Understanding RV Electrical: 30 Amp vs 50 Amp

Master RV power management to prevent blown breakers and protect your rig.

Can you plug a 50-amp rig into a 30-amp pedestal? Yes, with an adapter—but you can’t run everything.

The Basics

30 Amp Service

  • Power: 120 Volts, 3,600 Watts.
  • Common In: Travel trailers and Class C motorhomes.

50 Amp Service

  • Power: 120/240 Volts, 12,000 Watts.
  • Note: 50 Amp service provides more than 3x the power of 30 Amp because it utilizes two separate 50-amp legs.

The “Management” Game

When adapted down to 30 amps, you are limited to 3,600 watts.

  • A/C Unit: ~1,500W.
  • Microwave: ~1,000W.
  • Water Heater: ~1,400W.
  • Phantom Loads: Items like the refrigerator and battery converter pull 3-5 Amps constantly.

Best Practices

  1. Run Water Heater on Gas: Save electricity for the A/C.
  2. One High-Draw Appliance at a Time: Turn off the A/C before using a hair dryer.
  3. Install a Soft Start: A SoftStartRV unit reduces the initial surge needed to kick on the A/C.

Essential Safety Gear

  • Use an EMS (Electrical Management System): Unlike a simple surge protector, an EMS shuts off power if voltage “sags” (drops below 105V), which can happen at older campgrounds during hot afternoons.
  • Avoid “Cheater Boxes”: Stick to proper “Dogbone” adapters for safety.