RV Moochdocking! | Cheat Boondocking Like a Pro! | Changing Lanes!

[@mjtague]

You two are sooo easy to listen to. You speak like we are friends:)Thanks for the great vid!!

[@kevinstenger4334]

Nice explanation on a simple level. I’m a master electrician and RV owner so can’t resist a couple of tips. I saw in the comments that a couple of folks mentioned the issue of long cords and the need to upsize the cords. Good catch, but the issue isn’t the amperage (15A on a 10GA cord that is good for 25-30A). The issue is voltage drop. When you are running long cords and multiple connections you are going to have some voltage drop unless your cords are way oversized. If you have a nice power quality/surge protection device on your rig like yours you will be fine because if the voltage drops too much the protective device will just shut off the power to the RV. If you don’t have such a device installed and the voltage drops too much you just start burning things up like electronics and AC compressors. ☹️ The other item you mentioned was when you are connecting to two different circuits and have a GFCI as one or both sources. First off, any outlet you can plug into outdoors or in a garage is required to be on a GFCI. When you connect to a GFCI the amount of current flowing on the hot leg of the GFCI and the amount of current flowing back on the neutral must be exactly the same or the device will trip. The device assumes any current going out that isn’t coming back must be going somewhere it isn’t supposed to such as your body. When you use a cheater cord to feed your 50A/240V RV from two 125V sources there is only one neutral wire in that cord and the neutral current will return through both 125V neutrals causing any GFCI’s in play to trip. I have one of those split cords and the only useful thing I have found for it is when we camp in Michigan state parks they are too cheap to upgrade to 50A services so if nobody is using the other side of the pedestal I use the 30A outlets on both sides.

[@ChangingLanes]

Good points.. We always keep the video description and blog post updated with just such details. 👍🏼

[@supremeautomotive6749]

I have tested the voltage drop thing and plugged in multiple 50ft cords and some 100ft cords and didn't see anything different. The cheater cord also works perfectly for a generator

[@tomclark7169]

What about a Class C that has 30 amp can you do the same?

[@ChangingLanes]

⚠️⚠️ One thing we forgot to mention and another thing brought up in the comments that are valid concerns: ➡️ EXTENSION CABLES: Be sure to make sure any extension cables you use are rated for 15A. For longer runs like 100ft, these are NOT the cheaper cables. They should be labeled with rated amperage. Also, the longer the cable the more the voltage will drop, so keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn't drop below 108v (90% of 120v). ➡️ HOUSEHOLD CIRCUITS: When a household outlet/circuit is rated at 15A, that rating is generally for short term (under 3 hours). The real rating for long term load (over 3 hours) is 80% of the rating. Meaning, on a 15A circuit, if you’re going to run it over 3 hours, you should be at 12 Amps or less. An AC is like long to cycle less than 3 hours anyway, but on a hot day, it’s something to be aware of. ➡️ HEAT: When connected to 15A or 15A+15A and running for about 30 minutes under load, do a check of the entire line from your RV to the adapters, to the extension cables, and to the wall outlet. Do a touch test to make sure the lines and/or connectors are not getting hot. ➡️ 30+30: If you decide to use the 30A plus 30A setup, try to connect them to separate LEGS, not just separate circuits. If you have to connect them on the same leg (still separate circuits), be sure to stay under 50A TOTAL for both legs. The reason is, if you draw the max (30A) on both legs and they are on the same leg in the house, the legs are IN PHASE and will cause 60A on the Neutral line. ➡️ POWER PROTECTION: We HIGHLY recommend using a Surge Guard Total Electrical Protection device (see: kzbin.info/www/bejne/anexpXWqesSraNU), or some type of EMS that validates your power source voltage, frequency, wiring, etc. These are a great safeguard against bad RV park wiring as well as bad household wiring and just plugging things in wrong.

[@daddymike20]

Changing Lanes- I was just gonna say use a upgrade extension cord. Try to get a 10 gauge extension cord as they can handle 30 amps but that decreases on long runs and you can melt a smaller gauge wire and also risk a fire. I’m an electrician and I’ve also learned from friends melting theirs before I got a motorhome.

[@ChangingLanes]

Indeed!

[@ChangingLanes]

@@huey2741 No reason apologize. We definitely want to provide safe information.. If the neutral were overloaded would this not trip the main breaker?

[@jccourtn]

I have a 50 plug on my house but want to use a version of this solution to power my RV about 150 feet away. Would this work at the 50 amp plug: Epicord RV Cord RV Y Adapter Cord 50 Amp Male Plug(14-50P) to 2 Female Connector (50M152F) www.amazon.com/dp/B07CQKJ8M1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_M9dGEb98CQGZ3. It converts the 50 amp to two 15 amps. Or would I overload my neutral as mentioned here???

[@boomer16323]

At 150 feet, the biggest concern is voltage line loss. It is not a static value. It depends on the end load, starting voltage, Gauge of wires, length of wires. From my Circuit breaker box to my RV was 177' of 12awg cable, Start voltage 125vac, turn on RV refrigerator, converter charging 12vdc, air conditioning, now 100.7vac!

