User: gjrleblanc, Location: Idaho
Asked on: Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 12:43 pm EDT
Answered on: Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 1:28 pm EDT
Question: I have installed on my property a 400amp service going to two 200amp disconnects. 1 for the shop and 1 for the garage. I want to install a 4 gang outlet on the outdoor pedestall. The meter and disconnects is an all in one box from Siemens MK0402L1400RLM. What do I need to install to go from this unti to the 4 gang outlet. The outlet will be used to run a small slide in camper with a microwave and small fridge. I run it off a 20amp 120vac outlet at the house.
Okay, let's break down how to safely and correctly install that 4-gang outlet pedestal with the appropriate power supply from your Siemens meter/disconnect unit. Because you're dealing with electrical work, which can be dangerous, please understand that I am providing general guidance. You should always consult with a licensed electrician for code-compliant and safe installation. Your local codes may require specific permits and inspections.
Here's a step-by-step approach
1. Assessment and Planning:
Load Calculation
This is crucial. You mentioned a camper with a microwave and small fridge. Knowing the wattage (or amperage) of these appliances is essential. Check the appliance labels. A typical microwave might draw 800-1200 watts, and a small fridge 150-200 watts running (but significantly more when starting). You also need to account for any other potential loads the camper might use simultaneously (lights, heater, etc.). Add up the total expected wattage and divide by 120 volts to get the total amperage. It sounds like your camper currently runs fine off a single 20 amp circuit, and a 30 amp RV outlet would be sufficient.
Distance
Determine the distance from the Siemens meter/disconnect unit to the planned location of your 4-gang pedestal. This will be needed to calculate voltage drop and determine the appropriate wire gauge.
Soil Conditions
Assess the soil type where you'll be burying the conduit. Different soil types can affect conduit selection.
Pedestal Location
Ensure the pedestal location complies with any local codes or utility easements.
4-Gang Configuration
Consider what other things you might want to add later.
2. Selecting the Right Components
Circuit Breaker
You'll need a new circuit breaker in one of your 200A disconnects to feed the pedestal. Based on your load calculation:
For a standard 20A RV receptacle
A single-pole 20A breaker is needed.
For a 30A RV receptacle (TT-30R)
A single-pole 30A breaker is needed. This is generally the better choice for RVs.
Consider a GFCI breaker
Given the outdoor location, using a GFCI breaker is highly recommended for safety.
Wire
Choose the correct wire gauge for the distance and amperage of the circuit. Use copper wire. Consult an ampacity chart (available online or in the NEC) to determine the minimum wire size. For a 20A circuit over a short distance (less than 50 feet), 12 AWG copper wire might be sufficient, but 10 AWG is safer and minimizes voltage drop. For a 30A circuit over a short distance, 10 AWG copper wire might be sufficient, but 8 AWG is safer and minimizes voltage drop. Again, a licensed electrician can calculate this precisely. Use THHN/THWN wire for conduit installations.
Conduit
Use appropriate conduit for underground burial. PVC conduit is a common choice for residential applications. Check local codes for required burial depth. Generally, 18 inches is required.
Fittings
Purchase the necessary conduit fittings (couplings, elbows, connectors) to connect the conduit sections and terminate it at the disconnect and the pedestal. Use weatherproof fittings.
Pedestal
Choose a 4-gang weatherproof electrical box pedestal that is suitable for outdoor use. It should be sturdy and able to withstand the elements.
Outlets
Select the outlets for your 4-gang box.
30A RV Outlet (TT-30R)
This is a 120V, 30A receptacle specifically designed for RVs.
20A GFCI Outlets
Use standard 20A, 120V GFCI protected receptacles for general use.
15A GFCI Outlets
Use standard 15A, 120V GFCI protected receptacles for general use.
Decide how you want to divide up the 4-gang, one 30amp and three 20amp. four 20 amp, one 30amp and two 20amp with a light sensor, etc. Wire Connectors
Use appropriately sized wire connectors (e.g., wire nuts, crimp connectors) to make secure and insulated connections.
3. Installation Steps (General Guidelines - Always Consult a Licensed Electrician)
Safety First! Turn off the main breaker feeding the disconnect you will be working on. Verify that the power is off using a non-contact voltage tester.2. Install the Breaker
Install the appropriate size breaker in the desired 200A disconnect panel.3.
Run the Conduit
Dig a trench to the required depth from the disconnect to the pedestal location. Assemble the conduit run, using appropriate fittings. Glue PVC conduit joints with PVC cement. Lay the conduit in the trench.4.
Pull the Wire
Attach the THHN/THWN wire to a fish tape or pull string. Carefully pull the wire through the conduit from the disconnect to the pedestal. Leave enough slack at both ends for connections.5.
Install the Pedestal
Mount the pedestal securely in the ground. Use concrete if necessary for stability.6.
Make Connections
In the disconnect panel, connect the black (hot) wire to the breaker, the white (neutral) wire to the neutral bus bar, and the green (ground) wire to the ground bus bar. In the pedestal box, connect the wires to the appropriate terminals on the outlets. Make sure to follow the wiring diagram provided with the outlets.7.
Test and Inspect
After all connections are made, have a licensed electrician inspect the installation. Turn on the breaker. Test the outlets using a receptacle tester to ensure proper wiring and grounding.
Important Considerations
National Electrical Code (NEC)
All electrical work must comply with the NEC and any local codes.
Permits
Check with your local building department to determine if a permit is required for this project.
Grounding
Proper grounding is essential for safety. The ground wire must be properly connected to the grounding system at both the disconnect and the pedestal. Consider driving a ground rod near the pedestal for supplemental grounding.
Weatherproofing
Ensure all connections and enclosures are weatherproof to protect against moisture.
Voltage Drop
Long wire runs can cause voltage drop, which can affect the performance of appliances. Use a larger wire gauge to minimize voltage drop.
GFCI Protection
GFCI protection is required for outdoor receptacles.
Why Hire a Licensed Electrician
Safety
Electrical work is inherently dangerous. A licensed electrician has the knowledge and experience to perform the work safely.
Code Compliance
Electricians are familiar with the NEC and local codes. They can ensure that the installation is compliant and will pass inspection.
Proper Materials and Techniques
Electricians know the proper materials and techniques to use for a safe and reliable installation.
Liability: If something goes wrong with the installation, you could be liable if you did the work yourself. A licensed electrician carries insurance to protect you.In summary, this is a project that requires careful planning, proper materials, and adherence to electrical codes. Consulting with a licensed electrician is highly recommended to ensure a safe and code-compliant installation. Good luck! Flag for review