30-Amp and 50-Amp RV Service: 8 Things You Need to Know
30-Amp and 50-Amp RV Service: What's the Difference? Can I Plug My 30-Amp RV Cord into a 50-Amp Power Pedestal? Can I Plug My 50-Amp RV Cord into a 30-Amp Power Pedestal? Can I Plug My RV into a 15-Amp Home Electric Outlet? Which RV-to-Generator Adapter Do I Need? Can I Plug My RV into My Dryer Outlet? Which RV Extension Cord Gauge and Length Do I Need? 30-Amp vs. 50-Amp Surge Protectors: Which Do I Need?
30-Amp and 50-Amp RV Service: What's the Difference?
Can I Plug My 30-Amp RV Cord into a 50-Amp Power Pedestal?
Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction 12-in. long
Built-in handle with finger grips for convenient grip Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction 12-in. long
Built-in handle for easy removal 18-in. long
50-amp male end 30-amp female end Grooved design for easy removal
Can I Plug My 50-Amp RV Cord into a 30-Amp Power Pedestal?
Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction 12-in. long
Built-in handle with finger grips for convenient grip Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction 12-in. long
Built-in handle for easy removal 18-in. long
30-amp male end 50-amp female end Grooved design for easy removal
Lets you plug RV's 50-amp power cord into 15-amp and 30-amp electrical outlets Allows RV to receive 45 amps of combined power 50-Amp female end connects to RV's 50-amp plug 15-Amp male end plugs into 15-amp receptacle 30-Amp male end plugs into 30-amp receptacle Built-in handles for easy removal
Can I Plug My RV into a 15-Amp Home Electric Outlet?
Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction 90-degree female connector allow easier connection in tight spaces 12-in. long
2 built-in handles for easy removal Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction 90-degree male/female connectors allow easier connection in tight spaces 12-in. long
Built-in handle for easy removal 12-in. long
15-amp male end 30-amp female end Grooved design for easy removal
15-amp male end 30-amp female end Hourglass shape for easy removal
15-amp male end 30-amp female end 90-degree design for easier connection and less strain on power cord Hourglass shape for easy removal
Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction 90-degree female connector allow easier connection in tight spaces 12-in. long
Built-in handle for easy removal 12-in. long
LED power indicator Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction 90-degree female connector allows easier connection in tight spaces 12-in. long
Which RV-to-Generator Adapter Do I Need?
Female end connects to 30-amp RV cord Male end connects to 3-prong 30-amp generator outlet Twist-lock design keeps connector secure Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction 12-in. long
Female end connects to 30-amp RV cord Male end connects to 3-prong 30-amp generator outlet Twist-lock design keeps connector secure Built-in handle for easy removal 12-in. long
Female end connects to 30-amp RV cord Male end connects to 4-prong 30-amp generator outlet Twist-lock design keeps connector secure Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction 12-in. long
Female end connects to 30-amp RV cord Male end connects to 4-prong 30-amp generator outlet Twist-lock design keeps connector secure Built-in handle for easy removal 12-in. long
Female end connects to 50-amp RV cord Male end connects to 3-prong 30-amp generator outlet Twist-lock design keeps connector secure Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction 12-in. long
Female end connects to 50-amp RV cord Male end connects to 3-prong 30-amp generator outlet Twist-lock design keeps connector secure Built-in handle for easy removal 12-in. long
Female end connects to 50-amp RV cord Male end connects to 4-prong 30-amp generator outlet Twist-lock design keeps connector secure Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction 12-in. long
Female end connects to 50-amp RV cord Male end connects to 4-prong 30-amp generator outlet Twist-lock design keeps connector secure Built-in handle for easy removal 12-in. long
Can I Plug My RV into My Dryer Outlet?
For 30-amp twist-lock RV power cord Dust cover protects inlet from water and debris UV-stabilized glass-filled polyester
For 30-amp twist-lock RV power cord Secure, watertight dust cover protects inlet when not in use Durable polyester construction
For 30-amp twist-lock RV power cord Dust cover protects inlet from water and debris LED power indicator Fiber-filled casing for harsh marine environments Colors available: White
For 50-amp twist-lock RV power cord Dust cover protects inlet from water and debris UV-stabilized glass-filled polyester
For 50-amp twist-lock RV power cord Secure, watertight dust cover protects inlet when not in use Durable polyester construction
For 50-amp twist-lock RV power cord Dust cover protects inlet from water and debris LED power indicator Fiber-filled casing for harsh marine environments Colors available: White
What Wire Gauge Can My RV Use? Should I Use a Household Extension Cord?
