RV Electricity - 30 Amp VS 50 Amp, Explained.
Understanding RV electricity is not as complex as it might initially seem. While our Leisure Travel Vans Unity FX is a 30 amp RV, our Airstream Globetrotter 27FBT is a 50 amp rig. What’s the difference, and why are there two different amperage types?
Which type of electrical system all depends on how much potential energy your RV needs. The Leisure Travel Van has only one air conditioner, which can be operated on a 30 amp plug easily along with other low amperage items such and TVs, lights etc. However our Airstream has two air conditioners, therefore requiring more power than the 30 amp plug can give us (Read below how adding Soft Starts or Easy Start can run both on 30amp).
Don’t let the names fool you, 30 amp VS 50 amp is not just a slight bump in usable wattage, but 50 amps allows for more than 3 times the wattage available than 30 amp. 3,600 watts VS 12,000 watts to be exact.
Read on for a detailed explanation of the differences between 30 amp and 50 amp, as well as a cheat code to run two air conditioners on your RV with a 30 amp plug or one AC on a household 20 amp plug using a SoftStart RV.
Soft Start RV
Learn more about how a SoftStart RV can revolutionize your ability to run your air conditioner from virtually any power source including 20 amp, a small generator and even a lithium battery setup.
The Differences Between 30 Amp and 50 Amp RVs.
A 30-amp RV connection is similar to the standard 120-volt outlets in your house but it has a unique looking plug. It is safeguarded by a single 30-amp circuit breaker, similar to how a household outlet is protected by a single 15 or 20-amp breaker. This 30 amp connection can handle up to 3,600 watts of power.
A 50-amp RV connection is a 240-volt circuit split into two sections of 120 volts each. Each section can provide 50 amps and is protected by its own 50-amp breaker, linked with the other. This connection can handle up to 12,000 watts of power.
The confusion often arises when trying to connect a 30-amp RV to a 50-amp outlet, or vice versa. Adapters are available for both scenarios and they are safe to use, but the max power available will still be 3,600 watts.
I recommend carrying every available adapter aka “dog bone” with you so that you can plug into any outlet that’s available. You can often find campgrounds where the 30 amp plug may be bad, but the 50 amp is just fine or vice versa. (Carry an analyzer or use your surge protector and always check to avoid damaging your electricity system). Then just use your adapter to plug into the best available outlet.
Links to our electrical essentials we carry with us
When you use a 50 to 30-amp adapter to plug a 30-amp RV into a 50-amp outlet, one of the 50-amp sections of the outlet is used. The other is left unused. The adapter and the RV's connection to the power source are protected by the 50-amp breaker in the outlet, but your power use is still limited to 30-amps (3,600 watts) by the main breaker in the RV. You can't use more than 30 amps because if you try, the 30-amp breaker in your RV will cut the power.
When you use a 30 to 50-amp adapter to plug a 50-amp RV into a 30-amp outlet, both sections of the RV's power connection are combined in the adapter and are protected by the 30-amp breaker at the power source. You can operate everything in your RV, but you must not exceed a total usage of 30 amps. If you do, the breaker at the power source will cut the power.
There are a few more things to remember when dealing with RV electrical connections:
Power Conservation: When you are hooked up to a 30-amp service, you'll need to manage your electricity usage more carefully than you would with a 50-amp service to avoid tripping the circuit breaker. For instance, you might need to avoid using multiple high-wattage appliances like an air conditioner and microwave simultaneously.
Safety: It's essential to ensure your RV and all appliances are in good working order, as electrical problems can cause fires or damage to your equipment. Regularly inspect your RV's electrical system and promptly address any issues. Additionally, always use electrical adapters and extension cords that are rated for your RV's amperage.
