Discover How to Make Plug-In Heaters Safer with SmartPlug SmartPlug February 20, 2020 3:03 pm If you’re an avid RVer and enjoy an adventure in cooler temperatures, you’ve likely turned to plug-in heaters to add some extra warmth to your ride. Portable heaters are the perfect solution to keep yourself warm in the cold weather but come with an increase in amperage loads that must have a strong electrical system to maintain it. If your system isn’t as strong as can be, SmartPlug is here to help! Our revolutionary design identifies and handles any safety hazard in a shore power system, and offers ways to avoid overheating and the possibility of fire. While using these plug-in heaters, it is important to keep your eyes open for scorching. This is visibly noticeable when a yellow or brown color is outlining the inlet pins, which means it is time to replace them. Using a traditional twist-type connector allows for a higher chance of pitting and corrosion on metal surfaces. Due to the lack of surface contact, electrical resistance causes overheating, most commonly found when running high-amperage devices such as heaters. To safeguard against the chance of harmful shore power damage, we offer numerous Retrofit Kits. The SmartPlug Stainless Inlet is easily retrofitted to the existing four-hole pattern of the traditional twist-type inlet. With our easy-to-use design, we bring 20 times the metal-to-metal surface contact in order to transfer the maximum electrical power efficiently. Our goal is to make your RV electrical connection stress-free and secure. Because our SmartPlug system has dual locking clips and a sleeved inlet, you’ll find it easier to use than the twist-type power cords. Replacing an inlet and connector is as simple as it gets. To provide more detail and assistance, we’ve added videos to our website to help ensure a job well done. Ensure your safety by utilizing SmartPlug on your RV. We design our products to be safe, simple, and secure. Browse our RV product line here and see for yourself why SmartPlug is the smart choice!

SmartPlug Releases New Catalogs SmartPlug February 4, 2020 2:55 pm SmartPlug Systems, the leading manufacturer of next-generation shore power solutions, has released 2020 catalogs for marine and RV. The URLs are bit.ly/SmartPlugMarine and bit.ly/SmartPlugRV, respectively. The catalogs effectively explain how electrical loads have changed since the twist-type plug was invented over 80 years ago and why the SmartPlug is the safer choice for modern boats and RVs. Product descriptions are thorough to a professional level, yet easily understood by consumers. Stunning photography and compelling testimonials add to the readability of the publications. “Our catalogs have always been well-written and visually appealing,” said Tony Barber, SmartPlug Systems CEO. “But we’re really proud of these newest installments.” Barber has led the Seattle-based company since 2015. SmartPlug Systems designs and manufactures safe alternatives to traditional twist-type AC shore power connections. Its products are CE certified, and its 30A and 50A inlets and connectors are ETL certified to UL standards and meet CSA requirements. Its state-of-the-art plugs, inlets, cordsets and adapters are proudly made in the USA and offer a broad range of benefits, the most significant being reduced electrical resistance and overheating—common causes of boat and vehicle fires. They are also the easiest to use, offering secure connections to shore, boatside and park electrical points with an easy push and lock system. Contact SmartPlug Systems, 2500 Westlake Ave N., Ste. G, Seattle, WA 98109-2262. 206-285-2990; Fax: 206-285-2981. Sales@sp2024.10web.cloud; www.sp2024.10web.cloud; Facebook; Twitter.

