Hooking Up Electricity To Campers: Power Pole Connection

Hooking up electricity to a camper van or RV is a great way to access home comforts like powering appliances and charging devices. This is known as shore power or an electric hook-up. The process involves connecting your RV to a power source, such as a campground or RV park outlet, which provides electricity to your vehicle. It's important to ensure compatibility with your RV's electrical system, as most RVs require either a 30-amp or 50-amp shore power connection.

The steps to connect shore power include parking and stabilising your RV, locating and connecting your power cord, using a surge protector, plugging into the power source, and finally, checking your systems.

Before connecting, it's crucial to understand the electrical service your RV requires and to consult professionals if needed. Additionally, be mindful of power usage to avoid overloading the electrical system.

By following these steps and best practices, you can safely and effectively enjoy the benefits of electricity in your camper or RV.

The power requirements of a camper

Campers, RVs, and travel trailers require a power source to run appliances, lighting, and other electrical systems. Understanding the power requirements of your camper is essential for a smooth and comfortable camping experience. Here are some key considerations:

Understanding Watts, Amps, and Volts

To determine the power requirements of your camper, you need to understand the relationship between watts, amps, and volts. Watts represent the overall power consumption and can be calculated by multiplying amps (current) by volts (voltage). This relationship is expressed as W (watts) = A (amps) x V (volts). Knowing this formula will help you calculate the power requirements of different appliances and ensure you don't exceed the available wattage, which could trip your electrical system circuit.

12-Volt DC System vs. 120-Volt AC System

Campers typically have two separate electrical systems: a 12-volt DC system and a 120-volt AC system. The 12-volt system is powered by one or more batteries and is responsible for starting essential components such as the water heater, furnace, and refrigerator. It also powers most of the lights in the camper. On the other hand, the 120-volt system is powered by an RV electrical hookup or a generator and runs daily-use items like kitchen appliances, TVs, and other large electrical appliances.

30-Amp vs. 50-Amp Shore Power

When connecting to shore power at a campground or RV park, you'll typically encounter two types of power connections: 30-amp and 50-amp. A 30-amp connection has three prongs, while a 50-amp connection has four. The type of connection your camper requires will depend on its electrical system and the appliances you plan to use. If you have a 50-amp camper, you can use a 50-amp to 30-amp adapter to connect to a 30-amp power source, but you'll need to be mindful of your power usage to avoid overloading the system.

Power Adapters and Surge Protectors

Using the appropriate power adapters is crucial when connecting your camper to shore power. Adapters allow you to connect to different power sources, but it's important to remember that you may not get the full amperage your camper is designed for when using an adapter. Additionally, using a surge protector is highly recommended to protect your camper's electrical system from power surges, shorts, and other electrical issues.

Power Sources: Batteries, Generators, and Solar Panels

In addition to shore power, campers can also utilise other power sources. Batteries are essential for the 12-volt DC system, and using two 6-volt batteries wired in series typically provides longer battery life than a single 12-volt battery. Generators are commonly used, especially in larger motorhomes, and can be propane-operated or diesel-powered. Solar panels are an increasingly popular option for off-grid camping, providing a renewable and quiet power source, although they may not be sufficient for running air conditioning units.

Power Management and Safety

Understanding power management is crucial for a safe and enjoyable camping experience. It's important to know which appliances are electricity hogs and to be mindful of how many power-hungry devices you run simultaneously. Additionally, always prioritise safety when dealing with electricity. Use a polarity tester when connecting to shore power to ensure the wiring is in good condition and avoid overloading circuits. Regular maintenance and inspection of your camper's electrical system, including batteries and connections, are also essential to identify potential issues.

How to hook up electricity to a camper

Hooking up electricity to your camper or RV is a straightforward process, but it's important to follow the correct steps to avoid damage or injury. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Park, Level, and Stabilize

Park your camper or RV close enough to the power source, ensuring that your power cord can reach the outlet. Level and stabilize your vehicle before proceeding.

Step 2: Turn Off Appliances and Locate Power Cord

Make sure all electric appliances in the RV are turned off. Locate your power cord and surge protector. The power cord may be coiled up in a compartment or stored in a separate area. Refer to your owner's manual if needed.

Step 3: Connect the Surge Protector

Use a surge protector to protect your camper's electrical system from power surges and other issues. Plug the surge protector into the electrical outlet first and check that the breaker is turned off. Then, turn on the breaker and check the lights or display on the surge protector to ensure a proper connection.

