A DEADLY RV MISTAKE! (10 Important RV Electrical Tips)

[@WhyWait]

⭐️Links to products mentioned down below. Including a heavy duty 10 gauge extension cord which I’d recommend if you do moochdock 👍🏼 🔹Heavy Duty Extension Cord: amzn.to/49uCzGy 🔹Progressive Industries EMS: amzn.to/368DiOZ ❇️Shop all of our recommended RV items! www.amazon.com/shop/__whywait__

[@SteveDodson-l8n]

Although I do use an adjustable water pressure gauge, when checking out electric panel, etc. before setting up camp, I also put a water pressure meter on the tap just to see what the pressure is.

[@chase2429]

Love the video! Electrician here and I just want to say that plugging into a 15a or 20a is typically fine if your camper is a 30a camper. The problems you described can happen if your camper is a 50a though. Reason for this is that a 30a camper is still running 120v on one leg. But a 50a is bringing in 240v and splitting them into two legs of 120v (and that’s when you need that balance you described.)

[@feedsmall4551]

Well that's stupid if you don't trust the power don't use it

[@WhyWait]

Thanks, appreciate that and Yup you’re right. 👍🏼The other big problems are people not using correct heavy duty gauge extension cords when doing this and creating possible fire hazards from those cords melting. And the other being the fact that the outlet from house may be bad, most people don’t test them, and have reverse polarity which unless your running the EMS while moochdocking you wouldn’t know. Thanks again for watching 👍🏼

[@chase2429]

Ya that will most commonly happen while plugging a skinny ass cord into a 20a receptacle.

[@robertstessel8780]

Cheery Hi from Maine; We run the 30 amp cord to a 30-to-20 amp dongle and into a 20 amp receptacle (NOT a 15 amp receptacle on a 20 amp circuit, the 20 amp is built more heavily and can be identified by one of the slots having a combination vertical and horizontal opening). That being said, we are using the connection for winter storage, keep the batteries charged, lights on, fridge cooling, gas furnace fan running. All low amperage stuff. No need for the AC (Maine winters) and no hot water, the system is winterized. OK, sometimes an electric heater when we are in the RV doing winter maintenance stuff. Maybe a heat a cup of coffee in the microwave, but turn off the space heater first. And of course never, ever, leave the space heater running when you are not there. You just have to realize that you can only draw a smaller amount of current than when you are on a 30 amp circuit. All the power cord up to the receptacle is 30 amp, the 20 amp house breaker will trip if we try to draw more current. All the wiring is running at or below rating and inspected regularly. Even 30 amp cords on 30 amp circuits can overheat and catch fire at lower currents if they are in bad shape, ie: twisted and partially disconnected wires, or the spade connections on the plugs/receptacles are corroded. But if you don't know what you are doing, seek advice from an expert (noun; someone who supposedly knows what they are talking about, from x-an unknown quantity and spirt- a drip under pressure). Excellent video, enjoyed watching and learned a bit. My takeaway, ABC...Always Be Careful. Thanks

[@jameschapman3306]

Thank you for clearing things up. also the cord in video was very small dia,

[@mikem8492]

All great info! One thing to add is replacing fuses. Make sure to use the same amp rating as the one you are replacing. Ex. if a 10A fuse blows do NOT use a 40A to replace.

[@WhyWait]

Indeed, good tip. 👍🏼 Appreciate you watching and thanks for the comment.

[@RoadieWingZZ]

Exactly right. Always test the power pedestal first. Followed by water spigot function and sewer receptacle for blockage/obstruction. Only after all hookups are verified, THEN begin the setup process.

[@WhyWait]

Yup yup and yup! All good tips and things we point out in this video as well. Appreciate you watching and commenting MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN SETTING UP YOUR RV....(Do These Before Unhitching) kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpWVhoBsqJJ_lZo

[@tamo9520]

Aaaah, an added bonus check! Thank you for that!

[@timothylinn]

The problem I have with the Hughes Watchdog EMS, which I own, is its size. It is huge! It also so bright that it lights up the campground. It might as well have a sign that says, "Steal me while everyone is sleeping." After using it for just over a month, I ate the cost and replaced it with a Southwire Surge Guard EMS. The Surge Guard is much smaller and offers the same basic feature set minus the replaceable surge protection module and the light built into the front of the unit that can't be turned off. I've been very happy with the Southwire.

[@WhyWait]

Good deal Timothy, that’s one company I’ve actually been looking into is Southwire so I’m glad to hear you like it 👍🏼

[@SteveDodson-l8n]

we taped a piece of cardboard to the front with just the top of the dog's ears showing - no problems

[@k-mparker]

Gooood solid 411!!! The surge protector recognized bad power twice for us last year, so we were able to move to another spot. We have an inline surge protecter hard wired in and if it recognizes a fault, it won’t let the power in. The one CG spot we moved from, I noticed the next day there was a guy working on it. So, I walked over there and he had the pedestal taken down to parade rest. I did notice that the receptacle was fairly loose, but that is a common occurrence. The guy said the connection points for the hot wires had come loose and one wasn’t even attached. So, he rewired the whole thing and put some new components in there to prevent to connection from being loose. 👍😃🍻

[@WhyWait]

Thanks. Yup, perfect story right there of why all of this is a good run down. Appreciate the comment and thanks for watching Mike. 👍🏼

[@barneydavis5484]

Chris this is one of your best videos! Most people don't understand how dangerous electricity can be!!

