Extension cords

[docque]

We are getting a 30 amp receptacle set up at the house. We have a few acres. How long is too long for a 30 amp extension cord? We would need about 200 ft to reach the trailer.

[jkwilson]

Put the receptacle on a post next to the RV. You aren’t going to find a cord that will handle the load at that length, and the wire to make one would probably be as expensive as running the line and would give an unwieldy and unsafe cord.

Make it a standard 50A pedestal with a 30A and 15 or 20A outlet too. You’ll appreciate it one day.

[docque]

Put the receptacle on a post next to the RV. You aren’t going to find a cord that will handle the load at that length, and the wire to make one would probably be as expensive as running the line and would give an unwieldy and unsafe cord.

Make it a standard 50A pedestal with a 30A and 15 or 20A outlet too. You’ll appreciate it one day.

Unfortunately that is not an option.

[MoonShadow_1911]

We are getting a 30 amp receptacle set up at the house. We have a few acres. How long is too long for a 30 amp extension cord? We would need about 200 ft to reach the trailer.

For a 200', 30 amp, extension cord, you will need a 4 AWG copper size, which they don't make. You can have one custom made for more than you would spend running a circuit to a pole close to the RV. In reality, it's not really feasible for that long of a distance.

[UGADawgs]

Just get eight 25' extensions and two fire extinguishers.

[docque]

Well then I asked two questions. 200ft is too much what would be the max? I could park in driveway if need be.

[Capt Bob]

Well then I asked two questions. 200ft is too much what would be the max? I could park in driveway if need be.

The best way to answer your question is to determine your minimum distance between the point of service and your trailer. Then use this to calc your wire size.

https://www.southwire.com/calculator-vdrop
This is their updated calculator.

Lastly, search for a pre-made extension cord online (of the correct wire size) or DIY (copper wire is stupid expensive like everything else).

100' run of 30amp will need a 6AWG wire size to overcome the voltage drop.

[docque]

The best way to answer your question is to determine your minimum distance between the point of service and your trailer. Then use this to calc your wire size.

https://www.southwire.com/calculator-vdrop
This is their updated calculator.

Lastly, search for a pre-made extension cord online (of the correct wire size) or DIY (copper wire is stupid expensive like everything else).

100' run of 30amp will need a 6AWG wire size to overcome the voltage drop.

Thank you very much for that. Sorry, I have been writing software forever. I need numbers. "Don't do it because you will burn your house down" does not answer the question.

Based on what I see most of the extension cords are 10 gauge. I can safely go 50 ft with that.

What are the items that we would run that require the 30 amp? Just wanted to know because if we are packing it up and just running fridge would the standard 15 amp cord work?

[Second Chance]

Thank you very much for that. Sorry, I have been writing software forever. I need numbers. "Don't do it because you will burn your house down" does not answer the question.

Based on what I see most of the extension cords are 10 gauge. I can safely go 50 ft with that.

What are the items that we would run that require the 30 amp? Just wanted to know because if we are packing it up and just running fridge would the standard 15 amp cord work?

On 15 amps, you would be able to run the converter/charger (1 - 8 amps for charging battery and running lights and other 12VDC needs). Most microwaves are 1,400 - 1,500 watts (12 - 13 amps). You don't say what model RV or refrigerator you have, but the Norcold absorption refrigerators draw 1.2 - 2 amps when on AC (much less when operating on propane). The 6-gallon water heaters draw 8 - 13 amps on electric. RV ACs draw 16 - 18 amps on startup and 13 - 16 amps running. In other words, you won't get much with 15 amps - but it will run the lights, appliances on propane, and keep the battery charged.

Rob

[traveldawg]

Here is a good reference chart for distance, amps, and gauge.



200' is possible.

From what I can tell you probably need at least 4AWG if not 2AGW for 30amps at that distance.

I'd guess there isn't an "extension cord" that long but you could buy some service entrance cable or something similar. I doubt you would like that price tho.

I'm not sure I'd make it and "extension cord". I think I'd be considering a new circuit tapped directly into yoiur house's breaker box (assuming there is space).

Maybe consider an alternative for a 15 amp run of 200'. That should reduce the cable size down to 6AWG.