Motorhome Holidays -Electric Connection
Posted on January, 2010
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION OF MOTORHOMES IN EUROPE
Campsite Electrical Connections it's worth remembering that many sites provide only a 6 amp supply, and some even less. This means that you can effectively use about 1200 watts at the best before the circuit breaker steps in to shut off your connection; so you will need to plan your electrical purchases like kettles and hair dryers, and even dare one mention it, a fan heater, with this in mind. (Fan heaters need a one and two kilowatt heat setting switch and a separate thermostat.) You should always remember that any coil of cable can act as a 'resistance' to the flow of current which is an invitation to the coil to heat up. This can be dangerous so remember not to coil up any surplus cable. It's safer to spread it out, and always remember not to touch or carry a live electrical connector or cable around when connecting or disconnecting on-site electrics. A few continental camp sites can have somewhat unorthodox connections with either positive earth or non standard voltages. (This is a polite way of saying be careful!) If you feel unsure about the safety of a particular connection it's probably a very good idea, if you feel able, to check it with a meter before connecting up. I can think of at least one site in Andorra where, having checked with a meter we opted to freeze for the night rather than risk the connection! If staying on a camp site where extra long cables are needed, it is possible, but not particularly desirable, to add extra sections of cable with the proper connections of course, but do remember to enclose them in either plastic bags and/or cling film and ensure that they will not be submerged in the event of heavy rain...
