tjames557
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Post by tjames557 on Feb 14, 2017 9:19:19 GMT -8
Hello all,
I am new to the camping world and I bought a 1975 Cardinal. I've read a lot of good information on this forum so thank you all for your help so far. I have searched the forums and I'm having a hard time finding the exact information that I'm looking for.
My trailer currently has a standard 15 amp inlet. All of the appliances can run off of propane which is great including the stove, refrigerator and heater. But I want the option to have multiple items plugged in at the same time and after reading a lot I believe that 15amp service will not be enough.
How can I safely upgrade the electrical system with a 30 amp Inlet? Currently the breaker box has a single 15 amp breaker. Can I add a 30 amp inlet with 10 gauge wire to the breaker box with multiple 15 amp circuits? Or would this require me to rewire the entire trailer because I will be bringing 30amps into it?
Thank you for your help!
-Tyler
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Post by vikx on Feb 14, 2017 22:59:01 GMT -8
Hi Tyler and WELCOME!
The upgrade you describe does require rewiring, yes. The 15 amp inlet usually has 14ga (15 and under amps) wiring to the breaker/fuse box.
To upgrade, you need a new 30 amp inlet ($70) and 10ga. wiring from the inlet to the breaker box. Once that is done, you can run the original circuit on a 15 amp breaker and add a couple of more circuits. From the breaker box, new 12ga wiring would need to be run for 20 amp plug in receptacles.
Many low amp draw items can be plugged in at the same time. High amp items are ONE at a time. (think anything with a heating element, motor or fan)
If you plan on an "all electrical" trailer, you will need to be very careful and correct with design. We are not electricians and prefer not to discuss code issues at VTT.
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tjames557
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Post by tjames557 on Feb 14, 2017 23:08:18 GMT -8
Hi Tyler and WELCOME! The upgrade you describe does require rewiring, yes. The 15 amp inlet usually has 14ga (15 and under amps) wiring to the breaker/fuse box. To upgrade, you need a new 30 amp inlet ($70) and 10ga. wiring from the inlet to the breaker box. Once that is done, you can run the original circuit on a 15 amp breaker and add a couple of more circuits. From the breaker box, new 12ga wiring would need to be run for 20 amp plug in receptacles. Many low amp draw items can be plugged in at the same time. High amp items are ONE at a time. (think anything with a heating element, motor or fan) If you plan on an "all electrical" trailer, you will need to be very careful and correct with design. We are not electricians and prefer not to discuss code issues at VTT. Thank you Sir! That is what I had gathered from bits and pieces, I was just trying to get a confirmation. I was planning on putting in 3 more outlets in the trailer. Should I get a 20amp breaker for each? Like you said, if I'm using a high draw item I need to use one at a time or I would trip the shore power breaker wouldn't I? |
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Post by vikx on Feb 14, 2017 23:39:58 GMT -8
You do not need a breaker for each outlet. The NEC code dictates exactly how many fixtures and the load available on each circuit. Wiring gauge is according to amperage available from the breaker. Most likely, when overloaded, the camper breakers will shut down one by one or the extension cord will melt.
You need a 30 AMP CORD PLUGGED INTO a 30 AMP RECEPTACLE to power a 30 amp trailer system.
Seriously, Electrical is nothing to mess with. I recommend you consult a licensed electrician (definitely with RV experience) to upgrade your trailer. It's not a diy project...
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tjames557
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Post by tjames557 on Feb 14, 2017 23:48:38 GMT -8
You do not need a breaker for each outlet. The NEC code dictates exactly how many fixtures and the load available on each circuit. Wiring gauge is according to amperage available from the breaker. Most likely, when overloaded, the camper breakers will shut down one by one or the extension cord will melt. You need a 30 AMP CORD PLUGGED INTO a 30 AMP RECEPTACLE to power a 30 amp trailer system. Seriously, Electrical is nothing to mess with. I recommend you consult a licensed electrician (definitely with RV experience) to upgrade your trailer. It's not a diy project... Thank you for the tips. I will most definitely consult with a professional. I don't need any fires in the campground. I appreciate all the help! |
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mobiltec
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Post by mobiltec on Feb 22, 2017 20:58:55 GMT -8
Seriously, Electrical is nothing to mess with. I recommend you consult a licensed electrician (definitely with RV experience) to upgrade your trailer. It's not a diy project... Which is why I don't try to teach it.  |
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