[@WhyWait]

Thanks Barney. Just good reminders for everybody. Appreciate you watching and safe travels out there. 👍🏼

[@cpwatching5647]

All great safety tips. Thank you. You cannot hear these enough!! Take care.

[@WhyWait]

Glad it was helpful! Always good to have a refresher on things must of us do anyways. Safe travels out there. 👍🏼

[@ralphb.3802]

Great advice. First thing I do after I back in to the site is to check all the utilities. Electric, water and sewer. This way if the campground manager has to move me to another site, I won't have hook up anything before you move. This happened to me. No power at the pedestal after setting up and the sewer cap was stuck on. Also spray the water faucet with Lysol before hooking up the water.

[@WhyWait]

Right on! That’s the way to do it Ralph. Thanks for watching

[@debbann4182]

Great ideas! I will start doing that Lysol thing!😊

[@patbullard9276]

All good tips. I have been rving for 35+ years and for the last four years have worked seasonally in rv parks. Your advice on plugging in is especially good because many people don’t know to switch the breaker off when plugging in or out. I have to change out many breakers and receptacles due to people in hot receptacles. The arching is dangerous and damages the tv plug and the campground equipment. As far as pms systems I also use the Progressive Industries PMS. The warranty is very good and customer service is excellent. I had to have mine replaced once and progressive overnighted a new one to me at the rv park. Just had to email purchase information and photos of the rv plug and the campground receptacle.

[@WhyWait]

Oh that’s good to know Pat, that the company will do that for you. Appreciate you watching and thanks for the comment. Safe travels out there 👍🏼

[@guspaca494]

Thank you for these critically important tips. 😊

[@WhyWait]

Sure thing. Just some good reminders, things most of us know but forget some times. Appreciate you watching 👍🏼

[@WhyWait]

You bet 👍🏼 Just some good things to remember and think about with the camping season around the corner. Appreciate you stopping by.

[@LawrenceTuckerFyretuck]

A great purchase is a torque screwdriver! One should check every electrical screw connection annually.

[@DMosesRN]

Please never stop educating us newbies.👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾I look forward to your videos👍🏾

[@WhyWait]

@@DMosesRN definitely appreciate the kind words! I’ll keep trying to make helpful content 👍🏼

[@escapingthenest2020]

Great video. I’m assuming this is targeting 100% stock RVs. That being the case, I had never contemplated the whole safety issue of using a 20 or 15 amp extension cited. You are 1,000% right, thank you! In case you did not know, if someone upgrades their electrical system to use the high end charger/inverter, like Victron Energy MultiPlus, it is possible to configure the inverter/charger to limit what it can pull from shore power, allowing someone to safely use a 15 amp extension cord. What is really wonderful about this configuration is if the RVs needs more power, it will pull it from the battery. So for those 15 minutes you need the hair drying or coffee pot, some power comes from the battery. Once the load is gone the shore power will recharge the battery!

[@Rick-x8h]

It’s always good to remind us Chris, even the old pro’s, I like reminders, except some of the ones my wife tells me.😂😂

[@WhyWait]

Hahaha well even our wives have good tips once in awhile too. Just some reminders here that must of us already know but with the camping season around the corner a refresh is always good. Thanks for watching. 😁

[@jimmierturner3597]

Thanks!

[@WhyWait]

Sure thing! Thank you so much for the big thanks 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@rjr107]

Chris love watching your videos Always great stuff. Thank you. Ive Copied many upgrades off you.

[@WhyWait]

Thanks, definitely appreciate you always watching! I’ll just keep trying to put good content out there. 👍🏼

[@tankiescraftingmom4381]

Thank you so much for this video. I have never heard of hot skin and I learned a lot about keeping my electrical cords healthy thank you again.

[@WhyWait]

Sure thing. Glad it helped you out. Just a few things to think about it when RVing.

[@jameshelm2847]

When you talked about going down to a 20-amp cord at the 7:24 mark, you showed a cord that is only a 15-amp cord and a 15-amp receptacle. A 20 amp plug and receptacle will have one of the prongs verticle and the other prong horizontal. I know I am being picky, but going down to a 15-amp circuit seems worse. That is my opinion, and others may disagree.

[@WhyWait]

Hahaha yes, that’s just stock footage from an editing app I use. You just type something in like electricity for instance and a hundred pics come available for editors to use. But you can’t narrow it down to very specific items. Thanks for watching.

[@pantherfaninga7583]

@@WhyWait AND THERE IS THE PROBLEM!!! You really have a responsibility to make sure that both what you say AND show are both accurate when dealing with this topic, dude. Simply laughing it off and blaming your editing software is way messed up. You'll get somebody hurt or killed. You really need to take this down and update it to be at least close to accurate or just stop presenting yourself as some kind of expert/advisor when you're clearly neither.

[@deanh7190]

Both Progressive and Hughes are quality products. We utilize the Hughes Autoformer followed by the Hughes Watchdog which has accurately alerted us to several problems over the last couple years. Very importantly, our power protection is installed AFTER the onboard power reel since power reels themselves can develop electrical issues due to poor design which limits or prevents your ability to properly inspect and maintain the point at which power is transferred from the rotating drum to the coach. Prior to our power protection education, our original reel actually developed an 'open neutral' condition that fried the dryer harness and could have resulted in a fire. A reel autopsy revealed that behind the riveted cover, the saddle connection for the neutral wire had worn, shorted and lost contact. Plus with our power protection mounted inboard, there is protection from theft because it is out of sight.

