Community Forums

rg neumann · 05-11-2018, 06:34 PM

Our 20 amp. service is no longer functioning due to winter weather and flooding. I have to run a new line from the house to the RV. There is another 15 amp line on a different circuit which is close by. Can I merge the two lines to make a 30 amp circuit since both lines have the same neutral leg? I would use a Progressive unit before I hooked it up to prevetnt any damage. Any electrician out there to set me straight!!

twinboat · 05-11-2018, 07:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rg neumann

Our 20 amp. service is no longer functioning due to winter weather and flooding. I have to run a new line from the house to the RV. There is another 15 amp line on a different circuit which is close by. Can I merge the two lines to make a 30 amp circuit since both lines have the same neutral leg? I would use a Progressive unit before I hooked it up to prevetnt any damage. Any electrician out there to set me straight!!

You would need both HOT legs on the same circuit or leg, otherwise you will have 240 volts and a big short circuit.

Not sure what your proposing will meet any electric code.

MisterT · 05-11-2018, 07:31 PM

just buy a 'dual' 30a to 15a dog bone/adapter and use extension cords to the different outlets, same diff, and a better safer way to accomplish it

"007" · 05-11-2018, 07:32 PM

If you only need 110 for the converter, to keep batteries charged and your refrigerator operating a 15 amp service is ample, until you can install correct 30 or 50 amp service.
This link should help you.

Winemaker2 · 05-12-2018, 05:24 AM

Can you just add a new 30A breaker, wire a new circuit and a 30A 120V outlet? They are not all that expensive.

twinboat · 05-12-2018, 05:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MisterT

just buy a 'dual' 30a to 15a dog bone/adapter and use extension cords to the different outlets, same diff, and a better safer way to accomplish it

The adaptor you propose would need 240 volt sensing, so if you pick the wrong second outlet it doesn't start sparking and trip a breaker.

It will also need relays in it, to protect the end, that is not plugged in, from being energizing by the end that is plugged in.

Then when you find two outlets in the house that are on the same leg, you need to hope they are on seperate breakers, otherwise your back to 15 amps.

wildtoad · 05-12-2018, 11:36 AM

Since you have to run a new line anyway, bite the bullit and do at least 30amps. More amps would be better but then more costs.

TJ · 05-12-2018, 11:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rg neumann

Our 20 amp. service is no longer functioning due to winter weather and flooding. I have to run a new line from the house to the RV. There is another 15 amp line on a different circuit which is close by. Can I merge the two lines to make a 30 amp circuit since both lines have the same neutral leg? I would use a Progressive unit before I hooked it up to prevetnt any damage. Any electrician out there to set me straight!!

No! Not a good idea and would never meet code. If you ever had an insurance claim related to anything electrical, it could be an issue.

As someone else said, since you have to run a new line anyway, do it the correct way and wire it properly. In the long run, it will be far better...and, safer.

TJ

saddlesore · 05-12-2018, 12:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tranquil Jim

No! Not a good idea and would never meet code. If you ever had an insurance claim related to anything electrical, it could be an issue.

As someone else said, since you have to run a new line anyway, do it the correct way and wire it properly. In the long run, it will be far better...and, safer.

TJ

Personally I would just bite the bullet and go with a 50a/30a/20a line and box...The cost difference is minimal between the 50a over the 30a.
The other item to keep in mind is by going with the 50a/30a/20, It is just a "one and done" thing.
Who knows .. in the future you may upgrade your RV and will not have to go back and address upgrading power supply again..

JC2 · 05-12-2018, 02:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by saddlesore

Personally I would just bite the bullet and go with a 50a/30a/20a line and box...The cost difference is minimal between the 50a over the 30a.
The other item to keep in mind is by going with the 50a/30a/20, It is just a "one and done" thing.
Who knows .. in the future you may upgrade your RV and will not have to go back and address upgrading power supply again..

Agree.

The Brews Cruise · 05-12-2018, 07:40 PM

Don't Do It!!!
If both hots are on the same leg, the currents will Add on the neutral. This will overload and overheat the neutral, creating a very dangerous situation. Insulation degradation and a Fire Hazard too. Not worth it! As someone else posted, if the two hots are on opposite legs, you will have 240 volts between them. Good way to burn up anything connected to it that is not rated 240 volts. Not only would either of these be a serious violation of the National Electrical Code. They would also be extremely hazardous to life, safety, and health.
Best bet is to run a brand new circuit from the panel. You can then have a 30 amp circuit. Just make sure the panel has the capacity and the space for an additional circuit breaker. Even better if you can go for the 50/30/20 amp line and box as suggested by Saddlesore. Again, make sure your panel has the amperage capacity and the additional circuit breaker space.
Find a Good electrician. If you find an "electrician" that says you can do what you are asking, run the opposite direction as fast as you can!
BTW, I am a retired electrician with 47 years in the trade prior to retirement. Stay safe!!