15amp run A/C unit??

[Chrisdon]

Hi there

If I don't run anything else will a regular household electrical outlet run the A/C?

Thanks
C.

[OhioMark]

Originally Posted by Chrisdon

Hi there

If I don't run anything else will a regular household electrical outlet run the A/C?

Thanks
C.

Chris,

Technically, yes. I run a 30 amp RV extension to my laundry room and unplug the washer, but it is a 20 amp circuit.

Two things here. First, not overloading the house circuit and second, providing enough voltage to the AC.

I've forgotten most of the terminology and calculations from my high school electronics class, but here it goes...

I tried to use a standard household extension cord and the reading on my RV power meter dropped to 107 volts, which is damaging to the AC unit. My local dealer said anything below 108v can cause a "brownout", causing permanent damage the AC.

When I upgraded to a actual 30 amp rated extension, it popped back up to 110v.

Has to do with the length and resistance in the line. Again, stuff I forgot about long time ago

[WildWildWest]

15 amp plugs will run the newer model AC's as they are more efficient. We have a 50 foot 14 gauge extension cord connected to our trailer when parked in the yard before and during load up when going camping and it doesn't see a significant drop in voltage. The longer the extension cord and lighter the gauge the more drop off you will get and then there is some risk of harming the AC but most of the new units will just not cut in (run) if there isn't sufficient power. There is a little more protection built into the units. Same reason they have a delay on restart when the power goes out in a campground

[OhioMark]

To start the AC yes. I have a 2013 Sunset Trail trailer and I've had to kill the AC a few times when the power dropped at a campground where all they was was 30 amp service. The meter was at 103v and AC started to make the grrrrr noise, lights dimmed...etc..it didn't shut off on its own.

When I run the 50 connection...never had an issue with voltage drops

[mikefarm]

I would highly suggest if you're going to be running the A/C for loading/unloading etc at home just go ahead and install a 30AMP RV connection in your garage. Did this and it's the smartest thing I've done. This way I can run anything in the TT when sitting in the driveway and not worry about power issues..

[mark5w]

Good advice mikefarm. You have to make sure you have the correct size extension cord also. Thin one will overheat and melt.

[Tim D]

Originally Posted by mikefarm

I would highly suggest if you're going to be running the A/C for loading/unloading etc at home just go ahead and install a 30AMP RV connection in your garage. Did this and it's the smartest thing I've done. This way I can run anything in the TT when sitting in the driveway and not worry about power issues..

This X2. You can use an extension cord, you just have to use a heavy one. The smaller the number, example, a 12 gauge is heavier than a 16, and will carry the load with less drop.

[avvidclif]

I have a storage building next to my RV parking spot. When I had the BP I put a 20A 120v and a 30A RV plug on the outside wall, withing 15' of the RV power plug. When I bought the new one I added a 50A plug beside the other 2. Now I have 50, 30, and 20 all at one place. Which I use depends on trailer usage when parked. Plus I have a place for another trailer. It makes a great mancave.