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Topic: Question about 50 amp service (Read 1387 times) previous topic - next topic

Re: Question about 50 amp service

Reply #25 –
Quote from: wa_desert_rat –
Since I'm in the process of wiring the shop/apartment I have become familiar with the "20A" receptacles which I've used everywhere I need an AC plug-in. Here is an image of one.
Craig

Craig,
You are correct.. That is a 20 amp that can be used for 120 volts or 240 volts. The plug that Michelle described can be plugged into this receptable. If wired for 240 volts it would be used for the larger window air conditioning units. I would caution against using this for 120 volts circuits unless the receptables wired for 240 volts ( if any )are identified as such.
Jerry
'91 U240 GV / 36'
CAT 3208 w/Allison MT 643  4 speed
'10 Ford Flex

Growing old is mandatory
Growing up is optional

Re: Question about 50 amp service

Reply #26 –
Quote from: Jerryetc –
Michelle,
What you have descripted is a 20 amp, 240 volt plug. The 15 amp and 20 amp 120 volt plug are indentical.

Jerry,

I've seen them done differently on appliances and "commercial" extension cords.  Our espresso machine, for example:



Michelle
Learn every day, but especially from the experiences of others. It's cheaper!  - John C. Bogle

2000 U320 36' non-slide / WildEBeest Rescue
2003 U320

Re: Question about 50 amp service

Reply #27 –
Michelle... those are compatible with the receptacle I posted. I have no 240vac receptacles wired in that configuration in my shop... right now the only 240v is the air compressor (hard wired) and the 50A outdoor unit for the motor home.

Using Google and checking images I've come to the conclusion that simply plugging in to an outlet can be seriously damaging to whatever you are hoping to power. Some outlets are routinely used for different voltages and you cannot rely on one particular configuration to be sure that it's what you need.

I wired a standard 50A outlet to the outside wall of my shop and I'm glad I did. If I need to work in the coach when it's too hot to think I can just fire up the air conditioners and not worry about it.

But I do have a 30A power cord that I have not had to use yet and I'm glad I read this thread so I can make sure I get what I think I am getting when I use it.

Craig
1993 U225 36' Unihome GV with PACBRAKE exhaust retarder, Banks Stinger and Solar Panels.
Toad: 1999 Jeep Wrangler 2-door soft-top.

"No one has ever had to evacuate a city because the solar panels broke."

Re: Question about 50 amp service

Reply #28 –
Quote from: Yetch –
This is the unit I have in mind.  Any comments?

It seems like you are dead set on doing something your way in an apparent attempt to save a few pennies, despite all the good advise from others.  So go ahead and give it a try, maybe you will learn something in the process.  Looks like something one would find at Big Lots.  It's an adapter, you won't get 30 amps out of a 15 amp receptacle even if you plug into both places on a duplex outlet, but I'm sure that many believe that to be the case.  Or are you just yanking everyone's chain and having a private joke.   
Jerry Whiteaker former owner 96 U270  36' #4831 Austin,TX-Owner Mods LCD TV w/front cabinet rebuild - LCD TV bedroom - Dual Central AC, either can cool coach w 30 amp - Skylights at roof AC openings - Drop ceiling for ducting of AC - Shower skylight white gelcoat/wood/epoxy frame - Air Springs/Shocks replaced - 2014 CRV - 8K Home Solar - Chevy Volt
 

Re: Question about 50 amp service

Reply #29 –
Jerry,

Actually, not sure that "adapter" isn't a good idea.  As you say, you will still only get 15 amps, but it will address one of the weak points in just plugging into a single 15 amp socket-- the surface area of the prongs in a 15 amp plug are really marginal for draws close to 15 amps.  It is common to experience heat at that connection.

The "adapter" doubles the surface area.  Does nothing for the total amps available, but may be superior to just a "regular" 15 amp male to 30 amp female.

Brett
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
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