LED Reverse Polarity Indicating System for Optimal Safety SmartPlug April 27, 2022 6:00 am Reverse Polarity occurs when the neutral or ground wire is connected to the hot terminal in error. RV’ers typically aren’t aware of this dangerous situation Last summer we announced that all our RV cordsets now come equipped with anintegrated LED reverse polarity indicating system. This important safety feature protects owners and RVs against improperly wired campground power pedestals and conforms with 2020 NFPA 70® Standard 551.40(D). What is Reverse Polarity? Reverse Polarity occurs when the neutral or ground wire is connected to the hot terminal in error. RV’ers typically aren’t aware of this dangerous situation when plugging their camper, trailer, or motorhome into a campground pedestal. While the power may appear to function normally, indicating that all is well, there is a serious potential risk of electric shock or a short circuit that could damage valuable electrical components. Similar to a residential plug testing tool, this enhanced SmartPlug technology has an easy-to-use color LED display. Know instantly if the power from the campground is flowing correctly with a blue LED. If the ground wire is swapped in a reverse polarity condition, a red light will glow. Likewise, if the neutral wire is swapped, both the red and blue lights will illuminate. If there’s no power at all, the LEDs will not light. RV owners can then notify campground staff of the problem. SmartPlug provides the LED reverse polarity indicating system on its 30A and 50A cordsets in 25′ and 50′ lengths and is available in orange and white. “Protecting people has always been at the forefront of everything we do at SmartPlug Systems,” said company CEO Tony Barber. “The SmartPlug is the safest RV shore power plug on the market and we’re pleased to enhance it with the reverse polarity feature.” Before you head out on your next RV camping adventure, shop our complete lineup of RV products here: https://smartplug.com/product-category/rv/. If you have questions or would like more information on our RV product line or reverse polarity, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Travel with peace of mind and enjoy your trip!
Why Does SmartPlug Use 316 Stainless Steel?
Why Does SmartPlug Use 316 Stainless Steel? SmartPlug April 8, 2022 12:45 pm Why is 316 Stainless Steel used on SmartPlug products and not the commonly used 304 Stainless Steel? Find out in this blog. Why is 316 Stainless Steel used on SmartPlug products and not the commonly used 304 Stainless Steel? It’s simple – it’s the best choice for our products and here’s why: It’s more heat resistant with the molybdenum element in the 316 Stainless Steel option, helping resist corrosion to chlorides such saltwater and de-icing salts. The components of 316 and 304 Stainless Steel Compared – 304 contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel while 316 contains 16% chromium, 10% nickel, and 2% molybdenum. Because our products are used in the outdoors, they must be safeguarded from weather elements and unnecessary damage from corrosion, which in turn increases the product’s lifespan. SmartPlug Materials – As detailed above, all external metals are Marine-Grade 316 Stainless Steel, the electrical pins are nickel-plated brass for maximum conductivity, and plastics are UV and heat-resistant Valox 553U resins. SmartPlug offers you power delivery that is safer, more secure, and easier to use than the rest. All proudly made right here in the USA, we strongly believe in our products and think you will too. Discover more about our product lineup here: https://smartplug.com/ or contact us at 206-285-2990 with any questions.
