Nowadays, there are many kinds of the best priced RV surge protectors on the appliances market. I was also stuck in the various types of RV surge protector when deciding to choose a viable one after an unexpected thunderstorm striking RV and destroying appliances and the electrical system.
I got advice from my neighbors and picked up some good RV surge protectors. Since then, appliances in my house have been totally safe and worked effectively and smoothly.
From my unforgettable experience, I will share these essential things you need to know about RV surge protector. Besides, I also provide helpful information and 10 RV surge protectors review at present. I do hope that you will have your own appropriate choice at the end of my article.
What is the Best RV Surge Protectors? In-depth Reviews
30 Amp RV Surge Protector
Progressive Industries 313.1163 SSP-30XL Surge Protector
The first RV surge protector that I want to introduce to you today is Progressive Industries 313.1163 SSP-30XL Surge Protector with Cover – 30 Amp. Among many different types of the surge protector, Progressive Industries 313.1163 SSP-30XL seems to be the best one.
To me, it has an amazing performance in protecting appliances and the electrical system. In fact, Progressive Industries 313.1163 SSP-30XL is a portable protector, so it lies outside the electric equipment. I especially prefer its design with remarkable indicators and an eye-catching appearance which can show us the situation of electricity flow and cautions when necessary.
Like other portable surge protectors, Progressive Industries 313.1163 SSP-30XL does not take our time for installation. When I bought it, I only plugged it into the electrical system. And now, Progressive Industries 313.1163 SSP-30XL still works well.
One striking feature of Progressive Industries 313.1163 SSP-30XL is it has a reliable checking system before use. You can check the effectiveness of this surge protector anytime you want. More than that, there is also an open ground with a good detection in Progressive Industries 313.1163 SSP-30XL so it can inform you any danger instantly just in some seconds.
Similar to Progressive Industries SSP50X, Progressive Industries 313.1163 SSP-30XL also has the vivid indicator system with 3 LED display. This will be more easy to use. Furthermore, this 30 amp RV surge protector has a thermal protection mechanism so it may ensure a high accuracy than others and avoid outside factors.
Pros of the product
- Highly efficient performance in appliances protection
- Eye-catching design
- Excellent display with clear indicators
- Good testing system
- Special thermal protection
- Large dimensions
Nevertheless, Progressive Industries 313.1163 SSP-30XL has its downside. This surge protector has large dimensions. Therefore, it can cause troublesome regarding the fitting problem. You should consider this trait before deciding to buy Progressive Industries 313.1163 SSP-30XL.
Surge Guard 34830 Portable Model
If you still looking for a portable surge protector with the high-quality display, Surge Guard 34830 Portable Model with LCD Display may be the best choice.
From its name, we can see Surge Guard 34830 Portable Model with LCD Display apart easily from other surge protectors thanks its brand display. With LCD, this surge protector will surely provide you clear indicators.
Because Surge Guard 34830 is a portable protector, it does not spend time for installation. It can be repaired or plugged into the electrical and appliances easily. Surprisingly, this protector even can work in bad weather like a storm or heavy rain.
What is more, when the electricity goes out, or you take it out suddenly from appliances and the electrical system, Surge Guard 34830 Portable Model with LCD Display will reset automatically. Therefore, you do not need to restart it like other RV surge protectors.
The feature of Surge Guard 34830 Portable Model with LCD Display I like most is its ability to prevent appliances from faulty power. This ensures the accuracy of the RV surge protector under any situation.
Additionally, I also appreciate this surge protector as it has a high figure of Joules. This means Surge Guard 34830 Portable Model with LCD Display has a better protection mechanism than other types of the surge protector.
The last benefit of Surge Guard 34830 Portable Model lies in the built-in intelligence inside the RV surge protector. This makes sure that other surrounding factors will not affect it negatively. Therefore, you do not need to be worried about its quality anymore.
There are two sides to everything. And, Surge Guard 34830 Portable Model with LCD Display is not an exception. Despite the above strong points, its price is quite higher than other kinds. Thus if you have a luxurious home, I highly recommend this one. If your electrical system is simple, please choose another one.
