Community Forums

LeeB · 05-16-2023, 11:24 PM

Our MH is 50amp. Can we run the AC if we only have 30amp hook-ups?

My question will it do any damage?

Thanks LeeB

wolfgolden · 05-16-2023, 11:39 PM

You can definitely run one, and maybe two.
Worst case you have to reset the 30A breaker at the pedestal.
You will need to turn off other high amp devices like toasters, electric water heater, etc.
Try and see what works. It can be different park to park but usually fine.

twinboat · 05-17-2023, 02:54 AM

All of us with 30 amp RVs do, all of the time.

Will be no problem.

bobmar · 05-17-2023, 07:20 AM

Lee, your coach probably has a basement AC/heat pump. We do it all the time.

Mudfrog · 05-17-2023, 07:38 AM

Additionally, because there's a decent chance you'll be nearer the 30 amp capacity, make sure every connection point is in good shape. Campground receptacles, especially 30 ampers, get a lot of use and do wear out. You don't want to plug into a burnt and/or a loose fitting receptacle. You would also want to make sure the connections to your 30/50 adapter are in good shape.

Myself, I'd be checking connections periodically for heat build up. Luke warm is probably ok but I've seen plugs get hot enough to melt. You certainly don't want that.

LeeB · 05-17-2023, 07:45 AM

Thanks much for the responses. Wife is satisfied as am I. We will keep a close eye on everything. LeeB

96 Wideglide · 05-17-2023, 10:28 AM

Your single rooftop AC will likely draw between 14-17A of your available 30A.

MKwilli · 05-17-2023, 10:50 AM

We have a fifth wheel that's 50 AMP and have run up to two aircons on 30 AMP with no issues.

LeeB · 05-17-2023, 12:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 96 Wideglide

Your single rooftop AC will likely draw between 14-17A of your available 30A.

Are AC is in the basement

LETMGROW · 05-17-2023, 12:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LeeB

Are AC is in the basement

Do you mean 'OUR' AC is in the basement? If so check the amperage on the data plate of the AC and we can help you better. With basement AC you probably only have 1 AC.

AllegroD · 05-17-2023, 12:42 PM

30amp will run1 AC, easy and 2 maybe. What size ACs? I would try it, after I added a Kill A Watt to monitor voltage drop. Do you have an EMS that will shed or cut off input at 104 volts?

777 Driver · 05-17-2023, 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LeeB

Our MH is 50amp. Can we run the AC if we only have 30amp hook-ups?

My question will it do any damage?

Thanks LeeB

The biggest challenge, Lee, is that a 50 amp service provides two legs with 50 amps each into your coach; 100 amps. A 30 amp service only provides 30 amps, total. Although you can likely run two A/C's without difficulty, you need to be careful about everything else electric (120v) you might be using. Things like microwave oven, electric refrigerator, electric water heater, TV's, etc. IF your electric needs exceed 30 amps, the circuit breaker on the pedestal should trip.

If you have propane selectable appliances (typically, refrigerator and water heater), you might consider selecting those to propane any time you need to run the A/C's. IF you're going to use a microwave oven, electric coffee maker or hair dryer, you ll probable want to turn off one A/C while you're using high draw devices.

Take care,
Stu

bobmar · 05-17-2023, 02:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 777 Driver

The biggest challenge, Lee, is that a 50 amp service provides two legs with 50 amps each into your coach; 100 amps. A 30 amp service only provides 30 amps, total. Although you can likely run two A/C's without difficulty, you need to be careful about everything else electric (120v) you might be using. Things like microwave oven, electric refrigerator, electric water heater, TV's, etc. IF your electric needs exceed 30 amps, the circuit breaker on the pedestal should trip.

If you have propane selectable appliances (typically, refrigerator and water heater), you might consider selecting those to propane any time you need to run the A/C's. IF you're going to use a microwave oven, electric coffee maker or hair dryer, you ll probable want to turn off one A/C while you're using high draw devices.

Take care,
Stu

Absolutely, power management is key. Won’t take long too learn!

SGhost · 05-20-2023, 06:03 AM

Usually the issue is the initial start of the unit where the big draw of power is required. Many people put a device called a "Soft start" on the unit which reduces this initial draw. I've got one on both of my units for this very reason. A little pricey but supposed to prolong the life of the system too. I actually had a failing capaciter on my home unit that has a soft start installed and the unit still ran until the service guy discovered it during seasonal maintenance.