Some cords have handles like this to make it easier to unplug. When you disconnect the extension cord, never pull on the cord itself, pull on a plug to separate the cords. Make sure all of the connections are tight and secure. If a cut is superficial, you can use electrical tape to repair the cord. If there are cuts in the cord that reach the wires inside, do not use the cord. Make sure none of the prongs are bent or loose. Periodically use a light grit sandpaper to clean the prongs. The prongs on the plugs should be cleaned for good connections. Prior to plugging the cord in, inspect the cord and the ends. ![]() This is why I recommend keeping a couple different length RV extension cords in your RV. When you use the extension cord, always try to use the shortest cord possible. You can see how heavy the cords are with added insulation and molded ends for outdoor use. There are extension cords like these made specifically for use with RVs. ![]() Now, let’s look at some tips for using the extension cord. What you really want to take away from this is to never use an extension cord with a lower wattage or amperage rating than what you’re trying to power. So, it is clear to see how the wire thickness, the length of the cord, and amperage rating are extremely important when using the cord at home or on your RV. For example, a 16-gauge cord that is 25 feet long is rated for 13 amps, whereas a 10-gauge cord that is 25-feet long is rated for 30 amps. The gauge of the wire or the AWG number we discussed and the length of the extension cord both affect the cords amperage rating. The ground wire helps reduce the possibility of electrical shock. And on a 50-amp cord, the ground is here. And the number three represents the number of wiresĪny extension cord you use on your RV needs to have a ground wire, which on a 30-amp cord, the ground wire is here. The way you read this is the number 14 represents the gauge of the wire, what we just discussed. Now that we know AWG is the gauge of the wire, let’s go a little further. So, for RV applications, you want a lower AWG number with a higher rated capacity to get the electrical power to the RV. And vice versa, the higher the AWG number is, the wire thickness is less and the rated capacity is lower. The lower the AWG number is, the thicker the wire used in the extension cord is, and the higher the rated capacity is. AWG stands for American Wire Gauge Rating. If you look right here, you see the letters AWG. Outdoor extension cords have a thick covering of additional insulation like this one.įirst, let’s talk about how you can determine the capacity of an extension cord. Avoid using an indoor extension cord outside. Regular household extension cords are manufactured for either indoor or outdoor use. Extension cords are for temporary use and should not be used permanently. But understanding what type of extension cord to use on your RV is important.Ī couple points I would like to make before we really dig into the topic are always make sure you have good connections when you’re using an extension cord, and always keep in mind you should only use an extension cord when it is absolutely necessary. Let’s get started.Įxtension cords are convenient when the RV’s power cord is not long enough to reach the power pedestal. This information can be helpful at home and on RV trips. Today’s topic is understanding RV extension cords. ![]() Hi, I’m Mark Polk with RV Education 101, and I would like to welcome you to RV 101: Understanding Your RV.
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