After the year we’ve had, it’s safe to say we are all looking forward to starting fresh in 2021. Why not set some new year’s resolutions in all aspects of your life, even boating!
If you’re an avid boater like us, check out our recommendations for resolutions heading into the new year:
Take A Safety Course: It never hurts to take a boating safety class. With more boaters hitting the water than ever before, we could all use a refresher on being safe and smart. If you’d like to sharpen your boating skills every further, consider taking a course on navigating with GPS, tying knots, using the VHF radio and more.
Mechanical Locking System–Each receptacle incorporates a spring-loaded lock for a secure connection.
Weather Resistant Seal-Multi-fin silicone gaskets installed in the inlet cover and the plug body eliminates moisture penetration.
Ease of Use – Locks into the edge of the SmartPlug mounting flange.
NoTwist Required.
Asymmetrical Body Shape – It only goes in the right way every time – even in the dark!
Push-in Design – Self-cleaning pins & clips.
Easy to Install – Mounting plate only requires 4 screws to install.
SmartPlug Receptacles are designed to provide the maximum surface contact to efficiently transfer power while minimizing resistance which causes heat. These receptacles are used to upgrade existing marina pedestals. They can also be installed in industry standard electrical boxes when used in conjunction with our spring-loaded weather doors.
The SmartPlug BDCOAXEC is the perfect complement to our stainless shore power inlets. It offers the same look and quality marine grade stainless steel components.
Weatherproof Seal – Seals against closed cell foam gasket in inlet lid
Ease of Use – Locks into the edge of the SmartPlug mounting flange
Easy to Install – Only requires 4 screws to mount
Mounting Gasket – Silicone gasket included / no messy caulk
The SmartPlug Combo Kit includes both a 50A 125V/250V inlet connector and a retro-fit connector. This Kit has been designed so it can be used with 3-wires (125V) or 4-wires (250V). The retro-fit connector is designed to use your current cord set. You simply cut off the cord plug on your RV/Boat cord. The connector has mechanical cord restraint, color-coded wire guides, and a water-resistant cord seal. The inlets are available in stainless steel and three non-metallic colors, (White, Black or Gray), of high performance/flame resistant material.
Eliminates Overheating – Increased pin & clip surface area greatly improves electrical conductivity during high amperage demand.
Ease of 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 the movement of the power cord.
Weatherproof Seals – Multi-fin silicone gaskets installed in the inlet cover and interior of the plug body eliminates moisture penetration.
Quick & Easy Installation – Inlet mounting flange holes match twist-type holes for an installation that is typically finished in 30 minutes.
People discovering the joys of RVing are often unaware of the dangers lurking in their outdated, twist-type park power connections. Today’s RVs have enormous electrical draws. Microwaves, TVs, in-floor heating, and hydraulic jack and slide-out systems are conveniences that weren’t even invented when the L-style pin system was introduced in the 1930s. The SmartPlug is the modern alternative. Uniquely designed, it overcomes the engineering flaws inherent in traditional plugs and inlets, and safely handles the power needs of the modern RVer.
Twist-type connectors have thin, and easily bent and corroded blades. The SmartPlug has a robust pin and clip design that provides over 25 times more metal-to-metal contact than the old style. This decreases electrical resistance and resultant overheating—a potential cause of RV fires.
The SmartPlug is asymmetrical for ease of use. There is no L blade to line up, nor ring to thread. Instead, the plug pushes straight in for simple one-handed engagement. Two side locking clips hold it in place and triple weatherproof seals keep out the rain and snow. Even if the cord is accidentally snagged, the design is far stronger than the twist-type and won’t damage internally.
Available in 16A, 30A, 32A and 50A versions, the SmartPlug is easily installed with household tools. It fits into the same mounting hole as an old-style square inlet and has an identical screw pattern.
SmartPlug’s 30A 125V inlets provide 20X’s more electrical contact area eliminating the overheating conditions seen with twist-type connectors. The solid sleeve connection and weatherproof seal makes it a preferred option. The mounting flange holes match existing inlets so it can be easily installed to replace the old twist-type inlet products in minutes. The inlets are available in stainless steel and three non-metallic colors, (White, Gray or Black), of high performance/flame resistant material.
Eliminates Overheating – Increased pin & clip surface area greatly improves electrical conductivity during high amperage demand.
Ease of Use – No twisting required, the unique plug body shape and push-in design means it only goes in the right way every time – even in the dark!
Multi-Point Locking System – Side clips automatically lock the plug securely into the inlet which eliminates any stress on the pins from movement of the power cord.
Weather Resistant Seals – Multi-fin silicone gaskets installed in the inlet cover and the plug body eliminates moisture penetration.
Quick & Easy Installation – Inlet mounting flange holes match twist-type holes for an installation that is typically finished in 30 minutes.
Corrosion on a shore power plug can be a frustrating and potentially hazardous issue, especially in marine environments where exposure to saltwater and moisture is common. Not only can corrosion hinder the plug’s functionality, but it can also pose safety risks due to compromised electrical connections.
SmartPlug is the first replacement to the problematic standard (known as the L5-30) of shore power to come along in 70 years. Especially in marine environments, the L5-30 is notorious for overheating and melting. The SmartPlug’s “sleeve-in” design and multi-point locking system eliminate the movement and tension on the electrical pins that cause them to work loose, corrode, and increase the potential for failure. Additionally, weather-resistant seals ensure that no moisture infiltrates the internal electrical components, thereby rendering corrosion a non-issue for SmartPlug users!
