Hank MI wrote:myredracer wrote:Hornnumb2 wrote:
I want to add a extra outside 120 receptacle. Does any body know if they just use the quick connect type socket from the factory?
Curious - what is a 120 volt quick connect receptacle?
The type that's often used in RV's. The wires just lay inside it, the back is pushed on and that pushes wires down into pinch connectors. Not a great connection, definitely not good for high current use like hair dryers, vacuums, etc.
Then you are talking about a self-contained device (SCD) like in the photo. They are not "quick connect" devices and they are not "cheap" as in substandard. Hubbell info. here. As an EE, I can say there is no reason not to use these. They are CSA/UL listed and tested to very rigorous standards and to the full current rating of the device. They're also used in mobile homes.
The problem that comes with them is that some people do not push the wires onto the IDC "stabs" properly, including even an RV manufacturer. One day a worker can be doing carpentry and the next day electrical - it's not done by qualified/licensed electricians like in buildings. The first time I pulled one out in our first TT, the wires were barely hanging on. There is a tool that is available for this but the wires can be pushed just fine with a large flat blade screwdriver or needle nose pliers.
SDC receptacles are used in RVs because they fit in the typical 1" (or so) exterior walls and cabinetry (under upper cabinets, for ex.). If you do use a standard receptacle, it MUST be installed in an outlet box.
On exterior weatherproof RV receptacles, once the flap is opened and a plug inserted, it's no longer weatherproof. That's why on houses they went to the type like in the 2nd photo, which you *could* use but not they're not exactly attractive.
It's the push-in stabs on residential receptacles I don't like. You can't see the connection inside and they don't seem that substantial to me. These can sometimes overheat at the end of a circuit with the max. number of receptacles allowed and under high current draw.
Nothing wrong with using solid conductors in 120 VAC branch circuit wiring in an RV.
Spec grade won't give you a better connection to the terminals, they have higher/better blade retention force. Plugs are harder to push in and pull out and I suspect could possibly be harder on an RV wall. Hospital grade have the highest retention force and almost need a gorilla to use them.
