When you're out on the road in your RV, few things are as frustrating as losing power in your rig. From inconvenient to downright dangerous, electrical malfunctions in your RV can quickly put a damper on your long awaited trip. While there can be many causes for power loss, a common culprit is a tripped breaker. Whether you're a seasoned road warrior or new to the RV lifestyle, there's no denying that having some basic knowledge on resetting your RV breaker can be a real lifesaver. So, let's take a closer look at some tips that can help you confidently reset your RV breaker should the need arise!
Before you hit the road, take some time to familiarize yourself with the electrical system in your RV. Make sure you know where to locate the breaker box and the breakers themselves. Take note of the amperage the breaker you're dealing with is rated for, as this can help you to better understand what may have caused the breaker to trip in the first place.
A breaker is essentially a safety device that is designed to trip and shut off power in the event of a power surge or electrical overload. When a breaker trips, it's because something has caused the amperage to exceed the breaker's rating, thereby triggering the breaker to shut off the current flow. To reset the breaker, you'll need to locate the tripped breaker and flip it back to the "on" position. Note: It's important to address the issue that caused the breaker to trip in the first place or it could trip again.
If you've recently lost power and suspect a tripped breaker is to blame, resist the urge to immediately try to reset the breaker. Give it five to ten minutes to cool down first - especially if it tripped due to an overload. Attempting to reset a hot breaker can be dangerous and the breaker may not reset if still overheated.
When resetting an RV breaker, always take proper safety precautions. Make sure your hands are dry and avoid working on breakers with wet hands or standing in water. Additionally, wear rubber-soled shoes for insulation and use a non-conductive tool, like a wooden dowel, to flip the breaker back into the "on" position. If you're not comfortable resetting a breaker, don't hesitate to seek out the advice of a professional.
While resetting a tripped breaker can be an easy fix, don't wait too long to bring in a professional if you suspect anything beyond replacing a tripped breaker. If you smell burning plastic, experience repeated breaker trips or hear any odd noises, it's best to call a licensed electrician, as these could be signs of a more serious issue.
We hope this article helps demystify the process of resetting your RV breaker should the need arise. With a little knowledge and preparation, you can confidently take control of your electrical system, keep your RV powered up and ensure that your travels stay on track. Remember, if you're looking for a top-rated RV park in San Antonio, Texas, contact David's RV Park today for more reliable and affordable sites. Happy camping!