Portable RV Generator Issue? Why You Probably Need a Neutral Ground Plug
So, you're ready for an off-grid adventure in your RV, generator humming, ready to power your cozy home-on-wheels. But wait! You've heard whispers of a "bonding plug" to make your portable generator run your RV and now you're wondering if this is some crucial piece of the puzzle you're missing. Fear not, fellow adventurer, we're here to demystify this little device and explain why it might be essential for your RV generator setup.
The Generator We Use
The Maxpeedingrods 3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator is a great value. As quiet and reliable as generators twice its price with all the features. With Soft Starts installed, we can run both our AC units in our Airstream from this 3500W generator.
Understanding the Why: Grounding and Your RV
Before we dive into the bonding plug itself, let's talk about grounding. In your house, the neutral and ground wires are bonded at your main electrical panel. This creates a safe path for electricity to return to the source if there's a fault, protecting you and your appliances.
Now, here's where it gets interesting with generators. Many portable generators, especially those sleek inverter models, have a "floating neutral." This means the neutral isn't connected to the generator's frame or the earth. While this is perfectly fine for powering your tools directly, it can cause issues with your RV's electrical system.
We carry a generator for those hot Texas days when we may need it, so it has to be ready to go. Carrying a neutral ground plug with us is imperative to making sure the air conditioner works when using our generator.
How House Wiring Works: In a typical house, the neutral and ground wires are bonded together at the main electrical panel. This provides a safe path for electricity to flow back to the source in case of a fault.
Floating Neutral Generators: Many portable generators, especially inverter generators, have a "floating neutral." This means the neutral is not connected to the generator's frame or the earth. This is fine for powering tools or appliances directly, but it can cause issues with RVs.
RV Electrical Systems: RVs have sensitive electronics and safety features that expect a grounded neutral. When plugged into a floating neutral generator, these systems may detect a fault and prevent power from flowing.
Enter the Bonding Plug: The bonding plug is a simple device that creates a connection between the neutral and ground terminals in the generator's outlet. This mimics the grounded neutral found in a house, satisfying the RV's electrical system and allowing power to flow.
The Bonding Plug: A Simple Solution
This little device creates a connection between the neutral and ground terminals in your generator's outlet. It essentially mimics the grounded neutral found in your house, satisfying your RV's electrical system and allowing power to flow freely.
Neutral Ground Bonding Plug for Portable Inverter Generator
Simply plug this neutral grounding bonding plug into the outlet on your generator, create a properly bonded power source for your RV
Why is this important?
Safety: The bonding plug helps ensure the safe operation of your RV's electrical system. Without it, you could have an increased risk of electrical shock or damage to your appliances.
Functionality: Many RVs have built-in surge protectors or Electrical Management Systems (EMS) that will not allow power to flow without a properly grounded neutral. The bonding plug prevents these systems from tripping and cutting off power.
Important Notes:
Not all generators require a bonding plug. Some generators already have a bonded neutral. Check your generator's manual to be sure.
The bonding plug is only needed for generators. You don't need it when plugged into shore power at a campground.
Using a bonding plug incorrectly can be dangerous. Make sure you understand how it works and when to use it.
The bonding plug might seem like a small and insignificant accessory, but it plays a vital role in ensuring the safe and proper operation of your RV's electrical system when using a generator. So, before you head off on your next adventure, make sure you understand the role of this little device and whether your generator requires it. If you're unsure about any of this, consult a qualified electrician or RV technician for assistance. Happy camping!
