Checking pedestals

[NCFischers]

There is a new topic on the home page on how to test the power pedestals at campgrounds before plugging in your camper. I'd like to thank H.John Kohl and Glenn Adams for helping me get this topic posted on the forum. I hope this will be helpful.

[greener]

Thank you Jim. That is very helpful for us electrically challenged campers.

[Glenn and Lorraine]

You are Welcome.

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Thank You.

[dsprik]

Thanks, Jim! Great post/article. I printed that post off before you edited it. I will re-print and put it in my Montana so I have it.

Actually, I am just starting to become comfortable with electricity through many of your and others posts here.

JUST KIDDING! I was told by an electrician once that if you ever become comfortable around electricity to stay far away from him...

[bncinwv]

Jim,
The information is useful, however, we must always be reminded that electricity must be handled with safety foremost in mind!!! My suggestion is to preface your article with a much more tersely worded warning about the perils of electricity and the dangers of even touching the wrong place at the wrong time!!! Some people have no business even attempting the simpler things without a full understanding and acceptance of the dangers that are always present. If anyone has any qualms, confusion or uneasiness about any of the procedures listed, please, please contact a professional!!!!
Bingo

[beakyfudd]

I was doing some checking into buying a suge protector, and found that many have an indicator built-in to check polarity. Sure seems like a wise investment.

[sreigle]

That is a very fine article. Well written and easy to understand and follow.

I have just one question - if the pedestal outlet has a short to ground or open ground, how do I tell that with the multimeter? I'm not questioning whether it does that, just how I know. Thanks.

[richfaa]

We hook up our PT-50C to the pedestal first and let it check the pedestal before we attach the camper to it. It has found several problems at the pedestal the most common low voltage on one or the other leg or open ground.

[NCFischers]

Dave,
I agree with your electrician friend. Respect is what is needed when dealing with electricity, then you can gain confidance.

Steve,
If the pedestal has an open ground, You will not get a voltage reading when testing between the ground and the hot leg(s).

Bingo,
I tried to make the test as user friendly as possible but if someone is still afraid enough of electricity to be hesitant doing this test then ask someone at a rally or campground that is confidant with performing the test to help.

Jim,
A surge protector should be a must for all trailers regardless. Testing the pedestal before plugging in will tell me if I am about to use a power source that has a problem. Then I can move to another site.

If anyone is still afraid to test the pedestal with a multimeter, the PT-50C that Rich has will tell you what you want to know.

Jim