Step 4: Plug In Your Power Cord

Connect one end of your power cord to the RV's outlet and the other end to the surge protector. If your power cord is hardwired, simply plug it into the surge protector.

Step 5: Check Your Systems

After plugging in, go inside your RV and check if the lights in your microwave are on, indicating a successful connection. If you're not getting power, check your trailer's internal circuit breakers, and contact the campground for assistance if needed.

Additional Tips:

• Understanding 30-amp vs 50-amp: Know whether your RV requires 30-amp or 50-amp service. Thirty-amp plugs have three prongs, while fifty-amp plugs have four. This will determine the type of outlet and adapter you need.
• Using Adapters: Carry adapters with you to accommodate different outlet types. You can plug a 30-amp RV into a 50-amp outlet and vice versa, but you'll only have the amperage of your RV to work with.
• Using a 20-amp Outlet: If you need to plug into a 20-amp outlet, use an adapter and be cautious about running multiple appliances simultaneously. You may need a soft starter to safely run an air conditioner.
• Using a Surge Protector: Always use a surge protector to protect your RV's electrical system. Surge protectors with diagnostic information can help identify poor wiring at campsites.
• Extension Cords: Keep a shore power extension cord for situations where the power source is far from your campsite. Use heavy-duty RV-specific cords, as regular extension cords can't handle the power needs of an RV.

The cost of installing power poles

Utility or Power Pole Installation Costs

The cost of installing a utility or power pole typically ranges from $1,200 to $5,600. This includes the cost of the pole itself, which can be between $200 and $800, and the installation. The height of the pole also affects the price, with poles ranging from 25 to 125 feet in height.

Meter Pole Installation Costs

Installing a meter pole can cost between $500 and $2,200 for an overhead pole, while underground service can range from $300 to $1,600, excluding the cost of running power lines. Meter poles are typically required to be at least 20 feet tall and have a clearance of at least 4 feet above the roof.

Running Power Costs

Running power to your land can cost $5 to $15 per foot for aboveground lines and $10 to $25 per foot for underground lines. The distance from the power pole to your house can impact the cost, with greater distances potentially requiring additional transformers.

Electrical Permit Costs

Obtaining an electrical permit is usually necessary and can cost between $50 and $350, depending on the number of amps required.

Electrician Costs

Hiring an electrician to connect electrical lines from the meter to your home can cost $50 to $130 per hour on average. Most cities prohibit homeowners from working on the meter themselves, so it is essential to hire a certified professional.

Trenching and Excavation Costs

Trenching costs for installing underground lines typically range from $5 to $12 per linear foot, while excavation costs can be between $2.50 and $15.00 per cubic foot.

Additional Factors

Other factors that can affect the cost of installing power poles include the location, labour rates, delivery charges, and any necessary permits or inspections.

It is always recommended to get multiple estimates from different contractors and electricians before starting any project.

The legality of living in an RV on family property

Living in an RV on your own property is a complicated question and the answer varies based on where you live. If you own the land where you want to park, you’ll have more freedom to do so. However, there are often city ordinances and neighbourhood rules that prevent you from pursuing this lifestyle.

Legality of Living in an RV on Your Own Property

If you want to live in an RV on your property, you’ll need to jump through a few hoops. RVs don’t always qualify as residences, so you’ll need to do everything you can to legitimise your setup. This might include arranging utilities and paying taxes to the state where you live.

Living on your own land has its perks. You won’t have to constantly travel around and pay daily campground fees. In addition, some people choose to live in an RV while they build a new home. It enables them to use their land throughout the construction process.

Although there are benefits to living on your own land, the legality of this practice is a bit of a grey area. Therefore, you’ll need to perform plenty of research before you commit to this lifestyle. For starters, check the zoning laws for your city and/or county. Some cities have an issue with full-time RV parking because they feel like the land should be used for permanent buildings. In other cases, your neighbourhood HOA might cause a scene.

Some people do not want to share their neighbourhood with RVs because they fear it will lower the value of their homes. There may be zoning restrictions and rules you need to follow, so read the fine print before you buy land. If you have questions during this process, you can always contact a zoning employee at your county office. They should be able to give you full details about where you can park your RV.

Legality of Living in an RV on Someone Else’s Property

The rules mentioned above still apply if you’re living on someone else’s land because you won’t always be allowed to keep an RV in plain sight. Check the city and county rules to make sure you’re not breaking any laws.

Next, you need to find someone who is willing to let you stay on their property. Many people stay with family members or friends. The RV gives them a sense of privacy, plus they can use the outdoor space that others might ignore. You might be asked to chip in on mortgage payments or rent, but you can work this arrangement out on a case-by-case basis.