Top Tips: A Winter Check-Up for Your Boat SmartPlug January 15, 2020 4:06 pm For many boaters, winter brings cold temperatures and unfavorable weather which means boats need to be stored away until Spring. While you countdown to boating season, why not pay your marina a visit to check in on your boat and ensure all is ok. Walk Around Check If your Boat is in the Water: Inspect the dock lines and check to make sure they are still in good condition and maintaining length and boat positioning. Lines should be tight enough to keep your boat off the dock but loose enough to allow some give for changes in water level. Ensure your fenders are still in position and protecting your boat too. It is imperative to check your shore power connection if your boat is the water. Given the weather and elements, you want to be sure your connection is tight, secure and free of corrosion. Loose fittings and water damage can lead to overheating and fires. Consider upgrading your connection to SmartPlug to ensure your connection is always safe and secure, no matter what time of year it may be or what the weather brings. If Your Boat is on Dry Land: Whether on a trailer or on jackstands, ensure your boat is secure and level as you originally left it. It is important to do so that water drains properly. If your boat is stored on a trailer, make sure it is facing away from the road to minimize theft. Walk Through Check Once you’ve ensured your boat is securely stored, it’s time to walk through the boat to inspect all is well. Check your boat cover or shrink-wrap–look for signs of tears, damage or loose fittings that can expose your boat to the elements. Check drains for build up and clogs. Check for pooling water –this can indicate improper drainage or leaks Pay attention to smells –do you smell gas or mold? If so, find the source to eliminate potential issues. Examine portholes and hatches –look for water stains, corrosion, dirt or water as these are warning signs,they were not properly secured. Inspect your bilge –ensure there is no water in the bilge. If your battery is still on board, test your bilge pump it to make sure it is operating. Look around your engine compartment –check for signs of fluid leaks, cracked hoses, broken clamps or anything else that can indicate an issue. If during your inspection you notice anything of concern, report it to your marina staff as soon as possible. Although it may not be boating season, there should be technicians on staff to help address any issues you are experiencing. Taking care of problems now will help make your boat launch in Spring easier and faster!

How to Turn a Modest Budget into a Big RV Adventure SmartPlug January 7, 2020 3:59 pm Getting out on the road for an RV adventure doesn’t have to be an expensive feat. In fact, RVing is a great way to travel the country on a budget. If you’re ready to hit the road this year, be sure to follow our tips for a wallet-friendly enjoyable time: Do Your Research While planning your RV adventure, research is key. Consider exploring national parks instead of touristy cities that tend to be more expensive. Examine difference campsites and evaluate the charges and fees for the campsite versus the amenities that are important to you. While out in nature there are plenty of inexpensive(or free) activities you can participate in that will keep you in line with your budget while offering entertainment for the whole family. Do your research to see what is available near the different campsites of interest to ensure your family will be accommodated in a way that is both budget friendly and fun! Make Smart Investments Your RV is essentially your home on wheels. It’s important to ensure it is running safely and smoothly so that you can get to and return from your destination with ease. Making smart investments for your RV will be in your favor in the long run. To ensure your RV is safely connected to shore power, invest in SmartPlug. With triple waterproof seals, a solid sleeve connection and a multi-point locking system, your connection will be safe so you can run your appliances without worry. SmartPlug is weather safe too, so no matter where your adventure takes you, your connection will be dry and corrosion-free. With quality investments, you can avoid costly maintenance fees so your family truly can enjoy their vacation! Enjoy the Ride With proper planning and investments, you can enjoy a great RV adventure ope you found our tips helpful and can’t wait to hear where your ride takes you. Let us know in the comments!

RVing This Winter? Here’s How to Stay Warm SmartPlug December 15, 2019 6:48 pm Cold weather and beautiful snowy sights are finally here. RVing with a stunning snow-blanketed view can bring you peace and serenity like no other. Traveling with the cold calls for careful planning to keep you warm during your overnight stays. Any one problem can cause your beautiful trip to turn to a frosty disaster! Although it may be tricky to have both you and yourRV stay warm, we’ve come up with some of the best tips to stay toasty in a freezing setting. Keep the Heat In Many RV’s are sold with promises to keep it warm thanks to the thermal packages.Unfortunately, that extra insulation isn’t enough for the cold temperatures. If you are planning on camping in the extreme cold, it’s important to consider a skirt for your RV. This skirt will reduce interior heat loss and will help stabilize your RV. Keeping the battery bays, and other water running functions, such as plumbing, warm will reduce problems on your trip. While they claim to cold temperature proof, your windows can be big culprits of drafts. There are numerous ways to beat the cold with added insulation including: insulation boards, solar blankets, or thermal curtains. These are all great items to have on board with you while RVing in the snowy weather. If your RV is equipped with SmartPlug, you can run an electric heater to stay warm. SmartPlug eliminates overheating so you can have peace of mind that your family is safe while staying warm during your winter adventure Watch Out for Water Cold temperatures can be your worst nightmare when it comes to the running water in your RV. Always be aware of your pipes, and don’t let them burst! To prevent this from happening, drain your RV of its fresh water tanks, and bring bottled water to satisfy your needs instead. You can also use antifreeze to avoid freezing pipe issues. To apply antifreeze, you can flush it down the toilet and pour it down the drain. Keep your heaters warm for the winter, and invest in some tank heaters. Being aware of your water pipes is imperative when traveling in freezing conditions. For any pipes that are exposed, be sure to add a layer of insulation to ensure warmth. When you use SmartPlug as your shore power connection, you don’t have to worry about freezing temperatures and ice. SmartPlug features a solid sleeve connection and triple weatherproof seals so you can ensure you have a secure electrical connection that will keep your RV powered safely. Add a Dehumidifier Condensation due to the confined space for heat can be prevented with the simple use of a dehumidifier. Warmth in the walls can cause the growth of mold, and your small space will begin to become very stuffy. The use of a dehumidifier will allow for the air to become clean again, and for the water to be absorbed. While traveling this winter, think smart and safe. Your trip will run smoothly thanks to a few extra items to bring along with you. To ensure your safety during your trip, travel with SmartPlug — the most reliable and trustworthy product in the RV industry. SmartPlug’s three weatherproof seals eliminate the possibility of water and moisture intrusion, ensuring a safe and dry connection. Don’t let the snow be a hassle, instead travel with safety and these RVing winter tips!

