tpi
Southern CA.
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Joined: 02/22/2005
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cremevette wrote:We're all in agreement. I'll keep the energy use down, and put the money toward "brown pop" or more camping days. Thanks, friends!
A different question ... is there a meter I can plug into the system that gauges my amp consumption at any given time? I have a volt meter, but it would be nice to know what load I'm trying to pull.
If you're going to keep it under 15 amps you can:
http://www.p3international.com/products/special/P4400/P4400-CE.html
Above 15 amps and you'll kill the kill-a-watt.
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SteveRankin
Sequim, WA
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Joined: 05/05/2005
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I agree with the 12/3 cord being adequate for the expected loaded and distance. However, what I don't like is that the refer and battery charger and lights can add up, especially if the batteries are low. I'd want to know what the current draw actually is. Especially if I'm going to leave the TT unattended while plugged in. We have a 50' 30A extension cord for our TT and we use it both at home and in some CGs where the power pedestal is too far away for the 30-something feet that came with the coach. The 50' 30A cords aren't that expensive and they can be very useful. We got a LOT of mileage out of it with our DP, too.
We have a Kill-A-Watt and it's proved very informative. For instance, the little microwave that looks to be no bigger than 700-900 watts actually draws 1350 watts. Made a big difference in which inverter we bought.
Steve & C. J.
"Gracie" the Rough Collie & "Bo'sun" the Bichon Frise
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symbasden
WI
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Joined: 07/29/2003
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Use 12/3, don't run the AC. Don't use 14ga there is potetion for voltage drop that you don't want.
Jeff
2009 Rockwood Signature Ultra Light 8317SS
2004 Dodge Ram 1500 QC LB Hemi
DW Kelly and DD
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weathershak
Delaware
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Joined: 12/11/2006
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I store my TT 178' from the house and until recently, have used 2 extension cords. It worked fine for the fridge and keeping the battery charged up.Well, this year I wanted to be able to run the AC. The cost to run 50 amp service back that far was too costly to consider. I bought a 3500 watt genny instead. Now I can fire that up on occasion to run the AC and have something for the house if power goes out.
Don't like the view?? Then change it and Go Camping   
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Ufda
Alabama
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Joined: 07/03/2002
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I agree that 12/3 is ok for limited use, but, it has been my experience that some time or other I will need an extra 30amp cord due to distance to breaker box at a campsite so why not drop by Wally World and pick one up for about $30 and be on the save side?
Happy camping!
2002 Ford PSD C/C
2004 Cedar Creek Silverback 31LBHS
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cremevette
NE Ohio
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Joined: 09/27/2004
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Actually I do have the extra 30 amp cord and it has come in handy many times out on the road. I also intend to get a generator when my ship comes in. I'm in a temporary cost-cutting situation, so I believe I'll get a 12/3 cord to hold me over.
Claudia
2007 Keystone Springdale 266 RELLGL - The Brownie Bungalow
2005 Silverado 2500HD, 6.0 - The Mammoth
Nights in 2007 - 30
Nights in 2008 - 48
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windriderjr
Massachusetts
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Joined: 03/20/2007
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When you use any wire that isn't large enough to pass the current you are trying to draw there are more problems than just voltage drop. When the voltage drops, the energy is dissipated as heat. It can get hot enough to cause a fire. When you set up the connection, turn on all that you might ever use and let it run for a few minutes. Go out and feel the temperature of the cord. If it is warmer than ambient temperature, the cord is probably too long and thin. I had a 50 foot 14/3 cord that is now a melted lump of plastic because I forgot and ran the A/C.
DW and I in our Gulfstream Amerilite 21MB
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Bumpyroad
Virginia
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Joined: 12/01/2005
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why 12/3 and not 12/2 wg? it is 120 service from only one breaker?
bumpy
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HighCover
Fort Worth
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Joined: 11/26/2006
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I use a 100' 12/3 extension cord I got a Sam's, and it works well, even when the 13.5k BTU ac is running. However, I am in the process of adding a 30-Amp RV circuit with a proper plug over to where the trailer is parked. That'll be sweet.
2007 Tahoe, 5.3L
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smkettner
Southern California
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Joined: 03/21/2005
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Get a 100' 12/3 cord at home depot lowes etc as it will work perfectly for the use you describe.
2001 F150 SuperCrew 5.4 Lariat Offroad 4x4 Tow Package 4.10 Truetrac
2006 Keystone Springdale 249FWBHLS
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