What to Do When Your Shore Power Doesn’t Work
As a seasoned RVer, you know that it’s essential to have a reliable source of power for your RV’s appliances and systems. While most RV parks and campgrounds provide shore power connections, sometimes things can go wrong, and you find yourself with no power. Thankfully, there are several things you can do to troubleshoot the problem and get your RV’s power up and running again. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most common issues that can cause shore power to stop working and what you can do to fix them.
1. Check the Power Pedestal
The first step in resolving a shore power issue is to check the power pedestal. The pedestal is the panel that provides outlets for your RV to connect to the power grid. To check its functionality, unplug the power cord from your RV and plug it into a different pedestal outlet. If the power comes back on, the previous outlet might be defective, and you’ll need to inform the campground staff of the issue.
If the power doesn’t come back on, check for visible signs of damage or wear on the wiring, breakers, and receptacles in the pedestal. Damaged or worn components can cause shorts, which can overload your RV’s electrical system and trip the breaker. If you notice any damage, bring it to the attention of the campground staff, and they’ll take care of the repairs.
2. Test the Circuit Breakers
Most RVs have a circuit breaker panel that contains breakers that protect the different electrical circuits in your RV. If you’re experiencing issues with shore power, it’s possible that one of these breakers has tripped. To check, turn off all your RV’s appliances and lights and flip off all the breakers. Wait for a few seconds and flip them back on one by one.
If one of the breakers doesn’t stay on after you flip it back on, it’s probably indicating a short circuit in that circuit’s wiring or one of the appliances connected to it. Turn off all the breakers again and unplug all the appliances. Reset the breaker and turn on each appliance one by one to identify the source of the short circuit.
3. Check the Power Cord
Your RV’s power cord is how you connect your RV to the power pedestal. The power cord could be the source of the problem if it’s damaged, the connections are loose, or there’s an issue with its wiring. Visibly inspect the cord for wear and damage, and if you identify any issues, replace it with a new one.
Also, check for any loose or disconnected connections where the cord plugs into the RV or the power pedestal. If you find any, simply tighten them up, and you should be good to go.
4. Utilize Generator Power
If you’re unable to get the shore power to work, it’s time to use your RV’s backup power source – its generator. Most RVs come with an onboard generator that can power your RV’s appliances and systems when shore power isn’t available. If you’re not sure how to operate your generator, consult your RV’s manual.
When using the generator, make sure you don’t overload it or run it for extended durations to avoid causing damage or creating a disturbance for other campers.
5. Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting tips listed above and still can’t get your RV’s shore power to work, it’s time to seek professional help. Contact an RV technician who can diagnose and fix the problem. Trying to resolve electrical issues in your RV by yourself can be dangerous, so it’s always best to call in the professionals.
It’s also essential to note that if you’re experiencing electrical problems beyond just one outlet or your RV is older, it may be indicative of a more significant underlying issue. In this case, it’s best to take your RV to a qualified technician for a thorough inspection.
Conclusion
When your RV’s shore power doesn’t work, it can be stressful, especially when you’re camping in an unfamiliar location. However, by following the troubleshooting tips outlined in this blog post, you can identify and resolve the issue quickly and efficiently.
Remember, your RV’s electrical system plays a significant role in the comfort and livability of your RV, so it’s essential to keep it in proper working order. If you encounter any issues with your RV’s power system, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.