50 ft. long 30-amp male plug 30-amp female plug Built-in handles for easy removal Strap buckles around cord for easy transport and storage
30 ft. long 50-amp male plug 50-amp female plug Built-in handles for easy removal Strap buckles around cord for easy transport and storage
30-Amp vs. 50-Amp Surge Protectors: Which Do I Need?
Can I use a 50-amp surge protector with a 30-amp outlet?
Jim F.
I am making a 10' cord to go from my solar generator to my 2009 38' Montana 5th wheel, it appears that behind the inlet plug there is 10/3 wire supplying the coach . . . Would a 10/3 X 10' cord be OK ?? THANKS !
You want to use the same type of cord that the system uses, so I suggest you verify that your inlet is 10/3 if that's the case yes you can use a 10/3 cord.
Robert
WE HAVE A 30 AMP OUTLET IN OUR GARAGE AND FOR THE LAST 3 YEARS PLUGGED OUR 2019 FLEETWOOD M/H IN WITH NO PROBLEM KEEPING THE BATTERY'S CHARGED . NOW WE HAVE A 2022 FLEETWOOD M/H WHICH USED A CENTRAL PANEL CALLED A FIREFLY CENTRAL CONTROL PANEL. WE PLUGGED IN JUST LIKE WE DID WITH THE 2019 M/H AND THE PANEL SHOWS NO SHORE POWER. WE THEN WENT TO TWO RV PARKS AND HOOKED UP OUR DOGBONE ADAPTER AND IT WORKS FINE POWERING THE M/H AND THE PANEL SHOWS 30 AMP . CAN YOU SUGGEST WHAT TO CHECK FOR NEXT?
This feels like a breaker or something has been tripped at your house or the polarity has been swapped. If you can get shore power at two of three different locations that means the the problem is at the house and not in your RV. Make sure all the breakers are in the correct position and not tripped. Use a multi meter and verify the output of the outlet in your garage. Make sure the plug on your motorhome is wired right. If this doesn't work I would suggest calling an electrician to come look at it, the last thing we need is for your systems to be ruined by a bad ground or a shorted wire somewhere. Let me know how it goes and if you have anymore questions!
Helpful Links
Lina
Hi! If I have 50amp inlet going to a 50amp breaker, can this go into a 3000 watt inverter (max 30amp) or is another step requires in between to protect the inverter?
@Lina when you say that you have a 50-amp inlet, do you mean a screw on trailer connection where you would connect a 50-amp extension cord that is connected to a home or park pedestal?
Reply from Lina
@LesD Hey! Thanks for the reply. I’m building a skoolie and trying to make a decision about the service to put in. It sounds like 30 amp is the way to go given the inverters on the market right now. I would probably need two if I had 50 amp service.
@Lina, building a skoolie! That sounds like fun, but a lot of work also. How you design your custom RV is a very personal and practical thing. I encourage you to join some of the skoolie internet communities where you can see how they tackled the same issues you will be facing. Now, about your inverter. Inverters run off of your coach batteries – not your engine batteries. I would install an appropriately sized fuse between your inverter and it's power source. You should also watch your wire sizes to see that they can handle the amperage. Your inverter instructions will dictate this.
Helpful Links
Reply from Lina
@LesD Thanks!
Jon F.
I understand how the 30 amp service differs from the 50 amp service, such as 50 amp having two legs that are 50 amps each leg, w/ a total of 100 amps, and a 120/240 split service. Some larger higher end RVs have appliances that use the 240 volt service (A/Cs, ovens, dryers, etc); I know ther are adapters for plugging into a 50 amp service when you only have a 30 amp RV, and vice versa. Ny question is, if you have a RV that has 50 amp service, but go somewhere where only 30 amp service is available from shore power and you utilize the adapter, what happens to those appliances that are 240 volt (like if someone turns on the 240 volt oven or the 240 volt A/C tries to kick on), do they automatically know not to come on or just don't work, or do they try to come on and get destroyed because they require 240 volts and are only drawing 120? Thx!
@JonF I am not aware of any RVs using 240 volt service for individual appliances. If an owner moved in a 240 volt device, they would have to remember to hook up properly.
Rob O.
Very informative article, thanks. I’d like to plug my camper van into the 15-amp outlet in a garage but my 30-amp power cord doesn’t reach. Can I use an extension cord from the garage outlet to a 15-amp X 30-amp adapter and then pug into the 30-amp cable to the van?