[@danniepedigo9638]

We have been RVing for over 30 years but there are still things to be learned from your videos, thank you. I don’t know how anyone can give a thumbs down on this one. Thanks again.

[@jimmallery294]

You did a great job describing the differences between 15, 30, and 50 amps.

[@timothylinn]

This was really helpful. I've never fully understood the difference between 30A and 50A before watching. Thank you.

[@stevebrien9759]

Another GREAT video. We're heading to full-timing and your channel is my go-to for all the upgrades I'll be installing to make things possible and comfortable. Really can't thank you two enough.

[@gdmarketing5427]

So glad you cover the TWO different plugs / BREAKERS... TWO Sources, NON GFI/GFCI. And the cord needs to be a *12/3-AWG or bigger for that long aka 100 foot. 14 AWG - 15 AMPS *12 AWG - 20 AMPS 10 AWG - 30 AMPS 8 AWG - 40 AMPS

[@GrassRootsLiving]

Wow! I learned a lot about moochdocking! Especially the part about how work a 50 amp or 30 amp hooked into a 15 amp. Thanks for sharing!

[@ericswild]

I really like your show. My wife and I just purchased our first camper. it is a Keystone Outback 240urs. Front garage style toy hauler. Your channel REALLY is helpful, detailed and I like the format with the two of you working together. Thank you!!

[@ricbailey170]

FYI. You could also add “soft starts” to AC’s to lower startup draws as it will let you use more items on your “lines”.

[@princesslavidia3287]

fyi, ric bailey could be a vietcong.

[@ThunderPantz01]

@@princesslavidia3287 WTF is that about. He is correct.

[@clarh]

soft start?

[@heatherk8931]

@Ric Bailey, I've heard of the soft starts for coach ac units, etc. But never caught brand names or anything. Can you offer up some pointers? Thanks.

[@archstanton9206]

This is a great video for folks just getting into the RV lifestyle and planning on camping in friendly yards, etc. You guys are doing some good stuff lately. Well done.

[@richkurtz6053]

Great info. Not having a 50 amp rig I had not run into the fact that the split system. Another thing about moochdocling, if the site has a septic tank or sewer line with a clean out, you may be able to dump or connect your sewer line as well, saving a trip to the dump station. This might also allow you to fully enjoy your own showers in the rig.

[@davemillam6336]

One other consideration when moochdocking is the load already on the home or "mooch" circuits existing on the house or garage. You won't want to tie into a circuit that might already be loaded with a high current appliances like a coffee pot, crock pot, microwave, hair dryers or basement sump pump. If you're both using that circuit, its sure to trip the circuit breaker. Look for a lightly loaded circuit in a bedroom or living room area. All in all a great video. I started watching all your videos a couple weeks ago and learned a ton about RVing. My wife and I are thinking about doing a lot more traveling in a few months when I retire and you have provided both information and inspiration! Thanks a bunch!

[@AaMC411]

Great video and great setup! I love that you aren't afraid to get technical with the details when needed.

[@BellsRidesAboardSeaBoss]

Most excellent video the best advice an rv salesmen ever gave us a hundred years ago was to know your electric inside and out.Love the bloopers

[@Ournotsoperfectlife]

This is such a great video guys!! We have learned a thing or two about moochdocking along the way. We have been so fortunate that friends and family have been apart of our journey along the way by providing a place to stay for a short while. Awesome! Oh... that digital readout for water consumption - BRILLIANT.

[@cynthiafrownfelter-lohrke172]

I think this is the best video I’ve ever seen explaining the electrical systems in a motorhome. The main reason is because you have exactly shown the panels that I see and how they relate to the electricity that you’re using. Before, I was always trying to relate to watts Which are not shown on my panel. Thank you so much for this video I am saving it.

[@ChangingLanes]

It's still good to understand watts, which are just the Amps times the voltage. Using Watts is a good way to "relate" the DC and AC side when using an inverter. Minus some loss in conversion, 3000w is the same on the DC side and AC side. For instance, a 3000w inverter at max would be pulling about 250DC Amps (3000/12) from the batteries and supplying 25 AC Amps (3000/120).

[@dougkermick7396]

I've used the 2 circuit setup in the past at my house but I was not aware of the dog legs that allow you to run 2 circuits into your power system. I ran 1 dog leg off of an outlet into my rig but the other circuit was just an extension cord run inside to power a few items. I've learned something tonight so thank you. Makes life easier.

[@rich2034]

I have to agree with what others have said...best tip ever. I just did this here in Mississippi (humid) and now can run 2 a/c's and just about anything else we want. Thxx

[@campingenthusiast4561]

Fantastic video, thought I had all the necessary RV plugs. Had no idea about the 50 amp to 2 -30 amps. As always nice job always look forward to

[@steveestill5427]

Guys, this was a great video. I am a better learner when I see or do...seeing how you did this made this so understandable and easier to understand what our A/Cs can handle and how to properly plug them in.