A Comprehensive RV Camping Checklist
A Comprehensive RV Camping Checklist SmartPlug March 10, 2022 7:00 am An RV adventure this spring or summer is the ideal way to spend time with family & friends. Review this comprehensive RV camping checklist For the avid RV’ers, an RV adventure this spring or summer is the ideal way to spend time with family and friends. We’ve compiled a comprehensive RV camping checklist you’ll want to review to successfully prepare and pack before heading out. Inspect the Outside of Your RV – First, inspect the outside of the RV for any potential hazards. The outside can be broken down into a few specific areas you should focus on to give it a thorough inspection. Tires – Your home away from home relies on the sturdiness of the RV’s wheels, therefore it’s extremely important. Look for wear and tear, check the air pressure, and fully replace tires every five to ten years. Engine – Start by evaluating all fluid levels and make sure they are fresh and topped off. The transmission, power steering, engine coolant, engine oil, windshield washer, brake fluid, and generator oil are the key areas. Low fluids could indicate a leak that you’ll want to address. Gauges, lights on the trailer, and the connections between your RV and the trailer should all be in working order. Water Tank – Flush the RV’s water tank for optimal operation, which does take a bit of time, but should be handled before leaving on a trip, especially if the RV has sat idle for a length of time. Next, check for any leaks and then take the opportunity to sanitize the water system. Plenty of instructional videos exists to show you the steps to flush and sanitize properly. Propane – If your RV uses propane (also called LP gas) you should check the tanks, the connections, the valve, and the firing operation. Propane often operates the hot water, the fridge, and the stove and it’s recommended to have a leak test and gas pressure test conducted each year. Batteries – Make sure they’re fully charged, have the correct water levels, and are connected correctly. Inspect the Inside of Your RV – Next, you’ll want to verify the following devices are working properly and are charged and ready. Smoke Detector Carbon Monoxide Detector LP Gas Leak Detector Fire Extinguisher Appliances Along with having our SmartPlug power delivery product installed on your RV, these devices are essential to keep you and your family safe in the unfortunate event a fire or leak occurs. Paperwork – Is your insurance, registration, and vehicle emission sticker up to date? If not, don’t leave home before taking care of these important details. We can’t stress the importance of inspecting the major elements of your RV’s system. If you are unable to do the work yourself, hire a professional RV technician. As far as a camping packing list goes, we’ve broken it down to a few categories: Emergency Road Kit – Your emergency kit should be equipped with jumper cables, a reflective safety vest, a flashlight, warning triangle, pocketknife, and first aid gear. While we hope your RV adventure is free from accidents and emergencies, at least you’ll have your kit just in case. Portable Generator – Being stuck without power can certainly put a damper on a relaxing camping trip. It’s best to be prepared with a small portable generator so you have backup power whenever you need it. Leveling Blocks – Who wants to sleep on a crooked bed?! Leveling blocks are one of those items you won’t always need but are always great to have. These compact “blocks” level out your wheels on uneven terrain. While you may not need these on every trip, they are easy enough to store and you’ll be thankful in the event you do need them. Clothing – Pack enough clothing to last the duration of your trip, especially if your camper doesn’t have a washer/dryer hookup. Check the weather ahead of time and always pack warmer clothing even in the summer months if your camping destination temperatures tend to dip when the sun goes down. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must. Linens and Toiletries – More than likely your RV is already set up with sheets, blankets, pillows, etc. but do a double check that you have everything you need for a good night’s sleep. Make sure the bathroom is supplied with towels, toilet paper, shampoo/conditioner, body soap, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, and anything you might need to freshen up after a day spent outdoors. Food, Beverages, and Kitchen Supplies – Along with fresh ingredients, equip your RV with nonperishable foods in the case of an emergency or power outage. Your RV kitchen is likely set up with some kitchen essentials like plates, cutlery, and pots and pans. For convenience, consider adding paper plates, paper towels, plastic silverware, and plastic cups to your list, and confirm that you have enough trash bags and aluminum foil for potential campfire meals, along with your grilling utensils. Don’t forget everyone’s favorite beverages and a small cooler for when you’re spending more time outside. Add s’mores ingredients to your list now and your travel companions will thank you later. Electronics – Even while enjoying the great outdoors, it’s still ideal to have a fully charged cell phone for safety purposes. Don’t forget your phone chargers and invest in a portable battery backup – Charge it fully before you hit the hiking trails so you’re assured your phone battery will last all day. Family Entertainment Items – A camping trip is the best time to cozy up by the fire with your family. Decide whether to purchase firewood in advance or gather it from nearby woods, and don’t forget a lighter and a few collapsible camping chairs. Pack a few interactive items such as playing cards, board games, football, frisbee, and fishing gear. Have everyone select a book or two for some quiet time and relaxation. Miscellaneous – Any medications, bug spray, sunscreen, pet food/supplies, and anything unique to your family’s needs should also be included on your RV checklist.
