Two AC Units on 30 Amp???

[Steve Heywood]

Any time you see a motorhome or large trailer with 2 AC units the rig is usually wired for 50 amp service.

My question is: What's the trick or hardware necessary to run 2 AC units on 30 amps? I know it's been done.

Thanks,

[vswingfield]

One at a time, or two 30 amp connections.

Andy suggested adding a second 30 system for a second AC when I was considering that addition. It would be easier than converting to 50 amps. You can use a 50 to 30 amp adapter to power one of the 30 amp systems since most (all?) sites with 50 amp connections also have 30 amp service.

I haven't added the additional AC and 30 amp system, but this time of year I get that funny gleam. In the evenings when the sun sets, the 15,000 Btu Carrier I put on (see Yet Another Carrier AirV Installation Thread) keeps it very comfortable.

In the worst conditions, lots of direct sun and high temps, I close off the bedroom and wear shorts and minimal shirts. Fans also help, but I really am gone most if the time during the day.

[Steve Heywood]

Originally Posted by vswingfield

One at a time, or two 30 amp connections.

Andy suggested adding a second 30 system for a second AC when I was considering that addition. It would be easier than converting to 50 amps. You can use a 50 to 30 amp adapter to power one of the 30 amp systems since most (all?) sites with 50 amp connections also have 30 amp service.

That's an elegant solution I hadn't thought of.

Thanks,

[vswingfield]

Originally Posted by Steve Heywood

That's an elegant solution I hadn't thought of.

Thanks,

Hi Steve,

I liked it too. Wiring in a second 30 amp cord and adding another smaller breaker box is much simpler (read that cheaper too) than going through the extra hassle. Of course there will be the need to deal with two cords, but that could be part of the arrival show. "Hey look, that guy has two cords on his!"

[Steve Heywood]

Originally Posted by vswingfield

Hi Steve,

I liked it too. Wiring in a second 30 amp cord and adding another smaller breaker box is much simpler (read that cheaper too) than going through the extra hassle. Of course there will be the need to deal with two cords, but that could be part of the arrival show. "Hey look, that guy has two cords on his!"

As I see it the most difficult part would be snaking the wiring up to the rear AC unit. I would add an exterior plug (like the newer units come with) at the rear of the coach for the extra 30 amp cord. Most of the time the second AC unit wouldn't be needed and neither would the second 30 amp cord.

[vswingfield]

Originally Posted by Steve Heywood

As I see it the most difficult part would be snaking the wiring up to the rear AC unit. I would add an exterior plug (like the newer units come with) at the rear of the coach for the extra 30 amp cord. Most of the time the second AC unit wouldn't be needed and neither would the second 30 amp cord.

My thinking exactly!

I was also thinking about trying to snake some speaker wire across the inside of the living room. Smaller wires, but the same problem in miniature. If I get any blinding insights for either, I will let you know.