External Electrical AC Outlets

[Parker Buckley]

I recently posted these questions as a follow-on to my topic on converting a window AC unit to sit outside the camper, but I don't think they were noticed. Besides, it's probably a more general question about external power connections. For those with exerternal AC units, or other external appliances, do you plug directly into the campsite outlet (maybe through a tee where the trailer line connects) or do you install an outlet on the outside of the trailer? What about a GFI? Do you count on the campsite having safe grounds, or do you install your own GFI unit? The Pet Cool unit I had with the teardrop used a simple grounded 110V plug, apparently not concerned with the elements. I suppose the best way would be to at least use an external outlet box with a rain cover. Of course if I run straight to the campsite outlet, that's usually covered. Comments appreciated.

[Steve L.]

My Casita came with an outside outlet on the door side. That outlet is wired into the distribution box in the trailer. What I have is one of those surge protector/GFI plugs I use at the end of my shore power cord that plugs into the power pole.

Surge/GFI

In the grand scheme of things I don't know what it's worth in terms of surge protection but it's my understanding that anything downstream from a GFI is protected.

[james kent]

After a battery charger had meltdown I carry one of those economical little outlet testers and check the campsite source before I plug in. I have found the camps wiring wrong on a couple of ocasions.
"Oh it's OK just go ahead and plug your trailer in.
Then You'll pay for any damage done to my trailer, Right?"
.
Now that you bring it to my attention, it would be a good idea to replace at least the original household type outlet on the outside where we connect a coffee maker or electric frypan with a GFI. BUT then I'm sitting on rubber tires, isolated from a true ground except for the camp ground. Mabee a surge protector would be better. I think I need an electrician.

[Parker Buckley]

Steve's surge protector/GFI unit looks attractive. I hadn't really considered the surge protection...I was more interested in protection from unsafe wiring (poor grounds) in the campsite. Also, just from a general point of view, whether or not people worry about having extension cords or external 110V connections using without some sort of weather protection. I think I'll at least get a GFI somewhere in the string. I don't want my (or anyone else's) body to provide the ground circuit for the air conditioner. Curious to see what other experiences may be.

Parker