EHU lead too short!

Phil Withey
Phil Withey Forum Participant Posts: 11
edited May 2017 in Caravans #1

We've all been to those sites where the EHU lead is just too short. We're booked into a campsite in Switzerland that says you may need a lead that is 50metres long! Is it possible/safe to plug two cables together? TIA

Comments

  • commeyras
    commeyras Club Member Posts: 1,853 ✭✭✭
    1000 Comments
    edited May 2017 #2

    Phil.  Possible yes.  Safe, well not recommended but many of us have done it - I have on many occasions with no problems. 

  • Vulcan
    Vulcan Forum Participant Posts: 670
    edited May 2017 #3

    Of course it is possible and quite safe if done correctly using IP67 watertight connectors, I have used them for years

  • NutsyH
    NutsyH Forum Participant Posts: 534
    edited May 2017 #4

    And me, frequently on continental sites. I generally try to keep the joining sockets of the ground, in case of flash floods etc.

  • EJB986
    EJB986 Forum Participant Posts: 1,153
    1000 Comments
    edited May 2017 #5

    There are clip over 'Sausage' like covers that are reasonably water resistant.

    However before I was obliged (told!) to buy one I always used a plastic bag with a hole in the bottom and the connectors sealed inside...even more waterproof!

  • Vulcan
    Vulcan Forum Participant Posts: 670
    edited May 2017 #6

    These covers are as you say only water resistant but the danger is they can half fill with water and leave the connection submersed in water As for the plastic bag, have you seen a plastic bag full of condensation. Much better to use proper watertight connectors, a one off purchase that replaces the originals.

  • hitchglitch
    hitchglitch Forum Participant Posts: 3,007
    1000 Comments
    edited May 2017 #7

    I have caravanned all over Europe and have never found the standard lead too short! That's mainly because we always choose a pitch that has a nearby bollard, tap not too far, services not too far etc. Of course, if you are going somewhere that's jam packed I guess you may not have a choice but joining cables together to form a 50 m lead is not ideal.

    Often, sites offer extension leads for a small fee or deposit. Parts of Switzerland have a special "Swiss" plug/socket at the bollard. Not something you see too often (although two sites we have stayed at near Zermatt have needed them). Again, the adapter is generally available at the site so don't bother to take anything special.

  • EJB986
    EJB986 Forum Participant Posts: 1,153
    1000 Comments
    edited May 2017 #8

    Is that really practical?

  • Vulcan
    Vulcan Forum Participant Posts: 670
    edited May 2017 #9

    Yes, the IP67 watertight connectors I refer to are a direct replacement to the original connectors and still fit the bollard/van connections as normal.

  • bigherb
    bigherb Forum Participant Posts: 65
    edited May 2017 #10

    Yep fully waterproof.