@RobO with the proper gauge cord it could be done depending on the distance. What is the length of your camper's current 30 amp cord? What is length of extension cord that you need? I will figure out what gauge of extension cord you need, but I will probably suggest a 30-amp extension cord with the dog bone between the 30-amp cord and garage outlet. It will happen that when you are camping and need the full 30 amps that you don't have enough length and you will want a 30-amp extension cord (rather than a 15/20 amp cord that won't run your A/C) like the Mighty Cord # A10-3025EH made with 10 gauge wire. In this way you get double-duty from your equipment.
Brandon
I never understood why there is not a double, 15 amp Y into a single 30 amp converter? The same thing is made to allow 30 amps to go into a single 50 amp but why not 2x15 into a single 30? Thanks!
@Brandon I think you will find that the 15 amp circuit is different than the 30 amp circuit, and is why you can combine them for your 50 amp trailer, although it is not the same as a dedicated 50 amp circuit. The 15 amp outlets are on the same circuit and will never deliver more than 15 amps. You would essentially just be plugging in more things to the same circuit which will eventually overload.
Dale W.
I’m a bit confused as to how a 50a to 30a adaptor is configured. As I understand it a 50a service is 2 120v legs (+neutral & ground) but the onboard panel is not set up like a household panel. Another words nothing is wired for 240v. All breakers a single pole, 120v. That being the case a 30a 120v service is only powering 1 half of the 50a panel. OR does the adaptor power Both halves of the 50a panel/ if so, then everything in the TT would have power but limited to a total of 30a. And I can see where folks would likely trip the breaker at the pedestal without much trouble.
When you have a 50 amp trailer and only 30 amp service at the campground pedelstal, you will need a "dog bone" adapter like the Mighty Cord # A10-3050FHVP to provide power to all circuits. However you still only have 30 amps of available power. Not likely that you will be able to operate two airconditioners. A better alternative is the Camco # CAM55025 adapter that will give you an additional 15 amps.
Don C.
A question regarding OK length from RV post to trailer: I'll have a personal RV post between 40 and 60 feet from my trailer. For 30A, is it typically OK to use a 25 foot power cable with a 50 foot extension to stretch from the RV post to the trailer? What about 50A (I may eventually have a 50A trailer). The RV post will have 30A and 50A receptacles, my current trailer is 30A (2018 19-foot Flying Cloud Airstream). Thanks!
@DonC The Mighty Cord # A10-3050EHLED is a 30-amp extension cord that is 50 foot long to extend your existing trailer cord. This cord features 10-gauge wire, which is the lightest wire I would want to use over that distance. The Mighty Cord # A10-5050E is a 50 amp RV extension cord that measures 50 feet and features 8 gauge wire. Yes you can do it, but I would not use any lighter gauge wire on the distances that you want to run.
Mandy
how do i plug in my 7way rv plug on my horse trailer at a camp ground with only 30 amp and 50 amp plug ins? thanks
@Mandy The 7-way connector, similar to the Bargman # 50-67-106 is wired to your trailer, and the connector plugs into your truck. This provides turn signals, running, and brake lights to your trailer. It can also provide a braking signal for your electric brakes, and a low power 12-volt trickle charge to your trailer battery. It cannot connect to any A/C 120 volt campground outlet. If your trailer has A/C appliances such as an air conditioner, microwave, coffeemaker, and such, then your trailer will have A/C outlets inside, and a power center that looks kind of like a breaker panel, and it will have a cord like the Epicord # 277-000148 A/C power cord pigtail to plug into the campground A/C connector, either 30-amp or 50-amp.
Cyndi D.
I have a RV park. Explain to me about 50amp breakers, how many amps can the pull? I read that each leg can supply 50amps each, or is the break suppling a total of 50amp? The bigger rigs will trip breakers, we measure each leg and it's show 39.2 0n one leg then 20.1 on the other leg. What's happening and how to I explain?
The way that I understand this to work is that each leg can pull 50 amps, but not necessarily at the same time. From what I know, they have a 50amp breaker, but these breakers trip give or take a bit around 50amps. Some people have found that if they're pulling 45amps or so all from one leg they can trip a breaker, but if it is more evened out between the legs then they can get over 50 amps before the breaker trips.
Barron G.