[@CherishtheJourneyy]

A lot of great info here but I wanted to mention that you forgot to or maybe don’t know but if your using a EMS then it will detect if there is missing ground or reverse and won’t supply power to RV so you won’t get “Hot Skin” other thing is you can use the EMS while moochdocking off 15/20amp and it will protect the RV!

[@WhyWait]

You’re right…if people use them. We mention it in the video. Tip #6 is using an EMS and at the 6:35 mark we mention all of that about how it protects from reverse polarity. The big problem with moochdocking is so many people still dont use an EMS and on top of that they use an extension cord not rated for that at all. If you use an extension cord to plug into a wall socket always use a good 10 gauge extra heavy duty cord and one no longer than 50ft. Appreciate you stopping by watching and commenting 👍🏼

[@myriadcorp]

I plug my 5th wheel into one of our outside outlets when it's at home loading or unloading from a trip. I use a heavy duty extension cord. It works but one thing that disturbs me is every time I plug it in there is a small spark. I don't run anything but lights and the refrigerator when it's hooked up.

[@pantherfaninga7583]

That's because you have something in the RV that is turned on before you connect. That spark is an arc - just like a small welder. I'd bet it's your power converter that supplies your batteries. To keep this from happening, either (a) turn off the breaker in the house that supplies the receptacle or (much easier) is to turn off ALL of your breakers in the RV before connecting. This will stop your arcing.

[@davesauerzopf6980]

I noticed that you had some sort of lock on your power plug at the pedestal. What is your setup for that?

[@WhyWait]

Just an extra security measure to lock your EMS up from theft. Never hurts. Most EMS surge protectors even come with a metal ring on them to be used for this exact reason. 👍🏼

[@ZeevYisrael]

Just bought an RV last week so thank you. I learned a lot!

[@WhyWait]

Good deal. Here’s a playlist you should check out. Lots of helpful stuff RV Maintenance, Repairs & How To kzbin.info/aero/PLD8eDwLsl5iVGaCpkVKkPHj_fgZ7-XyOR

[@trishaturnr-iw8hm]

Learn that last night plugged in my surge Protector then my Rv and some stuff didn’t work and my Hugh’s surge protector wasn’t all lit up , took surge Protector after wondering what the deal is , so I took it to another Rv pedestal and it worked fine so it was the pedestal , I learned a lesson cause I had already dropped my legs down and leveled out thankfully hadn’t hooked up everything else , so I had to move to another pedestal . I was good to go and told the park

[@WhyWait]

Yup, it’s the first thing we do every time we arrive at a site is hook up the EMS and see if the pedestal is good usually before we even deal with backing in. 👍🏼

[@joedaddy9610]

What thickness cable lock does the progressive industries ems surge protector lock bracket fit?5mm or 8mm or would both fit?Thank you

[@WhyWait]

Not sure anymore to be honest. We recently switched over to the Hughes Watchdog EMS.

[@joedaddy9610]

@@WhyWait What was the main reason you switched?

[@pamtodd6586]

I have two questions. What's the best way to handle a situation when the pole does not have circuit breakers, just outlets? Is there anything I can do to make it easier to unplug my cord from my ems? It just keeps getting harder. Thanks so much. Pam

[@LawrenceTuckerFyretuck]

Use an electrical connection cleaner.

[@ryanaldrich7620]

Have a question regarding power I was using a 15 adapter to a 30amp to plug into a normal outlet it's a warehouse outlet not your normal housing outlet everything was working properly for the last two weekends plugged in this weekend no thermostat or water heater is lost of power or. Camper issues??

[@RVUntethered]

Fantastic video!

[@WhyWait]

😊😊😊

[@dbascur2]

Great info for new RVrs..!

[@WhyWait]

Glad it was helpful! Just a few reminders, lots of stuff most of us already know but it’s always good to hear again. Thanks for checking it out 👍🏼

[@mooreadventures]

Was at a site last year and the breaker kept tripping.... after 3 rd time, it was really hot. Called the office (state park) and they sent a ranger to fix it... the lead was melted on the breaker and he had to cut it out. It was so hot, he couldn't touch it.

[@WhyWait]

Yikes. That’s exactly why these things can be dangerous sometimes when they aren’t wired correctly or properly maintained. Especially state parks and older campgrounds it seems. Appreciate you watching 👍🏼

[@barbprivott3583]

Can you explain the circuit breaker issues when plugging in while at home?

[@WhyWait]

@@barbprivott3583 hey Barb, best way to explain it all is have you go watch this short video by Todd from the NRVTA. He breaks it all down. 👍🏼 In short use a EMS when moochdocking or test that house outlet for reverse polarity with a cheap GFCI tester. Here’s the video link. kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5fSXo2Cp8mmeMksi=u5Ppaangtj2qWRkt

[@TheBirdandEagle]

Excellent video. Thank you.

[@WhyWait]

Sure thing. Appreciate you watching and commenting. Stay safe on the road out there 👍🏼

[@captjim97]

Great tips Chris, thanks so much for sharing them !!!

