Note: This topic has been pinned as it's a subject that comes up often. If you have a question about EHU leads, sockets or connections please read through this thread first, then post on the end of it if necessary
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are they a bad idea or good. i have a proper one, but i know someone who wants to get in camping a bit on the cheap side
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1. the leads aren't long enough so could leave the rcd suspended in space putting strain on the connections.
2. The RCD would be left in the open IP55 ain't 'waterproof', could then get knocked kicked, chewed by a dog and become inoperable (much better in the tent).
3. The commando connection from this to your tent lead would be too exposed, not waterproof could then get knocked kicked, chewed by a dog and become inoperable (much better in the tent). Also prefer to see them angled downwards to defend against water ingress. I guess you could tie to the supply post or something.
4. 13 Amp socket distie in the tent may not have any water protection.
------------- A wise man learns from his own mistakes - a genius learns from the mistakes of others
Remember that saving a few pounds isn't worth it, especially if things go wrong and someone gets hurt!
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OR WORSE!
I think my views on these "lash ups" are well known by members who have been here a while.
Even the "propper" tent EHU's leave a lot to be desired but unless you are electricaly competent these would be your best bet.
As for IP ratings, you will find that most camp sites use BS4343 16Amp sockets which are IP44 rated, and that is outside the tent! BUT most of these instalations are mounted under hoods or angled down.
To be safe you would be recomended to look for an IP rating of at least IP55 or better.
Happy Camping Frank & Kathy
PLEASE get a proper RCD / breaker type Electric Hook Up as suggested in previous threads. This RCD unit may be OK for commercial use but NOT for normal use in a tent. As mentioned before, unless you are a fully qualified electrician, you may not be able to guarantee that your socket / plug arrangement inside your tent (assuming you are referring to tent use) are safe for damp conditions (yes, all tents get damp from time to time!).
Good luck - and be safe!
Rob
------------- The Sun always shines on TV.(and not on my caravan!)
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Yet another potential death trap on ebay!
'nuff said?
Happy camping Frank & Kathy
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RCD fast reacting, designed to trip before any major shock injury occurs, meaures the +ve and -ve, if unbalanced it trips
MCB replacement for a fuse in consumer units will accept a large currant for a short time before tripping, so main power isnt lost everytime say a fridge starts or TV turned on
Proper EHU are usually protected by both, ann MCB for the incoming power and an RCD for the sockets
Just to elaborate on what timtheenchanter has said...
The RCD is there to trip in case of any inbalance in the current flow. ie. A current flow to EARTH though a fault or a current flow to earth though YOU! and should trip within 40 milliseconds.
The MCB is there as an OVERLOAD device. It will trip on a current greater than it's rating. A 10amp mcb for example will trip at currents in excess of this BUT, NOT INSTANTLY!
Using any EHU without RCD protection is asking for trouble, it's an accident waiting to happen!
Bear in mind also, Most EHU's are supplied with 10Amp MCB's fitted as standard. Even if the site hook up states 16Amps the MCB in your EHU will limit your consumption to 10Amps Giving you a maximum power of 2300W.
Happy Camping Frank and Kathy
Hi, I'm looking at this EHU here: EHU at camping-online - and wondered if this would be reliable and ultimately safe enough?
I'm also a wee bit confused - does this then mean I can use things like a house kettle/mobile charger/tv/anything from home with it? I'm sorry, I'm still new and learning from you peeps all the time.
I'm also avoiding doing an essay so I'm net-shopping
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Topic: Electric hookup in tents and RCDs