I have read the comments and I am a little lost. I have a travel trailer that is wired for 50amps. The trailer is wired with two circuits as there are two AC units and I assume that one is on each circuit. When using a conversion dog bone - 50amp to 30amp it appears that the plug is only using one of the legs to send power into the trailer. If this is the case, how is the other circuit getting its power or is there a bus bar in plug that is linking both legs into one?
What dogbone do you have? When you mention leg are you talking about a product like part # CAM55025 or like the part # CAM55185 ?
Reply from Gary B.
There is a lot of confusion here. Look at it this way there are 4 breakers in the box that you plug into in the park 2- 50 Amp and 1- 30 Amp and 1- 20 Amp each and are controlled by the breaker. Now if you were to cut the cords into (not saying to ) this is what you will SEE is 4 wires for the 50 amp service a red, Black both carry 120V each limited by the 50 amp breaker a green ground and a white Common that gives you 2- 50 amp lines. Your dog bone is wired one line black or red passes thru to the plug and the other is not connected. You are connected to your 50 amp black line you will have 120V at 50 Amps the red is not used The breaker is the limiting factor. You are over powering your 30 amp service in the RV by 20 amps unless you put a 30 Amp breaker in before you plug into the RV line. IF you were using 50 Amps in the RV the red one will be connected and pass thru as well giving you 2-120V 50 Amp lines the black and the red supplying a total of 100 Amps at 220 Volts now the confusing part the box that the breakers are mounted in have 2 brass strips. The breakers snap onto each supplying 120 Volts. If you look at the brass strips both have notch on it. The two 50 amp lines as you look at the box one line should be hooked to the breaker on the right the other on to the left breaker if you hook both to the same side that is a cross phase not good that is what your line protector checks for giving you a fault light the problem must be fixed before you use the box. , 3 wires for the 30 amp service your black wire will be hooked to the load on the breaker the white is a common hooked where all the other white ones hook in the box and the copper one hooked to the ground buss giving you one line 120V at 30amps the 20amp is hooked up the same way as the 30 amp the breaker is the limiting factor on the line to 20amps. Now your 50 amp service has 2- service lines and is split at the box in the RV giving you 2- circuits of 120 volts with a 50 amp breaker they are never hooked together at any time. That is why if you have 2 AC's each is hooked to a separate circuit. If you can't run both AC's if you are you pugged into the 30 amp line. When installed the may have a circuit supplied by the inverter for one not a good system. You should be able to run only one AC hooked to the 30 amp service. Now if you purchase a serge protector be sure if has overload, spike, protection and several other things it will take care all are that automatically if everything is not correct it will not turn on the power. If you have 30 amp service in your rv purchase the one for the 30 amp service not the 50 it will not protect you for overload until you hit the 50 overload and melt down the plugs , appliances and RV'S . Insider info if you have a 30 amp system in the RV and you buy a 30 amp surge protector you can use the surge protector to manage all that stuff off of the 50amp dog bone the surge protector will limit your system to max draw of 30 amps +or- and some are blue tooth and can be reset from your phone with out going outside in the rain or cold. sorry for the long answer and by the way provided your Dryer or stove you can get an adapter for it will work the same way with the surge protector. KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING AND THE VOLTAGE YOU ARE WORKING WITH IT IS ALL VERY DANGEROUIS
Reply from Scott B.
@GaryB Very informative answer. I have a question for you. I wired up my house for a generator, using about 35 feet of 6/3, to a 2-pole 40a breaker, and a 4-pin twist-lock outlet. Can I take my Camper's 50a cord and adapt into that outlet to power my Camper via the house electric? Similarly, can I use my 9000w Predator Generator using the 4-pin twist-lock 30a outlet to power the camper on the 50a line? Part of my confusion is I'm new to RV and don't understand the 50a system. Is it 2 circuits of 120v in phase, or is it 240v, or is it 2x 120v wires out of phase. Thanks.
Reply from Dale W.
@GaryB it is my understanding that there is a main breaker in the panel in a TT. IT limits the amount of power the TT can consume. Technically the 30a cord is “over powered” as it is connected to a 50a circuit. But the likelihood of a problem is miniscule.
Reply from Mike A.
@ScottB I have a similar question and situation as well. I have a Reliance 30 amp 4 prong generator panel outside my garage. Plan was to use that to power the RV which is 30 amp as well. So I took a 25 foot 10/4 generator cable with 30 amp 4 prong female twist connection on one end and cut the other end off. It was also too long anyway so I cut 10 feet off. I took the cut wires and wired into a 30 amp 3 prong TT-30 panel and plug the RV into there for shore power. I had to cap the extra red power wire in the 10/4 cable. The question is this a safe and stable connection? Im new to all of this well.