Pros of the product
- LCD design with clear indicators
- Easy to use
- High protection ability
- Inside intelligence
- Automatic Reset
- High cost
Camco 55301 30 AMP Power Defender Voltage Protector
The next RV surge protector that I want to introduce is Camco 55301 30 AMP Power Defender Voltage Protector with Integrated Surge Protection. I can say that this RV surge protector is effective in protecting your appliances from the unstable voltage flow.
Specifically, if the voltage level gets too high (more than 132V) or too low (under 102V), Camco 55301 30 AMP Power Defender Voltage Protector with Integrated Surge Protection will ensure the safety for the electric equipment.
I also realize another advantage of this RV surge protector is it can disconnect automatically when the voltage level rises too high or decreases too low. And if this situation is stable, Camco 55301 30 AMP Power Defender Voltage Protector with Integrated Surge Protection will reconnect immediately. This mechanism prevents any dangerous scenario to your electrical system in the home.
By normal eyes, you can also see the waterproof design of Camco 55301 30 AMP Power Defender Voltage. I assert that its water-resistant outfit can protect your appliances and the electrical system from water and bad weather. This provides a high level of protection.
Besides, this RV surge protector also has clear visual indicators which can show you instantly about any power fault. LED light ensures that you can still read the information exactly even in low light. The price of this product is also quite affordable.
However, I think that Camco 55301 30 AMP Power Defender Voltage Protector with Integrated Surge Protection has a big size. This disadvantage can make it difficult for you to plug into appliances. Make sure that this RV surge protector has a suitable size with appliances if you want to purchase Camco 55301 30 AMP Power Defender Voltage Protector with Integrated Surge Protection.
Pros of the product
- Affordable price
- LED light indicators
- Waterproof design
- Automatic disconnection and reconnection
- High Joules figure
- Big size
Progressive Industries EMS-HW30C Portable Electrical Management System
Another kind RV surge protector in Progressive Industries is Progressive Industries EMS-HW30C Portable Electrical Management System. I think this surge protector certainly brings a good impression for you regarding its ability to protect appliances and the electrical system from any danger.
The high severe weather endurance ability is an amazing advantage of Progressive Industries EMS-HW30C Portable Electrical Management System. It can deal with the heinous cold weather at -40℃ or so hot one at 105℃. In spite of any bad weather change, Progressive Industries EMS-HW30C Portable Electrical Management System still works effectively.
The visual indicators ensure that the user will realize fluctuation in voltage and electricity anytime. It can assure the accuracy and high speed as many people demand.
More than that, Progressive Industries EMS-HW30C Portable Electrical Management System has a longtime warranty lasting for 3 years. Thus you do not need to worry about the cost of restoration or to replace another new one.
The display of this RV surge protector can provide full information of essential things to your appliances and the electrical system like voltage, ample, and power level. I also appreciate its ability to protect the electric equipment like other portable surge protectors.
However, there is a certain weakness in Progressive Industries EMS-HW30C Portable Electrical Management System. It will spend your time on installing. The fee for doing this task also is quite high. Remember to consider this feature.
Pros of the product
- High endurance under bad weather conditions
- Long time of warranty
- Clear visual indicators
- Accessible display
- High cost for installation
Camco 55315 Power Defender Circuit Analyzer
If you are finding an RV surge protector which is appropriate for 30A appliances, Camco 55315 Power Grip Circuit Analyzer with Integrated Surge Protection is a good choice.
This RV surge protector can prevent faults in electrical boxes from entering your appliances and the electrical system. Also, Camco 55315 Power Grip Circuit Analyzer with Integrated Surge Protection can inform you of faults before you connect appliances.
The 1050 Joules assures high protection for appliances and the electrical system from any danger. It also can indicate the change in voltage and amp whenever instability happens. I am sure that the information process will be very fast, just a few seconds.
Another good point of the Camco 55315 Power Grip Circuit Analyzer with Integrated Surge Protection is it can analyze the circuit with high accuracy. It can send you all changes in the electricity and voltage circuit.
Moreover, it is waterproof, and when you use it in raining season, your device won’t be damaged.
Pros of the product
- Ability to analyze the circuit
- Indicating change in voltage and ample
- Quick interaction
- It can’t handle the high voltage of 50 amp power shore
Technology Research 44750 Surge Guard
I also highly recommend you to choose another high technology RV surge protector – Technology Research 44750 Surge Guard 30-Amp with Ground. This surge protector is good at preventing outside dangers for appliances and the electrical system.
