30 amp RV service vs 50 amp for AC

[thomask]

Would like to add shore power 30 amp box outside my garage for RV. I have a 200 amp panel and have room to add 30 amp single breaker. Any need or advantage to go to 50 amp? Mostly will be using for refer and once in a while one roof air. Will also put in CTV and landline phone for my single rv park. Thinking of some type of mounting pole for connections. Want it to look professional.

Any thoughts?

"Electricity gets my highest respect."

 

[rodnok1]

No need for 50 amp unless you "might " need a larger circuit later. If your Rv only uses 30 amp just put that in. I run a 30 amp on my Rv and have no problems, run the ac all the time. Mount the box 2' above grade and use a GFCI breaker.

 

[VHF]

Note that a 30A RV connection is 120V (for a maximum of 3,600W) while 50A is 240V (for a maximum of 12,000W). However, don't put in more than you need.

50A is typically requried for RVs with dual roof air, but many of the newer rigs are moving to a more efficent central A/C and only use 30A even for larger 5th wheels and motorhomes. Really fancy rigs with washer/dryer will still use 50A!

 

[gsport]

i've got my 5th wheel plugged into a 20A with an adapter from my 30A cable and can still run the a/c

 

[Stuart in MN]

240vac, 50A is a common RV hookup, but if your RV is set up to work on 120vac 30A there's probably no good reason to go any bigger than that.

Midwest Electric Products is one company I'm familiar with that manufactures RV hookups with integrated phone and CATV connections. You can browse their catalog at http://www.midwestelectric.com/