amp 30 or 50 for newbie

[jimreflex]

We are in the process of looking at 5th wheels and have come across a 08 Palomino 31 REDS that has 30 amp service. Is this really enough? It looks like there is a 20 dedicated to the ac - does that mean I only have 10 left for the rest of the appliances, lights, etc. We really like this 5er but are concerned beginners

[milzat]

The A/C won't use 20 amps, but if it does surge, the 20 amp breaker is there to protect it.
A 30 amp service is fine for most RVs, unless it is equipped with 2 A/C units. Then a 50 amp service is needed.

[LadyWindrider]

If you search the post, there are who complain that 30 amp service has given some trouble if the RV has AC, Microwave, and Electric Hot Water. This is usually cured by switching the refer to propane, or turning the AC during Microwave usage.

Just for info, I have only seen 50 Amp service if the RV has 2 AC units, or is a park model with washer/dryer, and larger electric only water heater. If you plan to ever install a clothes dryer, you will need 50 amp connection.

[cardinal4fun]

I have had a 30 amp 5th wheel and MH. I now have a 50 amp 5th wheel, I find as the other posts have said with 2 ac you need 50 amp. With some engery management you can get along really well with 30. Also depending where you do most of your camping 30 amp is all they have. I know I use my 30 amp adapter more than anything. I think the only draw back would be the use of the elect. water heater, I like the elect saves propane. That however is not enough to turn down the purchase.
good luck

[commander ryker]

50 is better but its not offered on a lot of models, Puma if ordered new can be ordered with 50 amp service.

[NWJeeper]

50 amp will allow you to run 3 high amperage devices at once, 2 A/Cs and microwave or 1 AC, microwave and water heater, etc. etc.

30 amp allows use of 2 high amperage items at once.

We got by just fine with our old motorhome on 30amp. On our Georgetown we ordered it with 50 amp in order to get the washer/dryer hookups.

If you like the RV and the price is good I would not let the fact that it is only 30 amp be your deciding factor.

[bob34787]

if you are going to camp in the less than 90 degree climates 30 amp will work, but at anything over 90 and you will need 2 ac units which means 50 amp. But than again a lot of state parks only have 30 amp services and I have run both ac with only minor tripping of the breaker