HOW TO USE SHORE POWER SAFELY

A shoreside AC supply is convenient but potentially lethal, advises Andrew Simpson

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While relatively few boats use AC at sea, the majority of us take advantage of it when alongside. The benefits are many, although not without risks to your health and your boat.

The story starts with the local electricity firm supplying 3-phase AC power (typically 415V) to the marina. This is divided into 240V single-phase and distributed to the various pontoons where 3-pin electrical sockets, mounted on pedestals and often metered, are spaced so as to be accessible to neighbouring boats. The sockets are normally rated at 15A - enough for most purposes but not very heavy loads such as household type stoves that can draw up to 40A.

ELECTRICAL CONDUCTORS