turning off 50 amp service before plugging in

[KC Snellgrove]

GOOD DAY ALL. I am at my family's for the holidays. They have an RV space with 50 amp, although there is no off and on switch. What can happen if I plug in to this service without turning it off first? I know my nephew is going to ask me why I need a turn off/on switch. Please tell me whey this is important.

THANK YOU ALL, KC Snellgrove

[Bill Lampkin]

At the other end of the 50a hookup, at the main house breaker box, there better be a 50a breaker for that 50a RV hookup. Find the breaker and turn the circuit off there. Otherwize, I'd be cautious  about using the outlet.

[Jerry Emert]

Theoretically it should not matter.  Plugging in and removing plug will be hard on the actual prongs of the plug in the long run.  Your transfer switch has a delay (normally) so it will not apply power until delay is over.  When removing power be sure that the AC units and main breaker in the coach are turned off.  I would not sweat it once or twice just try not to make a habit of it.  Just one Man's opinion.

[Lee Welbanks]

I'm with Bill on this one, I would get out my meter and make sure that this 50 amp is wired correctly first thing, and there better be a breaker at the other end. If you don't have anything turned on its not really a big deal plugging into a hot circuit. You do it all the time with 120 volt plugs.