AC + Microwave = tripped breaker @ SERVICE POLE!

[mel s]

Originally Posted by Smithers

So, 3rd time this has happened to me.
I run on a 30 Amp service from the pole at a campground (No extension cord), if I run the AC & Microwave at the same time, the breaker at the service pole trips. First time I thought it was just old gear, maybe the second time too. But this week were at Clear Laker and the electrical looks very new, so it's not a "soft" breaker.
Determined that AC & MW are on different circuits but the same phase.
#1- I am surprised the 2 heaviest loads on are on the same phase.
#2 - I am assuming the breaker is tripping because the load is so unbalanced.
Considering moving the AC or MW to a different phase.

Originally Posted by cc8375

I believe a 30 amp circuit is only one Phase.

Smithers
The 30A pedestal breaker is tripping because you are trying to use more amps than it will allow.
Mel
'96 Safari

[lynnmor]

Originally Posted by Old Scout

Think the OP understands that he is close to 30 amps--he is just curious as to why the 30 amp breaker on the "pole" always trips vs the 30 amp in his rig?????? Most of the conversation so far has been to explain why he is using more than 30 amps--think he knows that. The added resistance in his 30 amp cord might be the difference. I am not a big fan of using a dogbone adaptor to put 50 amps down a 30 amp cord--agree that the 30 amp breaker in the rig should protect the cord but any deterioration in the cord or plug-ends will not be protected once you are plugged into 50 amps--just saying......

This is the best post on the subject. I will add that the 30 AMP breaker in the RV might allow a higher load than any of the park breakers that were tripping and there is a slight possibility that it may be defective.

Plugging into a 50 AMP with a dogbone is one way to test the 30 AMP breaker, just apply the same loads and maybe a bit more and it should trip. Remember that the electrical from the dogbone to the panel inside is not properly protected. If the 30 AMP breaker is faulty, there is no protection.

[TDI-Minnie]

Originally Posted by cc8375

"TDI - Same reason you shouldn't run the AC on 20amp residential"

I have run one Air for years on a 20 amp residential with No problems. I run Only the air with nothing else on. It draws about 13- 14 amps.

My point was about the initial draw when it kicks on, not continuous.
You ever check how hot that outlet gets, not to mention the wire in the wall?

I'm sure it works, but that doesn't make it a good idea.

[cc8375]

TDI....... point taken. The outlet is in the garage, next time I will Do Both, Check the wiring and the outlet.

It may be time to add the correct amperage circuit.

Thanks

[RVGuy1966]

I would think that if you are tripping your breakers in or out of the rig you would train yourself to watch how many items you are using at a time to avoid it. having said that I use a 50 amp with dogbone for the kids that aren't watching as they usually don't so I as always do not have to go to that pedestal I. the dark in my bare feet when I was just dozing off on the couch. I can just flip the breaker about 4 feet from me and get back to sleeping....