[@WhyWait]

Yeah buddy. Just some good reminders. Stay safe out there capt!👍🏼

[@tobbywhitmore3721]

Thank u... I find your advice most helpful

[@WhyWait]

Glad to hear that Tobby. Thanks for stopping by

[@ramblin_reardons]

#1 is essential. Don't trust any sites. We were at Fort Wilderness, and I tested the power pole with my watchdog before hooking up it blew the whole watchdog power system. It turns out the breaker had shorted out. Burned the watchdog but not the RV. Test 1st every time.

[@WhyWait]

Glad you got your watchdog before it got your RV! It can happen anywhere, so always test it.👍🏼

[@ThoseWhoGlampTogether]

Great information! Thanks for sharing!!

[@WhyWait]

Indeed. Just some good reminders. As always thanks for watching 😁

[@harvhurley]

Is it ok to hook a 30 amp camper system to a 50 amp breaker at the pedestal? If not, why.

[@WhyWait]

Yes you can but there are a few things you should know and keep in mind. Too much for me to type here. So here is a link to a great article all about that situation. It’s a good read. Appreciate you watching 👍🏼 www.mortonsonthemove.com/can-you-hook-a-30-amp-rv-to-50-amp-power/

[@byronlemay2166]

Good job, dude.

[@WhyWait]

Thank you. Most of it is basic knowledge for some but a good refreshing for others with the camping season ramping up. Appreciate you watching 👍🏼

[@WireEd1966]

It is a rare thing when arriving to see the pedestal circuit breakers off from my experience!!

[@WhyWait]

I know right, seems so strange to me too but that’s why we check. Thanks for watching 👍🏼

[@newuser507]

As a habit I turn the circuit breakers off before disconnecting from the pole . I make one more check to make sure I did so before pulling off the site.

[@WireEd1966]

@@newuser507 yep I also do that. I also do the right handed wiggle test too!!

[@ramone.1021]

Great content. I’m plug in all year around to shore power, do I keep my rv battery connected to trailer or take it out?

[@WhyWait]

As long as you’re plugged in you should be fine. It’s just like us plugged in year round as full timers, the RV shore power keeps the battery charged. If you do store the RV for a long time without 50 or 30 amp plugged in then I would disconnect the battery for sure b

[@ramone.1021]

@@WhyWait thanks for the swift replied , stay safe !

[@Bryno64]

Is it safe to plug two power cords together to reach the Rv? I have 50 amp 30’ power cord but if I need a little more what would you recommend? Thank you

[@WhyWait]

They have 50 amp extension cords. I have a 50ft cord and an extra 30 foot extension 50amp cord. Needed about 70 feet in one campground we were at. This is fine to do. 👍🏼

[@lukefarmer5391]

Hot skin is not caused by loose connections or inadequate amperage, it is cause by power source that is wired incorrectly, such as reverse polarity. All good suggestions however.

[@WhyWait]

Appreciate you watching. 👍🏼 All of these are worst case scenarios, and usually most likely not happen but they can. Your exactly right…sources wired incorrectly which plugging into a house outlet you may not know especially without an EMS or testing the outlet. It’s a reverse polarity issue the house itself could be having like you said, if you plug into the 20amp socket. Rather than my typing a bunch here’s another great video on the exact subject. Link below. Todd breaks this exact situation down at the 1:00 minute mark in the video. 👍🏼 kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5fSXo2Cp8mmeMksi=5RPF085UYr8QKzk1

[@rvelectricity4863]

Not true. Reversed Hot/Neutral polarity will not cause a hot skin voltage unless the RV is also mis-wired. I’ve demonstrated this hundreds of times in my RVelectricity/NoShockZone seminars and videos. - Mike Sokol

[@nmandmc1]

Excellent advise! Great tips!

[@WhyWait]

Thanks. Glad it was helpful! Always good for a refresher.

[@nmandmc1]

@@WhyWait completely agree this is probably the most important refresher outside of towing dos and dont’s :)

[@chrisfreeman7890]

Heres the list: Check ppower pedestal visually and with surge protector before backing in Make sure breaker is off before plugging in Tighten rv power cord connected to rv Take good care of your rv cords Make sure to always have a ground pin on cord Us an EMS instead of a normal surge protector Never plug into 20a extension cord Avoid overloading Locate breaker and fuses Avoid repeatedly reseting breakers

[@stevedowding5929]

Have a question so my 30 amp shore wire was cut and a 50 amp replacement plug was wired on and when plugged in im only getting power to plugs and that is about it no lights slide out dont work and no fridge or any of the hvac

[@pantherfaninga7583]

The creator won't answer cuz he has no clue! What you're experiencing is your trailer only gets 1/2 power with a 30-amp connector. The 30-amp supply only has one "hot" leg rated at 30 amps, a neutral, and a ground (that's why it has 3 prongs) whereas a 50-amp plug has TWO hot supplies rated at 50 amps, a neutral, and a ground (which is why it has 4 prongs). With only one hot supply leg, your panel in the RV only has power to one side of circuit breakers. That's why only half of your loads have power. Not sure if your AC is 240 V or 120. Look in your panel and find the breaker for the AC. If it's a ganged breaker (two breaker locked together) your supply is 240 and you're out of luck. If it's a single breaker, then IN THEORY you can move the feed to a breaker that is powered from the single leg of the 30-amp connection. CAUTION HERE!!! It's a bit more complex than just moving the supply to an open breaker powered from the other side. RVs and houses are set up electrically to balance loads between the phases evenly. Take a good inventory of what works with a 30-amp feed and what doesn't and get a feel for how your loads/circuits are used in real life. If you're missing a lot of stuff that you'd normally use, then there more on the "other leg" than just than the AC and you're probably okay to move it. If you're missing a ton of stuff that gets used regularly (the slide is an intermittent load - not frequent) then you need to get deeper into what's powered where. Lastly, if your AC is indeed a single-phase (single breaker), then you want to invest in a soft starter for your AC unit. They're a snap to install and enable the AC to run on lower power supplies, including even a 20-amp regular plug as long as said cord has a high enough current rating and your AC draws less then 20 amps. Look for at least a 12-gauge cord no longer than necessary - 25 feet or less is ideal. If you need more cord length, then go with a 10-gauge cord.