An Overview of SmartPlug – An Upgrade to 80-Year-Old Technology
An Overview of SmartPlug – An Upgrade to 80-Year-Old Technology SmartPlug March 4, 2022 6:13 pm Ron Bailey, VP of Global Sales & Marketing, showcases our SmartPlug products and how their ergonomic design help prevent potential fire hazards. If you’re just beginning your research on shore power systems for your boat, consider upgrading to SmartPlug technology. Ron Bailey, VP of Global Sales & Marketing, showcases our SmartPlug products and how their ergonomic design help prevent potential fire hazards. Four points of contact “ensure that connection at the side of the boat with power is safe, secure, and simple.” Watch the video linked below to discover more! We also have a complete lineup of products for RV’s as well as specialty vehicles so be sure to visit our website https://sp2024.10web.cloud/ to encounter all that we have to offer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHOmBV4js_E
RV Dealership Loses Nearly 100 RVs in Fire
RV Dealership Loses Nearly 100 RVs in Fire SmartPlug February 10, 2022 7:00 am An estimated 400 to 500 RVs, 100 of them were completely destroyed with many others extensively damaged, resulting in millions in damages. A few months back a fire broke out at Fraserway RV located less than five miles north of the Canadian-U.S. border in Abbotsford, British Columbia. A large sales lot with an estimated 400 to 500 RVs, 100 of them were completely destroyed with many others extensively damaged, resulting in millions in damages. The original article states, “Officials are unclear as to what exactly started the fire. However, there’s a good chance it resulted from an electrical failure in one of the RVs. With the RVs packed so tightly together, a fire in a single RV would quickly spread in a domino-like path. It’s a real challenge to stop a fire like that once it gets going. Electrical fires are common occurrences in RVs, especially as wires and sensitive components corrode from moisture or water damage.” Recent flooding in the area made it even more difficult for the approximately 40 firefighters who battled the fire, having to navigate around high-voltage power lines over the lot. Video Captures the Devastation a Fire can Cause an RV Dealership or Campground in a Matter of Minutes. Read the entire Drivin’ & Vibin’ article here. There are a few ways to prevent RV fires, especially in colder months. Check wiring and electrical components regularly for any signs of destruction by rodents or water damage and beware of space heaters and portable heaters that produce massive amounts of energy that can push electrical wiring and components to their limits. Invest in RV technology that will keep your RV safe and secure! SmartPlug’s revolutionary shore power system design replaces the outdated and problematic twist-type design still in use today and provides greater protection against loose connections and corrosion – the leading causes of shore power failure and fires. SmartPlug technology helps keep your RV from overheating and potential fires with high-performance/flame-resistant materials. Our customers enjoy the fact our plugs are easy to use – no twisting required. The unique plug body shape and push-in design mean it only goes in the right way every time-even in the dark! Before you head out on your next adventure, equip your RV with SmartPlug. Shop our complete lineup of RV products here: https://smartplug.com/product-category/rv/. If you have questions or would like more information on our RV product line, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Travel with peace of mind and enjoy where the road takes you!
