Connecting 50 Amp RV to 15 Amp Outlet At Storage Facility for Keeping Batteries Charged

Question:

Great site and I will be ordering some wiring products but I still have a few questions. Here is my END GOAL: I want to plug my 50 amp RV into the storage facility 15 amp power while in storage to keep batteries charged. 1 If I use your Dogbone 50 amp male to 15 amp female - What gauge 15A extenstion cord do I plug into the Dogbone and then into the power outlet? What kind of power surge protector do I use with that? Is that considered an acceptable hookup to keep batteries charged. 2 Another way is to use a 50amp powercord plugged into a 50amp Power surge protector and then use the 50 amp to 15 amp Dogbone into the power. Would that be a better set up then my first situation see #1 above. We are brand new RVers and want to keep our 50Amp Rig safe but batteries charged in storage. Thank you

asked by: Jennifer

Expert Reply:

For your particular setup, starting at the RV's 50 amp plug, I recommend the Camco RV 50 Amp Voltage Protector # CAM55306 followed by a power adapter cord like the Mighty Cord # A10-1550D90VP that will plug into the surge protector and give you a 15 amp male plug on the other end.

Then from there you will just need an extension cord like the 25 foot # A10-2514E that will reach to the shore power hookup at the storage facility. This extension uses 14 gauge wire so that would be my recommendation if you want to source this particular part elsewhere or already have something in mind.

It really depends on how many batteries (as well as their size) you have in the RV but keeping it plugged into a 15 amp power source should provide enough to maintain their charge. You will want to make sure that the RV is equipped with some kind of smart charger/inverter system that will automatically revert to a trickle charge once the batteries are topped off to prevent overcharging them while in storage. If you are unsure of this a quick call to the RV dealer or manufacturer should give you the needed information.

Since you're keeping the RV plugged in it will also be a good idea just to check in on it every now and then during the storage season to make sure everything is looking okay. The RV will also get lonely otherwise and may just enjoy some company.

expert reply by: Chris R