[@kpops6784]

Do breakers need to be shut off while traveling?

[@WhyWait]

The breakers in your RV? No. There’s no power going to them.

[@larryjanson4011]

older rigs like mine are not subject to “surge problems” as it is over 20 years old, so not full of electronics. but even then a top of the line protecter is a wise investment. spend some cash now, or spend lots of cash while stuck on the rd.

[@WhyWait]

True, thanks for watching Larry. 👍🏼

[@timf6916]

Good information.

[@WhyWait]

Thanks Tim, We try 😂😂

[@idahoppgfilms]

The EMS at the pedestal doesn't provide as much protection as installing it inside the RV. You have voltage loss, depending on the length of your cable to the RV, that could be enough by the time it hits your circuits to do damage. I like to go surge at the pedestal, and then an installed EMS device in between your shore plug and your breaker box.

[@WhyWait]

Good advice. I’ve thought about getting one hard wired inside the rv.

[@jimcichowski2137]

Thanks for the tips ! BTW, I see you lock your EMS to the pedestal. So do I.

[@WhyWait]

Yeah it doesn’t hurt right Jim. Never heard of one being strong but who knows now a days. Thanks for watching 👍🏼

[@gordonpotts753]

Excellent presentation. T.u.

[@WhyWait]

Thanks, definitely appreciate you watching 👍🏼👍🏼

[@scottwieczorek8193]

So If I hook up to 20 amp simply to open sliding (cable) and keep batteries charged but I'm running nothing because I have everything killed inside is this ok?

[@WhyWait]

For sure. You can more than that too. All of these are worst case scenarios in the video, and usually most likely not happen but they can. It’s a reverse polarity issue the house itself could be having if you plug into the 20amp socket that you wouldn’t know about without an EMS or testing the outlet which nobody does. Just make sure the house outlet is good. Rather than me typing a bunch here’s another great video on the subject. Link below. Todd breaks this exact situation down at the 1:00 minute mark in the video. 👍🏼 It’s a Good watch kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5fSXo2Cp8mmeMksi=5RPF085UYr8QKzk1 Plus if you use an extension cord to plug into a wall socket I think too many people don’t use a good 10 gauge extra heavy duty cord and one no longer than 50ft. Which can be a dangerous thing causing the cord to heat and possibly melt or start a fire by using the wrong extension cords. So just make sure you have a heavy duty extension cord and don’t go running space heaters, a dryer, coffee maker and all of that in the RV while plugged in. Thanks again for watching and commenting. 👍🏼

[@brianhogan386]

I have a toy hauler 33 ft and a front hitch generator stand my question is I have to run a power cord 35 feet to the back of the trailer to connect to ! I was wondering if I could drill a hole in front under the bedroom and connect power somewhere in there to shorten the distance for safety reasons and also out of the weather!!!!????

[@MYAFCCA]

Thank you so much

[@WhyWait]

You're most welcome. Thank you for watching 👍🏼

[@chadkoller7809]

If I use my watch dog while plugged into my 20amp garage plug is that ok

[@WhyWait]

Yeah sure. I’d also make sure you’re using a heavy duty, only 59ft long 10 guage extension cord like the one below. To many people use like 150ft long 16 guage which definitely is not good and can heat up and possibly create a fire amzn.to/49uCzGy

[@chadkoller7809]

@@WhyWait thank you

[@MudmanMedia]

I’ve seen many stories of people having fires with these surge protectors. Why is that?

[@clintstevenson1214]

my motto. NEVER, NEVER, NEVER use an extension cord with a space heater. great video, thanks

[@WhyWait]

Indeed Clint. And if you use an extension cord to plug into a wall socket always use a good 10 gauge extra heavy duty cord and one no longer than 50ft. Appreciate you stopping by watching and commenting 👍🏼

[@BruceGordon925]

Great sales pitch....

[@WhyWait]

Thanks! What was I selling in this one?🤔

[@rickrentz6602]

Nice video, great things to keep in mind. Appreciate your efforts!

[@WhyWait]

Appreciate that Rick. Just some reminders most of us already know but good things to refresh on as the season starts up. Thanks for watching.

[@jgarrettdunbar]

Tip # 11. Always take a picture of the meter reading before you plug in. Last place I was at overcharged 100 dollars first month. They refunded

[@jam5158]

So on tip #1 you are basically telling people to block the road while you go over and do your electrical and water check? So if it isn't working properly then drive your rig back to the office and block the exit lane while getting a new site and then figure out how to turn back around to get back in the park. Or you could park your rig in the site and before unhooking and such do your checks then if things aren't right you walk back to the office and get a new site without blocking the roads.

