The SmartPlug is one of the latest items we’ve found to help improve safety for RVers during their adventures. As an upgrade to your shore power system, it’s an essential safety measure.
However, like most gadgets, there are pros and cons to consider before investing your hard-earned money.
So, is the SmartPlug a wise decision for you and your camper?
Let’s look and see!
What Is an RV SmartPlug?
SmartPlug is a revolutionary shore power system for recreational vehicles, boats, and other specialty craft. The company launched in 2007 out of Seattle, Washington, and has grown tremendously. They’re 100 percent made in the USA and have an extensive lineup of products.
Their RV SmartPlug is one of their most popular innovations. It replaces the standard electrical inlet on an RV to create a more secure connection to an external source. They aim to eliminate fire risks on RVs and boats, often caused by faulty receptacles.
If you’ve never seen pictures of melted plugs and cables, join a large RV community online. Many users post about personal experiences with power failures each week.
Thankfully, you can rest easy with these devices installed in your rig.
About Traditional RV Twist Lock Plugs
The components used on traditional RV twist lock inlets first appeared in the late 1930s. Despite many technological advances, these are still frequently used in modern rigs.
Just about all manufacturers use the same style. Unfortunately, the design is far from perfect. The curved electrical pins provide minimal surface contact at the source. Poor connections reduce efficiency and generate heat, which could set your precious camper ablaze.
Additionally, the casing on standard RV plugs is prone to breaking. Damage can result in loose connections and expose it to the elements.
It’s also important to know that some outlets put tremendous stress on the tines. The weight of the cord can cause wear and tear, resulting in loosening contact over time.
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The Benefits of a SmartPlug
If you’ve experienced damage, you likely won’t need much convincing. However, if you haven’t, there are many reasons to consider upgrading to a SmartPlug.
To begin with, the straight-pin system is self-cleaning and provides 27 times more metal-to-metal contact between the pin and clip. This feature reduces the amount of resistance encountered by electrical current. As a result, this lowers the amount of heat generated, which keeps you and your camper safe.
In addition, the waterproof design comes with an IP65 rating. You won’t have to worry about dust, water, and other gunk getting into your connection and eventually causing problems.
Another upgrade is the cord’s flexibility. If you’ve never had to wrangle a standard power cable during cold weather, it’s not easy. The wiring and rubber stiffen, making it very difficult to put into storage. However, SmartPlug’s new design claims to be the most flexible in the industry, even at freezing temperatures.
While these are all reasons to consider upgrading, the most significant benefit is peace of mind.
The damage created by a fire can be devastating. If one erupts, it could rip through your rig in minutes. For many, this is reason enough to make a change.
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The Disadvantages of a SmartPlug
Before you punch in your credit card information and order a SmartPlug, you must consider the disadvantages. While there aren’t many, there are a few.
Using the device will require you to swap out the former receptacle and install the new one. For some people, the idea of working with electricity is terrifying. It may even cause them to stick with the same old outlet despite knowing the potential dangers.
Additionally, you need to know that you’ll either need to buy a new cable or modify your existing one. Since you’re replacing the inlet, your original will no longer be compatible.
As you might expect, a premium product that enhances safety won’t be cheap. The 30-Amp and 50-Amp connection adapters are around $100 to $120. In addition, the mounts are approximately $120 to $160. If you play it safe and buy their power cord, they can cost $280 to more than $500.
Like we said, it’s expensive.
Price Check: 50-Amp SmartPlug and 30-Amp SmartPlug
Can a SmartPlug Really Save Your Life?
Several times each year, we see RVers posting about their burned plugs. It’s far too familiar and can happen to just about anyone. When disaster strikes, the best-case scenario is that you’re replacing your power cable or the inlet on your camper.
Unfortunately, the worst case is your entire RV goes up in flames.
Summer and winter are the most common seasons for these deadly incidents. Users often are running multiple air conditioners or sources. These appliances draw a tremendous amount of current. If you don’t have a solid connection, this can generate enough heat to ignite a fire.
Like smoke detectors, seat belts, and helmets, you only fully appreciate the benefits once they save your life. RV fires are serious and can spread very quickly.
Is an RV SmartPlug Worth It?
When it comes to keeping you, your loved ones, and your RV safe, the SmartPlug is an excellent choice. Knowing that you’re getting a solid connection between your shore power cable and the inlet every time is reassuring.
As we often say, it’s better to be safe than sorry in these situations. Spending a few bucks now is better than replacing your RV or experiencing a tragedy.
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