, I use the space heater for heat. I don't camp when the weather is below freezing, so there's no need to run the propane furnace to circulate warm air around the holding tanks. In this scenario, a small space heater is all I use.

Both were easy upgrades because the new outlet location is close to the electrical panel with easy access to everything.

This video shows how I did it in my Arctic Fox 992 truck camper,
  • "maintain positive pressure in all conditions"
    Until they don't. With repeated changes in temperature and humidity they WILL fail.
  • The push in back wire is so cheesy that its almost criminal. Thankfully the code allows wire no larger than 14 gauge and the hole is small enough you cannot get 12 gauge thru it. I refuse to wrap around a screw on an outlet. I buy the commercial/industrial backwire design that you insert the wire and tighten the screw and a knurled or serrated plate is drawn up to clamp the wire inside. If you tighten them properly they won't work loose.

    Frankly, every couple of years you should go thru an RV electrical system and re-tighten everything, going so far as to open up transfer switches and other boxes that contain connections to tighten.

    If you are interested in not having screws to work loose, use the Hubbell SnapConnect® type receptacles and then use the WAGO connectors to make the connections to the Romex™

    https://www.hubbell.com/wiringdevice-kellems/en/Products/Electrical-Electronic/Wiring-Devices/Straight-Blade-Devices/SnapConnect-Receptacles/c/2027718

    https://www.wago.com/us/lp-221

    RV receptacles are designed and certified to be installed without a separate box. They ARE the box. I wished someone made a better version of them however, with quality connections and heavier spring tension contacts for the plugs to engage with. At home I use all commercial stuff that is actually difficult to plug into, but you get good contact.

    Charles
  • I installed a separate receptacle in the bathroom for my wife’s hair dryer and curling iron. Ran the wire over to the bay with all the hook ups. I plug into the gfci in the pedestal.
  • when I replaced the convertor/charger, discovered the inbound power hot wire screw was not tight. Loose enough, it wouldn't take much vibration to begin arcing.
  • We downsized to. 19’ TT recently and are out in its maiden voyage. One task has been to determine the place best for our portable tower heater. Like the OP we don’t expect to camp in freezing temps. Once home a dedicated circuit will be added to the location we determine. The little portable heater does a great job keeping the small trailer nice and warm.

    Thanks for the info

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