As I'm sure you found out it will "work" but it is not safe and will not pass code. I highly recommend having a residential electrician come and correct the issue to make it reflect local codes.
Walter
Hello, I have a 50 amp trailer that often needs an adaptor to use a 30 amp power source. I'm confused as to which EMS to purchase that will protect my unit (30 amp or 50 amp)? Thanks,
I believe you're talking about a surge protector, correct? If that's the case then I'd go with a 50A protector like part # CAM55313 and an adapter like part # CAM55185 .
Howard C.
Dear Expert Regarding the Power Grip RV Power maximizer CAM55025P Which allows you to Y together a 30amp and 15amp plug into a 50amp plug. How is this Y wired? are the 30 and 15amp wired together and fed to both phases of the 50amp plug or does the 30amp line connect to one phase of the 50amp plug and the 15amp line connect to the other phase of the 50amp line? thanks
The grounds and neutrals are wired together for the Camco Power Grip # CAM55025 . The 15A and 30A power is then ran to their own parts in the 50A side.
Reply from Miike D.
@JonG Could you please expand your answer ? I am trying to find out if I have a short or ? whatever that now causes my two roof A/C units to cycle on shore power but run perfectly on the generator. First occurred after hookup to 30 amp pedestal and using a Camco 30A plus 15A pigtail and running both A/C units and a residential fridge.
@MiikeD I'm wondering if your shore power connection isn't strong enough. I'm linking a few answer pages where I got this info from for you to reference. If your adapter works fine with your generator but doesn't like your shore power connection have you tried connecting to a different shore power setup?
Helpful Links
Reply from Miike D.
@JonG I have tried several different 50 amp pedestals , replaced the power cord and the transfer switch and the mother board on the SHED side. Do you think the inverter could be involved ? Should I reset my inverter ?
@MiikeD It could potentially be anything honestly. The thing that I'm getting hung up on though is why would it work just fine when you're using your generator but not at a shore power pedestal? If you're using the same exact cords and connections then the only changing factor is the power source being a generator vs a pedestal, right?
Reply from Miike D.
@JonG Correct.
@MiikeD If that's the case then I honestly am not sure what the problem would be. I would see if there is a local electrician or if you have a friend that knows more about this stuff that would be willing to take a look at it.
Jim G.
Dear Natalie, I am using a Camco RV Power Defender Voltage Monitor # CAM55306, connected with an adapter to a 15 amp outlet in my home workshop. I've been using this CAM55306 for about 5 years to keep RV battery charges, run lights, etc. During the extreme power outages we had in Texas over the past week, I ran it for several days on a portable generator. After electric service was restored, I plugged everything in as before, but now the red 'warning' light is on constantly, and the power light (that blinks for a couple of minutes when hooking up before coming on steady) is continuing to blink as long as it is plugged in. Does this mean the CAM55306 is going bad (it's 5 years old), or does it indicate another problem?
Did you give it 2 minutes to get a readout of your electrical system prior to plugging anything in? I'm guessing you've tried disconnecting and then reconnecting it already? Glad to hear that you had some provisions for power during that period in Texas!
Ron G.
Parallel two 2500 Westinghouse gens. (18.3running.amps 20 peak peach) Have a 50 amp parallel cable with nema 14 50 plugged into a. 50 amp 15 ft extension cord (nema 14 50 amp). From this I've ordered a 5 plug 110 plug for he use. Shall I worry? Can this work. as back up?
Are you trying to use the generators for your house, or trying to run 110V appliances in your RV using this method? As long as you're pulling power from your generators using a plug rated for 110V or 120V then you should be fine as far as compatibility goes, but when it comes to the amount of power you're pulling that is something you'll need to figure on your end by adding up all of the power usage from your appliances.
Marcos S.
I have a 50 amp RV and connected into a 15 amp/110 outlet over the winter to maintain my batteries. My refrigerator is a residential unit with no way to turn it off unless I disconnect it. Will the batteries still charge with the refrigerator running?
I would think so but that kind of depends on the size of the fridge and if you have any kind of charger/maintainer for the batteries that can help read things like that.
Will
I have a 50 amp Rv. Can I use a dual 30 amp to 50 amp “Y” adaptor to two 30 amp on a 9000 w generator?
Yes, just keep in mind that you will still be limited by 50A since that's what your RV is rated for.
