Re: Where's the wiring? Reply #25 – February 09, 2019, 06:35:11 am Hi Snerf and Joel,This post is diverging from the original topic but it is useful information. I am assuming that Snerf was referring to me when he used "red" since my email is rednipcan. My usual name, face to face, is Harvey.RV plugs and receptacles sometimes differ from those which we see in the average home. As I mentioned, the code and standards for RVs can be different from brick and mortar [B&M] homes. In some aspects this is understandable; in other aspects it is cost minimization in an industry that escapes most regulatory oversight because it is small compared to automobile and house construction, has good industry lobbyists and few consumer advocates. People of our age may remember the debacle when aluminum wiring was granted code compliance for B&M house construction. After numerous fires that were caused by the oxidation of the aluminum it was removed from allowable in home construction. The oxidation created enough electrical resistance that unless every single connection point was done PERFECTLY that point could overheat. BTW if anyone owns a home built during that period, check your wiring. If it is aluminum, ensure that every connecting point does not exhibit any evidence of overheating and is proper and safe.Since both of you have, or are considering, switching one circuit of your brick home from one amperage/voltage to a different amperage/voltage in order to supply electricity to your RV, it is important to confirm that the proper work was performed. I have read many times of licensed electricians misunderstanding the different requirements of RVs because they assume they are homes on wheels.Here are a couple sites that have pictures and explanations of the differences of homes vs RV.How to Install an RV Outlet at Home | AxleAddictThis is a clear article and has a very useful you tube video at the end of the article. It is over 20 minutes but you can fast forward through substantial parts that are not directly relevant. I don't think the distinction between 120 volt and 240 volt circuits is sufficiently stated in the article.The 30-amp 120-volt 2 pole 3 wirNote the suggestion to change the CB from a 220 V to a 120V. It might not be a code requirement in your area, but if you do not do it, then that abandoned hot wire needs to be properly capped [terminated]. Even better if you also disconnect it from the CB, so it is no longer hot, and cap it properly at the panel. When you do either, you need to make it clear to future electricians what you have done; and at the CB panel it needs to be clearly written on the listing of what circuits serve what purposes. It is part of standard code that every service panel must have a description of what each circuit does; it is amazing how this essential information is often missing.https://www.pcrichard.com/library/blogArticle/get-it-right-the-first-time-a-how-to-guide-for-matching-power-outlets-plugs/350006This site is only for residential B&M. Notice that they do not even show a 30 Amp 120 volt receptacle because in a B&M location it would be foolish. Any electrical appliance that draws 30 amps would do it on an 220 volt circuit in order to double the energy supplied. However, RVs plugged into receptacles at a B&M location are somewhat unique. RV makers wanted more power than 20 Amps at 120 volts, but they would not spend the money to install 30 amps at 220 volts, so this accommodation was used. BTW AFAIK RVs that have 50 amp plugs are wired for 220 volt; but I have read that some campgrounds provide 50 amps at 120 volts which means that substantial parts of the RV will not work properly.So you have some sympathy for electricians here is the home depot listing of receptacles. Only the 30 amp ones.30 amp - Electrical Outlets & Receptacles - Wiring Devices & Light Controls...Because it is not common for most electricians to wire 30 amp 120 volt outlets it is prudent to inspect it and test it to make sure it was done properly.I hope I have not confused anyone [which sometimes includes myself].Harvey 1 Likes
Re: Where's the wiring? Reply #26 – February 09, 2019, 08:00:20 am Another resource...RV Electric 1 Likes
Re: Where's the wiring? Reply #27 – February 11, 2019, 11:42:10 am Pat--Sorry for the defugilty that led to your original post, & hoping it has a relatively painless resolution, but thanks so much for starting this thread...so much good information, discussion, & links. I especially appreciate the discussion about adding an RV outlet--I would have just assumed the pro would know all; discussion & links have been copied into my LD Upgrades To Do file.Good luck--Lynne
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