Community Forums

SnowNCycle · 06-21-2021, 08:39 AM

So, I have a 2019 Thor Aria 4000 and my kids just got a 2021 Forest River Wildwood 5th wheel, both 50 AMP service. I have never used an EMS/Surge Protector and have had no issues...However, before my luck runs out, I want to get one for them and myself. All the published reviews (Best of 2021, etc) say to go with Progressive Industries, but when I go to Amazon and read the reviews, the many notices of failed units and false reads is staggering. I see better reviews on the Hughes Autoformers. Are the PI reviews justified? I was going to go with portable units for ease of use. Any real world advice? Thank you all in advance.

D20 · 06-21-2021, 08:44 AM

I have the hard wired 50 amp Hughes Power Watchdog. Works well and I like that I can monitor and reset it using my phone.

TXiceman · 06-21-2021, 09:08 AM

Been using a Progressive Ind unit for about 10 years now and no issues. Current unit has the hard wired PI EMS. Customer service from PI is top notch and they have replaced a unit, after some trouble shooting questions.

I have heard that the Hughes units are not so good on customer service.

Ken

rgvtexan · 06-21-2021, 10:22 AM

I have used one of these for years. I have an older portable model, mounted in the electrical bay. Works great, has found many errors in CG panels.

https://www.progressiveindustries.net/our-products

MSHappyCampers · 06-21-2021, 01:38 PM

I use the PI HW50C with a remote display. You can use the PT50X if you prefer portable! I wouldn't leave home without it!

StevefromPA · 06-21-2021, 01:50 PM

I agree. I have a hardwired 50 amp Progressive EMS for about 2 tears, never any issue and I love how it checks the power when you plug it in. After it determined all OK it then feeds power to the RV.

JFXG · 06-21-2021, 09:55 PM

I’m a big fan of Progressive Industries, both the units and their customer service. I’m frankly surprised that you’ve apparently found a large number of unhappy customers. In 10 years on this forum I have never seen any consistent negativity re PI; in fact quite the opposite!
When we bought our ‘02 Dutch Star in 2012 it already had the Progressive hard-wired 50A unit, installed in 2008 by the previous owner. In 2013 the unit failed. I called PI and described the symptoms. The woman immediately identified the failed circuit board, and without even asking my name or the unit S/N, said “Where are you, I’ll overnight you a new card right now.” She did indeed, complete with swap out instructions. The EMS has operated flawlessly since.
That kind of company culture is priceless. I recommend Progressive Industries unequivocally.

bddadles · 06-22-2021, 05:34 AM

I agree with the others. I have a hardwired PI and have never had any problems. It has shut down my power for both high and low voltage on different occasions. Even once for an open ground in a pedestal. Several people I have talked to over my 11+ years of full timing have told me that they don't use any EMS on their rigs and have never had any trouble. They have also replaced electronics on occasion and there is never any explanation for the failures. I have not had any of these problems yet and I like to credit my Progressive with helping prevent these failures. I have heard from several places that high and low voltage are a big contributors to electronics failures.

SnowNCycle · 06-22-2021, 06:12 AM

Thank you all....I ended up going with two of the Progressive Industries EMS-PT50X models. Small inconvenience for the protection I perceive they will provide.
Just going use to cable/bike locks to deter theft.

Judge64 · 06-22-2021, 06:50 AM

I have the Progressive Industries HW50C Hardwired EMS as well and I have it wired to protect the AC input from both the shore power and the generator.

There are where cases where a generator can malfunction and cause electrical issues. In this case you wire the EMS after the ATS.

While it doesn't protect the ATS, I finde that to be a cheaper and easier fix than replacing a fridge, microwave or A/C unit should the generator have a power generating issue.

oldnavycdr · 06-22-2021, 07:24 AM

Portable Hughes Autoformer here. Only issue is the fairly weak Blu-Tooth connection to my phone which routinely drops out causing unnecessary alerts on my iPhone. But from a protection standpoint it is solid.

THenne1713 · 06-22-2021, 10:55 PM

FYI: Important to note that if EMS shuts off power to coach, Voltage MAYBE OUT OF RANGE and EMS= doing its job; some do not understand, and complain that EMS "failed", which is wrong... Further EMS does not necessarily see all plug/ receptacle issues and overhat/ meltdowns. LUCK