[@boltactionshooter]

Great video. Might mention that using at least a 12 gauge extension cord for short runs and a 10 for long runs is a must also.

[@ChangingLanes]

Indeed... Notes added to video and blog.. 👍🏼

[@chantalz]

Omg you guys are so wonderfully thorough ...love all your videos!!! Some RV youtubers are all flash and funny but that gets old fast and there’s no reason to bookmark or ever watch again. You guys have a hell of a lot of substance and this is so lacking. Some videos are too technical and miss small details. Your videos are brilliantly detailed, fun and entertaining and really well thought out. The quality of the production doesn’t hurt 💕lol. Your intelligence and attention to detail are Priceless! Thanks so much for this.

[@n1spirit]

"I was not listening to you at all; I was just zoning out and smiling." ROFLMAO!!!!!!! Well, at least she was being honest. hahaha. Couple of important points missed I fear - like warning regarding long runs for extension cords and importance of using a heavier (lower number) gauge industrial cord for long runs. But overall a good video. I'll be honest; when it comes to electricity I feel that I could never fully comprehend it all. LOL. Safe travels you two.

[@ChangingLanes]

Agree on the cords and gauge... notes have been added to the video and post to that point.. 👍🏼

[@n1spirit]

@@ChangingLanes - Yeah, I'm no electrician (I'm confused most of the time LOL). I just remembered something about that from a video on DIY Solar with Will Prowse. That kid has electricity down to a fine art. You should check out his channel sometime. He has had a rough life but made it through to the other side and is now apparently living off of his book royalties. (And I'm not even sure if he's hit thirty yet.)

[@ChangingLanes]

Yes.. he has awesome videos! 👍🏼

[@MsGracieAnne]

AWESOME!...I did not know I could split 2 circuits and run them in together...I'm so glad I sat through this...(and she is a stunning beauty!)...

[@russellcoble9480]

Excellent and informative video. You two crack me up. Keep it up.

[@Smedis]

Woah! This video blew my mind! Being able to use two 15A circuits to my 50A camper had never crossed my mind (newbie here), and I also didn’t know an inverter could do supply extra amps when necessary (I’ll definitely look more into inverters now)! Learned so much in this video! Also, I hadn’t thought of using my friend’s water hose spigot for water supply….!!! Learned so much from this one video!

[@thisdaveisforyou]

Great stuff! Really appreciate you making these videos as we are working towards full-time-ish RVing in the next year or 2. Hope we see you on the road so I can buy you a beer.

[@gregie9999hotair1]

Fantastic video. Am in the process of installing a 30amp 120 volt line in our garage front wall. But I am also going to have to make an extension cord also. Up back wall 8 feet across trusses 36 feet to front wall down another 8 feet. For a grand total of 52 feet. Probably buy 60 feet just to make sure we have enough of 8-2 copper. The exterior extension cord will be 8-2 in a rubberized cord, that cord will be expensive. Probably need 40 feet of that cord. This is just for our home installation, the other options will have to come later.

[@TravelingBuckeyes]

You guys are the Master Moochdockers! Thanks for all the info and tips.

[@Ournotsoperfectlife]

Agreed!

[@cprministrysc6497]

Thank you for this video. I appreciate your simplicity in the explanation of the electrical system of an RV. This is a “must watch” for any RV’er.

[@jimdelucia9127]

You just gave me one of the best RV Tips ever. Thank You.

[@joshuasalisbury7178]

Great info! I was thinking about the 2 separate circuit thing, hoping you'd mention it. Glad you did. 1 thing I might add (may have mentioned and I missed it). Electricity flows like water. Bigger pipe, more water flow. Especially with long extension cords, get the heaviest duty you can find. I usually look for 14 gauge cords. House wiring (for 15 or 20 amp breakers) is 12/2 with ground meaning 12 gauge, hot, neutral, and ground. 14 gauge is smaller than 12 but most extension cords are 16 or 18 gauge. Drawing too much amperage thru a tiny gauge, long cord, will burn it up (fire potential).

[@ChangingLanes]

Yep.. that info was updated in the description and blog post.. 👍🏼

[@michaelhudson7861]

“Split Bus” it’s a wonderful thing

[@ThunderPantz01]

Bi Phase..

[@bigogarage6618]

Great info guys! Purchased my first rv this week, trying to soak up all the knowledge I can.