Walt S.
If you have an RV with 50 Amps service .With two legs of 120 Volts each .When you’re plugged in to a 15 amp cord how is everything in the RV still work?
What do you mean by everything? Were you still able to run your AC and appliances with a larger draw like that? The only thing I can think of is if for some reason those were pulling power from your battery bank instead of directly from that power cord. As we state in the article, using just the 15 Amp service should only be providing a maintenance charge to your battery bank.
Reply from Walt S.
@JonG I don’t mean that you can run everything at once .I mean all the 110 plugs are hot ,how is that possible when you’re bringing two legs in when your hooked to 50 amps? And only one leg when your hooked to 15 amps. And still all plugs are hot.
@WaltS Ah, that makes much more sense. When plugged into 15A service that means that the max you can draw is 15A without blowing any fuses/breakers. Since all you're doing is completing a circuit when you test that means that you aren't exceeding that 15A draw.
Metro
This is a good article that has a lot of very good good information but it leaves me confused about the power source. A typical house has 3 lines from the power pole that has 2 power lines and a return. Between either power line and return measures 120V. Between the two power lines measures 240V (2 phase). Does a 50 amp service from the power pedestal provide power similar to house power? That is, measuring between the 2 power lines yields 240V?
Essentially, yes. It's just important to remember that there is a 50A limiter via the RV breaker so you'll need to remain under 50A total - not just per line.
Keith G.
I thought 30 amp coaches were 30 amp everywhere and 50 amp were 25 one side 25 the other
The 30-Amp Service has 1 power pin while the 50-Amp Service has 2 power pins. The 30A version pin is rated for 30A alone while the 50A plug is rated for 50A together, so basically you have to remain under 50A otherwise the breaker will blow. From my understanding there isn't a denoted amount of amps to either pin.
Reply from Steven
@JonG if the 50 amp feed needs to stay under 50 amps total, that would provide a maximum of 6000 watts. The article says 12,000 watts for 50 amp, which would suggest 50 amps per leg.
@Steven The 50A service on the RV side is 50A per leg. The limiting factors are the pedestal that you connect to as well as the breaker for the 50A service on your RV. So even though the power is available you still need to be mindful of what you're using so you don't blow any fuses, very much like what happens at your home.
Chris B.
We just bought an RV trailer that uses 30 amp service. We want to install an RV receptacle at home. Since we may decide to upgrade to a larger 50 amp trailer at some point, does it make sense for us to install a 50 amp receptacle at home and use a converter? Is that any less safe?
As stated in the article it is completely safe to plug in your 30A trailer into a 50A service using an adapter (see linked selection). This way when you do go to a larger trailer you don't have to worry about reconfiguring your receptacle at home.
Helpful Links
Jim G.
Question. We just purchased a new trailer that has 50 amp service. The 50 amp cord is tough to handle. Not all places we go has 50 amp service. Instead of using an adapter (50 to30). Will a 30 amp cord pug into the trailer in place of the 50 amp cord?
You can, but if that's all that you carry with you then that means you'll be limited to 30A even if you're plugged into a 50A service. I'd just carry the adapter with you so that you know you're getting the most out of whatever service you're connected to.
John C.
I have a 30amp trailer. Bought a generator that has a 30amp, 4-prong 240v receptacle. Can I take my cord from the trailer, get an adapter to hook directly to the 4-prong receptacle and power my rig that way? I think that is what this article was about but I want to make sure. I've read from other locations that even with that, I should only use the 15 amp receptacle. Why the 30 amp receptacle on generators then?
Reply from John C.
@JonG Sorry, I did mean model 4375. You got it. Thanks.
@JohnC Anytime!
@JohnC I wasn't able to find that exact model but I was able to see the 4375 model which I'm guessing is similar? For the 4375 it has an AC 120/240V outlet that is rated for 15A which makes sense as to why they would recommend a 15A cord. With that being said, since your trailer will be rated for 30A I wouldn't use this generator to power your trailer. Otherwise you're probably going to be constantly tripping up those breakers.
Reply from John C.
@JonG it is the Predator 4350 model. It has that 240v and then four 120v outlets. Perhaps I can’t use it for that then. I can run extension cords for specific things then or hooking up battery charger I guess. Sounds like I’m limited with options with this model
@JohnC What generator do you have? I've been doing some more research and it looks like if your outlet is only rated for 240V then that isn't good for your trailer. Are there any type of switches or other outlets on it?
