Reversed Polarity Issues?
I ordered a simple voltage monitor for testing power supply at campgrounds. Reads voltage, and if there is correct polarity, or open ground. My parents own part of a small lake, that they've made i...
Forum Discussion
Polarity has a different meaning on AC power circuits than with DC circuits. On the AC circuit, one conductor (white wire) is grounded and does not have overcurrent protection. The black conductor (and red in a 240 volt circuit) is called the "hot" and has overcurrent protection. Reversed polarity does not cause a breaker to trip, and in fact could prevent a breaker trip in some situations. If a white wire gets shorted to ground with correct polarity, little or no current will flow. If a white wire gets shorted to ground with reversed polarity the wire is subject to a large overload which could start a fire.
When an RV is plugged into an outlet with reversed polarity everything will most likely operate normally, but several safety mechanisms will be defeated increasing the risk of fire and personal injury.
When an RV is plugged into an outlet with reversed polarity everything will most likely operate normally, but several safety mechanisms will be defeated increasing the risk of fire and personal injury.
