no hookups

[calanta]

Is it possible if you have a single family home that you can set an RV hookup yourself or is it best to hire a pro? We have family coming to visit (with an RV) and no hookups but we are thinking about setting this up as this time is not the first time its been an issue for visiting family.

[Lamebeaver]

If you're asking the question, then I would strongly encourage you to hire a professional.

[wvbreamfisherman]

Well most RV's can just use an extension cord and maybe a garden hose for water. No way to hook up the waste line unless you have a direct connection to your sewage system, like a clean-out.

Like Lamebeaver says, if you're not confident that you can do it right, then don't try it. At least ask someone with experience to lend you a hand.

[dinosaur]

If you want a hookup for an RV, your best bet is to use a dedicated circuit. You'll need to prewire an outdoor outlet and run it to your breaker box, then shut off your main and wire in a new breaker. I would suggest a 30 amp circuit. Some RV's draw considerable wattage.

[wvbreamfisherman]

Yeah- some RV's do use a good bit, especially when running the A/C (or in some cases, the forced-air furnace), microwave, big-screen TV, etc. etc..

Try to get an idea of the loading ahead of time. If it's just lights, and maybe a small electric space heater, a heavy duty extension cord is probably sufficient.

If you do use an extension cord check it at full draw to see if it's heating up. If it gets more than hand warm, it's likely close to overloaded. If it is, don't fool around- reduce the load at once!

Dino's advice about a heavy-duty dedicated circuit is the best way to roll if that's possible to accomplish in your time frame.

[Cappy]

Search ya personal network. Most every one knows an electrically know how person. I installed one my self but wouldn't recomend that to just anyone. Ya gotta add a breaker to ya breaker box, run wires from the breaker to ya desired location, then install a camper plug where ya want it. Years ago i installed 2 out door 20 amp weather proof plugs, and a 30 amp rv plug for a camper. I also purchased a 30 amp cord with 2 standard house hold recepticals on the other end. Comes in handy for christmas lights and guitar amps and such.

[Cappy]

Our lil 18 ft ultra light camper stays plugged in all the time. with a water hose. We use it lots for a guest house when we have company. We don't have sewer conection but usually go camping where there is a dump station often enough to keep the tanks from getting full. if they get full, no problem we have a state campground 30 minutes away. For 2$ Peg and I hook up head to the camp ground dump and are home for noon, if we don't decide to spend the night while we there.

[ppine]

To do it right you need a sub-panel with both a 30 amp and a 50 amp circuit. You may be able to splice into the existing septic system.

[ejdixon]

I'd go with hiring a professional. For me, there's just way too many things that can go wrong, and so many aspects to take into consideration.

[TroyS]

Originally Posted by wvbreamfisherman

Well most RV's can just use an extension cord and maybe a garden hose for water. No way to hook up the waste line unless you have a direct connection to your sewage system, like a clean-out.

Like Lamebeaver says, if you're not confident that you can do it right, then don't try it. At least ask someone with experience to lend you a hand.

I'd go with this. It's definitely going to come out more practical especially if you're just going to have this to entertain some guests for a while.