Tips for Boating Safely During the Winter Months
Tips for Boating Safely During the Winter Months SmartPlug February 3, 2022 7:00 am Venturing out on the water soon? Be sure to review our eight tips for boating safely during the winter months. Even though boating during the warmer months is more popular, plenty of people enjoy getting out during the winter as well. However, the cooler temperatures leave more to prepare for. Venturing out on the water soon? Be sure to review our eight tips for boating safely during the winter months. Tip 1 – Prepare Your Boat Equipment and Supplies – First, check the weather! It seems so obvious, but many people fail to look ahead and only base their decision to boat on the current weather.Next, check your boat’s fuel level, batteries, life jackets, and make sure your phone’s charged and you have a portable phone charger. Fuel stations may have shorter hours during the off-season, so make sure you get on the water early enough to fuel up. Think to gather up and check all equipment and devices that will help keep you safe. Tip 2 – Consider an Additional Heat Source – While it’s not necessary, if your boat has a cabin, portable cabin heaters can make winter boating much more comfortable. There are many options for heaters that use fuel or work off your boat’s electrical system, but beware, they can drain the fuel and/or batteries. Monitor energy use and cycle the heater on and off to conserve resources. Tip 3 – Dress for the Water and the Air – You may be inclined to layer up with bulky clothing for warmth, but instead opt for thinner clothing layers. Wear quick-drying synthetics or wool instead of cotton. If the unthinkable happens and you end up in the water, what you’re wearing could become a matter of life and death. You certainly don’t want heavy clothing items weighing you down and not drying out quickly. Become familiar with the symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite to ensure you’re taking all precautions to prevent them. Tip 4 – Protect Your Hands, Feet, Eyes, and Head – Focus on these 4 areas of your body for optimal warmth. Neoprene gloves are an excellent option for the protection of your hands. Choose boots that are waterproof with non-slip treads and well insulated. Wear wool socks and change them often when staying out for long periods. The winter sun can be blinding, and the winter wind can cause your eyes to water uncontrollably. Ski goggles are an excellent choice for eye protection. They are designed for winter conditions and offer protection for a larger area of your face. Most of your body heat however is lost from your head. To keep your head warm, you should wear a lined hat that will retain heat. Tip 5 – Pack Plenty of Food, Water and Avoid Alcohol – You will want to stay hydrated and have meals and snacks prepared for how long you plan to be out on the water. Pack extra in the event you break down or are out longer than expected. Consider a thermos with broth or soup to keep warm. Your body expends more energy in the cold, so make sure you have adequate calorie intake. Always Avoid alcohol while boating. Not only does it impair your judgment and reaction time, but it’s also a diuretic and can lead to dehydration if you’re not drinking enough water. Tip 6 – Keep Travel Distances Short – When the sun sets earlier and the air gets colder quicker, shorter boat trips are suggested in the winter. Most people aim to be in by sunset, but if you must be out at night, make sure you are prepared for the colder air and nighttime conditions. Verify your searchlight is equipped with extra batteries. Tip 7 – Don’t Go Alone. Should the boat break down or someone goes overboard, it’s recommended to go boating with at least one other person. The second person is there to lend a hand and could potentially help save the other person’s life, depending on the severity of the situation. Tip 8 – Upgrade to SmartPlug – Lastly, be sure to equip your watercraft with SmartPlug technology. Your safety needs to be a top priority when it comes to operating your watercraft. If your electrical connection is outdated and/or shows signs of weathering, burns, or rust, it’s time for an upgrade. SmartPlug is a revolutionary electrical connection that features triple weatherproof seals, a solid sleeve connection, and just plugs right in without twisting. Visit our website to shop an array of products, and don’t hesitate to reach out to our team should you have any questions on which is best for your boat. www.sp2024.10web.cloud Now that you’ve reviewed our eight tips for boating safely during the winter months, you’re ready to hit the water. Stay warm and be safe!
COMBO KIT ENABLES EASY SHORE POWER CORD UPGRADES
COMBO KIT ENABLES EASY SHORE POWER CORD UPGRADES SmartPlug January 19, 2022 7:00 am To help provide a safer and more reliable power solution aboard contemporary vessels, the 30A 125V SmartPlug Combo Kit enables an upgrade that overcomes the flaws of older connector and inlet designs. When the traditional twist-type shore power connection was invented in the 1930s, electricity consumption on a boat was much less than today. To help provide a safer and more reliable power solution aboard contemporary vessels, the 30A 125V SmartPlug Combo Kit enables an upgrade that overcomes the flaws of older connector and inlet designs. Each Combo Kit includes a shore power cord connector and a boat-side inlet. The unique SmartPlug pin and clip design provides over 27 times the metal-to-metal contact than twist-type plugs. The outlet material is made from 316 cast stainless steel, so it’s less prone to corrosion and damage. This combination of the inlet and connector provides less electrical resistance and has lower potential for arcing and overheating. The SmartPlug is the easiest-to-use shore power system on the market. Unlike a twist-type connector, there is no L blade to orientate. Weatherproof superior seals eliminate water penetration and a four-point locking system secures the device, so there’s no need to thread a ring. The connector is asymmetrical so it can be pushed in with one hand; this is especially convenient when docking at night. Installation of the SmartPlug Combo Kit is an easy DIY task. Inlet flange holes match the existing holes in the vessel so there’s no drilling involved, making it an ideal 30-minute upgrade. A video of the process is at www.bit.ly/SmartPlugInlet. Equally simple is swapping the cable connector; a video is at www.bit.ly/SmartPlugConnector. The 30A 125V SmartPlug meets or exceeds all current electrical certification requirements. The inlet cover is offered in stainless steel, or non-metallic white, gray or black. The 30A 125V SmartPlug Combo Kit has an MSRP starting at $280. Contact SmartPlug Systems, 2500 Westlake Ave N., Ste. G, Seattle, WA 98109-2262. 206-285-2990; Fax: 206-285-2981. Info@sp2024.10web.cloud; www.sp2024.10web.cloud; www.facebook.com/SmartplugSystems; twitter.com/SmartPlugSystem.