Reply from John C.
@JonG other than because it was 240v not a 30 amp 120v receptacle. That was the conversation when the answer came back as such. I didn’t quite understand that. Thanks
You should be just fine using an adapter like part # CAM55382 . I think what they are referring to is the 240V setting on your generator, but your generator should also be rated for 120V as well so it'll be just fine. Did they give any reasons as to why you should only use the 15A?
Phil B.
Info above very helpfull. My son inlaw purchased a generator that has a 50 amp 240 volt outlet. His house has a 30 amp 240 volt service line with 4 prongs. Is it safe to pug into this line? The house already has a set up breaker box for power failure.
I would think that's okay but you really need to speak with a technician that specializes in residential generator setups like what you have. There can be differences between residential and RV so I recommend going that route to ensure it's okay.
Dlo
I used a MightyCord 14-50P to TT30-R adapter to plug my RV into a 220V 14-50 outlet at my house (used for an EV car charger), and only remembered it was 220V a few seconds later. There doesn't appear to be any damage to the RV, which really surprised me. Is it possible this is due to the adapter not using all the wires from the 14-50, and thus not transferring 220V to the RV? I'm relieved there was no damage, but is it safe to use in this way?
It could be but I'm not sure to be quite honest. When it comes to connecting an RV to an outlet at your house we always recommend consulting a professional electrician to make sure that everything is safe to use together.
Tim R.
Why is there no 6-50p to TT-30r adapter available? This would go from my welder outlet in the garage so I can plug my 30a trailer in.
@TimR Yeah the best thing to do in that instance is to have a professional come out and make sure that everything is safe.
Reply from Tim R.
@JonG - OK, I was thinking there might be a compatibility issue of some sort, I'm no electrician. I have one coming tomorrow to do some work here, I'll ask if that is the issue.
I just don't think that there is very much of a demand for that type of an adapter which is why you're having a hard time finding it.
Glen R.
I have been looking on your site to find a 30amp receptical and plug that are compatible for my travel trailer, and two that might be comparable the numbers are A 10-30FDT and A 10-30INBKUP. I am contacting you to verify these numbers that could be a match that would connect together. Could you help me for conformation on these items. Thank for the help.
I'm guessing you mean the parts # A10-30FDT and # A10-30INVP ? I wasn't able to find a part with the number A10-30INBKUP that you mentioned but I can confirm that the 2 part numbers I mentioned above are compatible with each other.
Charles W.
I have a 50 Amp receptacle on the outside of my house where I plug in my generator when I lose electricity in storms. My RV is also 50 Amp, so I am wondering if I can plug into that receptacle to power my RV? Will power run in the right direction?
You should be okay to do this (I confirmed this with my contact at Mighty Cords) but I'd double check with the company that set up your generator receptacle just to be on the safe side of things.
Reply from Ken F.
@JonG Chances are it won't work as the 50 Amp receptacle on the outside of your house would be connected to a transfer switch in the house that switches the house service from Hydro to the generator in a power failure. When your house has Hydro power the receptacle on the outside of your house would not have any power available for your RV.
Sarah P.
We have a teardrop trailer that runs on 30amp. Other than connecting to charge at home we've not yet camped at sites with power. This is all new and a bit confusing so bear with me. We have a 30/15a dogbone adapter. We will be staying a a site soon that has 20A. What do we need to connect?
You'll need one of the adapters in the link here. Each one has a different male connection to the 20A so you'll need to reach out to the campsite to see what type of connection they have.
Helpful Links
Greg M.
I am storing my 50 amp fifth wheel where there is a house plug 15 amp service. I have purchased your 50 amp to 15 amp adapter to connect at the RV. From the adapter I am running my extension cord to the House outlet. Can I use a 15 amp surge protector? And what size lead cord should I be using?
You could use a 15 amp surge protector but it wouldn't really protect your 5th wheel, since it runs on 50 amp service. You technically would still want to stick with a 50 amp surge protector for this application.
Donald P.
I have a 2018 30-amp travel trailer, 33' long, one 15K A/C unit. I often camp at parks where both 30 and 50 amp hookups are available at my site. Would it be more beneficial to always hook up to the 50 amp service when available to take full advantage of all 30 amps of power I may need? I've stayed at some parks where the 30 amp breakers were weak and would trip before full load. Please let me know. Thanks.
