Frequently asked questions
What is the SmartPlug?
The SmartPlug is the first replacement to the problematic standard (known as the L5-30) of shorepower to come along in 70 years. Especially in marine environments, the L5-30 is notorious for overheating and melting. In the best of cases it takes the boat's wiring with it, and in extreme cases...the entire boat. The SmartPlug's "sleeve-in" design and double-locking system eliminate the movement and tension on the electrical pins that cause them to work loose, corrode and eventually overheat and burn. Additionally, SmartPlug’s three weatherproof seals ensure that no moisture makes it anywhere near the electric internals, thereby rendering corrosion a non-issue. And finally…in the unlikely event of an overheat, the inlet's thermostats will shut off power until the unit cools down to an appropriate temperature. See the features page for more details.
Why do I need it?
As mentioned previously, yesterday's standard of shorepower is notorious for failure due to overheating and burning out. Many marine supply stores display signs reminding boaters to "check your shorepower plug" as the problem of overheating and burning is widely understood. Simply put, the SmartPlug's design features eliminate all the major causes of these problems, offering the end-user a safer alternative and peace of mind at a very competitive price.
Why hasn't anyone else thought of this?
Your guess is as good as ours. :-)
Is it really weatherproof?
Yes. Our retrofit plug and inlet passed the "dreaded" 30-day salt fog test at the IMANNA testing facilities in Florida without a hint of moisture on the internals being found. The SmartPlug is the first retrofit shorepower plug to achieve this goal. Additionally, (and we recommend NOT doing this at home!) we’ve been able to completely submerge the plug and inlet underwater for 72 hours, only to find a completely dry connection afterwards.
Has the SmartPlug been tested to any safety standards?
Yes! The 30amp SmartPlug retrofit combination kit is the first shorepower retrofit kit to meet the rigorous UL Marine performance requirements. We opted to go with IMANNA Laboratories as our independent testing facility of choice due to their established reputation for quality in the marine industry. Additionally, the SmartPlug has officially met the American Boat and Yacht Council's (ABYC) E-11 standard for safety and is U.S. Coast Guard compliant.
How easy is it to install on my boat?
Very easy. The SmartPlug uses the same screw hole pattern as the current standard, so retrofitting is a piece of cake. See the instructions page for detailed instructions but the entire process should take less than an hour.
When will the 50 Amp line be out?
The 50amp retrofit combination kit is expected to be available in the summer of 2010.
When can I buy a molded SmartPlug 30 Amp cord?
The SmartPlug 30amp molded cord is expected to be available in the spring of 2010.
Can the SmartPlug's basic design be adapted for other uses?
Yes! We are always looking for new applications in which the SmartPlug can make a significant improvement in safety and usability. We would love to hear from you and are open to working with you to develop a solution that meets your needs. Please contact us to see if SmartPlug Systems would be a good fit for your application.
If I still have to use an adapter on the pedestal, what is the benefit?
The boatside SmartPlug plug and inlet will protect your boat via all the means mentioned above. We are currently working with several marinas, ports and pedestal manufactures, to begin integrating our upcoming SmartPlug outlet on the dockside as well. Ask your marina about converting to SmartPlug today!
Will the Thermostat trip in a hot environment such as Florida?
No. The integrated thermostat is set to trip at 200 degrees Fahrenheit...which is just below the melting point of your cord's shielding. Power is restored once the unit has cooled to a safe operating temperature of around 120 degrees.
How effective is the cord seal on the cord?
The SmartPlug's cord seal has been rigorously tested by IMANNA Labs to UL Marine testing specifications. We don't like to brag (ok...maybe just a little) but we've been able to bend our cord a full 180-degrees back on itself without any visual gap appearing or water intrusion being detected.
What materials are used in the SmartPlug?
SmartPlug Systems uses only the finest materials available in construction of its products. All external metals are highly polished Marine-Grade 316 Stainless Steel, the electrical pins are nickel-plated brass for maximum conductivity, and plastics are UV and heat resistant Valox 553U resins made right here in the USA. And last but not least the internal electrics are fully encased in thermal epoxy making them 100% weatherproof.