30 amp system plugged into 20 amp

[justlb33]

So, I'll be plugged into a 20 amp system in a couple weeks. First time doing this as I have always found sites with 30 amp. There weren't any left, so we took one of the last ones, but only a 20 amp. I believe I can run the single AC unit alone, but not much else (maybe lights). Can I keep refrigerator on electric? Hot water heater? Maybe turn AC off when taking showers? Let me know what you've done to manage the electric. Thanks! (my setup is in my signature)

[norty1]

Personally I would run the water heater and fridge on propane the whole time and watch the other high current draw appliances ex. hair dryers, coffee pot. If it's hot the ac will need currant for cycling and the cg supply may be low voltage if the weather is hot.

You will quickly know if the 20 breaker keeps tripping. Not good for the ac.

[RogerR]

Not a bad idea to get and use a voltage tester for the AC. On a 20 amp circuit you may not have enough juice for the AC.

Your 12 volt circuit will also being drawing power unless you throw the breaker.

this one is on amazon, lot like it
Volt Test Monitor , HOMREE Flat Plug AC 80-300V Voltage Panel Volt Test Meter AC 110V 220V Digital LCD Voltmeter for RV Boat Camper

[wags999]

My 15,000 BTU AC draws about 15 amp..the frig draws very little, we do both all the time. I would put the water heater on propane and just use it when needed for showers, it doesn't take a whole lot of propane, but draws as much or more than the AC does. MW I would turn off AC when using it, same for other high draw appliances...toaster, coffee pot, hair dryer etc. Lights if LED draw almost nothing and are not a problem using with frig and AC on. I watch my amp draw on my remote progressive EMS system. I can actually draw 31 32 amps fairly consistently without tripping the breaker. Outside temp can affect breakers on the pedestal.


Enjoy your trip and just be aware of what is being used and you'll have no issues.


Happy Camping !

[justlb33]

Thanks you guys for the feedback! I like when people post updates, so I'll post mine.
Camped on the 20 amp lot. 90 degree weather with "feels like" reaching 100, so I needed AC. Took your advice and managed my energy well. Only had one hiccup at night when I woke up and no A/C was running. We had forgot to turn the water heater switch off Once we used one or the other, we were good to go. I even did the coffee pot with A/C with no issues. Even though it was a pain, it is doable (when you book late and really need a site). Thanks Again!!