As a new LQ owner, I'm struggling to get up to speed on using and maintaining the "equipment." I know nothing about electricity so am posting what is most likely a very basic question. Was told by the trailer company salesman to purchase a dual 15-30 AMP RV adapter for plugging the trailer into the house when we want to use the trailer at home. I have found a device like this, but is it safe? i.e. it has two male 15-amp prongs on one side and one 30 amp female receiver on the other side (to receive the 30-amp cord from the trailer). The description for the device reads "Plug into standard wall outlet - 15 AMP Plug Spacing : 1.6", for use at home and some older RV Parks with just the 15 AMP outlets." Thanks so much.
Posted 2010-12-07 10:01 PM (#127871 - in reply to #127866) Subject: RE: Dual 15-30 AMP RV adapter
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
Yes the adapter is safe. You must remember not to use multiple heavy load accessories at the same time, when it's plugged into a 15 amp circuit. If you're using the AC don't turn on a hair dryer. If you're using a ceramic heater, omit starting the microwave etc etc.
It is wise to have a spare adapter. Sometimes they are lost if inadvertenly left on your shore cord when travelling. Some show gounds only have the 15 amp receptacles. If you arrive without an adapter, you won't be able to use their electrical hook ups.
These are generally available at Walmart's automotive section, less expensively than RV dealers.
Posted 2010-12-08 12:37 AM (#127873 - in reply to #127866) Subject: RE: Dual 15-30 AMP RV adapter
Expert
Posts: 2953 Location: North Carolina
Originally written by trailyaya on 2010-12-07 2:16 PM
As a new LQ owner, I'm struggling to get up to speed on using and maintaining the "equipment." I know nothing about electricity so am posting what is most likely a very basic question. Was told by the trailer company salesman to purchase a dual 15-30 AMP RV adapter for plugging the trailer into the house when we want to use the trailer at home. I have found a device like this, but is it safe? i.e. it has two male 15-amp prongs on one side and one 30 amp female receiver on the other side (to receive the 30-amp cord from the trailer). The description for the device reads "Plug into standard wall outlet - 15 AMP Plug Spacing : 1.6", for use at home and some older RV Parks with just the 15 AMP outlets." Thanks so much.
DO NOT buy this type of adapter ... You will not get more than 15 amp ffrom the circuit in any case. I have stayed at several camp grounds that have separated the feeds for a duplex outlet. Each outlet was fed from a different phase. If you plug this adapter into an outlet like this, you'll be badly surprized with a dead short between 220 volts. Boom ! I can't believe anybody would sell an adapter that connects duplex outlets. Is there a website that has this adapter??
A single outlet adapter is much safer when traveling. Just follow Gard's advice on using electrical appliances when using the 15 amp adapter.
Dual 15-30 AMP RV adapter