[@WhyWait]

@@jam5158 hahaha yup! That’s exactly what I’m saying. I will park my rig right in the middle of the road the whole time while I take all of 30 seconds to test the electric and turn the water on, and I will not use any common sense at all if I see people behind me that need to get by. 👍🏼👍🏼🙄🙄🙄 Christ I’ve had to wait 15-20 mins just to get by people backing up into their spot who don’t know how to do it really good.

[@michaelcorey9890]

This video was great! My view is that the same people who have no idea how a car works shouldn't own an RV. Understanding principles of mechanics, electrical systems etc is a prerequisite. Ive seen it, the person that connects two space heaters or mobile AC units to a basic circuit in there home and scratches their head when the breaker continues to trip have no business owning an RV. Good for the RV repair techs though.

[@WhyWait]

Thanks Michael. Appreciate you checking it out 👍🏼

[@randyschultz6594]

The only thing that causes a 'hot skin' is having the hot and neutral reversed. It is not caused by the size of a power cord, bad connection or loose connection. It is only caused by a miswiring. If miswired then it puts the hot wire to the frame or chassis and the neutral wire to the hot for the loads. It is very dangerous because the frame is also connected to the hot and you will get current from from the frame to earth (ground). I simple ground fault detector is all that is needed to test for this. Once the receptacle has been verified to be wired correctly then you are fine. Nothing you do will introduce that problem unless you wired your power cord yourself, which brings up one more point. Don't borrow someone else's power cord if it appears they may have changed the plug or receptacle on that cord. Running your rig on a 20a cord is fine assuming that the receptacle feeding you has been wired with the proper breaker. You won't under current your loads. You will trip a breaker when you try to draw too much current.

[@WhyWait]

All of these are worst case scenarios in the video, and usually most likely not happen but they can. It’s a reverse polarity issue the house itself could be having if you plug into the 20amp socket that you wouldn’t know about without an EMS or testing the outlet….which nobody usually does. Rather than me typing a bunch here’s another great video on the subject. Link below. Todd breaks this exact situation down at the 1:00 minute mark in the video. 👍🏼 It’s a Good watch kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5fSXo2Cp8mmeMksi=5RPF085UYr8QKzk1 Plus if you use an extension cord to plug into a wall socket I think too many people don’t use a good 10 gauge extra heavy duty cord and one no longer than 50ft. Which can be a dangerous thing causing the cord to heat and possibly melt or start a fire by using the wrong extension cords. That’s where a big problem lies I believe. Thanks again for watching and commenting.

[@KevinCoop1]

Most of your video was great advice! Question, how in your mind does plugging into a 20 amp 120 volt receptacle cause “hot skin”? Is that problem limited to 20 amps? Can plugging 50 to 30 cause it too? You showed receptacles on fire. What causes that? Missing ground pin? Mis information, the ground pins purpose is not to connect to ground (earth). The equipment ground is to connect to the neutral point on the utility transformer. A missing ground pin will not cause “hot skin”. A missing ground will not “prevent” “hot skin”.

[@WhyWait]

Thanks Kevin, Appreciate you watching. 👍🏼 All of these are worst case scenarios, and usually most likely not happen but they can. It’s a reverse polarity issue the house itself could be having if you plug into the 20amp socket that you wouldn’t know about without an EMS or testing the outlet which nobody does. Rather than me typing a bunch here’s another great video on the subject. Link below. Todd breaks this exact situation down at the 1:00 minute mark in the video. 👍🏼 kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5fSXo2Cp8mmeMksi=5RPF085UYr8QKzk1

[@KevinCoop1]

@@WhyWait kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5TFnIWJpsd9Y9ksi=DEQ6NSsrNPfCFDwu. If someone was really really stupid and connected the hot to the ground in the receptacle, then yes. Reverse polarity causing it, not possible without something else being wrong.

[@PriestessYuuki19]

Its better to have it and not need it then need it and not have it.😅grown-up on that saying

[@THEronleon1]

Thanks for scaring the ish out me. I am looking in to buying an RV but don't want to be fried. I was really depending on the ability to hook in to family members homes

[@WhyWait]

You still can. It just needs to be done properly. Family members need to install either a 30 or 50 amp hookup or if not, you just need to test the outlet you plan on plugging into. Plus make sure you run a EMS still and that you use a heavy duty gauge extension cord. 👍🏼 Do all of this and you will be fine.

[@thomaspearce7704]

Very good video! Just curious why simply hooking up to a 20amp, or even a 15amp, plug is dangerous. If everything is properly wired, good connections, and the circuit is protected with a properly sized breaker I don’t see the problem. Yes, the smaller the amperage of the circuit, the less you will be able to run on the RV before tripping the power source breaker. But all that means is that the safety mechanisms are working properly. Where is the danger of electrifying the chassis?

[@WhyWait]

Thanks Thomas. Appreciate you watching. 👍🏼 All of these are worst case scenarios, and usually most likely not happen but they can. It’s a reverse polarity issue the house itself could be having if you plug into the 20amp socket. Rather than my typing a bunch here’s another great video on the subject. Link below. Todd breaks this exact situation down at the 1:00 minute mark in the video. 👍🏼 kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5fSXo2Cp8mmeMksi=5RPF085UYr8QKzk1

[@thomaspearce7704]

@@WhyWait Ah, yes. Thanks! But if you have an EMS, and/or do your diligence of checking the source before plugging in as you recommend in your video, you will discover this before plugging in. I mistook your information to mean there is something inherently potentially dangerous in plugging into a lower capacity circuit, just because of the fact that it is lower capacity. Thanks for clarifying!

