Checking the shorepower system

by Frank Lanier, Practical Sailor
One of the often overlooked maintenance items in the pre-season rush to the water is the AC shorepower system. Over the years of surveying, I’ve amassed a small collection of scary photos from past surveys showing the common examples of neglect to this critical system.

Barring improper use or some owner fabricated MacGyverism gone bad (jury-rigged adaptors, botched plug installations, etc.) overheating and corrosion are the primary causes of AC shore power cord problems. Charred plugs and receptacles are the most common and are a result of resistance build up due to loose or corroded connections, which in turn generate heat and the potential for fire. The problem is especially prevalent among boats that continually run high energy loads such as water heaters and air conditioning units.

Basic inspections of your AC shore power system are easily accomplished and are well within the ability of any boater. The first step is securing all AC power to avoid accidental shock hazards. Turn off your boats main AC breaker, then the shore pedestal breaker. Next unplug the shore power cord and verify that all other sources of power (such as power on-demand generators and DC to AC inverters) are turned off and their respective breakers secured in the off position. – Full report