Are the RV "single" duplex outlets easily converted to true duplex outlets?

[jimmarako]

OK, I can't quite figure out the proper way to phrase this. We've all seen those typical RV style outlets found in our trailers. You know the kind that have the punch down wire connections on the back. What I've noticed is that the ones behind the Micro, Fridge, and water heater are what I'm calling "single" duplex outlets.

The picture below is behind my micro. You can see that the left set of holes are closed up. I'm thinking of mounting a hotspot on the wall/ceiling by the fridge which would be just to the right of the micro. How convenient would it be if I could just snake the plug back there and use the micro (or fridge) outlet. I can see other uses like if you wanted to add an outlet under the microwave or a counter pop up.

So before I go start jamming a screw driver in there to see if it just a cheap cover over a true duplex outlet I figured I see if anyone has done this or knows.

And since I know it will come up, no I'm not going to turn this into a project and rip out one of those outlets and replace it with a box and proper outlet. Getting the coax and other stuff run for the hotspot will already be a time/money wasting adventure. Plugging it in should be just that.... plugging it in.

Thanks
Jim M.

[KRedburn]

That type of receptacle is often used when the line is intended to be dedicated.
frig, microwave, heater all are intended to be on single use lines/breakers therefore only need a single outlet.

[Bama Rambler]

A single receptacle is required on appliance circuits that require 'dedicated' circuits so that's why the ones you have are just single receptacles. You're not supposed to change those out to a duplex receptacle, but it's your RV so it's really up to you.

[KyDan]

What you have (and most of us have behind the fridge and water heater) is a single 120v receptacle.
A duplex is the double much like you have other places in your RV living quarters.

The fridge does not draw that much power on AC mode so I would not hesitate to swap that single for a duplex.
Happy Trails!

[NJKris]

One of the great mysteries finally answered! I wanted to plug in a tiny 300w Sharper Image heater for my wet bay during freezing temps at my water heater, and had no idea why it was a single outlet.


When you hit the main 'electric water heater' switch in the camper, is that energizing the outlet, or the heater itself? I don't know if a 12v relay goes through that switch or what.

[HillClimber]

I personally would not place a hotspot near a microwave for fear of electrical interference. YMMV.

[markb422]

If you have room just use a power strip. But I would use it at the frig outlet not the micro for the same reason HillClimber mentioned.

[jimmarako]

Originally Posted by HillClimber

I personally would not place a hotspot near a microwave for fear of electrical interference. YMMV.

I hadn't actually thought about that. In theory, there shouldn't be a problem. I shut of the 2.4G radio and only use the 5G WiFi band. Cellular is something like 800-900, 1200, 1900, and 2100 give or take. So there shouldn't be any interference with the micro @ 2450ish. But stranger things have/can happen.

Of course the trailer is 8' wide and 26' long... not going to get to far away from it.

More to ponder.

Jim M.

[NJKris]

wow, you guys must use microwave a lot! I almost forget it's there most of time.

[bob213]

Originally Posted by NJKris

wow, you guys must use microwave a lot! I almost forget it's there most of time.

My wife keeps telling me it's a microwave and I can't convince her it's a traveling Faraday cage for my emergency band radio and walkie talkies.

[NJKris]

You mean I don't have to bring along my galvanized trash can I bought expressly for that purpose? Genius! I never even thought of that application!