[@camustang1966]

I liked the tips and advice here…except for on thing. Admonishing people to never plug into a 15/20 amp household connection isn’t a solid recommendation (in my opinion). If running your RV on less power were dangerous, then running a 50 amp coach on a 30 amp connection would be equally dangerous. It wasn’t “designed” to run on 30 amps. Now, if people are oblivious as to how much power their RV and/or components in their RV use, then by all means, don’t do it. However, knowing you are only on 15 or 20 amps, and knowing what that means you can (or cannot) run, there is no inherent danger being plugged into a 15/20 amp connection. You do need to be aware of what else your friends might be running on that circuit (washer and dryer? Other things?), but again, with proper knowledge and understanding, it can be done. Anyway, not trying to flame, just my observations. Very good video, thanks for the tips.

[@WhyWait]

Thanks, Appreciate you watching. 👍🏼 All of these are worst case scenarios, and usually most likely not happen but they can. It’s a reverse polarity issue the house itself could be having if you plug into the 20amp socket that you wouldn’t know about without an EMS or testing the outlet which nobody does. Rather than me typing a bunch here’s another great video on the subject. Link below. Todd breaks this exact situation down at the 1:00 minute mark in the video. 👍🏼 It’s a Good watch kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5fSXo2Cp8mmeMksi=5RPF085UYr8QKzk1 Plus if you use an extension cord to plug into a wall socket I think too many people don’t use a good 10 gauge extra heavy duty cord and one no longer than 50ft. Which can be a dangerous thing causing the cord to heat and possibly melt or start a fire by using the wrong extension cords. Thanks again for watching and commenting.

[@commonsensepatriot9450]

Its like a parachute. Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.

[@WhyWait]

That’s exactly right. In the video I referenced wearing a seat belt, no I’ve never needed it but still always wear it for that one day I might need it. Thanks for watching

[@brianwilson6085]

One more good tip never plug the camper into shore power with the 7 prong plug plugged into the tow vehicle.

[@WhyWait]

Indeed! 👍🏼 Thanks for sharing Brian.

[@Dachshund-Nator]

My 1989 Barth motorhome had that built in. There’s an ENORMOUS difference in how 35 year old QUALITY compares to all that GARBAGE out of Indiana people waste money on these days. 💥💣🤣 P.S. I quit 3 jobs as an electrician building RV’s… you wouldn’t believe the inferiority of the electrical components, and minimal wiring methods… even on the $150,000 plus rolling garbage. ⚡️ ⚡️

[@WhyWait]

No….id beilive it 👍🏼

[@scottharris811]

I am going to come out and say it, all these people that make KZbin rv videos worry way to much about the power at a campground. I have camped at hundreds of campgrounds and have never used a surge protector or a EMS. I think they push these things so much because 5hey are all sponsored by these companies. Look at campgrounds and Hartley no one uses them

[@WhyWait]

Not sponsored by them at all. It’s a great item to have to run a pre check on the power pedestals. It’s like….I’ve been in automobiles for 45 years of my life and never once needed my seat belt, but I still wear it for that one day when I do need it.

[@larrypahl5756]

too much selfie

[@pantherfaninga7583]

