30 amp rv

TucsonJim wrote:
In many parks, you'll have the option of either a 30 amp pedestal or a 50 amp pedestal. Typically, the 50 amp service might run a few bucks more. If you reserve and pay for 30 amp service, your 30 amp plug should be able to plug directly in. On a 50 amp pedestal, some of them offer both 50 and 30 amp sockets, and others just 50 amp. If you wind up in a site with just 50 amp service at the pedestal, you'll need an adapter in order to plug in your 30 amp cord.

Here is a typical 30 amp receptacle:




And here is a 50 amp receptacle:




If you need to hook up to a 50 amp pedestal with your 30 amp plug, you'll need one of these:
50amp male to 30amp female adapter

Jim

Either 30 or 50 receptacles will fit those boxes, it's just a matter of what parts were used.

We had a trailer that was 30 amp power, when we upgraded to the Newmar we simply removed the 30 amp receptacle added a 50 amp receptacle and hooked up the third wire.

It's been a long time since we have seen a camp ground that did not have both in the same box on the post as well as a 120 volt 25 amp circuit.
But.. I do carry all the adaptors

Yes, just tell the park you are 30 amp. You can also tell them you are a new RVer and ask for assistance with your hookup. Most places will be willing to give you a hand. Also your new neighbor will offer help if you ask.
Your Rig is set up for 30 amp,so just plug into the 30 amp socket. The plugs are different so you can easily spot the correct socket. Always flip off the shore power circuit breaker before plugging in...shock protection. Then flip the breaker back on. It is not a bad idea to pick up a household type plug adapter (20amp), you can put it between the 30amp plug and a standard household socket. Nice to have when visiting friends if you want to tap into the garage or backyard power. With the lower amps you will have to restrict your power usage...no a/c, no microwave, but you can use lights and coffee pot and stuff.
Don't feel shy about asking fellow campers for assistance. For the most part we are a friendly bunch.
Happy Trails.

Typical home outlets are either 15 or 20 amp. I plug our 30 amp service into a 20 amp outlet with an adapter.

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Thank you to all that took the time to reply and give me all I needed.
Thanks!

I do one more step. I have a circuit tester that plugs in to a 15 amp socket and tells me about open or reversed poles. After I plug the RV in, I use the tester on one of the outside sockets of the RV. On mine, I should get 2 orange lights.
The really cautious may want to test the campground socket (with the adapter) before plugging in.

I have had similar instances where some pedestals had corrosion, wiring issues, water intrusion, etc. at the campground. I do the same thing David and Dayle do. I carry a circuit tester, 30 amp and 50 amp adapters in my RV setup kit. This way I can test the pedestal before hooking up my rig to it. Circuit analyzers/monitors are good too to protect rig from surges and frequency changes that could upset some electronic components.

As far as 50 amp vs. 30 amp pedestals. To be absolutely confident that damage won't be incurred using the 50 amp pedestal on your 30 amp rig you should know the construction of the electrical system. I have a 30 amp rig. There are 2 40 amp fuses in my power panel to protect from surges. Amps is the flow of electricity, so when flow increases, so does heat and that is what melts the fuse and breaks the contact. The wire size plays a part in this...the smaller the diameter of the wire the more heat can be produces because of increased resistance. Take a look at some basic electricity you tube videos to help understand. I am an aviation mechanic who works on electrical systems and not a certified licensed home electrician--FYI.