Safe Power for Summer Adventures: Installing a Dedicated RV or Camper Hookup

Warmer days are arriving, and that means RV and camper season is almost here. Whether you're planning cross-country travels or simply prepping your home-on-wheels for weekend getaways, one important thing often gets overlooked—how you're powering your RV while it's parked at home.

Many homeowners assume it's fine to plug their RV into a standard outlet in the garage or outside the house. While this might seem like a convenient solution, it can actually be quite risky.

Why a Standard Outlet Isn’t Enough

RVs and campers are designed to operate on a specific amperage—most commonly 30 amps or 50 amps. Your typical household outlet, however, only provides 15 or 20 amps. Plugging into the wrong kind of outlet can:

• 🔌 Overload your home’s circuits – risking tripped breakers or melted wires.

• ⚡ Damage your RV’s internal electrical systems – appliances, air conditioners, and converters can be affected.

• 🔥 Increase the risk of electrical fire – especially when using unsafe adapter cords.

• 🛑 Void warranties or violate electrical codes – which could lead to problems with insurance claims or inspections.

The Benefits of a Dedicated RV Hookup

To avoid these hazards, it's best to have a professional install a dedicated RV or camper hookup at your home. This setup ensures your RV receives the correct voltage and amperage, giving you peace of mind every time you plug in.

Here’s what a proper installation provides:

• ⚙️ Correct amperage (30A or 50A) to meet your RV’s power demands

• 🔒 Grounded, weatherproof outlet box installed near your parking pad or driveway

• 💡 Code-compliant wiring and protection to keep your home and RV safe

• 🔌 Convenience for charging batteries, running appliances, or prepping your rig before trips

When Should You Install One?

With camping season fast approaching, now is the perfect time to install a dedicated hookup—before summer adventures are in full swing. Even if you don’t travel far, a safe, reliable power source at home allows you to:

• Run your fridge and prep your RV in advance

• Use your camper as a guest space or home office

• Avoid generator noise and fuel use when parked

Planning to hit the road—or just park in comfort? A dedicated RV hookup is a small upgrade that delivers big peace of mind.

Is Your Electrical Panel Ready for Summer?

When we think of summer prep, most homeowners focus on air conditioners, patio furniture, or yardwork—but there’s one often-overlooked area that quietly powers it all: your electrical panel.

As temperatures rise, so does your home’s electrical demand. That cold-weather wiring setup might not be ready for the added stress of summer appliances and outdoor living. So… is your panel up for it?

Here’s why it matters—and what you can do to make sure your power doesn’t fall short when the heat turns up.

🔌 Summer Brings More Electrical Load Than You Think

You might not notice it at first, but summer puts serious pressure on your system. Consider all the things that weren’t running in the winter:

• Central or window A/C units

• Ceiling and box fans in every room

• Electric grills and smokers

• Pool pumps and hot tubs

• Outdoor lighting and entertainment systems

• Power tools for landscaping and DIY projects

If your panel is already near capacity—or outdated—it may start showing signs of stress: frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, or overheating outlets. Those aren’t just annoyances—they’re warnings.

⚠️ Warning Signs Your Panel Might Not Be Summer-Ready

• You hear buzzing or sizzling from the panel or outlets

• Breakers trip often—especially when running the A/C or other high-draw appliances

• Lights dim or flicker when large appliances turn on

• Your panel is more than 25 years old or still uses fuses

• You’re relying on extension cords to make up for a lack of outlets

If you’ve noticed any of these issues, it’s time to take action before summer pushes your system past its limits.

🛠️ Upgrade or Expand? What Are Your Options?

Every home is different, but here are the most common panel-related upgrades we handle this time of year:

✔ Panel Inspections

If you’re unsure of your panel’s condition or capacity, we’ll start with a full inspection. We’ll look for signs of wear, overheating, outdated breakers, and evaluate your current and future load requirements.

✔ Panel Upgrades

If your panel is outdated or too small, we can upgrade it to a 200-amp system or more, depending on your home’s needs. This gives you room to grow—whether it’s an A/C unit today or a hot tub next year.

✔ Subpanel Additions

Adding a shop, backyard shed, or outdoor kitchen? A subpanel might be the perfect solution to give those areas dedicated, safe power without overloading your main system.

✔ Dedicated Circuits

Air conditioners, electric grills, and EV chargers often require their own circuits. We’ll make sure everything is installed safely and in compliance with code.

☀️ Prep Now—Enjoy a Safer, Cooler Summer

Summer should be spent enjoying your home—not dealing with preventable electrical problems. Let Bowman Electric make sure your panel is safe, efficient, and ready to power your summer plans with confidence.

Ready for a summer-ready panel? Call us today or book your inspection online—before the heat wave hits.

When Water Gets In: Why Exterior Light Fixtures Need Weather Protection

Your home’s exterior lighting plays a big role in both safety and curb appeal—but if your fixtures aren’t properly sealed, they could be at risk for hidden electrical damage.

Over time, moisture from rain, humidity, or even simple condensation can work its way into exterior light fixtures. Wall sconces, porch lights, and garage-mounted fixtures are especially vulnerable since they’re constantly exposed to the elements. Once water seeps in around old seals or open bulb sockets, problems can start to show up.

What Moisture Can Do to Your Fixtures

Even a small amount of moisture can cause big issues, including:

• Rust or corrosion on metal components

• Flickering or dim lights due to faulty connections

• Tripped breakers or short circuits

• Fire hazards if left unaddressed

Fixtures that weren’t designed to handle constant exposure—or have aged out of their protection—often fail silently until the damage becomes obvious or dangerous.

The Bowman Electric Fix

At Bowman Electric, we help homeowners stay ahead of these issues by offering:

✅ Upgraded, weather-sealed light fixtures designed for year-round exposure

✅ Wiring inspections for corrosion or damage

✅ Fixture assessments to ensure safe, code-compliant operation

If your exterior lights are flickering, showing signs of rust, or just looking outdated, now’s the time to swap them out for fixtures made to last in Montana’s unpredictable weather.

Shine Safely, All Year Long

Keeping your home’s exterior lighting reliable isn't just about looks—it's about safety and peace of mind. Whether it’s on your front porch, garage, or backyard shed, Bowman Electric can help you light your way with confidence.

Call us today to schedule an inspection or get a quote on weather-sealed lighting upgrades for your home.