[@gidderman]

Be careful when running a y-adaptor especially if you are tapping 2 30 amp outlets, you could potentially overload your neutral wire if both 30amp feeds are on the same phase. 50amp rv service is split phase which allows 100 amps to travel through the neutral on (2) 50 amp phases. If you were to hook up a splitter to 2-30 amp connections on the same phase as I mentioned, you could potentially overload your neutral connection at full load. In your case the surge guard may catch this, it may not. Just something to beware of. Also keep in mind you should never run any circuit continuously at any more than 80%, to avoid things getting hot and messing. 15 amp breakers put out 1800 watts, which would be 1,440-1500 continuous use, or 12-13amps max continuous. Here is some more detail on split-phase: www.rvtechmag.com/electrical/chapter3.php

[@Rmrelectric]

There is also another potential issue with the way they set up their 2- 15 amp circuits from 2 different buildings. They are combining neutrals from 2 different panels ( main house and guest house) if both circuits were from the same house this wouldn't be an issue

[@dawnr6577]

The outlet im plugged into is on a 20 amp breaker. The ac was pulling 13 amps for about 2 hours and the cord started getting a little hot. Is that normal? I shut the ac off because I wasn't sure. I was using the same cords he had so rv cord to 30 amp and 30 amp to 15 amp. No extension cord

[@pamrawlins4226]

You guys are awesome ! Another great info video to go back to for my references! My better half is disabled and as a female it will shock some of my men folk that I know how to properly " Mooch Dock"!! Lol

[@sueobuckley202]

See you at the show in Tampa!

[@michaelwebb57]

Awesome! The "BOOM" is back.....Great video, and very informative. Thanks for sharing! Safe travels!

[@scotthoran3704]

You’re not a true mooch until you creatively and surreptitiously relieve your buddy’s refrigerator of its beer reserves.

[@WheretheJones]

ha. We can all learn something from cousin Eddie.

[@Terryblount]

My "buddies" only have cheese water and baking soda in their fridge. I assume they don't want their water to taste like cheese.

[@GenealogyTV]

Thanks for the clear explanation. Now I’m also starting to understand what an inverter does. I’m not an RV owner yet but hope to be one in the next year or two. Starting to learn now. You guys are awesome.

[@nanettewilson474]

@@WheretheJones. O

[@nomansland4811]

Tru Dat!

[@alexhenry5542]

Thanks for another awesome information filled video. You broke it down Barney style, but I’m still gonna need to rewatch it multiple times to get it. Stay safe out there.

[@jeffreyengle2762]

That wifey has an awesome smile!

[@human-qp1mf]

I am so interested in this but I have a older camper so nothing is the same. When you talked about all the mechanics, my mind just wonders... I'm remolding and want everything in order before I take off. Maybe it will sink in once I go over everything. Still watching😁

[@bobcrispycritterrv2706]

What about voltage drop from what appears to be a very long 15 amp extension cord?

[@ChangingLanes]

Yes... Good point on the extension cord. I should have mentioned that the extension cords need to be rated for the amperage. I also should have noted that an EMS or total electrical protection system are highly recommended to detect any voltage or wiring issues. We will add these to the description and blog.

[@lifetimedreamvideos985]

I always kept a voltmeter plugged in to monitor voltage under load.

[@bombdawg5916]

Thanks for the breakdown on the electric stuff. We had the option of chosing to be in close proximity to some friends at our favorite campground at a 30 amp spot, or a ways away at a 50 amp spot. We reluctantly settled for the farther away spot because the dates are in July in Ohio...hot and muggy...because we knew we'd need both A/Cs. Now, thanks to you, we have ordered the appropriate dogbones and can stay at the better spot with 30 amp and 20 amp plug-ins and pretty much run everything we need. Thanks a million!

[@ChangingLanes]

Just be careful on the 30+20. Being in the same box, they are on the same circuit and the circuit is likely rated for 30A... I'd check with the campground first...

[@bombdawg5916]

@@ChangingLanes , good call, thanks. (Always sumthin' eh? Lol)

[@bombdawg5916]

@@ChangingLanes, just happened to think of this...all of the power pedestals at our home campground have individual breakers for the 20, 30, and 50 amp circuits. Wouldn't that indicate separate circuits for each?

[@ChangingLanes]

Maybe... LOL You'd think that, but I would still ask.

[@peterossi9496]

Good information … just an FYI I paid an electrician to run 50amp at my base station this make things a lot easier when home. Any update on the new bike? Are y’all going to be at the Tampa RV Show later this month?

[@ChangingLanes]

No new bike.. That was just a test ride. No way we're giving up the full dresser.. 😊 We hope to do more test ride on other brands and styles. Yes, we will be at the RV show.. We'll be announcing the details tomorrow.. 👍🏼

[@peterossi9496]

I must say Lucille is one sexy beoch!

[@diananeal9645]

@@ChangingLanes we'll be working a booth at the RV show, sun communities is the name

[@ChangingLanes]

Cool! Will keep an eye out for the booth!

[@jefflooney5808]

"My coffee is not done"🤣 You guys crack me up! Another great video. Thanks to you both.

[@johnirwin1837]

Going to comment before I watch the whole thing. You forgot about the voltage drop on that long run, and you didn't show what size extension cord you had. Plus you didn't show the voltage at the 13amp draw.

