What is 30-Amp Service?
Standard RV electrical service providing 3,600 watts of power (30 amps × 120 volts), sufficient for most RVs and travel trailers with basic electrical needs.
Understanding 30-Amp Service
30-amp service can power:
- Standard RV air conditioning (one unit)
- Refrigerator and basic appliances
- Lighting and electronics
- Water heater (electric element)
- Basic electrical needs for comfortable RV living
30-amp service is not sufficient for:
- Large RVs with multiple air conditioning units
- RVs with extensive electrical appliances running simultaneously
- Properties requiring high-capacity electrical service
- RVs with electric heating systems as primary heat source
30-amp RV electrical connections use a specific plug type (NEMA TT-30R) with three prongs: two hot wires and one ground. RV parks provide 30-amp outlets at electrical pedestals, and RVs connect using a 30-amp power cord.
Most RV parks offer 30-amp service as the standard or base level, with 50-amp service available as an upgrade or at premium sites. Properties may offer both options, allowing guests to choose based on their RV's electrical requirements.
The installation cost for 30-amp service is lower than 50-amp service, making it a cost-effective choice for budget-friendly properties or as the standard offering. However, properties targeting larger RVs or premium markets may need to offer 50-amp service to remain competitive.
30-amp service is adequate for most RVers and represents the majority of electrical connections at RV parks. Properties offering only 30-amp service can still be successful, particularly if they target smaller RVs, travel trailers, and budget-conscious guests.
In feasibility studies and appraisals, 30-amp service represents a lower-cost electrical infrastructure option. While it may limit appeal to larger RVs, it's sufficient for most of the RV market and allows properties to offer competitive rates.
Sage Outdoor Advisory includes electrical service considerations in our RV park feasibility studies and appraisals, understanding how 30-amp versus 50-amp service affects development costs, market appeal, and property positioning.
Examples of 30-Amp Service
- •A budget-friendly RV park offers 30-amp service at all 80 sites, keeping electrical infrastructure costs at $1,800 per site versus $2,500 for 50-amp. The 30-amp service is sufficient for the target market (travel trailers and smaller RVs) and allows competitive $65/night rates.
- •An RV resort provides both 30-amp and 50-amp service options. 30-amp sites are priced at $80/night while 50-amp sites command $95/night. The 30-amp option accommodates smaller RVs and budget-conscious guests while 50-amp serves larger rigs and premium market.
- •A feasibility study evaluates electrical options: 30-amp service costs $1,800 per site and serves 70% of the RV market. 50-amp service costs $2,500 per site and serves 90% of the market. The analysis shows 30-amp is cost-effective for budget positioning, while 50-amp is necessary for premium markets.
Common Use Cases
- •Providing standard electrical service for most RVs
- •Keeping infrastructure costs lower for budget properties
- •Accommodating travel trailers and smaller RVs
- •Offering cost-effective electrical options
Related Services
Frequently Asked Questions About 30-Amp Service
What can 30-amp service power?
30-amp service (3,600 watts) can power standard RV air conditioning (one unit), refrigerator, basic appliances, lighting, electronics, and water heater. It's sufficient for most RVs and travel trailers but may not be enough for large RVs with multiple air conditioners or extensive electrical needs.
Is 30-amp service enough for my RV?
30-amp service is sufficient for most RVs, travel trailers, and smaller motorhomes. Large RVs with multiple air conditioning units, extensive appliances, or electric heating may require 50-amp service. Check your RV's electrical requirements to determine if 30-amp is adequate.
What's the difference between 30-amp and 50-amp service?
30-amp service provides 3,600 watts (sufficient for most RVs), while 50-amp service provides 12,000 watts (required for large RVs with multiple air conditioners). 50-amp costs more to install but enables premium rates and accommodates larger RVs.
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