Forum Discussion

CarlKat's avatar
CarlKat
Explorer
Sep 30, 2017

VOLTS AND AMPS

Hi; we're going on our first overnight camping trip tonight in our newly purchased (but used) motor home. The campground has 30 amp and 50 amp spaces. I'm trying to find out whether I can plug in my 120-volt coffee pot and am unable to find an amp to volt conversion anywhere. Anyone know? I've read posts on here stating you can't use a coffee pot, except for the stove top ones. Thank you.
  • "plugged into the camping space 30 amp area."

    After testing and with surge and low voltage protection?
  • You need to remember that the converter to operate the 12 volt system and to charge batteries needs to be figured into your load. It activates as soon as you plug the rig in. Some converters take a short period of time to get the initial charge. This can reduce your wattage that is available.
  • 4x4van's avatar
    4x4van
    Explorer III
    As you've now experienced, your coffe pot will work fine. You have a 120VAC-30A rig. Plug into a 120VAC-30A pedestal. If a 120VAC-50A pedestal is all that is available, then simply purchase an adapter (male 50A/female 30A) and plug in as normal. In either case, anything that you would typically plug in at home will likely work fine plugged in in the RV. Just be aware that high draw items (A/C, microwave, hair dryer, etc) may require you to limit their use to only one or two at a time on your 30A RV.

    (For those purists out there, yes, I understand that a 50A service is "technically" 240VAC; no need to jump in here. For the OP's purpose/question, that is completely irrelevant.)