[@ChangingLanes]

Good point on the extension cord. I should have mentioned that the extension cords need to be rated for the amperage. We do show voltage and amps for both lines at 18:47 and 19:17. Voltages all stayed within tolerances. I also should have noted that an EMS or total electrical protection system are highly recommended to detect any such voltage or wiring issues. We will add these to the description and blog. Thanks for point those out. 👍🏼

[@augustrusso5413]

Hay I just much moochdocked for the first my house with my 50 amp We have done it before on a 30 amp before but never on our new M H with 50 amp work GREAT thank you 🤟🏾

[@jmdminiaturehorse63]

I didn't know they made the spliter. I will use that at home when I need to.

[@ronhowes7948]

I park in the driveway at a couple of relatives, often enough that it made sense to have a local electrician install a 30 amp box on the house that I can reach easily. No dog bones and running drop cords required. The cost involved has been well recovered over the years and it keeps things simple.

[@ChangingLanes]

Good point! Thanks for watching, Ron! Hope you check out the rest of our channel! 😊

[@canadiantwig4772]

Ohhh dimed out your dad. Lol lol great info, but I'll direct this to my husband, yea I'm in the weeds lol where's Daisy? As always look forward to your content.

[@sherriweber7105]

I just found this video from last year I never saw it til now. It’s a great video Chad and Tara. Great job on showing how to hook up the electric amps. So much to hook up when mooch docking. Great job of teaching how it works. Chad you do a great job at when you show how do to stuff like this. I give you both 2 thumbs up because Tara helps and us great too! Thank you for this video. I learned a lot. Here is your thumbs up. 👍 👍

[@judymock5291]

Unrelated note: saw you drive through John’s Pass this late afternoon. If you had your dash cam on while your truck was parked, we are the couple that waved at the windshield. 👨🏻‍🦳👱🏻👋🏻

[@markjung2766]

That's pretty cool!

[@ChangingLanes]

Oh, I wish it was running but is only on when the truck is on... That would have been awesome to see!

[@elizabethpolinski3492]

I appreciate how kind you are to each other. 🤟

[@johncollins7044]

Kids!!! Be quiet! Changing Lanes just uploaded another video. Where's my popcorn.

[@PreacherwithoutaPulpit]

I'd also make sure each extension cord you're using are at least 14g outdoor/garden use rated or better. For those that don't know instead of going up in the wire gauge number it's kind of backwards. A higher number would actually lower the rating of a cord or any wiring really. You want to go down in number. IE: 14g will handle more current/amperage than 16g, where as 12g will handle more than 14g and so on. Hope that helps a little as well. As usual Chad and Tara are awesome and make things like this simple to understand, thanks guys...

[@timaz1066]

Easiest way is to have a friend with a 50 amp outlet :-) I have an old school inverted/charger in my 2000 Monaco...

[@diananeal9645]

We have a 2003 diplomat and love it

[@WIDESIDE72]

Pretty good info overall, especially starting your fan then the compressor, and since the ampacity of extension cords is mention several times below, I wont dog pile on that. However, as a master electrician, i cant help myself... , 1. GFCI- Ground Fault Circuit Interrupt 2. Nit picking, but technically, breakers don’t “blow”. (Side note- repeated tripping of a breaker will eventually ruin it. They are also jot typically rated to he a switch.) 3. In addition to separate circuits, when connecting from two 15a recpts to 50a, it is best to connect to each phase. (One recpt fed from a breaker on the right side in the source panel and one recpt on the left side in the panel to keep a balanced load in the house/ source. 4. All of those adapters create resistance and will eventually fail. Its a matter if time. Also ants will get to them in some areas as they are attracted to ozone generated like in an ac contractor. The best bet is to install an rv outlet for whatever amperage your rv is, provided to house/ source can support it. 5. Whether you do a temporary or permanent install, Amperage reading should be taken at the house/ source panel to verify how much draw and whether it is balanced. Last, everyone be safe with electricity. Everything in the video only involved plugging cords in. Any time you open a panel or even take a cover plate off, be sure you know whether its live or not.

[@nightfall22]

Damn good info! Thank you for this!

[@CFPVideoProductions]

It has been mentioned in other comments about GFIs sensing different return currents and tripping. Also, having a large enough gage wire to handle the length of cable from the house. Both are well mentioned. I have a solution to some of the problems. Many years ago I made up a 75 foot extension cord for my RV. It is rated for 50 amp/240 volts since my driveway could not get my motorhome close enough to the house. I had a 50 amp/240 volt outlet in the garage for welding. The welder uses a different plug than the RV so I also made up a "dog bone adapter' to convert the welder outlet to the same type as the RV plug. I also made up another "dog bone adapter" to adapt from 30 amp/240 volt outlets commonly used in household dryers. I have been at campgrounds where the campground site I was assigned had a defective outlet. After speaking to the campground operators and assuring me there was no camper coming into a nearby campsite, I used the extension cord to get my electrical service over to the other site without having to move my motorhome. I can now moochdock when someone can give me their dryer outlet or another more powerful outlet other than a 15 amp outlet. I would, however still try to limit the total amps used in this type of arrangement. The reason for that is the TOTAL length of cable. In a house, that outlet may run 60 or 70 feet from the circuit breaker panel ( service entrance) plus your 75 foot extension plus your 25 foot RV cable totaling more then 160 feet. You must watch out for the voltage drops when using large amounts of power. Therefore, try to not use more than you really need. If the 2 AC units are running, the refrigerator is on electric, the hot water heater is on electric, you are charging batteries, think about not running the microwave for popcorn. Watch both your amperage on both legs AND your incoming voltage on both legs. You should always stay above 110 volts as your minimum volts on each leg.

