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Quote: Originally posted by dib-dib-dib on 14/4/2010

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Once you have one of these EHU things can you plug any normal domestic appliance into it?

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Best practice is not to use any domestic appliance at all, just outdoor rated ones. This is because normal indoor domestic appliances are not designed to be used where they might get damp from condensation and leaks.

Everyone does, of course, so the decision is up to you. But you mustn't overload the EHU or you'll trip the campsite electrics. For a 10amp hookup (the commonest) you can't plug in more than 2300w in total. Remember too that some appliances, like microwaves, draw a surge of power when first switched on. Rule of thumb is one heating appliance (kettle, one electrical ring, toaster, bottom setting of fan heater) at a time, plus small stuff like chargers. Otherwise, click!

Quote: Originally posted by dadsbeaniemad on 14/4/2010

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If you have the proper ehu then it will only trip YOUR power at in your tent at your plug sockets. You just need to take out the plugs and reset the ehu and be more careful what you plug in all together.
Or at least that's what I thought the resaon for the RDC was.

Even if not then the site's electric should cut off at your hook up bollard and not trip the whole site.

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Oho, you can trip the site, no problem. (Was not me though!!) Seen it done. It just depends on how they wired it up. Older sites and particularly some of the more creative French wiring are particularly prone to this.

The RCD is for faults, power surges etc. It's to protect YOU. You can trip the box before it cuts out if a joint box is near its limit on the other EHUs, or if the campsite electrics are only set for 5 or 6amps.