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Old 08-10-2018, 06:58 PM   #1
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30 amp extension cord

I want to extend my shore power cord with a 30 amp RV extension cord I bought at Wal Mart. It has the plugs at either end to plug to the trailer cord and just extend it. I have a 30 Amp pedestal at the house and need the additional length. It's a 25 foot extension. Anyone see any potential problems?
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Old 08-10-2018, 07:09 PM   #2
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No issues with a 25 foot extension. Is your 30 amp pedestal receptacle at the house is 120 volts? It should be.
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Old 08-10-2018, 07:43 PM   #3
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nope, thats what its for
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Old 08-10-2018, 09:09 PM   #4
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Thanks for the feedback.

The pedestal is 120V.

Joe
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Old 08-10-2018, 10:13 PM   #5
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no problem - I've had to use an extension cord at RV parks.
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Old 08-10-2018, 11:01 PM   #6
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Used one for 5 days straight at My Old Kentucky Home SP. Have EMS and had no issues with the 50’ stretch to the pedestal.
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Old 08-10-2018, 11:14 PM   #7
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I use my 30' 30 Amp cord all the time here at home... it's the only way to reach the receptacle with the camper in it's "normal" spot.
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Old 08-10-2018, 11:51 PM   #8
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Use our 50’ all the time to get the unit cooled down in our heat.
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Old 08-11-2018, 01:15 AM   #9
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I have a 30 Amp 50' extension cord that I use along with the original 25' cord. Use it regularly at a particular campground we visit. No problems.
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Old 08-11-2018, 03:56 AM   #10
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Having a total of 50' of #10 wire at 30 amps will have a voltage drop of 2.5% (3 volts), so that's well within the allowed voltage drop. However that doesn't take into account the run from the breaker to the receptacle.

100' of #10 wire at 30 amps will have a voltage drop of 5% which is the max allowable.
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Old 08-11-2018, 12:33 PM   #11
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We never travel without one. You only make that mistake once. Be prepared.
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Old 08-11-2018, 01:07 PM   #12
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I prefer to keep the coach and extension cord plugs, where they connect, dry. The connection point can be covered to shed rain away, but not wrapped up where moisture and condensation can form.
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Old 08-11-2018, 01:36 PM   #13
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two cords not the same as one longer cord

Keep in mind that adding an extension cord is also adding an additional male and female plug to the circuit. This will drop your voltage a little more than if it was one cord. If your shore power is a little low on voltage to start with, it could be a problem by the time the power is in your trailer. With things running in the unit it is always good to check the voltage in the unit. All plugs and even the female outlet of your shore power are not created equal.
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Old 08-11-2018, 03:46 PM   #14
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Bama Rambler View Post
Having a total of 50' of #10 wire at 30 amps will have a voltage drop of 2.5% (3 volts), so that's well within the allowed voltage drop. However that doesn't take into account the run from the breaker to the receptacle.

100' of #10 wire at 30 amps will have a voltage drop of 5% which is the max allowable.
That's exactly why I used #8 wire when I installed my RV outlet which is 70 feet from the main breaker box. Actually was not that much more money.
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Old 08-11-2018, 10:58 PM   #15
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X2 on Splitshafts' post...Keep the connection sealed and weatherproofed when you are using it at home for extended periods.
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Old 08-11-2018, 11:39 PM   #16
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Bama Rambler View Post
Having a total of 50' of #10 wire at 30 amps will have a voltage drop of 2.5% (3 volts), so that's well within the allowed voltage drop. However that doesn't take into account the run from the breaker to the receptacle.

100' of #10 wire at 30 amps will have a voltage drop of 5% which is the max allowable.
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Old 08-12-2018, 08:21 AM   #17
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Be sure to occasionally check the plugs for heat. If you feel one getting hot, shut it down. Have had the plug ends build up resistance and burn the terminals under load.
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Old 08-12-2018, 08:43 AM   #18
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Be sure to occasionally check the plugs for heat. If you feel one getting hot, shut it down. Have had the plug ends build up resistance and burn the terminals under load.
X2. It's a good idea to check the plugs and receptacles on a regular basis, even if you're not using extension cords.

You should also check the ends on any cordsets and plug-in devices on a regular basis.
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Old 08-16-2018, 03:37 PM   #19
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Related question, can I put my portable Progressive 30 amp power management unit between the extension cord and the 20' fixed cord from the motorhome, allowing me to lock it inside a storage area? I realize that's an additional two plugs in the system. Thoughts.
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Old 08-16-2018, 03:57 PM   #20
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You can, but remember that you're also adding the length of the cord to the circuit. That may or may not be an issue.
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