[@billdumanch6237]

Even saying "I love you" when you blow the line isn't accepted-yes, you are married...

[@mattsmith3305]

Great video! I've learned quite a bit about the electric system in an RV. I've stayed at Lake Manatee several times! They don't have full hookups, but it is a very nice campground. I also appreciate the fact that you answer most comments from everyone. Not all You Tube channels do that.

[@jaytibbles2223]

I was glad to see others had picked up on the gauge requirement for the extension cords. I carry 10 gauge extension cords. An example of why bigger wire is needed is friends who borrowed a compressor but declined to take my "too heavy" extension cord. They called to tell me that my compressor didn't work. They were using 100 feet of 16 gauge extension cord. When I took the 10g cord it worked just fine. The voltage drop was too much to start the compressor with the smaller cord. If they had been able to start it, the cord would have burned up in short time. Many times I add an outboard charger to my battery bank using the 15 amp socket on the power box. I have the usual lead acid batteries that the dealer let run completely dry. I had to add a gallon of DISTILLED water to EACH battery. Being run dry results in sulfation of the plates. I use a special charger designed to reverse the sulfation.

[@ChangingLanes]

Yea.. we added those notes to the video and blog also.. 👍🏼

[@millerracing-leemiller4611]

Outstanding video on moochdocking power hookups with power inverter!!! Thanks....Good Job Guys!!!

[@jc525exc]

Good Video! One suggestion- you might want to let folks know to run proper gauge extension cords for length of run. Common sense for most folks, but not all. Don't want to get "in the weeds" as you say. But using 18 gauge cords at 200ft lengh = problems if drawing 15 amps.

[@ChangingLanes]

Indeed! We added notes to the video and blog.... 👍🏼

[@glennvallejo760]

I would recommend bring a extension cord through a slide that is on separate breaker and plug some items to that. During the the winter we plug a floor heater to that extra cord and that way you trip breakers when running high voltage items

[@steveh7857]

Thanks Chad ....I always learn a little more from your videos..... Usually costs me more $$....lol..... Keep up the great videos.....

[@johncarter1137]

GFCI =Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. A GFCI shouldn't be affected by amperage draw. A GFCI senses an imbalance between the grounded conductor (the "neutral") and the ungrounded conductor (the "positive") and opens the circuit. Also, try to keep the supply cord as short as possible and use a heavy gauge cord to keep the impedance as low as possible. Nick-picking from an ex OSHA compliance officer, LOL. Excellent video as always.

[@ejk20111]

the bloopers at the end was the best part... do more of those please...

[@marketshare5273]

Wow pretty much spot on on everything. I am a Nationally certified head electrical inspector inspector in the Phoenix area along with independent marketing as a second job and you could not have been more accurate and precise covering all aspects of power distribution and utilization. 👊👍😎

[@Cptstokes]

I tried your a/c hack on 110 and it worked great~! I'm on a 15amp circuit, ran the fan only for about 30 seconds, fan only, then click it to the cool mode, everything is on, and BAM! compressor kicked in and cold air blew out. Usually I have to use the gen set but no more! Thanks!!

[@ChangingLanes]

👍🏼 Be sure to check out the added notes in the description..

[@repomanband]

I am SUBSCRIBED! Good info. Thanks!

[@ChangingLanes]

Welcome to our channel! 😊

[@JD-bd5uu]

I realize I’m late to this video but I just found your channel and have been watching quite a few videos 👍🏻, very informative and fun to watch. As a commercial electrician I just wanted to mention something else, Duty Rating & Duty Cycle. We size wire & devices (breakers, receptacles, fixtures etc) for 80% continuous usage, meaning 16 amps continuous on a 20 amp circuit & 12 amps on a 15. If you’re pulling electricity (amperage) nonstop, you run the risk of overheating the wire (or breaker or whatever) if you’re over that duty rating. Sort of like running an engine below redline so it doesn’t overheat. Just something to keep in mind when using 15 amp circuits. If your cords are getting hot you’re overworking them and hot is BAD. That’s the precursor to fire. The insulation melts and wires that aren’t supposed to touch, touch, then spark. Also, continued overheating degrades the plastic insulation and you will have a failure at some point in the future. Heat is your enemy as an electrician. Keep an eye on the cord ends and make sure they’re not melting or turning black. Duty cycle is the on/ off ratio for a device. Air compressors & welders for example. For a 30% duty cycle (calculated in 10 minutes cycles) you can run 3 minutes on, then need 7 minutes of off time to cool down. Sorry for the long post. We (Electricians) tend to do that 😂.

