RV has no electrical power when plugged into shore power

Symptoms

• Nothing electrical works after plugging into a campground outlet
• Breaker at the RV or the campground pedestal appears tripped
• Power worked at the last site but not this one

Likely causes

• CommonTripped breaker at the campground pedestalPedestal breakers can trip from overload or a fault and need to be reset, sometimes by campground staff.
• CommonTripped main breaker inside the RV's power panelThe RV's own main breaker can trip from an overload just like a pedestal breaker.
• PossibleFaulty shore power cord or connectionA damaged cord, bent prongs, or a loose connection at either end can prevent power from reaching the RV.
• PossibleCampground outlet itself is dead or wired incorrectlyEspecially at older campgrounds, an outlet can simply be non-functional or miswired.

What to do

1. Check the campground pedestal breaker for that specific site and reset it if it's tripped.
2. Check the RV's main breaker panel, usually inside a compartment or under a seat, for a tripped main breaker and reset it.
3. Inspect the shore power cord and plug for damage, bent prongs, or a loose connection at either end.
4. If you have a simple plug-in outlet tester or a multimeter, check the pedestal outlet for correct voltage before assuming the RV itself is at fault.
5. Try a different pedestal or outlet at the campground if available, to isolate whether the problem is the site's power or the RV.
6. If a breaker keeps tripping repeatedly, that suggests an overload or a fault in the RV's electrical system rather than a one-time trip, and should be looked at by a technician.

Tools and parts

• Multimeter or outlet tester
• Flashlight

When to call a pro

If breakers keep tripping or you suspect a wiring fault inside the RV, have an RV electrical technician diagnose it rather than continuing to reset breakers.

Safety