Moreover, Technology Research 44750 Surge Guard 30-Amp with Ground is a weather resistant device. It is not affected seriously by heavy rains. This RV surge protector certainly works well even in the wet and windy weather.
With a compact and portable design, I think Technology Research 44750 Surge Guard 30-Amp with Ground may be the best choice for travelers. You can bring it easily instead of some bulky surge protectors.
Technology Research 44750 Surge Guard 30-Amp with Ground has a tight lock which ensures your safety as well as your rig. You also can install and repair it easily anytime you want. Technology Research 44750 Surge Guard 30-Amp with Ground does not spend too much your time for installation.
I think this surge protector is appropriate for protecting appliances from the rapid increase in voltage; however, Technology Research 44750 Surge Guard 30-Amp with Ground does not deal with a significant fall in voltage. Admittedly, this is a weakness of Technology Research 44750 Surge Guard 30-Amp with Ground.
Pros of the product
- Weather resistant
- Easy to use
- Not good at treating low voltage
Camco Heavy-Duty Dogbone RV Circuit Analyzer
Last but not least, I want to introduce to you another effective RV surge protector Camco Heavy-Duty Dogbone RV Circuit Analyzer With Power Grip Handles, Integrated Surge Protection, and Fault Indication.
At first glance, you can see the compact design of this surge protector. With Camco Heavy-Duty Dogbone RV Circuit Analyzer, equipped with Power Grip Handles, Integrated Surge Protection, and Fault Indication illuminated by LED light, you can quickly detect any faulty wiring connections.
Furthermore, the 2,100 Joules ensures high protection for your appliances from any natural event. This feature also makes Camco Heavy-Duty Dogbone RV Circuit Analyzer with Power Grip Handles, Integrated Surge Protection, and Fault Indication easily connects and disconnects when necessary.
This RV surge protector is famous for its RV supplies in any situation. Hence, you do not need to concern about its effectiveness even if you go far for your long day’s trip.
Weather resistant ability is a plus point for Camco Heavy-Duty Dogbone RV Circuit Analyzer with Power Grip Handles, Integrated Surge Protection, and Fault Indication. It can work under any weather patterns and ensure high accuracy for protecting your appliances and the electrical system.
While the Camco Heavy-Duty Dogbone RV Circuit Analyzer with Power Grip Handles, Integrated Surge Protection, and Fault Indication is a great device, its low effective manufacturing rate leaves something to be desired. In order for this product to reach its full potential in the future, it needs an enhanced manufacturing process.
Pros of the product
- Affordable price
- High ability to block power surges
- LED light
- Bulky size
- Low manufacturing quality
50 Amp Surge Protectors
Progressive Industries SSP50X Smart Surge Protector
Among various kinds of RV surge protector, Progressive Industries SSP50X Smart Surge Protector has an affordable price. It has the Joules rating of 1,650 and suitable for 240V and 50A.
The main advantage of Progressive Industries SSP50X Smart Surge Protector is it has high accuracy. Whenever an electricity failure happens, or a sudden change in the electrical system occurs, it will alarm you immediately only after 2 or 3 seconds. Furthermore, Progressive Industries SSP50X Smart Surge Protector has a clear 3D color display so it can inform you any problem quickly.
Many people favor Progressive Industries SSP50X Smart Surge Protector because it is easy to use. You can plug it into the electrical system and take it off easily without wasting too much time.
Noticeably, this 50 amp RV surge protector has a long warranty lasting for 3 years. Thus, you do not need concern about its repairing or installation.
Pros of the product
- Long time warranty
- Easy to use and install
- Clear display and indicators
- Affordable price
- Large dimensions model
I highly recommend Progressive Industries SSP50X Smart Surge Protector for someone who seeks for a good RV surge protector with a low price. Besides, the longtime warranty surely makes you satisfied with this product.
Surge Guard 34850 Portable Model
Another model with LCD that I appreciate today is Surge Guard 34850 Portable Model with LCD Display – 50 Amp. Admittedly, this RV surge protector has some similarities to Surge Guard 34830 Portable Model with LCD Display – 30 Amp. Nevertheless, the main difference between them is the level of ample that each one can control.
