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Old 07-31-2017, 05:17 PM   #1
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50 Amp to 30 Amp adapter to 20 Amp outlet??

We own a 2015 50 Amp AS Classic TT with a 50 Amp electrical service. IF I don't run my air at all, and utilize propane options, can I hook up to a 20 Amp outlet using a 30 AMP adapter plugged into a 20 AMP short cord?.....What are my risks, if any, aside from popping a breaker at the source? Thanks to all who offer so much helpful guidance through this resource!! :-)
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Old 07-31-2017, 05:56 PM   #2
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Old 07-31-2017, 05:58 PM   #3
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We own a 2015 50 Amp AS Classic TT with a 50 Amp electrical service. IF I don't run my air at all, and utilize propane options, can I hook up to a 20 Amp outlet using a 30 AMP adapter plugged into a 20 AMP short cord?.....What are my risks, if any, aside from popping a breaker at the source? Thanks to all who offer so much helpful guidance through this resource!! :-)
The main risk I see is that you've got two electrical connections (between the adapters) that aren't watertight. Wrap the connections with Saran wrap, elevate so the cords droop down in both directions from the connection, and you'll minimize the chance of rainwater getting into the connection.

It's still up to you to make sure the amps you use don't exceed the amps available, but that's true all the time, not just when you're using adapters.
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Old 07-31-2017, 07:14 PM   #4
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Hi

It's surprisingly easy to have things add up to > 20A. Pay close attention to your loads. The cord you use needs to be rated for 20A. That's going to be a fairly heavy wire gauge compared to a normal extension cord. Twelve gauge copper is ok for short runs. For longer runs you'll need 10 gauge copper. If the cord is aluminum wire, use 10 gauge for short runs.

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Old 08-01-2017, 04:08 AM   #5
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No issues, mine is and has been hooked up this way in storage for years, three of my four Airstreams. As Uncle Bob says if a longer run move to heavier gauge. They have been hooked up this way in rain and snow with no problem as have two other trailers in the storage yard. We all use outdoor extension cords.
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Old 08-01-2017, 07:16 AM   #6
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We do this with a 15 amp circuit which is enough to keep the batteries charged, and run the fridge on electric. No A/C and no water heated for hot water, just to be clear.

Furrion makes short pigtails which facilitate this process. Here is the 30 amp we use:

https://www.amazon.com/Furrion-FP301...15+amp+adaptor

This pigtail is so short that the male plug hangs above the ground, so water intrusion is not too much of a risk. In driving rain and thunderstorms, we unplug the extension cord and bring it inside the screen porch. They probably make a 50 amp to 20 amp version of the pigtail IMO.

Our extension cord is 50' of #12 AWG with ground, to a 15 amp GFI outlet.

Good luck!

Peter
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Old 08-01-2017, 10:22 AM   #7
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We do this with a 15 amp circuit which is enough to keep the batteries charged, and run the fridge on electric. No A/C and no water heated for hot water, just to be clear.

Furrion makes short pigtails which facilitate this process. Here is the 30 amp we use:

https://www.amazon.com/Furrion-FP301...15+amp+adaptor

This pigtail is so short that the male plug hangs above the ground, so water intrusion is not too much of a risk. In driving rain and thunderstorms, we unplug the extension cord and bring it inside the screen porch. They probably make a 50 amp to 20 amp version of the pigtail IMO.

Our extension cord is 50' of #12 AWG with ground, to a 15 amp GFI outlet.

Good luck!

Peter
I've used this one at my sister-in-laws house.

https://www.amazon.com/Plug-Adapter-.../dp/B00IPUFQM4
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Old 08-01-2017, 12:49 PM   #8
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The main risk I see is that you've got two electrical connections (between the adapters) that aren't watertight. Wrap the connections with Saran wrap, elevate so the cords droop down in both directions from the connection, and you'll minimize the chance of rainwater getting into the connection.

It's still up to you to make sure the amps you use don't exceed the amps available, but that's true all the time, not just when you're using adapters.
I concur.
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Old 08-01-2017, 01:29 PM   #9
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I concur.
The short pigtails that Bud and I both posted keep the electrical connection off the ground at the trailer, and presumably the other end of the extension cord is plugged into the outlet at the other end.

Thus the risk of water intrusion, and the need for Saran Wrap etc., are minimized.
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Old 08-01-2017, 04:02 PM   #10
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I carry a couple of coke crates to lay on the ground and keep the connection out of unexpected puddles. I have heard of electrocutions being caused by standing water and poorly insulated connections. I had to hook up one night in a downpour. Waited on the electrical until it quit raining as everything was flooded.
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Old 08-01-2017, 05:02 PM   #11
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RV Camper Power Adapter Cords 15amp Male Plug to 50amp Female Adapter RV Extension Cords 12-inch(15M50T) at Amazon for 34.99. I use this to run my refrigerator and lights a few days before departure on a 20A circuit. If you turn on the electric side of the hot water heater you will trip the house breaker.
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Old 08-01-2017, 06:17 PM   #12
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No issues, mine is and has been hooked up this way in storage for years, three of my four Airstreams. As Uncle Bob says if a longer run move to heavier gauge. They have been hooked up this way in rain and snow with no problem as have two other trailers in the storage yard. We all use outdoor extension cords.
Me too.
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Old 08-01-2017, 07:40 PM   #13
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You will be fine, you could even run a small air conditioning unit with nothing else, oh always use the shortest heaviest chords you can get
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Old 08-03-2017, 04:01 PM   #14
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Bad idea to piggyback multiple adapters. EACH electric connection adds to voltage drop. I bought a 50A female ~ 30A male AND, a separate 50A female ~ 15A male. I've never seen a TRUE 20A male adapter (which would NOT be able to be plugged into a standard 15A outlet).
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Old 08-03-2017, 04:06 PM   #15
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I plug my 50 amp AS into a 15 amp outlet all the time. Nothing to worry about. No A/C and don't use the microwave/Convection, but it will run your lights and TV, etc.
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Old 08-04-2017, 07:16 AM   #16
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Bad idea to piggyback multiple adapters. EACH electric connection adds to voltage drop. I bought a 50A female ~ 30A male AND, a separate 50A female ~ 15A male. I've never seen a TRUE 20A male adapter (which would NOT be able to be plugged into a standard 15A outlet).
Hi

If all you are doing it plugging in at home .... forget the adapters and the monster heavy 50A cable. Wire up a heavy duty / 20A extension cord with the 50A connector on the end of it. Less hassle to lug. No connections to fall out or get wet. If it gets destroyed, less expensive to replace.

Bob
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