New Year’s Resolutions for RVers
New Year’s Resolutions for RVers SmartPlug December 28, 2020 3:53 pm Can you believe the new year is just a few short days away? As we wrap up this crazy year and look forward to a fresh start in 2021, we all begin to set our intentions and resolutions. Aside from thinking of ways to enhance your lifestyle and family, why not consider making resolutions related to your favorite pastime –RVing?! Here we’ve rounded up our top new year’s resolutions for RVers: Join a Travel Club Have you considered joining an RV travel club? Maybe 2021 is the perfect time to do so! Explore different campgrounds with a caravan of like-minded enthusiasts. Being a part of a club allows you to enjoy different destinations together! Not only can you network and meet new people, there are some perks to belonging to travel clubs. Many times your club membership will include exclusives savings opportunities and other benefits! Go Off the Grid After the year we’ve all experienced, who doesn’t want to escape for a little? Rather than planning your trips at campgrounds, why not go off the grid and get close with nature? Turn off the TV, computer and phone and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. It is the perfect way to tune out, re-center and clear your mind! Create Your Adventure Bucket List Make your wishes a reality in the new year! Put together your bucket list of RV destinations you hope to visit. Perhaps try mapping them out based on location and setting potential dates. Maybe even get a fun map that you can detail your travels on! Upgrade for Safety Safety always comes first when it comes to adventuring. If your electrical connection is outdated and/or shows signs of weathering, burns or rust, it’s time for an upgrade. SmartPlug is a revolutionary electrical connection that features triple weatherproof seals, a solid sleeve connection and just plugs right in without twisting. Head out on the road with peace of mind and the highest level of safety. Wishing you a safe and healthy new year! We’d love to hear your resolutions for 2021 – tell us in the comments!
Top New Year’s Resolutions for the RV’ers
COMBO KIT ENABLES EASY SHORE POWER CORD UPGRADES SmartPlug January 7, 2022 7:00 am If you’re an RV enthusiast, you don’t want to miss SmartPlug’s top New Year’s resolutions for RV’ers: It’s the New Year and you’ve likely made a few New Year’s resolutions for your health, lifestyle, and other areas. But did you consider making resolutions centered around your RV travels? If you’re an RV enthusiast, you don’t want to miss SmartPlug’s top New Year’s resolutions for RV’ers: 1. Take More Trips Don’t let your beloved RV sit idle in the driveway or storage lot. This year resolve to take more trips, even if it’s a quick getaway to your favorite local state park or campground. Put it on the calendar and commit to going! To make quick spontaneous trips easier, create a custom packing list and keep it handy so you always know what to gather when it’s time to hit the road on a whim. 2. Take the Long Way RV’ing is about enjoying the journey while reaching your destination. It’s more exciting to take the scenic backroads or roads less traveled instead of the main thoroughfare. It allows you to stumble upon new towns, shops, and restaurants you wouldn’t know existed otherwise. 3. Explore New Places Stuck in an RV travel rut? There’s nothing wrong with returning to favorite spots year after year, but let 2022 be the year you seek out exciting new destinations. Need ideas and inspiration? Plan your travels with RV Trip Wizard to locate the campgrounds and points of interest in the desired area. Get tips and advice on RV forums such as iRV2.com. Visiting new places will fulfill an avid RV’ers adventurous spirit. 