Experienced RV travelers know that many RV parks struggle to provide electricity during very hot conditions. Timber Valley is no different. During the recent heat wave, an “Alert Sense” message asked you to run only 1 Air Conditioner. However there is more you can do to help!
Having a Washer/Dryer in your RV is a great convenience, but it can draw as much electricity as an Air Conditioner! Running both at the same time as 1 Air Conditioner is like using 2 Air Conditioners. Consider using the Washer/Dryer only in the cool morning.
The electrical element on Gas/Electric water heater and RV style refrigerators also use as much electricity as an Air Conditioner. Consider switching them to gas mode in high heat conditions. Convection ovens? WOW….MORE than an Air Conditioner.
If you are unsure how to run RV appliances on gas, please don’t do it until you get help from your favorite repair person.
The following chart shows the electrical “amp” draw of common electrical appliances. Consider how you can help keep our electricity “flowing” in high heat conditions. Dirty or poorly maintained air conditioners draw more “amps” than shown.
| Air conditioner | 13 | Iron | 8 |
| Coffee maker | 12 | Microwave | 8 |
| Convection | 15 | Refrigerator | 3.5 |
| Converter (charging) | 8 | Space heater (1600 watts) | 13 |
| Computer | 2 | Space heater (800 watts) | 6.5 |
| Curling iron | 0.7 | TV | .5-1.0 |
| Electric blanket | 2 | VCR | 0.2 |
| Hair dryer (1500 watts) | 13 | Washer/dryer | 13 |
| Hair dryer (400 watts) | 3.5 | Water heater (electric) | 12 |
We all share in controlling our electrical energy use when these very high temperatures strain our Park electrical system.
Thanks for your cooperation!
The PCM Committee
