Surge Protectors

[Capt023]

Just wondering how many people are using surge protectors for there RVs? What is the name of the protector if you are using one? Do you see many problems at campgrounds with the wiring?
Thanks

[UFO Pilot]

I use the SurgeGuard model. I have seen power problems twice in the last 3 plus years. The SurgeGuard shut the power off both times.

[SouthernNite]

Just got done installing a Progressive HWC50 in our new coach. Many years ago I did not use one and never had a problem but todays RVs have so much more in them in the way of electronics; including computers that we travel with, that I feel they are an absolute must.

Even if you never run into a cg with wiring problems, all it takes is one thunderstorm and the possibility is there to "zap" everything in the coach.

Just think about it as insurance-you need it, you want it but you don't ever want to use it.

[OSP1268]

We use the Surge Guard model 34750. We have been to quite a few campgrounds and yes it has worked several times. If we were not in the RV at the time we could always tell because the time on the microwave would be flashing when we returned.
Here in central Florida however,the power must surge at least once a day or more. Because everytime we check the RV in storage the microwave is flashing again.
I would not be without one!

[ajm12]

I also use the progressive surge and line protector. But there is one more thing you should do. Put some kind of insulting material under your levelers. In a thunderstorm Lighting could enter your motor home or 5'er though your levelers.
Just a though

[Capt023]

Thank you everybody. That is great information and will be buying a surge protector. Have a good camping season this coming year all.

[jwd53]

I have the Surgeguard 50 amp portable model. If I had to do over I would have a hardwired one installed. It is a hassle to hookup and lock to the powerpost each time we camp. Especially when overnighting at public campgrounds. It has saved us from under voltage when camping in Virginia at a membership campground. With ALL the electronics on our 08 Winnebago Voyage it's a must.

[OSP1268]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jwd53 I have the Surgeguard 50 amp portable model. If I had to do over I would have a hardwired one installed. It is a hassle to hookup and lock to the powerpost each time we camp. Especially when overnighting at public campgrounds. It has saved us from under voltage when camping in Virginia at a membership campground. With ALL the electronics on our 08 Winnebago Voyage it's a must.

I used to do what you do. After some thought, I moved it inside the
electrical bay. Just cut the 50 amp cord, put new ends on, and plugged the surge protector in. Now the surge protector is inside, out of the weather and out of sight. One of the best mods I have ever done.

[Km0060]

My TT uses 30 amp service. If I go to a park that has only 50 amp service, do I have to use some kind of pigtail to match up the plugs? Also how does my 30 amp surge protector work?

[Pricejh]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Km0060 My TT uses 30 amp service. If I go to a park that has only 50 amp service, do I have to use some kind of pigtail to match up the plugs? Also how does my 30 amp surge protector work?

You will need an adapter. And, yes, your surge protector should work. My Onyx is 30 amp and I have adapters for both 50 and 15/20 amp service. They are basicilly just pigtales that plug into the box or into the trailer.

[KBolin]

Quote:

Originally Posted by OSP1268 I used to do what you do. After some thought, I moved it inside the electrical bay. Just cut the 50 amp cord, put new ends on, and plugged the surge protector in. Now the surge protector is inside, out of the weather and out of sight. One of the best mods I have ever done.

Great idea OSP, I was about to purchase a hardwire unit but I like your idea better. If the surge protector should ever fail I can bypass it and keep running. :-)