4. Go Off the Grid Do you love camping but get tired of crowded and noisy campgrounds? Rather than planning your trips to campgrounds, why not go off the grid and reunite with nature? Turn off the TV, computer, and phone and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. It is the perfect way to tune out, re-center, and clear your mind. Many people love the thrill of boondocking (camping outside a designated campground with no utility hook-ups). Does the thought of boondocking intrigue but also intimidate you? Here are a few articles that will get you acquainted with how to go off the grid. RV Boondocking: Tips to Go RVing Without a Campground or RV Park Boondocking Checklist: 10 Essential Items for Off-Grid Camping 5. Show Your RV Some Love So you’ve resolved to take more trips and explore new places this year, but that means your RV needs to be in top shape. Whether you have a brand new RV or a used one you’re making your own, the New Year is the perfect time to give it some TLC. Start with regular maintenance and inspections. Check the tires, roof, awning, windows, and all the electric systems regularly. Track your maintenance projects and repairs, and keep an organized file in your RV. Next, refresh the inside with those trendy curtains you’ve been eyeing for example. Consider upgrading the mattress, or simply buy a few small decorations to make it feel like home. After all, it is your home on wheels! 6. Upgrade to SmartPlug Safety Safety always comes first when it comes to adventuring. If your electrical connection is outdated and/or shows signs of weathering, burns, or rust, it’s time for an upgrade. SmartPlug is a revolutionary electrical connection that features triple weatherproof seals, a solid sleeve connection, and just plugs right in without twisting. Hit the road in confidence and the highest level of safety this year. No matter what your specific RV resolutions and goals this year, be sure to get out there and have fun! We’d love to hear your RV resolutions for 2022 – tell us in the comments!
Winter Safety: Product Spotlight: SmartPlug Combo Kit for RV
Winter Safety: Product Spotlight: SmartPlug Combo Kit for RV SmartPlug December 28, 2021 6:00 am Heading out in the winter for an RV adventure is a great way to get out of the house, take in new sceneries and explore all the beauty that winter has to offer. At SmartPlug, we are all about enjoying your RV safely. We have designed shore power delivery systems to be the safest, most secure, systems available on the market today. With winter nearly here, we thought it would be a perfect time to highlight one of our best-selling shore power systems – the SmartPlug Combo Kit. Heading out in the winter for an RV adventure is a great way to get out of the house, take in new sceneries and explore all the beauty that winter has to offer. At SmartPlug, we are all about enjoying your RV safely. We have designed shore power delivery systems to be the safest, most secure, systems available on the market today. With winter here, we thought it would be a perfect time to highlight one of our best-selling shore power systems – the SmartPlug Combo Kit. The SmartPlug Combo Kit includes a SmartPlug Inlet and Connector and offers superior performance and ease of use. Available in 16 Amp, 32 Amp, 30 Amp, 50 Amp, we have a kit that will work for your camper. Advantages to using the SmartPlug Combo kit include: Eliminates Overheating – Increased pin and clip surface area greatly improves electrical conductivity during high amperage demand. Easy to Use – No twist required, the unique plug body shape and push-in design mean it only goes in the right way every time-even in the dark! Multi-Point Locking System – Side clips lock the plug securely into the inlet which eliminates any stress on the pins from movement of the power cord. Triple Weatherproof Seals – Multi-fin silicone gaskets installed in the inlet cover and interior of the plug body eliminate moisture penetration. Simple Installation – Inlet mounting flange holes match twist-type holes for an installation that is typically finished in 30 minutes. Our 7 Year Warranty is the longest in the business. Before you head out on your winter adventure, equip your RV with SmartPlug. Travel with peace of mind and enjoy where the road takes you! If you have questions or would like more information on our RV product line, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.