Ron Bailey Joins Smartplug Systems SmartPlug December 2, 2019 6:37 pm SmartPlug Systems, the leading manufacturer of safety-focused shore power delivery systems for the recreational and commercial marine, RV and specialty vehicle markets, has hired Ron Bailey as its new global VP of Sales and Marketing. He joins the company during a transitional period as incumbent Terry Gilliland prepares his retirement in early 2020. Tony Barber, CEO, made the announcement. Bailey brings decades of marine and RV manufacturing sales and marketing experience to SmartPlug. Most recently, he was VP of Global Marine Sales and Marketing at Dometic and President of Turning Point Propellers. Deeply committed to the industry, he is on the National Marine Manufacturers Association Board of Directors and Marine Accessories and Components Division (MACD). He holds a B.S. degree in mechanical engineering from Western Michigan University and an M.S. in science, business administration and management from Central Michigan University, and is a USCG-licensed captain. “Ron has demonstrated leadership, vision and success throughout his career,” said Barber. “He has a deep knowledge of our core markets and customers, and the ability to transform that insight into actionable results.” “Joining SmartPlug is an opportunity to work with a company that places safety before industry stereotypes,” said Bailey. “Plus, Tony Barber is an evangelist for his products with infectious enthusiasm.” SmartPlug Systems designs and manufactures safe alternatives to traditional twist-typeAC shore power connections. Its state-of-the-art 16A, 30A, 32A and 50A plugs, inlets, cordsets and adapters offer a broad range of benefits, the most significant being reduced electrical resistance and overheating—common causes of boat and vehicle fires. The company holds Canadian CSA, Europe CE, Intertek ETL and US ETL certifications. Contact SmartPlug Systems, 2500 Westlake Ave N., Ste. G, Seattle, WA 98109-2262. 206-285-2990; Fax: 206-285-2981. Sales@sp2024.10web.cloud; www.sp2024.10web.cloud; Facebook; Twitter.