Surge Protectors: It's a good idea to use a surge protector with your RV. This device can protect your RV's electrical system from damage caused by electrical surges, which can be particularly common at RV parks and campgrounds. Our Leisure Travel Vans Unity has a built in surge protector / analyzer, however our Airstream does not, so I use the Hughes Power Watch Dog. I never plug our Airstream into anything with out the Power Watchdog!
Understanding Your RV: Different RVs have different power requirements. Make sure to read your RV's manual and understand its specific electrical needs and limitations.
Remember, handling electricity requires care. If you are unsure about any aspect of your RV's electrical system, it's best to consult with a professional.
our Essentials and Favorite Gear
While we try to carry the least amount of stuff with us while we RV, there are a few absolutes. Here are links to everything from surge protectors, adapters, tire safety and more.
Adding a SoftStartRV to your RV air conditioner can help in several ways:
You may have heard of a “Soft Start” or an “Easy Start”. These devices are hard wired into your roof top air and stops the sudden amperage spike that happen when the compressor kicks in. This sudden spike is what limits your 30 amp RV to having only one air conditioner or your 50 amp, dual air conditioner only using one at a time when plugged into a 30 amp service. But with a Soft Start, this levels the amps from a sudden spike to a ramp, allowing for your breakers to handle the needed power to start the compressor.
So by adding a Soft Start or Easy Start, you will see many benefits such as:
Reduced Start-up Current: The SoftStartRV device helps to decrease the initial surge of current that typically occurs when the air conditioning unit starts up. This surge can often cause circuit breakers to trip, especially if other appliances are also running. By reducing this initial surge, the SoftStartRV makes it easier to run your air conditioning along with other appliances without overloading the RV's electrical system.
Allows for 20-amp service use: With a SoftStartRV, you may be able to run your air conditioner on a 20-amp house hold plug at your home or, if you have a 50 amp rig, run both AC units at the same time on a 30 amp. This can be particularly beneficial if you're at a campground that doesn't have 50-amp service available.
Enables use of smaller generators: If you like to camp off the grid, a SoftStartRV allows you to use a smaller, quieter, and more fuel-efficient generator to run your air conditioner. Here’s the 3,500W generator that can run both of our air conditioners (with soft starts) on the Airstream.
Easier on your air conditioner: By smoothing out the start-up process, a SoftStartRV can help extend the life of your air conditioner.
In essence, a SoftStartRV is a device that can enhance your RV camping experience by providing more flexibility in how and where you can use your air conditioner.
SoftStart RV
This is one of our very first upgrades we did to our Leisure Travel Vans Unity & Airstream Globetrotter. This new and improved version is even better in a smaller footprint. Click the link below to save $30
Summary:
Understanding the electrical systems of your RV can seem daunting at first glance, but breaking it down into its basic components simplifies the task. A 30-amp RV connection is akin to your home's 120-volt outlet, albeit with a unique plug design, and it can handle 3,600 watts. A 50-amp connection, on the other hand, is a 240-volt circuit divided into two 120-volt sections, each providing 50 amps and able to manage up to 12,000 watts.
Adapters (dog bones) can facilitate compatibility between 30 and 50-amp connections, however, the available power remains limited to the lower 30-amp rating, or 3,600 watts. Efficient power management, therefore, is key, especially when connected to a 30-amp service.
Devices like SoftStartRV can be an excellent addition to your setup, reducing the start-up current surge of your air conditioner, which could otherwise lead to breaker trips. It allows more comfortable use of your air conditioning unit, even on lower amperage services or with smaller generators, ultimately extending the flexibility and enjoyment of your RV experience.
Regular safety checks of your RV's electrical system, coupled with the use of appropriately rated adapters, cords, and surge protectors, are crucial for a safe and enjoyable RV journey. If in doubt, always consult a professional to ensure your RV's electrical system is functioning safely and efficiently.
Lithium Upgrade Guide
Check out our lithium upgrade guide and learn how we run our Air Conditioner from our Lithionics 320ah battery and 3000W inverter. It’s the perfect setup for true boon docking.