[@ChangingLanes]

Good tips! We did update the blog and description below with some notes in regards to the gauge of extensions, etc...

[@secondwind75]

Chad, I've figured out that if you want anyone to listen to all the knowledge you've accumulated from RVing that you're going to have to leave Tara out of the videos. I've come to the conclusion that she's way too adorable and too funny to try and focus on you! How do you two get anything done? You have way too much fun. It's a pleasure to learn so much and be entertained at the same time. Don't know where you found her, but hang on to her, sailor! 😉 Thanks to you both for such great vids. (Still waiting on Chad to test ride that Vespa!). Troy

[@curtwhite876]

You kind of lost me at two toilets and then I was completely shocked to hear about two gray tanks, but this was a lot of great information.

[@unknowntraveler8087]

Thank you so much for the information on the electrical hook-up. I have a 43 footer myself and, every time I plug in at the house I pop a circuit breaker. So now I know I can split the poles that will really help when I'm home charging batteries and doing maintenance.

[@ricksmall3587]

Excellent video. I want to add two things: 1) EasyStart for the Air Conditioners. ALL RV manufacturers should just add them and add the $300 each to the RV price. They’re priceless. 2) The long extension cords should be as heavy a gauge as you can afford. Smaller diameter wires will have voltage loss at higher currents.

[@docwells4747]

50 with twin 30s..... Always learning with you guys ....

[@mitchncarolreeves2352]

Another handy device while moochdocking...A Thetford (or SaniCon or FloJet) Macerator Pump. Dump into your host's sewer cleanout. But, some sewer districts DO NOT allow this. So don't leave it hooked up fulltime. We have used ours in a State Park and ran the hose into the outhouse.

[@toddbrigham5077]

Chad and Tara, you guys do a wonderful job of presenting and explaining in your videos. I keep coming back to your channel for your "experiences". However, when talking about 120vAC breakers, you might want to say "trip a breaker" instead of "blow a breaker". I know exactly what you mean because my career was spent in electrical engineering, and I remember the days when panels had the screw in fuses and snap in fuses that would "blow". With today's circuit breakers, they just trip to "open" when too much current is detected, and you just push to reset them in the "closed" position. Someone without an electrical back ground might think they're blowing up a breaker in their panel. Anyway, you guys are great! Keep up the good work...

[@ChangingLanes]

True... 👍🏼

[@chris.pbacon440]

Something you may want when trying to connect to seperate circuits, a tool from Klein whch has a plug and wand which you can use to identify which receptical is on which breaker in a panel.

[@ibimboto8875]

You guys should try to license or publish this Nationwide... So, so well done. I feel confident as hell and Im ready togo RV. Thanks

[@MariaCandelaful]

THE BEST EXPLANATION ABOUT IT! Thank you!

[@Terryblount]

Thanks for making this video. I learned how the 50 amp system works in my motorhome. When you are trying to find outlets on separate circuits in a house you can turn on lights or anything that's plugged into wall outlets... Then go to the breaker box and turn off every other breaker on one side until an outlet goes dead.... use that outlet and one that is still on (alive) for your separate extension cords. If you don't find one that goes off, repeat the process on the other row of breakers. Ignore any double breakers because they are connected to both circuits. When storms knock out my power and it becomes obvious that it's not coming back on anytime soon, I get out a generator and TURN OFF the main breaker then plug the generator into an outlet outside so that there are no fumes inside. I use an extension cord with Male plugs on both ends... BEFORE I start the generator....Then I can use another extension cord with two male ends to connect a dead socket to a live socket so both circuits are live. Do NOT plug into the live socket FIRST. The prongs on the end of the extension cord will teach you a lesson about electricity if they are hot.

[@mattm2628]

Garages and shops wired to code will generally have more 20 Amp circuits than 15, but your plug pattern remains the same. A good idea for those that do a lot of Moochdocking would be to have some extra homemade plug converters on hand. A 30 Amp RV receptacle is a different pin config. than a 30 Amp clothes dryer receptacle. It's very possible that some farms/shops will have 30 or 50 Amp welder receptacles which would also be a different plug configuration. One last note was that a distant cousin of mine whose family did a lot of camping in their Airstream...when they built their house in town, they had a recessed stack with a threaded cap installed in the driveway that led straight down to the sewer...for their own personal dump station. I'm not sure how legal the city thought that was, but I thought it was pretty handy. I REALLY enjoy these infomational videos because these RV systems are quite a bear to understand for someone like myself who has zero experience with them, but looks very much forward to them in retirement. Thanks so much for all of the info, tips, and tricks!

