RV extension cords might seem really simple and straightforward, but there are actually quite a few things that you need to know about them.
More important than anything else is the gauge of extension cord that you get for your RV. RV extension cords is what we are here to talk about today, and right now, we want to answer one simple question: what gauge of extension cord for RV do I need?
Table of contents
Understanding Extension Cords
In its most basic form, the RV extension cord is a cord designed to connect the recreational vehicle to an outside power source. Yes, RVs have their own built-in power, but this battery only goes so far. You can’t turn off the engine of your RV and use the battery to power appliances. This would not work. Therefore, you need to have a good extension cord to connect your RV and its appliances to a power source nearby.
One of the most important considerations when choosing an RV power cord is the gauge, or in other words, how thick the cord in question is. The gauge of an RV power cord usually ranges from 10 to 6, with 10 being the smallest and 6 the thickest.
The thicker the cord is, the more of a current it can handle, and the more power it can deliver to appliances. Therefore, knowing how much power your RV needs is essential to determining what gauge of power cord you need. Don’t forget that you might need an inlet box too!
Extension Cord Gauges: Knowing the Differences
What you need to know here is how extension cords are measured, which is usually always done with the AWG or American Wire Gauge system. To avoid confusion, a small number here coincides with a thicker cable, not the other way around. Thicker wires that are of a lower gauge can handle more current. Let’s look at some of the most common RV extension cord gauges and what they’re good for.
10 Gauge
The 10-gauge extension cord is one of the most commonly used ones for RVs. This is especially the case for small and medium-sized RVs that don’t have huge power demands. If they have small appliances, RVS are fine with a 10-gauge cord, as long as it does not need to extend past 100 feet.
8-Gauge
We then have the 8-gauge extension cord for RVS. These are one size up from the 10 gauge model viewed above and ideal for providing RVs with higher power levels. In some cases, the 8 gauge cord may be suitable for RVs that draw 50 amps, albeit only over short distances. However, if you have to deliver power over 100 feet and you have a 30 amp setup, then an 8-gauge unit will do just fine.
6-Gauge
Finally, we then have the 6-gauge RV extension cord. This is designed specifically for RVs that run on a 50 amp system and need a lot of power to power large appliances. In many cases, these 6-gauge extension cords can also carry high amounts of current over great distances.
What Gauge Extension Cord for RV Do I Need?
Perhaps the most important consideration to make when choosing an extension cord for your RV is the gauge of cord. This is very important. Using the right gauge helps to ensure that you are safe, and that power delivery is consistent. So, what gauge of extension cord do you need for your RV, and what are the different factors to consider?
The Amperage Needs
First, you need to understand that different RVs have different needs based on their amps. Most RVS are set up to run on either a 30 amp or 50 amp system. Therefore, first and foremost, the extension cord you get has to match or be greater than the amperage rating of the RV in question. This is important because it can help prevent fires and overheating. The higher the amperage needs of your RV, the lower the gauge must be. In general, the higher the amp rating of the cord, the lower the gauge needs to be.
Voltage Needs
Besides the amps or amperes, you then also need to consider voltage. For instance, if you have an RV with a 120-volt hookup, you’ll most likely need a cable that is designed for 30 amps, whereas if your RV is set to run on 240 volts, you’ll most likely need a 50-amp cable. For instance, a 30 amp extension cord rated for 120 volts will most likely be a 10-gauge cord, whereas a 50 amp cord rated for 240 volts will likely be a 6-gauge cord.
The Length
The gauge of the extension cord is not only important to consider because it determines how many amps and volts it can handle, but also due to distance and power drop. You see, power cords will lose power the further that electricity has to travel.
The further the electricity has to travel, the more of a power drop there is. This problem is only made worse if you have a power cord that is not of the proper gauge. As a rule of thumb, if you have an RV that requires a 30 amp cord, one of the 10 gauge variety should suffice.
However, for anything longer than that, you may need to decrease the gauge, particularly for cables and RVs that have higher amp ratings. For instance, an RV that needs a 50 amp cord, and it needs to travel over 50 feet, using a 6 gauge cord is recommended.
How to Choose the Right RV Extension Cord
Choosing the perfect extension cord for your RV is more than just picking up any cable off the shelf; It requires an understanding of specific requirements based on capacity requirements, distances and operating conditions. A properly selected extension cord ensures that your RV electrical system operates safely and efficiently, protects your equipment and allows you to enjoy the comfort of your RV without worry.
The length of The Extension Cord
The length of the extension cable is an important factor that directly affects the energy efficiency from the source to your RV. Choosing a shortcut that suits your needs is key, as longer cables greatly increase energy consumption.
This drop in voltage can make your RV appliances less efficient and even shorten their life by decreasing electrical voltage. When determining the distance between your RV and the power source, consider any obstructions or routing requirements to ensure the wire can safely run without stretching or creating a tripping hazard.
Gauge and Power Required
The gauge or thickness of the extension cord determines its ability to carry current.
RVs with higher amperage requirements require a thicker cord (lower gauge number) to ensure enough power flows into the vehicle without overheating the cord for example, a standard 30-amp RV which is typically -gauge extension cord provides the best safety and efficiency needs, while more powerful 50-amp RVs may require the use of a more durable 6 or 8-gauge cord.
To isolate electricity and to eliminate potential hazards, ensuring that your RV equipment can work together without issue means choosing the right gauge.
Environmental Considerations
The circumstances in which the extension cords will be used greatly influence your choice. Excess masses of fibers are designed to withstand weather, such as rain, snow, and extreme heat.
These cables have a durable weatherproof jacket that protects the internal cables protection from moisture, sunlight, and physical damage, ensuring reliable performance and durability.
Consider the specifics you encounter on an RV trip will guide you to choose a cord that the environment can handle effectively.
Quality and Safety Certification
It is important to choose extension cords that have been rigorously tested and accredited by reputable safety organizations, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) etc. These certifications show that the cord meets and is manufactured to specific safety standards and is designed to safely handle electrical loads.
Certified cables are less likely to fail, reducing the risk of electrical fires or damage to your RV’s electrical system. Always inspect cables for safety marks and avoid using uncertified cables for any high voltage applications.
Matching Plug and Receptacle
Ensuring that extension cords point to the correct plug and receptacle types for your RV and campground electrical hookups is essential for safe and secure connections.
Using an incompatible wire can cause the connections to corrode, arc, and overheat, posing a serious safety hazard. If necessary, use a high-quality adapter designed for RV use, but always prioritize a direct connection whenever possible to maintain the integrity of the electrical connection.
Flexibility
Before selecting a specific RV extension cord, you may also want to consider its flexibility. The more flexible the cord in question is, the easier it will be to store and to manoeuvre. However, it may also be the case that more flexible materials are less durable, so make sure to keep that tradeoff in mind.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that for RVs, you generally have a choice of three gauges of extension cords. These include 10, 8, and 6 gauge extension cords. Remember that the smaller the gauge is, the larger the cord is, and therefore the more power it can handle. Before choosing an RV extension cord, especially in relation to the gauge, make sure that you consider the amperage and voltage needs, the length of the cord, and environmental considerations. If you need premier RV gear, such as RV power and extension cords, then there is no better place to be than VEVOR!
