240v for park model

[Gilda1966]

I'm building out a stationary trailer and would like to use some 240v appliances. Is there a way to do this with 50amp RV service? I know the 50amp/240v gets split inside of a RV distribution box, but are there boxes that allow 240v circuits? High end coaches use 240v dryers, but I can't seem to find out how. Is there any reason to not just pick a house breaker box that can handle the correct breakers?

The trailer will likely never move again and the electrical system is starting from scratch, so I can wire any way I would like. I would like to utilize the 50amp rv outlet already in place if possible.

Any help getting pointed in the right direction would be much appreciated.

Thank you!

[markdoane]

If the 240v split phase box is installed correctly, you should have no problem.

[57Vintage]

How will you wire up to the trailer? I wouldn't recommend using a standard 50 amp cord for long term use, especially if exposed to the weather.

[Gilda1966]

Ideally we'd wire an RV hook-up just in case the city came around asking questions, but we could wire it any way needed to get the use that we want out of it.

[A W Warn]

The standard 50 amp RV cord is carrying two 50 amp 120 volt hot wires. You should have no problem wiring a. 240v appliance if your main electrical distribution panel is the correct type, one that accepts 240v two pole breakers.
But, there might not be enough power to opperate two appliances at the same time. Example: water heater and kitchen range together could draw 60 amps.

[Gilda1966]

So in theory I can use the 6/3 wire from 50amp shore power and wire it to a box that accepts the correct breakers for the 240v appliances? I assume that box needs to be a house style breaker box because I can't find any RV boxes that say they can do this. I see them referenced a lot, but no one mentions a brand.

[markdoane]

I use a Progressive Dynamics 50a RV distribution panel. No reason this couldn't work to supply 240v. The buss bars are set up for double pole breakers, as well as single pole.

[markdoane]

On a side note, if you decide to use a regular house style distribution panel, be sure to unbond the neutral busbar and isolate it from the box.
There are add-on kits for this that make it easy.

[Gilda1966]

There tech service said that none of their boxes are set up for 240, but if the correct breaker fits, then I would think it would work too.

[Gilda1966]

Their tech service...

[A W Warn]

Originally Posted by Gilda1966

So in theory I can use the 6/3 wire from 50amp shore power and wire it to a box that accepts the correct breakers for the 240v appliances? I assume that box needs to be a house style breaker box because I can't find any RV boxes that say they can do this. I see them referenced a lot, but no one mentions a brand.

First I'll tell you I was a licensed general contractor before I retired.

In fact you can do what you say above. But, it might not work like you expect (there is not enough power in 50 amps for multiple 240v appliances)

I've owned six Airstream trailers that came from the factory with a Square D type QO distribution panel. A QO panel is heavy duty, that is more typical used in high end residential and/or commercial buildings. You also could use any other brand.

You will need a 50 amp main breaker in the panel. A main distribution panel with a 50 amp main breaker pre-installed is not an off the shelf item. You will have to buy the breaker separately, install it in a distribution panel then back feed through the breaker into the panel to feed the other smaller breakers. (the back fed breaker must be mechanically fastened into the panel using a kit suppled by the panel/breaker manufacturer)

Are you planning on eliminating all 12v lighting, 12v refrigerator, etc? If so, there is no reason you would need a combo 12DC/120AC RV distribution panel.

Asking questions here will get you some responses from people who might not know the correct answers. I suggest you should get someone local to you who is knowledgeable (a professional electrician) to assist you. If you are asking these basic questions, you need someone to help you evaluate your plan and give you advice before spending money and installing a system that will not work like you expect it to.

[A W Warn]

An example of what could work>

This list is from Home Depot in Bend, OR

Square D Homeline 125 Amp 12-Space 24-Circuit Indoor Main Lug Plug-On Neutral Load Center with Cover, Ground Bar - Value Pack
Model #HOM1224L125PGCVP
$47.28

Square D Homeline 50 Amp 2-Pole Circuit Breaker
Model #HOM250CP
$9.75

Square D Homeline Load Center Main Breaker Retaining Kit
Model #HOM1RKCP
$4.24

ps: Do not take this list as a shopping list. I think there will be a more costly/different breaker required for the main breaker. The panel box has a place for a main to be added, but a breaker could also be mounted in the spaces below.

Again >>> GET PROFESSIONAL HELP!!

[Gilda1966]

There will be a few 12v circuits, but not many. When it comes time to hook everything up, I will have some more experienced help, but I like to learn and understand as much of the process as I can in the planning stages.