What Is the Difference Between 30 Amp RV and 50 Amp RV?

Setting off the open road in your RV reveals a world of adventures, but knowing how to grasp the electrical intricacies, will definitely make you a master. The variation in the 30 Amp and the 50 Amp RV systems is more than the mere numbers.

A 30 Amp RV system is standard and works well for smaller recreational vehicles with a capacity of 3,600 watts. Meanwhile, a 50 Amp RV system offers a high 12,000 watts ideal for big motorhomes with various appliances. This blog discusses these electrical configurations, unveiling their use, compatibility, and most essentially, how RV enthusiasts can choose the best power solution.

What is 30-Amp versus 50-Amp Service?

The amp service of your RV, 30 or 50 amps, is a vital parameter that limits the amount of current your unit can safely accept. Imagine it as the customized electrical capacity for your RV. Stepping outside this limit is trouble – prepare to receive a tripped breaker or a blown fuse, destroying on-the-road comfort. This 30 amp RV is designed to smoothly accommodate up to 30 amps of current flow and thus ideal for smaller setups. On the other hand, a 50-amp RV flexes its electrical muscles, built to integrate 50 amperes, perfect for bigger motorhomes armed with an army of energy-hungry appliances. In this regard, knowledge of such electrical thresholds provides for a seamless and uninterrupted trip through the RV highway.

Key Difference Between 30 Amp and 50 Amp RV

Power Disparity: 50 Amp 3X more powerful than 30 Amp

50-amp RVs deliver a power shot that is nearly three times as potent as that of the 30-amp counterpart. Even though the number is negligible, the game-changer is measured in watts – 30-amp RVs get 3,600 watts, whereas 50-amp RVs have 12,000 watts. This spike in power is due to the 50-amp plug’s design with 4 prongs that deliver 50 amps on two prongs. On the other hand, the 30-amp plug has only one prong for power and illustrates the significant disparity in delivery of power systems.

Maximum Appliance Versatility

Besides wattage, the appliance game defines 30-amp and 50-amp RVs. One air conditioner and a microwave place a heavy burden on a 30 amp. On the other hand, the 50-amp system takes on two air conditioners, a microwave, a washer or dryer, and a TV at the same time with no tripping breaker issues. It’s not only power, it’s also the independence to enjoy numerous comforts on the road without sacrifice.

Different Power Centres

In the electrical sphere of RVs, a 50 amp setup has two 50 amp circuit breakers, one per circuit. As a result, several appliances can run at the same time, for instance, two air conditioners on dedicated breakers prevent time out of washing machines or microwaves with their own circuits. Flipping to the opposite side, if we consider a 30-amp RV, we have a single 30-amp circuit breaker powering all appliances.

Outlets 

The outlet wiring is another significant difference. There will be fewer outlets on a 30 amp trailer than on a 50 amp one. Even if you were to change your 30 amp trailer to 50 amps, the total amount of electricity that can flow through the outlets is restricted. To bypass this, you would have to add additional outlets that would be on their own circuit.

Average Current Consumption Of Major Equipment In RV

The average consumption for any major equipment in an RV largely depends on the type of equipment used, its size, and what else the RV, in general, requires. Here are approximate values for common RV equipment:

Additionally, the efficiency of appliances, usage patterns, and whether the RV is equipped with solar panels or generators can impact overall power consumption. For precise information on the power of every equipment in your RV, make sure to always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications.

30 Amp vs 50 Amp Service and Generator Use

If there is an onboard generator or a portable generator, the amperage rating of the generator should be evaluated in the RV kit. When used in a generator, however, the amount of amperage that can be delivered by the appliances may be different from that which can be delivered from a power pedestal. Consider a 50-amp regular-size RV with a 5.5kw generator capable of providing about 45.83 amps (5500 watts/120 volts = 45.83 amps). A 30 amp RV with a generator will provide less available amp. The understanding of these differences is essential when boondocking or when relying on your generator between campgrounds to ensure smooth, customized power for your RV’s needs.

30 Amp vs 50 Amp Electrical Adapters

It is also useful to learn that electrical adapters allow for bridging a gap between a 30 amp RV and a 50 amp pedestal or vice versa. Nevertheless, there are several substantial limitations as one should bear in mind. An adapter is meant to be a circuit protector only so, if you have a 30-amp RV that is connected to a 50-amp pedestal, don’t anticipate more than the usual 3,600 watts it is designed for. Just as, when you are in a 50 amp RV plugging into a 30 amp service with the means of an adapter, 3600 watts are the highest you can be. Thus, adaptors do provide flexibility, but it is essential that you stay within your power boundaries for an optimum and safe electrical experience.

Is It Necessary to Buy a Solar Generator for an RV? 

Yes, using a solar generator for your RV is definitely an option although you should take into account how much power is typically being used in your RV. It can be used as a backup generator and is easy to carry when traveling, saving some money. Find the right-sized generator, and ensure that your solar generator charges fast enough to overcome RV equipment power consumption. Let us recommend the finest of BLUETTI generators to power your RV:

BLUETTI AC180 + PV350

The BLUETTI AC180 is an all-in-one power station especially designed for RVs, that has a powerful capacity and steady output indoors and outdoors. It is perfect for mobile use because of its super-fast charging and portability. This model offers as high as 2,700W output, suitable for powering large gadgets such as space heaters or electric kettles which are run on high power. Additionally, off-grid purposes or on the road can be used for charging having various types of outputs such as AC, USB, DC, and wireless charging essentials. It can be combined with the BLUETTI PV350 solar panel to provide an unlimited supply of solar energy, ensuring a constant power supply for your RV while you’re enjoying nature outside. With safety options such as the LiFePO4 battery system and a 5-year guarantee, there is no doubt that you will feel safer charging your RV with the BLUETTI AC180.

BLUETTI AC200P + 3*PV200

The BLUETTI AC200P, a solar generator that boasts a capacity of an impressive 2000Wh, is a mammoth system; ideal for recharging an RV while camping. The battery (used on this product) is a durable Lithium Iron Phosphate that runs for about 10 years delivering uninterrupted power for several trips. Saving you from last-minute hassle when you step out for that important meeting or for college weigh in the best for all your gadgets, you have as many as USB-A, USB-C, cigarette lighter, DC, and RV ports, plus a wireless charger. When paired with the BLUETTI PV200 solar panel, it captures up to 23.4% of the light available and makes sure your RV is always in light even under the rain — this is a power station that is easy to set up for outdoor use and can withstand the rough weather of camping to make sure to always have steady power. 

Final Thoughts

Whether a 30 amp RV or a 50 amp RV is chosen depends on power requirements. A 30-amp RV is used for setups that are smaller and a 50-amp RV is for larger rigs with numerous appliances. The difference is in electrical capacity; 30 amp is restricted while 50 amp is more powerful. This knowledge ensures that you have your RV’s electrical configuration tailored to your camping style, which will contribute to great convenience and comfort on the highway.