I rarely bother to comment on videos, but this one is just way over the top in terms of inaccuracies and just plain wrong advice. And the CLICKBAIT THUMBNAIL OMG IT'S DANGEROUS LOOK AT ME is just as ridiculous. I'm an electrical engineer, so I'm coming from a position of knowing what the heck I'm talking about. DO NOT take this video as sound advice. And the whole "hot skin" of an RV would only occur is there's a serious wiring issue AND you've decided to not use your power monitor. That's a Darwin Award waiting to happen. First of all, the publisher is obviously lacking in any electrical knowledge whatsoever. The diatribe against mooching power from a 20-amp extension cord is so wrong I'm embarrassed for the guy. And to have him suggest that you ask your friend or family member to install a 30-amp power connection is laughable. Most residential power applications don't have an extra 30 amps "lying around" as spare power, let alone the cost of having this done in hardware alone. And - you will RARELY find a home nowadays with a true 20 receptacle anyway. Most residential receptacles are rated at 15 amps even though the breaker in the panel may be a 20-amp breaker. This is because there are typically multiple outlets fed from a breaker. If your receptacle has two vertical slots with a round ground connection, it's a 15 amp. If it has one vertical and the left slot has a vertical slot with a small horizontal slot and comes with a ground connection, it's a 20-amp. If there is no ground connection, DO NOT USE THAT RECEPTACLE!!!! That would be a great way to end up with a 'hot skin", as no ground is the most common cause. If you connect ANY single-phase power source, INCLUDING A 30-AMP connection or a 15-20-amp receptacle source, is ultimately distributed via circuit breakers in the RV power panel. Any source of power, be it an RV pedestal or an outlet in a home, is protected by a circuit breaker for any overload or sort circuit protection. It's the way distribution systems are designed on purpose. The safest way to connect to any power source is to ALWAYS use a power monitor and/or a surge protector. Use dog bones or adapters to adapt the incoming source to the necessary connection type for your protective device. Start from the power protection device itself and begin by plugging in your cord(s) and dog bone(s), working backwards to the power source. Once connected and energized, check the power protector for any issues. That will ensure you're protected before applying power, and this goes for ANY electrical hookup - ALWAYS start at the trailer and plug into and energize the source LAST. Additionally, the two most important things to ALWAYS adhere to are (1) always use as short of an extension cable as possible and (2) MAKE SURE that the cord you're using is rated for the amperage draw you're trying to achieve. VOLTAGE will drop as the wire length increases, and as this happens, every load that is connected will draw more CURRENT, which can and will cause more heat and can easily damage components. This drop is exacerbated by length and wire gauge and gets worse as load increases. This is why it's IMPERATIVE to use a power monitor and not just a surge suppressor and to keep your cables as short as possible, ESPECIALLY when using any 120V extension cord. Think of wire gauge as being the same as a pipe diameter for water. The bigger the wire (the pipe) diameter, the lower the gauge number, the more flow (current) you can get through it. Wire gauge is critical to the ability of a cable to handle current and to minimize voltage droop. Rule of thumb - 14-gauge extension cords, far and away the most common in home centers and the like, are only rated for 15 amps, and that's under "ideal" conditions. A 12-gauge cord is rated for 20 amps, 10-gauge is rated for 30 amps, and 8 gauge is rated at 40. Here's the source of this data: www.engineeringtoolbox.com/wire-gauges-d_419.html Lastly, if mooching power is something you do often, I'd strongly advise to go ahead and get a soft starter for your AC unit. EVERY AC motor draws a LOT of current when starting from a dead stop. This current, known as "in-rush current", happens when starting but drops to a much lower (like 5x lower) amount of current when running. In the case of an AC unit, this is due to the compressor motor. A soft start limits the inrush current allowing the AC to start with a much lower current value and will keep you from tripping the breaker in the house. Worth mentioning here is that soft starters are also available for home AC units and will allow you to run your home AC units off of a relatively small (4000 W) generator. Lastly, the whole "hot skin" is a once-in-a-blue-moon situation as this would require a bad ground connection to the source and reversed polarity on the receptable connection. On a standard receptacle, you'll notice that one slot (the righthand one) is smaller than the other. This is also by design where the left-hand slot connects to neutral, and the smaller one is the line (120V, or "hot") side. Many two blade (no ground) plugs are polarized, meaning one blade is wider than the other and the plug can only go in one way. All new receptacles are polarized AND grounded. NEVER EVER connect to a receptacle that only has two slots and no ground, and NEVER EVER use an adapter to convert 2 slots to two slots with ground. In any event, if you ALWAYS use your power monitor, all of these issues will be detected, and you'll be protected. And please - don't take anything for granted and check multiple sources, especially on KZbin. This particular video is garbage.

[@WhyWait]

The things mentioned in this video are the same things talked about in these videos linked below by Todd and taught at the NRVTA. When I was there we even discussed these issues together. Appreciate you watching and everybody is open to their opinion. kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5fSXo2Cp8mmeMksi=oQMvExbRh4qQJScM kzbin.info/www/bejne/b2eqaYOLnqiBl68si=B3b78ma9hmssaP1a

[@pantherfaninga7583]

@@WhyWait Perhaps, but what you conveyed is still wrong. And amazing to see a new 10-gauge cord linked in your latest comment after telling people to in the video to never moochdock. You're a hack, dude. It's provable. And the information I brought to light isn't opinion - it's good practice and in accordance with the NEC for portable power. Update the vid with correct information or take it down. I'm not going anywhere.

[@timothylinn]

You really need to back up your claim that a standard household connection stresses your RV and potentially causes hot skin. You provided no rationale for either statement other than "RVs are designed for a 30A connection" which is a vague and meaningless statement. My power consumption, as tracked by my Victron Cerbo GX, never gets close to pulling 15A while heating my camper all winter off a plug in my garage. The only time a breaker flips is if I try to run something like a table saw off the same circuit. Additionally, I have configured my camper's electrical system to limit incoming current to 15A. Even if the electrical system is capable of drawing more, perhaps to charge my battery system, there are limits in place to prevent it. Now my use case is not everyone's use case, but the bottom line is that if your RV is not trying to pull more current than a circuit's rated capacity, there is no electrical difference between being connected to a 15A outlet and a 30A outlet. If there is a consideration I'm missing, I would welcome the feedback.

[@WhyWait]

Thanks for the comment. We sometimes often have ours trip using our dryer, space heater, coffee maker and fireplace on at the same time, all heating elements pulling a lot. All of these are worst case scenarios I talk about in the video and usually most likely not happen but they can. It’s a reverse polarity issue the house outlet itself could be having if you plug into the 20amp socket that you wouldn’t know about without an EMS or testing the outlet which nobody does. Most people won’t run an EMS inline while moochdicking. Rather than me typing a bunch here’s another great video on the subject. Link below. Todd breaks this exact situation down at the 1:00 minute mark in the video. 👍🏼 It’s a Good watch kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5fSXo2Cp8mmeMksi=5RPF085UYr8QKzk1 Plus if you use an extension cord to plug into a wall socket I think too many people don’t use a good 10 gauge extra heavy duty cord and one no longer than 50ft. Which can be a dangerous thing causing the cord to heat and possibly melt or start a fire by using the wrong extension cords. That’s the biggest problem along with the chance of reverse polarity possibly with the house outlet Thanks again for watching and commenting.👍🏼

[@tamo9520]

Awesome tips! Thank you for the info!

[@WhyWait]

Glad it was helpful! 😁😁