Multi meter and pedestal power

This will probably come off sounding snarky, and I do not intend it that way. But....if a person has to ask this question, I am not so sure they will even know how to safely check the power at the pedestal.

Just sayin'.....a guy poking metal objects into them there holes could very well electrocute themself.

Perhaps a better choice might be a TRC ( or similar ) surge guard.

For "safe" voltage range readings, I use 102 - 132 range -> which is consistent range with many Surge Protectors with auto shut off feature.

If you go to this site, click on outlet testing and then click on 30 amp tester, it will show you how to construct a quick simple all in one tester tester for a 30 amp outlet. And an adapter for 15/20 amp.

I made one for a 50 amp outlet (also there) and use a 50/30 adapter when we have only 30 amp service.

you can get an adequate meter for free from Harbor freight. almost bought an AC/DC tester at Home Depot this am, the type that has the various lights that light up depending on voltage. then I noticed that the DC voltage started at 140 or thereabouts. what good is that?

bumpy

Hi,

I keep a kill-a-watt meter plugged in to monitor voltage from all three sources. (one at a time).

My safe low is 109 or above. Below that number the air conditioner gets turned off. Once I have the new PSW inverter in place I'll be using it when voltage sags.

I use an adapter plus polarity tester plus the kill-a-watt before I plug in anywhere.

.

For me, I bought a simple DM55-1 digital volt meter (from ebay) and plugged it into a normal AC 110-120V standard outlet. Think I paid < $6.00 for it and its shipping was free. Took 12 days of shipping (from China) but well worth it. For this item, I simply plug into standard 110/120V outlet. Good real time meter - to monitor available volt levels.

re: - click here -

Hope this helps.

I too only panic when I get below 108 volts.

This is what Bumpy suggests used in conjunction with a hockey puck style adapter. Plug it into the 30 amp receptacle. Not only does it check for voltage and polarity but checks for other wiring issues you could find in the pedestal or the campground electrical systems. It is a little safer to use then a meter.
Electrical meter
Voltage should not be less than 110. Some items will work down to around 105, but could cause damage. I would not like to see over 130 volts without any loads.

This diagram might help:

30a socket wiring

I generally like 108v and above.

The main page of the site.

your multi-function surge protector will answer those questions. but a 30 amp to 15 amp convertor with a cheap plug in analog meter will give you a clue and has a semi-accurate red/green band.
bumpy