Extension Cord
I plug in my trailer a couple of days before a trip so we can stock the refrigerator/freezer. The trailer is a 30 amp. system. I run an extension cord from a regular house outlet to the trailer usin...
Forum Discussion
One big reason adapters fail is because people plug them in without turning the power off first. If plugging the adapter and shore power together while live, the plug blades and inside of the connector will get pitted and dirty (from converter inrush current) leading to high resistance, and ultimately heat and a meltdown. I've had two 15 amp extension cords go up in smoke because I was too lazy to turn the power off first (at breaker) and did not think damage could occur that fast. We now have a proper 30A RV outlet in the carport along with a disconnect switch beside it which I was planning anyway. You should always turn the power off before plugging in, either at the source (house panel or pedestal) or the main breaker in your panel.
It's always a good idea to periodically check the plug blades on your shore power cord and clean as needed.
The dogbone style adapters are better because if the basic/cheap "monoblock" adapters are pitted and dirty on both ends, there is little physical separation from the input to output side and more heat *can* be generated.
I would take an extension cord you already have of the length you need, and see what the voltage is at your camper with the fridge and any other desired loads operating. If the voltage is reasonable, there's no need to spend money on a 20A 12 ga. extension cord or 30A cord (providing no AC running) unless you intend to run a long extension cord.
I would also consider cutting off the stock connector that comes with an extension cord and installing a good commercial grade one. The commercial spec ones have a much higher contact pressure which can reduce the chances of heating. I often find that retail grade cords have connectors that weaken in time and eventually won't even hold the plug of an appliance or power tool in place.
It's always a good idea to periodically check the plug blades on your shore power cord and clean as needed.
The dogbone style adapters are better because if the basic/cheap "monoblock" adapters are pitted and dirty on both ends, there is little physical separation from the input to output side and more heat *can* be generated.
I would take an extension cord you already have of the length you need, and see what the voltage is at your camper with the fridge and any other desired loads operating. If the voltage is reasonable, there's no need to spend money on a 20A 12 ga. extension cord or 30A cord (providing no AC running) unless you intend to run a long extension cord.
I would also consider cutting off the stock connector that comes with an extension cord and installing a good commercial grade one. The commercial spec ones have a much higher contact pressure which can reduce the chances of heating. I often find that retail grade cords have connectors that weaken in time and eventually won't even hold the plug of an appliance or power tool in place.
