A/C on 116 volts?

RoyB wrote:
I have one of these RV120VAC VOLTMETER (AMAZON) installed in one of my AC receptacles to alow me to watch the AC VOLTAGE all the time... This has the GREEN SCALE on it for easy viewing...


Google image

Roy Ken

good post

i have a digital readout version of this. at home when i cool our TT with 15kbtu ac plugged into 20 amp 110 outlet at garage i turn off our outside kitchen mini fridge and switch rv fridge to propane.

when ac compressor is kicking in my voltage usually goes down to 110 or so even in hottest part of day.

I have one of these RV120VAC VOLTMETER (AMAZON) installed in one of my AC receptacles to alow me to watch the AC VOLTAGE all the time... This has the GREEN SCALE on it for easy viewing...


Google image

Roy Ken

Low voltage can burn up your shore cord plug too.

The air conditioner's spec is 115 volts +/- 10%, or 103.5 to 126.5 volts. That's at the air conditioner when it's running. If the EMS shows 106 or more when the air conditioner is running you should be within spec. If the RV's wiring drops more than 2 volts between the EMS and air conditioner, that would be a different problem.

To add to the above, it's a good idea to have a permanently mounted LED voltmeter inside. Voltage can often fluctuate over 24 hours, depending on how many other occupied sites there are and how many are running AC units. Other RV-ers can also drag the voltage down around lunch and dinner time due to some folks using electric appliances in addition to AC units.

If you see voltage at around 110 you may want to keep an eye on it. If it gets below 105, that's when it can cause damage to AC units.

If you do encounter low voltage, as mentioned, an autoformer may keep you going when you'd otherwise have to shut the AC off. An EMS unit is a good investment as it will automatically shut you down on low voltage.

There are autoformers that can deal with low voltage.

Don't like to, but if it hits 105, I switch refrig to LP and that helps a little.

Agree with the other posters. I don't panic at 108-110.. but don't like it in that range.

theoldwizard1 wrote:
That is well within the specifications in the US, as long as it does not drop to far when the AC is starting.

Second I'd have no probems with 116.

IN my life standard household voltage was first called 110 (and 220)

Then it became 115/230 and now 120/240

116 is meter error off dead center in that range (115)

Thanks to everyone for the quick replies.

Neok

LittleBill wrote:
108v and higher and your good while running

is the important point. If you see 108V with the compressor off, it will likely drop below that when it starts & runs.