Simply put, the SmartPlug design features eliminate all the major causes of corrosion, electrical, and mechanical failure, offering the end-user a safer alternative and peace of mind at a competitive price.
As Father’s Day approaches, finding the perfect gift for the RV and boating enthusiast dad in your life can be a challenging task. SmartPlug’s power delivery products are the ideal gift for dads who love relaxing at the campsite or the marina after a day of adventure. With innovative features that enhance safety and convenience, SmartPlug is revolutionizing shore power connections for campers and boaters alike.
Discover why SmartPlug should be at the top of your Father’s Day gift list!
Enhanced Safety at the Campsite and Marina:
Intuitive Design: The outdated twist-type shore power connections pose a significant risk of loose connections and corrosion, leading to power failures and even fires. SmartPlug’s revolutionary design significantly diminishes these risks, helping to ensure a secure and tight connection every time.
Increased Protection: SmartPlug’s power delivery products utilize a multi-point locking system that provides a stronger connection and prevents overheating. This enhanced protection offers peace of mind, allowing dads to focus on enjoying their RV or boating adventures without worrying about electrical hazards.
Weather-Resistant Seals: SmartPlug’s weather-resistant seals offer durability and reliable performance even in harsh outdoor conditions. Whether at the campsite or docked at the marina, dads can trust that their power connections are protected.
Reduced Energy Consumption: SmartPlug’s power delivery products feature sophisticated technology that minimizes energy loss, resulting in more efficient power usage. This saves energy and helps extend the lifespan of electrical appliances and equipment on board your vessel.
Not only will they experience enhanced safety, but ease of use! SmartPlug plugs straight in, no twisting required. No L-shaped pins make it easy to use at night and without misalignment issues.
We rely on the highest quality of materials to create SmartPlug’s innovative shore power solutions. Experience maximum durability and safety when utilizing our products while docked at the marina or at your RV campsite.
Let’s review what materials SmartPlug products are comprised of and how they impact you and your passengers’ safety.
IP56-Rated Protection: SmartPlug prod ucts boast an impressive IP56 rating, offering protection against dust and water ingress. SmartPlug remains functional even when exposed to heavy rainfall or water splashes while at the dock or campsite. This rating provides peace of mind to users, knowing that their shore power connections are well-protected against environmental elements.
Marine-Grade 316 Stainless Steel: Exterior durability is paramount, especially in maritime environments, which is why SmartPlug utilizes Marine-Grade 316 Stainless Steel for all external metals. This premium material not only offers exceptional resistance to corrosion but also maintains a polished appearance even after prolonged exposure to saltwater and environmental elements.
Nickel-Plated Brass Electrical Pins: To ensure maximum conductivity and longevity, SmartPlug incorporates nickel-plated brass electrical pins. This choice of material provides optimal electrical transfer, minimizing energy loss and maintaining consistent performance throughout your marine and RV adventures.
UV and Heat Resistant Resins: Our commitment to quality extends to every component, including the plastics we use. Crafted from UV and heat-resistant resins made in the USA, these materials withstand the harshest of conditions without compromising structural integrity or performance. Say goodbye to brittle, degraded plastics and hello to long-lasting reliability.
Thermal Epoxy Encasement: What lies beneath the sleek exterior of SmartPlug products is equally impressive. The internal electrics are fully encased in thermal epoxy, making them 100% weatherproof. This advanced encapsulation promotes consistent performance, even in extreme temperatures, humid conditions, and stormy weather.
From the robust protection of IP56-rated design to the use of premium materials like Marine-Grade 316 Stainless Steel and UV-resistant resins, every aspect of SmartPlug products is meticulously crafted to enhance your boating and RV camping experience. With additional features like nickel-plated brass electrical pins and thermal epoxy encasement, SmartPlug products are the quality you’ve been looking for in your shore power solution.
As spring makes way for more enjoyable climates, NOW is the time to inspect your boat for safe spring and summer boating days. We’ll guide you through a few imperative steps to verify your shore power system is ready for the boating season ahead.
For smooth journeys be sure to:
Assess the Plug Condition: The cornerstone of electrical safety on board your vessel begins by examining the plug. Take a meticulous look for any signs of wear and tear such as frayed cords, weak components due to sunlight exposure and UV radiation, cracks or any breakage of the outer components, or arcing. Ensure your plug is in pristine condition to guarantee seamless power transfer.
Inspect Connector Points: The heart of electrical connectivity lies within the connector points. Carefully examine these crucial junctions for any indications of corrosion or degradation. Saltwater exposure and environmental elements can accelerate the onset of corrosion, jeopardizing the integrity of your electrical system. Clean and treat connector points regularly to maintain optimal performance and reliability.
Guard Against Corrosion: Corrosion poses a persistent threat to marine shore power systems, silently eroding their functionality over time. If your plug has taken an inadvertent dip in the water, it’s important to take preventative measures such as washing it with fresh water, letting it dry, and then spraying it with a water-dispersing spray like CRC 6-56. Regularly evaluate the status of your plug and should you find it corroded, there are a few different ways to clean your plug with either an Emory board technique or a vinegar solution. We’ll cover more on this topic in a future blog article.
Properly Store Your Cordset: When not in use, store the shore power cordset in a dry and clean environment. SmartPlug offers a carrying bag featuring a clear see-through window, zipper, and two carrying straps to safeguard your shore power product from the elements.
SmartPlug’s “sleeve-in” design and double-locking system help eliminate the movement and tension on the electrical pins that cause them to work loose, corrode, and increase the potential for failure. With greater protection against loose connections and corrosion, the chances of a shore power failure and potential fire diminish significantly.
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