50-amp RV cord plugged into 30-amp, 20-amp, or 15-amp receptacle.At worst, under one of these configurations, we experience a nuisance pedestal breaker trip: Keeping that in mind, when we adapt an RV with a 50-amp plug (NEMA 14-50P) to either a 30-amp or 15-amp receptacle, the circuit breaker at the source will shut off power the wire’s limit is reached. Any wire configuration has a current rating, and a circuit breaker typically protects that wire. The job of a circuit breaker or fuse is to protect the downstream wiring from overloading and short circuits. While it will put you about a foot closer, if you’re using an extension cord, you likely won’t need to worry about that.Just about every RVer has a few power adapters, often referred to as “dogbones,” to make sure that they can connect to whatever power is available to them–this post will go over which power adapter types are safe to use, and which ones you might want to carry. Most of these are only around a foot long and aren’t meant to extend your power source. No, your 50-amp plug won’t replace an extension cord. Can I use a 50-amp RV plug instead of an extension cord?Ī. Look for protection from flames and sparks as well as overall defense against the elements. While most RV plugs will be weatherproof, you want to make sure that yours is. Should I look for a weatherproof RV adapter?Ī. If you spend any more time than that with your RV, a dogbone adapter is a better design, meaning you may have it for the foreseeable future and not need a replacement often. If you’re looking for the absolute cheapest option for something you only use once or twice a year, no. 50-amp RV plug FAQ Is a dogbone RV adapter essential?Ī. Expect to pay around $20-$30, but models rarely exceed $30. How much you can expect to spend on a 50-amp RV plugĪ quality 50-amp RV adapter doesn’t tend to cost too much money. With the copper wire running through, you want to keep it protected from fraying or splitting. A heavy-duty sleeve that’s flame-retardant and weatherproof is your best choice for the long term. Having an ergonomic handle attached to the plug allows you to keep a more neutral grip when removing the plug, making it easier for you and for the handle. Ergonomic handleĪttaching your plug to and removing it from shore power can occasionally be a bit of a pain. A dogbone plug is at a 90-degree angle and takes the pressure off the plug for better long-term use. If you have a straight plug, stress can wear it down over time and cause premature failure in the unit. If you have more significant power needs, you’ll want to make sure you keep a plug just in case, What to look for in a quality 50-amp RV plug Angled plugĪn angled or “dogbone” plug is your best choice. If you only have small power needs, you may be able to save some money through primitive camping and foregoing shore power. Now, a 12-volt power source isn’t the most substantial option, and a generator is usually best as a backup, so plan accordingly. If you have minimal electricity needs, you may be able to fulfill them through your 12-volt power source or a generator. If that’s your situation, make sure you get a durable one that can last for the long term. If you don’t like to plan too far ahead, an RV plug is a handy tool to keep with you. Most major campgrounds have 50- and 30-amp shore power, so you’ll need this in a limited capacity at best. However, if you exclusively camp off the grid, it won’t come in handy very often for you. Where are you camping?Īn RV plug is always good to have in your rig in case you need it. Smaller rigs often have a 30-amp power source instead, where you’ll need a different, 30-amp to 50-amp adapter instead. It may seem obvious, but make sure your RV has a 50-amp power source before buying an adapter. What to know before you buy a 50-amp RV plug What power source does your RV have? For a simple plug, you can keep with you at all times, consider the RVGUARD 50 Amp to 30 Amp RV Adapter Cord. Luckily, if you have a 50-amp RV plug, you can make sure you get power at any site, regardless of whether it offers 50- or 30-amp options. Depending on the type of RV you have and availability at your campsite, you may find yourself with the wrong setup for shore power.
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