Electrical questions

[Darrell Terry]

Recently stayed at RV Park in Montana, upon arrival found 118/119 voltage on 50 amp plug.
After one hour my Progressive surge protector shut down. Found 118/134 voltage. There was an electrician onsite who stated that electrical system was old and this was common occurrence in the morning and evenings.
I chose to leave and move another Park.

1) Is it likely to damage equipment with that discrepancy in leg voltage ?
2) Had I switched to 30 amp plug would the voltage discrepancy also be a problem ?

3) At another Park in MT I found 108/118 on 50 amp plug. I stayed the night then moved to another Park.

4) Which is worse,  Low voltage or High voltage ?  Was I smart in leaving both Parks or could I have stayed without causing damage ?


Thanks in advance for responses,
Darrell

[Jerry Emert]

Not an expert by any means but I remember back in my electronic training days that the actual standard in the US is 120 VAC plus or minus 10%.  That is also what I've read most surge protectors that protect against over/under voltage use as a guideline.  Personally I might do what you did just being over protective even though 108-132 VAC should be in the range of acceptable values.  I once had 5K+ damage done to my coach by a miswired shore power so I understand you leaving.
Jerry

[Edward Buker]

The standard is 110 to 124V at the post which allows for some drop in the "house wiring" in the coach. Because each leg is independent and no feature in the coach uses both sides of the 240V feed at the same time the voltage offset between the two legs is not important. You are measuring neutral to a hot line. The 110V minimum with air on is probably the most important requirement and shedding load should be considered if any lower voltage is observed. Electronics may be of concern if the supply voltage is above 124V, maybe at 126V I would consider taking steps to isolate electronics. Going to a 30 amp source may solve your problem if you manage the load and one of the legs voltage range is in spec on the 30amp supply source.

Later, Ed