What is a RV Surge Protector?

A RV surge protector is a device that is installed between your RV's electrical system and the campground's power source. It acts as a barrier, absorbing any excess voltage that may come through and preventing it from reaching your RV's electrical system. This can help protect your appliances and electronics from power surges, which can happen at any time and can cause serious damage.

Below I will go over the pros and cons of rv surge protectors.

Benefits of a RV Surge Protector

• Protection from power surges: The primary benefit of a RV surge protector is the protection it provides from power surges. Power surges can cause serious damage to your appliances and electronics, leading to costly repairs or replacements. With a RV surge protector in place, you can rest easy knowing that your RV is protected from these types of power surges.

• Increased longevity of appliances and electronics: Another benefit of a RV surge protector is that it can help increase the longevity of your appliances and electronics. By protecting them from power surges, a RV surge protector can help prolong the life of your appliances and electronics, saving you money in the long run.

• Peace of mind: Knowing that your RV is protected from power surges can give you peace of mind when you're out on the road. You can enjoy your RVing experience without worrying about damage to your appliances and electronics.

Drawbacks of a RV Surge Protector

• Cost: One of the main drawbacks of a RV surge protector is the cost. These devices can be quite expensive, which can be a deterrent for some RVers. However, it's important to consider the cost of potential repairs or replacements to your appliances and electronics if they were to be damaged by a power surge.

• Complex installation: Another drawback of a RV surge protector is that the installation process can be quite complex. It's best to have a professional install a RV surge protector, which can add to the cost.

• Limited protection: RV surge protectors are designed to protect your RV from power surges, but they can't protect against all types of power issues. It's important to note that a RV surge protector is not a substitute for a transfer switch, which is necessary for safe and proper RV electrical system.

List of Benefits of a RV Surge Protector

• Protection from power surges
• Increased longevity of appliances and electronics
• Peace of mind
• Saving money in long term
• Preventing damage to your RV's electrical system
• Can be used in different types of campgrounds or RV parks

List of Drawbacks of a RV Surge Protector

• Cost
• Complex installation
• Limited protection
• Requires regular maintenance
• Some RV Surge Protectors may not be compatible with some types of RVs
• May not be able to protect against all types of power issues

Types of RV Surge Protectors

• Portable RV surge protectors: These are portable devices that you can plug into your RV's electrical system. They are easy to install and can be moved from campsite to campsite. However, they do not offer as much protection as a permanent RV surge protector.

• Hardwired RV surge protectors: These are permanent devices that are hardwired into your RV's electrical system. They offer the most protection from power surges, but they require a professional installation. This type of RV surge protector is typically more expensive, but it's also more robust and can provide more comprehensive protection for your RV.

  • Automatic transfer switch RV surge protectors: This type of RV surge protector includes an automatic transfer switch which allows the RV to automatically switch between the power source and generator. This type of RV surge protector is the most expensive one and it requires a professional installation as well.

  How to Choose the Right RV Surge Protector

  • Consider the level of protection: When choosing a RV surge protector, it's important to consider the level of protection that you need. If you're looking for basic protection, a portable RV surge protector may be sufficient. However, if you want the most comprehensive protection possible, a hardwired RV surge protector is the best choice.

  • Think about the cost: The cost of a RV surge protector is an important factor to consider. Portable RV surge protectors are typically more affordable than hardwired RV surge protectors. However, it's important to consider the cost of potential repairs or replacements if your appliances and electronics were to be damaged by a power surge.

  • Take into account the complexity of installation: A portable RV surge protector is easy to install, while a hardwired RV surge protector requires professional installation. Consider the complexity of installation when choosing a RV surge protector.

Comparison of Types of RV Surge Protectors

Type of RV Surge Protector	Protection Level	Cost	Installation Complexity
Portable RV Surge Protector	Basic	Affordable	Easy
Hardwired RV Surge Protector	Comprehensive	Expensive	Complex (requires professional installation)
Automatic Transfer Switch RV Surge Protector	Comprehensive	Most Expensive	Complex (requires professional installation)

Comparison of features of RV Surge Protectors

Feature	Portable RV Surge Protector	Hardwired RV Surge Protector	Automatic Transfer Switch RV Surge Protector
Protection Level	Basic	Comprehensive	Comprehensive
Cost	Affordable	Expensive	Most Expensive
Installation Complexity	Easy	Complex (requires professional installation)	Complex (requires professional installation)
Transfer Switch	No	No	Yes
Monitoring & Display	No	No	Yes

List of Features to Look for in a RV Surge Protector

• Protection level
• Type of protection (e.g. Joules rating)
• Number of outlets
• Built-in circuit breaker
• Indicator lights
• Compact and portable design
• Weather resistant
• Voltage display
• Automatic shut off

List of Different Scenarios where RV Surge Protectors are useful

• When camping in areas prone to power surges, such as near power plants or during thunderstorms
• When using older electrical systems in RV parks or campgrounds
• When using multiple electronics and appliances in the RV
• When using a generator to power the RV
• When leaving the RV unattended for long periods of time
• When planning on long-term RVing
• When connecting to different types of power sources.

Troubleshooting RV Surge Protectors

Troubleshooting rv surge protectors is a good skill to have. Despite their reliability, RV surge protectors can sometimes experience issues. Here are a few common problems and troubleshooting steps that can help you fix them:

Problem: Surge protector is not working

• Check if the outlet is working properly.
• Check if the circuit breaker is tripped.
• Check the connections to ensure they are secure.
• Make sure that the RV surge protector is properly grounded.

Problem: Indicator lights are not on

• Check if the outlet has power.
• Check if the RV surge protector is properly grounded.
• Check the connections to ensure they are secure.
• Check if the RV surge protector's circuit breaker is tripped.

Problem: Voltage display is not accurate

• Check the connections to ensure they are secure.
• Make sure that the RV surge protector is properly grounded.
• Check if the RV surge protector's circuit breaker is tripped.
• Check if the RV surge protector has been calibrated recently.