[C320-list] Red Reverse Polarity light on panel

[Ade Bateman]

I'm not sure why the red light didn't come on immediately, but this light is intended to signal that the live and neutral wires coming into the shore power connector are the wrong way around (which could indicate here that the electrician wired them backwards). This can be especially dangerous because it can make parts of the system live that would otherwise be disconnected by a switch in the live wire. It can also create dangerous conditions depending upon how the ground and earth are wired. I've seen various posts here indicating that different 320's are wired differently in this respect so I wouldn't assume any particular configuration. This can result in some metal items onboard being connected to the live wire.

In short, disconnecting immediately is the right thing to do (not just turning off the power) and next you need an electrician to diagnose the issue.

-----Original Message-----
From: C320-list <c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com> On Behalf Of David Nolte
Sent: Sunday, November 14, 2021 8:28 AM
To: C320-List at catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Red Reverse Polarity light on panel

We had an electrician run a new 30 amp line down to the dock so we could charge the boats’ batteries. After he finished the job I plugged in and flipped to shore power. The Green light came on and I left. I came back a few days later and the Red light below the Green shore power indicator was on. The Red light is a caution light thats says Reverse Polarity, and to turn off the power, which I did.

What is going on here? How can I fix it?

Thanks!

David Nolte
Beach House 0004