Embarking on an RV adventure can be a thrilling and liberating experience. Traveling from one breathtaking destination to another, with the comforts of home in tow, is the dream of many wanderlust-stricken souls. Yet, the journey is not without its challenges, especially when it comes to connecting your rig to various power sources. During your RV adventure, you will undoubtedly encounter a plethora of different types of outlets, also known as receptacles, while plugged into shore power using 120 volts AC. In this blog, we will delve into the world of dog bone adapters, explaining why they are essential and how to use them effectively.
Why Do You Need Dog Bone Adapters?
1. Incomplete Campground Reservations:
You may have made reservations at a campground for a 50-amp site, only to find that they have 30-amp connections available when you arrive. In such cases, a dog bone adapter can save the day.
2. Broken Pedestal Breaker:
It’s not uncommon to encounter a broken breaker on the pedestal you need, especially if you arrive after hours. Having the right adapter can help you connect despite the pedestal issue.
3. Mooch Docking:
If you’re mooch-docking at someone’s house, they might only have 15 or 20-amp outlets, which are different from the typical campground connections.
4. Shared Campsite:
Sharing a campsite with another party can sometimes lead to both parties needing 30-amp power, but the site only offers one 30-amp receptacle.
5. Campground Restrictions:
Certain campgrounds, including national and state parks, may not have the specific power outlets you need. A dog bone adapter can make these situations manageable.
Understanding Different Power Cord Adapters
RVers commonly encounter three types of outlets at campgrounds: 50-amp, 30-amp, and 20-amp. Additionally, when mooch-docking, you might come across 15 or 20-amp outlets at regular residential homes. These outlets require various adapter configurations, so it’s crucial to understand the differences and carry the right ones for your RV.
For instance, a 50-amp male to a 30-amp female adapter is essential if you’re transitioning from a 50-amp power source to a 30-amp RV. Mismatched adapters can lead to frustration down the road, so having the correct configurations on hand is vital.
Best Practices for Using Dog Bone Adapters
When using dog bone adapters, it’s important to follow these best practices:
1. Plug your power cord into the adapter before plugging it into the pedestal.
2. Always turn off the breaker at the pedestal before connecting the adapter and your RV.
3. After connecting everything, switch on the breaker to power your rig.
Can You Use an EMS or Surge Protector?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to use an Electrical Management System (EMS) or a surge protector when using dog bone adapters. These devices provide an additional layer of safety. They can detect issues like reverse polarity, where the neutral line is energized, which might go unnoticed in a residential setting but can pose serious risks in an RV. An EMS or surge protector helps protect your RV’s electrical system from potential damage.
Understanding Watts Consumption
For 50-amp RVs, transitioning to a 30-amp power source means you’ll have access to 3,600 potential watts, compared to the usual 12,000 watts. This reduced wattage can limit your ability to run multiple big ticket appliances simultaneously, such as air conditioners, power converters, and microwave ovens.
Conversely, if you have a 30-amp RV and use a dog bone adapter to connect to a 50-amp outlet, you won’t gain access to the full 12,000 watts. Your RV’s power cord and internal breaker will still be rated for 30 amps. Therefore, understanding your RV’s electrical capacity and managing your appliance usage accordingly is essential to avoid overloading the system.
In conclusion, In the world of RVing, adaptability is key. Dog bone adapters are valuable tools that empower RV enthusiasts to connect to various power sources, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. By understanding the different types of outlets, best practices for using adapters, and the limitations of wattage consumption, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges of RV power, allowing you to focus on the beauty of the open road and the adventures that lie ahead.