I don't honestly think it would matter, either way. Assuming you're using an adapter like # A10-5030FBK you'd still be getting 30 amps when hooking up to a 50 amp outlet. If you run into issues with not getting enough power from 30 amp outlets though it's certainly a fine solution.
Reply from Donald P.
@ChrisR Thank you for your reply. Yes I have this 30 to 50 amp adapter. I know my rig pulls right at 28 amps at full load and sometimes I trip the 30 amp breaker, especially at state parks. If I just hooked to the 50 amp to begin with then I wouldn't have to worry about it.
Dan M.
Is there or can it be made, a 50 Amp plug that is divided into a 30 amp & 20 amp receptacle? That way I could use the 30 Amps to power my RV and the 20 Amp to power my added AC unit going thru a 50 Amp Power Defender/Circuit Analyzer. Also where could I get it?
Reply from John B.
@DanM I have a 30amp RV. Many campsites do not have an additional 15 amp outlet. I purchased a a big, yellow adapter that is a 50 amp male with two 30 amp females. Put the male 50 amp plug into a 50amp pedestal, then plug 30amp Rv male into one 30 amp female and use a 30amp male-to-15amp female adapter in the other for regular extension cord. I am traveling now but do not have the big adapter with me. I will be home after Sept.8th...email me then and I can give you the brand name.
Reply from John B.
@DanM Here is the info you needed: I have a MARINCO LL95531 adapter. Main plug is 50 amp male that splits to two 30 amps females, 125/250 V, na-1-2. It is bright yellow, however I have painted mine black to be less noticeable at the RV park pedestal.
Reply from Dan M.
I'm actually looking for an adapter that goes from 50 Amp shore power to a 30 amp receptacle and a 15 amp receptacle and is there a way one can be constructed if there isn't one available?
The closest adapter we have to that is the Camco # CAM55025 , which lets you go from the 50 amp plug on your camper/RV to 15 amp and 30 amp outlets. I'm not away of something similar that goes to 30 amp and 20 amp outlets.
Bruce B.
Thank you. Very helpful.
Reply from John B.
@BruceB My adapter is a MARINCO LL95531; 125/250 V, NA-1-2. Male 50 amp splits into two 30 amp females.
Greg L.
I have a 30 RV and I use a 30 Amp surge protector. I will be camping at a park with 50 Amp service. I have a 50 to 30 amp dog bone for the connection. Is the proper way to hook up to connect the 50 to 30 dog bone to the pedestal then plug in my 30 amp surge protector and then my 30 amp cord to camper?
You are exactly right!
Roy
So, I have an RV with a 30 amp system. I purchased a 50 amp Portable RV EMS with Surge Protection EMS-PT50X by mistake. Question: With a 30 amp supply at a campground, can I plug the 50 amp surge protection into the 30 amp supply and then attach a 50 amp - 30 amp dogbane and not worry?
Physically that would work but the 50 amp surge protector won't do much good since it wouldn't protect against surges over 30 amps.
Rudy R.
one other thought to my previous post about 50A vs. 30A : they should be more accurately described as 50 amp - 240 volt to 30 amp - 110 volt adapter, because you just cant assume anything anymore! take note manufacturers.
Rudy R.
The 50 amp side of the adapter has 2 pins for power (black), 1 pin for common (white), and 1 pin for ground (green); the 30 amp side of the adapter needs only one black pin to be connected to one of the 30A pins to give you 110 volts. If you want to check your adapter to make sure your 240V - 50A power supply is being converted to 110V-30A, you can test one side pin or the other with a volt meter to see if its "dead". I havnt been able to find an explanation of this until I recently bought a clear plastic 50A to 30A plug style adapter that you can see the wiring inside, and one of the 50A pins is not connected, so voila! 110volts and my RV is not fried!
Pc
I’m new to home generators. I bought a Champion 3400 for power before the next Harvey or Ike hits. I want to know the type of safe extension cord I need to run from the generator into the house for the frig and portable a/c. Thanks
You'll need to use a heavy duty 240 watt extension cord from the generator to an outlet that would be installed on the outside of your house. To set your house up so that you can power things like your fridge and AC with the generator (when needed), you'll want to have an electrician come by to add a generator interlock kit to your breaker box, along with the plug outlet on the house.
Natalie R.
I think 15-amp powered RVs are typically small, so they do not need a lot of power. They use the same power capacity as the ones that you find at home. What do you think about that. Thanks for your useful information in the article!
I agree. A trailer/RV designed for 15 amp service wouldn't have too many powered accessories and would definitely be on the smaller side.
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