Forum Discussion
myredracer
Aug 18, 2019Explorer II
Skipg wrote:Warm is normal. A circuit breaker has a bi-metal strip inside which gets warmer as the current going through it gets higher. When the strip warms up enough it "flips" and trips the breaker.
The 20 amp breaker for the air conditioner get warm when the air is running. Is this normal?
Hot may or may not be okay depending on the actual temp. Breakers are designed to operate at up to 90 degrees celsius max. at rated current under UL standard 489.
Also, UL 489 says: “The maximum temperature on
handles, knobs, and other surfaces subject to user contact during
normal operation shall not exceed 60 °C (140 °F) on metallic and
85 °C (185 °F) on nonmetallic surfaces.”
One thing to note about the panels in RVs is that a 30 amp main breaker and 20 amp AC unit breaker are side by side and you can get a mutual heating effect. The plastic housings in RV panels also are as effective at dissipating heat compared to metal housing in panels in houses & buildings.
I've read of some people aiming a fan at the breakers to keep them from tripping in hot weather when AC units are running constantly. Bad idea IMO.
About RV Tips & Tricks
Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,108 PostsLatest Activity: Feb 05, 2025