Obviously, Surge Guard 34850 can manipulate higher ample level than the other, 50 Amp compared with 30 Amp respectively. This also indicates that Surge Guard 34850 is suitable for big size appliances.
Another distinction between Surge Guard 34850 and Surge Guard 34830 is the figure of Joules. The later has a lower Joules level than the former. Surge Guard 34850 Portable Model with LCD Display has 3850 Joules, which ensures higher protection and connection.
Like Surge Guard 34830, Surge Guard 34850 has a high-quality display with LCD. It also has clear visual indicators which ensure you to see the information in low light. Moreover, this RV surge protector can prevent appliances from dangers of electricity fluctuation.
If the electricity goes out suddenly, Surge Guard 34850 Portable Model with LCD Display – 50 Amp can reset automatically when you turn appliances on.
Pros of the product
- High Joules figure
- Automatic Reset
- Visual indicators
- High ample level
- High price
Personally, I think the cost of Surge Guard 34850 may be a disadvantage. It is expensive than other kinds of RV surge protector. Remember to choose a surge protector which is suitable for your income.
Surge Guard 44270 Entry Level Portable Surge Protector
Another product which is easy to use for protecting appliances and the electrical system is Surge Guard 44270 Entry Level Portable Surge Protector.
When I first saw this RV surge protector, I was impressed by its small and compact design. You can bring Surge Guard 44270 Entry Level Portable Surge Protector along when having a trip. It is so convenient and portable.
Surge Guard 44270 Entry Level Portable Surge Protector boasts of its 4,200 Joules protection. One more thing that I want to indicate is its accuracy in analyzing the circuit. This feature apparently makes Surge Guard 44270 Entry Level Portable Surge Protector different from other kinds.
Besides, this RV surge protector also has the illuminating indicators which show power level and the fluctuation of voltage in different times. It has open ground and accurate detection system.
The LED light also ensures you can see changes in electricity and voltage immediately. The resistant design is another plus point for Surge Guard 44270 Entry Level Portable Surge Protector. The waterproof outfit can ensure that this RV surge protector still works regardless of bad weather patterns.
Surge Guard 44270 Entry Level Portable Surge Protector, nonetheless, has no lock. Therefore, it can be stolen anytime if you do not keep an eye on. Furthermore, this surge protector requires the user to plug it into appliances many times.
Pros of the product
- Waterproof design
- High Joules figure
- Illuminating indicators
- Portable and compact design
- LED light
- Without lock
- Many times needed for plugging into appliances
Benefits of RV Surge Protector
As mentioned above, the safety of appliances and the electrical systems is drawing attention. Thus, RV surge protector becomes prevail in all corners in our homes and buildings. Of course, RV surge protector has many benefits to our life.
Balancing the electricity
First and foremost, RV surge protector helps balance the electricity flow into electrical equipment. Apparently, appliances and the electrical system need the stable electricity to ensure them to operate and work immediately and effectively whenever users turn them on.
Nevertheless, because of some reasons like natural disasters or weak entry electricity, the voltage can be hindered into our appliances. As a result, they may go off or do not have enough electricity to work. Some recent researchers reveal that the dramatic increase or fall in voltage can impact our TVs, computers, and other electric equipment negatively.
One year ago, I ignored the importance of RV surge protector and declined to buy it. Unfortunately, a thunderstorm hit my house. Can you guess the consequence? My TV burnt out and went out of work. I even could not switch on other appliances. Everything was so bad. I lived two days without electricity like people in the Middle Ages.
Luckily, thanks to my neighbors’ advice, I bought some RV surge protectors. And, my appliances still work well regardless of natural events or the voltage instability. In short, RV surge protector can control the electricity flow into appliances and the electrical system and ensure the stable voltage anytime.
Ensuring the appliances’ expectancy
The second advantage of RV surge protector is lasting the expectancy of household appliances. We know that RV surge protector can monitor the voltage and works as an electric gatekeeper. Appliances may avoid acute effects of power surges or drops. To some extent, the surge protector can prevent any damage to appliances and the electrical system.