5 RV Destinations to Escape the Winter SmartPlug November 25, 2019 9:00 am If the winter months have you feeling dreary and sad, it’s time to head out onto the open road for a fun RV vacation! We’re sharing the top five destinations across the country to get you out of the cold and into the warm sunshine: San Diego, CaliforniaSan Diego is a bustling city filled with plenty of beaches, preserves, food districts, parks and more! Year round, the weather is perfect for exploringthe great outdoors and is sure to warm up your winter bones. Tampa, FloridaTampa is a great vacation spot to enjoy what the Gulf Coast has to offer! Enjoy the sandy shores or visit the county parks, zoo, aquarium and museums. There’s so much to do, it’s sure to entertain the whole family! Gulf Shores, AlabamaContinuing with the Gulf Coast, the Gulf Shore of Alabama is another unique destination to bring some sunshine into your winter days. With mild temperatures and plentiful sun, enjoy a peaceful vacation on the beaches of Alabama. Tucson, ArizonaIf you’re the outdoorsy type, heading to Tucson is the perfect spot for you. With ample hiking trails and desert to explore, you’ll have no problem soaking up the winter sun. If you need a break from the sun, Tucson features a variety of museums and art galleries to discover. Galveston, TexasGalveston is a small town that boats amazing views of the Gulf of Mexico and features a tropical climate that will leave you questioning if you’re in the Caribbean. With 32 miles of beaches, abundant opportunities for outdoor fun and charming architecture to take in, there is something for the whole family to appreciate! Before you head out for a winter adventure, be sure that your RV is well prepared! SmartPlug offers a variety of products to keep your travel safe, including shore power connectors, inlets and RV generator adaptors. Explore our site for more information and don’t hesitate to contact us with questions.

Away From A Campground, Smartplug Has The Safer Solution SmartPlug November 4, 2019 12:24 am Getting ready for a trip, RV owners routinely cool down the refrigerator, run fans and lights, and top-off batteries. Away from shore power, a traditional cordset won’t work, but SmartPlug’s 15A 115V Dual Configuration Cordset will. It has a standard three-prong household plug on one end and the innovative SmartPlug on the other. It’s the safest way to provide electricity to a trailer or motorhome away from a campground pedestal. The Dual Configuration Cordset is super flexible and is easily coiled, even in cold weather. It has a blue LED power indicator light that glows when power is on. Completely sealed, it’s available in 4′, 25′ and 50′ lengths. The revolutionary SmartPlug replaces an outdated, 80-year old invention: the traditional twist-type shore power connector. With double-side locking clips and an asymmetrical shape, it’s easier to use. There is no load or stress on the electrical connection. With more than 20 times the metal-to-metal contact, it provides greater protection against resistance and overheating—the leading causes of power failure and RV fires. Contact SmartPlug Systems, 2500 Westlake Ave N., Ste. G, Seattle, WA 98109-2262. 206-285-2990; Fax: 206-285-2981. Email us; visit us online; Facebook; Twitter.

Featured Vehicle: Paved to Pines “Ace Vantura” SmartPlug October 15, 2019 9:00 am We’re excited to share another featured vehicle this month! Paved to Pines is based in Canada and creates custom off-grid van conversions, bus conversions, Sprinter Conversions, ambulance conversions, and cargo van conversions. Their “Ace Vantura” is an incredible Sprinter van conversion. It features: Go Power Solar Kit w/ 340 watts solar power and 300 amp/hour battery bank Espar diesel cabin and water heater Custom kitchenette w/ induction cooktop and Dometic flush sink Bench seating with lagun swivel table Sliding and back door magnetic/zipper bug netting Flarespace bedroom flares for queen sized bed Exterior table Hard plumbed fresh and gray water with insulated tanks. Air conditioning LED Lighting Custom roof rack Swivel captain seats SmartPlug electrical connector

SmartPlug Included in TechnoRV’s September Newsletter SmartPlug October 3, 2019 9:00 am As many RV enthusiasts know, TechnoRV is a leading supplier of a variety ofRV technology products to enhance the RV lifestyle.In September, they were kind enough to include SmartPlugin their member newsletter. Eric and Tami, the owners, walkthrough everything you need to know about SmartPlug. They share their favorite benefits and even show viewers how to install SmartPlug. First, check out the video they made outlining the benefits of our products: https://youtu.be/Ft2bICmIQ_c?si=pDflloZLwsYqLbhu Take a look as they share a step by step guide on how to install SmartPlug on your RV: https://youtu.be/jTkd_nMW-sw?si=Rne6C4iQPAFHfqn1 Lastly, see for yourself just how easy it is to plug in SmartPlug and secure your RV shore power connection: https://youtu.be/eiEdyvVRtKc?si=CvLWjg4kdDuXjlH2 Thank you again to the team at TechnoRV for taking the time to document their experience with SmartPlug. We’re thrilled you enjoy SmartPlug as much as we do! Be sure to follow along with TechnoRV here and check out our SmartPlug product line, now available on their site!