Considering wiring 50-Amp RV? This blog contains all you need to know, from the size of the wiring to a step-by-step guide on how to wire it.

What Size Cable For 50 Amp RV Plug?

For a 50 Amp RV plug, the appropriate size of the wire is 6 AWG copper and 4 AWG aluminum.

As for the size of the breaker, you should use a double-pole circuit breaker with a rating of 50 amperes. This breaker is commonly called a '50-amp double-pole circuit breaker.'

Is a 50 Amp RV Plug 220v?

A 50-amp RV plug in the United States typically operates at 220-240 volts. The standard 50 amp RV plug configuration, a 'NEMA 14-50' plug, provides 220-240 electrical power. This plug has four prongs and is commonly used for larger RVs requiring more electrical power for appliances and air conditioning units.

The two hot wires in a 50 amp RV plug each carry 110-120 volts of electricity, and when combined, they provide the necessary 220-240 volts. This voltage is suitable for running heavy-duty appliances and equipment within the RV.

Mind that while the voltage supplied by a 50 amp RV plug is similar to that of a residential 220-240V circuit, the wiring and connections are specific to RV electrical systems. This means the receptacle and plug configurations were designed to prevent accidental connection to household outlets. 

How To Wire a 50 Amp RV Plug?

Wiring a 50 amp RV plug requires careful attention to safety and adherence to electrical codes. Here are the steps to wire a 50-amp RV plug:

Required Materials and Tools

1. 50 amp RV receptacle (outlet)
2. 50 amp RV circuit breaker (double-pole)
3. Appropriate electrical wire (usually 6/3 or 8/3 stranded copper wire)
4. Electrical conduit (if required by local codes)
5. Wire connectors and electrical tape
6. Wire strippers, wire cutters, and screwdrivers
7. Voltage tester
8. Electrical junction box (if needed)

Instructions:

Ensure the power to the circuit you're working on is turned off at the main breaker panel. Verify there is no voltage at the location where you plan to install the RV receptacle using a voltage tester.

2. Select the Location

Choose a suitable location for the RV receptacle. In general, the location should be close to where you plan to park your RV. The site should also be easily accessible for plugging and unplugging the RV.

3. Install the RV Receptacle

• Mount the RV receptacle securely to a wall or post, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Connect the white wire (neutral) to the silver terminal screw on the receptacle.
• Connect the green wire (ground) to the green or bare terminal screw on the receptacle.
• Connect the black and red wires (hot) to the brass terminal screws on the receptacle. These are the two hot wires coming from your circuit breaker.

4. Install the Circuit Breaker

• Install a 50 amp double-pole circuit breaker in your main breaker panel.
• Connect the black and red wires to the circuit breaker terminals. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific breaker panel.
• Connect the white wire to the neutral bar.
• Connect the green wire to the grounding bar.

5. Run the Electrical Wire

• Run the appropriate gauge electrical wire (usually 6/3 or 8/3) from the circuit breaker panel to the RV receptacle location. Use electrical conduit if required by local codes.
• Leave enough slack at both ends to make connections comfortably.

6. Make Connections

• At the circuit breaker panel, connect the wires to the circuit breaker as described in step 4.
• At the RV receptacle, connect the wires to the receptacle as described in step 3.

7. Test the Wiring

• Turn the power back on at the main breaker panel.
• Use a voltage tester to ensure there is voltage at the RV receptacle.
• Check that the wiring is done correctly by testing the outlets in your RV.

8. Close Everything Up

• Secure the RV receptacle cover in place.
• Place the electrical junction box over the connections if needed for added protection.

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