[@ChangingLanes]

All great points. We added much of this to the video and blog yesterday.. 👍🏼 ➡️ EXTENSION CABLES: Be sure to make sure any extension cables you use are rated for 15A. For longer runs like 100ft, these are NOT the cheaper cables. They should be labeled with rated amperage. Also, the longer the cable the more the voltage will drop, so keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn't drop below 108v (90% of 120v). ➡️ HOUSEHOLD CIRCUITS: When a household outlet/circuit is rated at 15A, that rating is generally for short term (under 3 hours). The real rating for long term load (over 3 hours) is 80% of the rating. Meaning, on a 15A circuit, if you’re going to run it over 3 hours, you should be at 12 Amps or less. An AC is like long to cycle less than 3 hours anyway, but on a hot day, it’s something to be aware of. ➡️ HEAT: When connected to 15A or 15A+15A and running for about 30 minutes under load, do a check of the entire line from your RV to the adapters, to the extension cables, and to the wall outlet. Do a touch test to make sure the lines and/or connectors are not getting hot. ➡️ POWER PROTECTION: We HIGHLY recommend using a Surge Guard Total Electrical Protection device (see: kzbin.info/www/bejne/anexpXWqesSraNU), or some type of EMS that validates your power source voltage, frequency, wiring, etc. These are a great safeguard against bad RV park wiring as well as bad household wiring and just plugging things in wrong.

[@bigfootsbestlife]

Chad... great video here. I learned a lot and that is going to help as I head to Texas to the NRVTA. Just going back and watching all the videos pertaining to power etc. Thanks again for the great content here. Roger

[@myleshansel7950]

Excellent video, loved the "Yoda" cup and the bloopers at the end as always

[@sirreddog32]

Thank you two. We are about to buy a Grand Design 5th wheel Solitude 310gk with 50amps this has helped prepared me. They are adding a 350 watts solar package with a 2000watt inverter. A little worried I wont have what is needed.

[@glendalafaver6631]

You guys are inspiring! In love through thick and thin, (much like my hubby and me). We are retired and travel as often as we can. We love camping and planning a European Cruise in May. Thank you so much for sharing all of your adventures! Glenda and Gary L.

[@ChangingLanes]

Welcome to our channel! 😊 Thanks for watching! 😊

[@madweazl]

Super helpful. I had no idea you could bridge to 15a circuits like that.

[@garykwiatkowski4903]

I love you guys no matter what. Moochdocking or not!! Have a great year!! Looking forward for more great informative video's..

[@danielwagoner]

Great video! Thanks for the tips. One thing to consider is that according to National Electric Code, continuous load on a circuit should be no more than 80% of the over-current protection to avoid overheating the wiring and breaker (which can cause the breaker to prematurely trip). That being said, if you are connected to a circuit that is protected by a 15 amp breaker, you should really pull no more than 12 amps continuously.

[@ytmadpoo]

I was just looking through the comments to see if anyone else brought that up. I'm glad someone did. 14A continuous draw on a 15A circuit is not a good thing. Sad, but true. Take the amp rating of the breaker and then "de-rate" by 70-80%. The hotter the ambient temp, the more you should derate. So on a cool day, run at 12A on that 15A circuit, but if you're hitting temps 100F or higher, you'll probably want to limit yourself to 10.5-11A max. There are reasons for it, and as usual the risk of fire and melting wires is way up there. :)

[@dawnr6577]

You may not see this but I'll try anyway. The outlet my rv is plugged into is on a 20 amp breaker. My ac was drawing 13 amps. After about two hours, the cord was getting warm so I shut it off. Is that why?

[@danielwagoner]

@@dawnr6577 your RV cord shouldn’t get too warm if you’re only pulling 13 amps since it is a large enough wire to handle either 30 or 50 amps

[@bikermama11]

Really helpful for a newbie. Very easy to understand. Thank you.

[@Formulabruce]

The outtakes could be a show of their own!! Great Video!

[@craigdehnel2815]

Great explanations. Thanks for the time yall put into this to help educate others.

[@regenagroen4631]

LOVE the outtakes LOL!!! ALL that went threw my head LOL!! My hubby is the smart one, he'll understand EVERYTHING you said!!! HELLO Chad & Tara!!! Just subed you!!! We aren't RVer's YET, but we did buy an 1976 MinnieWinnie 20ft. that we HAD TO gut out, almost gutted, then remodel & ON THE ROAD!!! Can't wait!!! Nice to meet you 2!!! Hope when RV is done we'll meet up!! LOVES/HUGS....

[@ChangingLanes]

Welcome to our channel! 😊

[@noworneverg-pknight281]

Good video as always. We mooch dock at a friends in San Diego and have a septic pump truck empty our black tank as needed. Here it costs $80, probably cheaper out of California.

[@Sweet_Yanira]

😂 Love the bloopers! It's Florida & it is crazy 🥵 Hot 🔥 & the Humidity is Crazy Too 🥵 and I'm pretty sure the weather station that day said that it was going to be zero 0% percent chance of rain... 😂😂😂😂😂 In Florida in may be raining in your front yard and when you walk out your backyard is not even a rain in sight😊