Forum Discussion

Explorer

Jan 30, 2019

50amp to 30amp newb question

Hey all,

I'm new to 50 amp service and have a question. When using a 30 amp adapter at campgrounds that don't have 50 amp available, will I lose 1/2 of the camper's outlets/available power? 50 amp power plugs have 2-120 volt legs feeding the power panel yet 30 amp plugs have only 1-120 volt leg feeding the power panel. Is losing 1/2 power what I should expect?

Thanks!

13 Replies

KD4UPL
Explorer II
Jan 30, 2019
The adapter splits the incoming power and applies it to both legs of the 50A service.
Johno02
Explorer
Jan 30, 2019
Everything should remain the same, except that you can only run two major appliances instead of three. For example, if you can run the microwave, two airconditioners and a hair dryer on 50A, then you can only run the microwave and one air conditioner on 30A. OK, all the rest of you, its just an example...
the_bear_II
Explorer
Jan 30, 2019
No you'll still have power to all of your outlets. You might not be able to run several appliances and electronics at the same time due to the reduce available amp rating. For example on 50AMP we can run the AC and washer at the same time. On 30AMP service only one or the other can run.