Surge Protector - Before or After Transfer Switch

[mrschwarz]

I am pretty sure that this has been discussed somewhere, but I can't find it and I don't think it's been the main subject of a thread before.

I am getting ready to install my hardwired surge protector. I have leftover #6 wire to connect the transfer switch to the surge protector so it doesn't matter where the outside cable connects.

1. Should I connect it after the transfer switch. This protects the electrical system from both shore power and the generator, but leaves the transfer switch itself unprotected. There's not much that can hurt a transfer switch, other than high voltage to the coil on the relay.

2. Before the transfer switch: Protects the switch, but doesn't protect against faults from the generator. What's the likelihood of the generator causing a problem?

What's your opinion?

[Fred Cooper]

I installed mine downstream of the transfer switch. I figure the transfer switch is cheaper to replace than many components in the motorhome.

[Baby Bear]

I have mine hardwired before the transfer switch. I trust my generator.
You could go to the Newmar Owners forum and there is a Surge Guard/Progressive Industries listing by DandS that shows how to wire in a plug after the unit in case the unit gets fried.

[FlyingDiver]

Mine is before the transfer switch. This is how PI recommends it be installed. The odds of my generator causing a problem are much less than those of having to replace an expensive transfer switch because of a surge. Either way can be justified, you just have to decide which is more important to you.

joe

[NeilV]

Mine is before the transfer switch along with a Hughs AutoFormer. I have repaired the transfer switch due to surges from the power line but have never had a generator fault cause me a surge related problem. Remember that most times when the transfer switch goes then nothing works except the propane and batteries. That is until the batteries go dead. It can be a real vacation killer.

[mrschwarz]

Thanks. I guess I got my answer!