In some cases, you can also find people online who are willing to let you stay in their yards. You can create your own ad or look for other people who are offering a deal. Again, payment will probably be part of the deal, but you can park your RV for long stretches of time. Just be careful if you choose this route. Some arrangements are dangerous, so you need to be careful when you determine where you want to go.

How to Make Your RV a Permanent Residence

If you’ve decided you want to live in an RV for the foreseeable future, you’ll need to take care of a few technicalities. Once you confirm that you can live in a specific area, you can work on making your vehicle a permanent residence.

First off, obtain any necessary permits. Some permits allow you to park your RV for 28 days every year, but this won’t cut it for full-time living. Visit your county office to obtain the proper forms. You may need to comply with land inspections as well, so buckle in for a long approval process.

Next, make sure you have access to all necessary utilities. You won’t be able to rely on the water tanks and battery forever! If your RV stays in one place, you need to have running water, electricity, sewage, internet, and more. Your sewage options might include connecting to the city’s system or setting up a septic tank.

Now it’s time to change or establish a permanent address. If you own the land where you’re staying, this is a fairly standard process. Gather documentation that proves that you own the land and visit your county or city office. There, you can apply for a new address and fill out the appropriate paperwork. You’ll need to pay a fee as well.

Once you have your new address, you will be able to receive mail, prove residency, and so much more. It’s a sign of legitimacy.

Choosing to live in an RV is a highly personal decision. Some people do it to save money, while others do it for a sense of stability. No matter what your reasons are, rest assured that it is possible in most locations. Unfortunately, you’ll need to deal with a lot of paperwork in order to receive “official” approval. You might run into issues with your neighbours and HOA as well. If you live with friends or family members, this lifestyle could also strain your relationships.

In the end, you’re the only one who can decide if the pros outweigh the cons. Just remember to check in with your city representatives every step of the way! You don’t want to get caught doing something illegal or be forced to pay heavy fines.

Electricity for Your RV

If you are living in an RV on family property, you will need to consider how to get electricity to your vehicle. The electric company can run the wire, but a certified electrician needs to install the pole. The electrician will also need to install a meter.

The county may not allow RV living and will only permit a pole for living in an RV if you are doing house renovations at the time. You can get a permit for building repairs to have the pole installed or look for some other viable temporary-use case.

There may be a building on the property that already has electrical run to it. It is possible for an electrician to rewire it to provide 50-amp service, but this will require permits. The RV will be parked right beside this building anyway, so you might not even need a pole in this situation.

Living in an RV on family property is possible in most locations, but it requires a lot of research and paperwork. You will also need to deal with utilities, permits, and possibly issues with neighbours and HOAs.

How to obtain a permit for a power pole

The process of obtaining a permit for a power pole can vary depending on your location and specific circumstances. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a permit for a power pole:

• Determine the Zoning Requirements: Before initiating any installation plans, it is crucial to understand the zoning laws and regulations in your area. Contact your local town or city board to inquire about any restrictions or requirements for installing a power pole on your property. This step will help you avoid potential issues and ensure compliance with local regulations.
• Contact the Electric Company: Reach out to your local electric company to discuss your specific needs and request a quote for the power pole installation. They will provide information on their standard procedures, costs, and any applicable regulations. Ask about their process for running the electrical wiring and installing the pole, meter, and breaker box.
• Hire a Certified Electrician: In most cases, you will need to hire a certified electrician to install the power pole. They will be familiar with the electrical codes and safety requirements for your area. The electrician will also guide you through the necessary steps to obtain the required permits.
• Obtain the Necessary Permits: Work with your electrician to identify the specific permits needed for your project. In some cases, you may require permits from both the electric company and your local government or utility department. Ensure you understand the process and requirements for obtaining these permits, including any necessary inspections.
• Schedule Inspections: Depending on your location and the complexity of the installation, you may need to schedule inspections at various stages of the project. These inspections ensure that the work complies with safety standards and regulations. Work with your electrician and the permitting authorities to coordinate the necessary inspections.
• Final Installation and Connection: Once all permits have been obtained and inspections passed, your electrician can proceed with the final installation and connection of the power pole to your camper or building. Ensure that you understand the timeline and any remaining steps required to complete the process.

It is important to note that the process and requirements may vary based on your location and the specifics of your project. Always consult with professionals, such as the electric company and certified electricians, to ensure that you are following the correct procedures and meeting all safety standards.

Frequently asked questions