Therefore, you do not need to worry about the safety and effectiveness of your electric equipment when lightening or storm occurs. You also do not need to call the plumber because the RV surge protector entirely ensures appliances’ stable working ability. Thanks to this protector, the electric line in your home are safe even you go far in the holiday.
Type of RV Surge Protector
When searching for a proper RV surge protector, I did not know how many kinds it has. Before choosing a suitable one, thus, you should have insight into this issue to avoid a mistake.
Now there are two main types of RV surge protector: hardwire and portable. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages. There are also certain differences between the portable and hardwire RV surge protector that you need understand to set them apart.
Portable RV Surge Protector
The portable RV surge protector is the electric equipment attached outside the electrical pedestal. Therefore, it is very easy to use and repair anytime if you want. Besides, you do not have to spend time on installing them into appliances or the electrical system like the hardware one.
Another good point of the portable RV surge protector is you can replace it easily whenever you want. As the portable lies on the external part of appliances, you can plug a new one just by hands without using tools or call the electrical worker.
Also, the portable RV surge protector can alarm you immediately when the unstable electricity flow happens. Thanks to this, you may prevent appliances and the electrical line from being damaged severely.
As I said above, the portable RV surge protector is outside connected. Therefore, it may be stolen unless you buy a lock. Some bad neighbors even plug it out anytime like a trick. This also means you will have to spend time keeping an eye on the portable protector.
The second disadvantage of the portable RV surge protector is when heavy rains and flooding occur, the rising water can damage it. Hence, if bad weather affects the portable RV surge protector, you will have to hook it up to a higher position.
Hardwire RV Surge Protector
Different from the portable one which is connected to the external part, the hardwire RV surge protector lies inside appliances and the electrical system. Thus, its main benefit is saving time for hooking up.
Moreover, the hardwire surge protector is not outside, so it can block the view. This also means we do not need to worry about thieves or any trick from bad neighbors.
The third strong point of the hardwire RV surge protector is it may not be damaged by rain or leaking water as it totally inside the appliances. Additionally, this kind of protector is smaller than the portable one. You can use it to any appliances in your homes.
The main disadvantage of the hardwire surge protector is you have to spend time on installing it into the electrical system. Besides, if it is out of work or you want to replace another, the repairing and installation will take much time than the portable.
What Criteria Should We Look for a Good RV Surge Protector?
When trying to choose the best RV surge protectors, not only me but also other people will find it difficult to pick up an appropriate among various kinds and brands of the protector. In this case, to ensure you will not regret your decision, you need to know some necessary factors that should be taken into consideration.
In my view, a good RV surge protector need meet these following expectations:
FAQs
Do I really need an expensive surge protector for my RV?
The answer to this question depends on your own personal needs. Generally speaking, it is always a good idea to invest in the most reliable and durable surge protector you can afford for any type of electrical system. RV’s have sensitive electronics, like TVs and microwaves, that should be protected from power surges. Higher-end surge protectors can provide a higher level of protection than lower-end models. While these surge protectors may cost more upfront, they could save you hundreds of dollars in the long run if your RV’s electronics are damaged during a power surge.
How many joules should a surge protector have for a RV?
Generally, RV’s should have at least 3,000 – 4,000 joules of protection to ensure that all sensitive electronics are fully protected. Surge protectors with higher joule ratings provide better protection but may also be more expensive.
Are Cheap surge protectors OK?
Cheap surge protectors may be OK for RVs, but they typically don’t offer the same level of protection as higher-end models. Many cheap surge protectors can’t handle large power surges, which could cause expensive damage to your RV’s electronics. It is always recommended that you invest in a higher-end surge protector if you want the best protection for your RV’s delicate electronics.
Sum up
In short, I assure that the RV surge protector has been a necessary tool in our homes. It plays an important role in balancing voltage and protects our appliances and the electrical system from any outside factors. There are some criteria that you should consider when choosing a good surge protector such as Amp rating, Joules rating, LED display, noise, design, battery, and weight. If an RV surge protector meets all these above requirements, you do not wait or wonder to buy it.
From my unexpected experience, I recommend you 10 best priced RV surge protectors that you should have a look. Hope that you can choose a suitable RV surge protector for your home.
Images source: Amazon.com
Resources:
Why You Need An RV Surge Protector – Full Time Canada