Traveling around in an RV and camping in different locations can be an unforgettable experience. But, to have fun, you must manage your expectations and take each day as it comes. That’s because a lot can go wrong, while you are out in the wild. The electric system could fail, the blackwater drainage system could malfunction, and the gas stove could stop working.
So, for starters, you have to be very good at fixing things, performing DIY repairs, and whatnot. We are not saying you have to be the jack of all trades, but having basic knowledge about the essential systems on an RV can enhance your experience.
Take the electrical system as an example, and you will find that it is necessary for your comfort. You can’t last a few days without electricity because it powers the various appliances inside your recreational vehicle. So, if you don’t know your way around electricity and electric components, you better start learning now!
RVs depend on electricity and that’s why on camping grounds you can find generators or power pedestals. Sometimes you can also find a 50-amp or 30-amp service to plug your RV directly into the power supply.
But to access that, you will need a 50 amp plug or outlet. Today we are going to teach you how to wire a 50 amp plug for your RV. So that you face no problems when parking at a campground with 50 amp outlets.
Tools Required
Before we go further, you need to grab the tools necessary for the DIY job. After all, you cannot proceed without them. So, here is what you will need:
Wiring Process
Check diagram:
Great! You have done it! But before you can begin plugging in appliances to the sockets, it is best to check the voltage coming through the system.
For that, you will need a voltmeter. Once you have it, you can connect the probes to either end and check the voltage. It should be between 110V to 120V. If the reading is skewed, you must have done something wrong in the wiring process.

Safety Tips
Working with electrical components is a dangerous job, which should only be attempted by professionals. So, if you have any doubts about working on the electrical system, it is best to trust an electrician to do the job for you.
But if you have the knowledge and experience, and you want to do the wiring yourself, you should follow these tips:
- You should follow the National Electrical Code at all times because it teaches you the safety methods necessary for dealing with high-voltage breakers.
- Do not confuse 14-50R outlets with a 240V outlet. Both have different functions. The 14-50R provides power to 110V sources. Whereas, the 220V outlet is the other way around.
- Most RVs have 110V outlets, which means you can’t plug 220V appliances directly into the sockets. You will need a converter to help you on this end. Some people who are inexperienced with RVs do not know this information, and they end up destroying their gadgets.
- Make sure you follow the instructions to the tee because a lapse in wiring could lead to a very disastrous outcome.
Conclusion
The six easy-to-follow steps should help you wire a 50 amp plug in an RV. If you are still unsure and confused, you can look at the countless videos on YouTube to help you out or visit a professional for help. After all, dealing with electrical components is serious business, and it should not be taken lightly.
FAQs
How Many Volts Does a 50 Amp Service RV Support?
A 50-amp service RV typically supports 120 volts. This means that the power available is double the amount of a standard 30-amp plug, allowing for greater electrical needs such as air conditioning, water heaters and other large appliances. The total wattage for a 50-amp service is 12,500 watts (120 x 104 = 12,480).
What Kind of Wire Do You Need for 50 Amps?
When wiring a 50-amp circuit, it is important to use the correct type of wire. In this case, you should use 6 gauge copper wire (6 AWG), which is rated for up to 50 amps. The National Electrical Code (NEC) dictates that any electrical circuit must be wired with the correct size and type of wire in order to ensure safety. Additionally, when running a 50 amp circuit, two hot wires plus one ground wire will be needed. This is due to the higher electricity requirements of the 50-amp plug and its ability to provide more power than a 30-amp plug.
Citations
https://www.rv.net/forum/index.cfm/fuseaction/thread/tid/1294528/print/true.cfm
https://www.rvforum.net/threads/50-amp-power-cord-question.22074/
https://www.forestriverforums.com/forums/f218/50-amp-rv-wiring-113337.html
https://koa.com/blog/30-vs-50-amp-rv-service/
https://www.thorforums.com/forums/f8/what-voltage-50-amp-service-20414-3.html
https://www.myrv.us/electric/Pg/50amp_Service.htm
https://manuals.heartlandowners.org/manuals/Electrical/Basic%20Electrical%20Info/Understanding%2050%20Amp%20Shore%20Power%20System.pdf
https://www.totalhomesupply.com/wires-and-circuit-breakers
Ever since I was a kid, I've been fascinated by travel. I inherited this passion from my parents. Since my college years and to this day, I have had a passion for traveling in a motorhome. I am here to share my experiences with you.