Last updated April 7th, 2025
Product Reviews
When choosing the best surge protector for your RV, reliability is an essential factor to consider. We have rounded up 3 top surge protectors that will help secure your RV’s electrical system. Whether you’re seeking high-end protection or an economical choice, our list covers features, pros, cons, warranty, dimensions, and other crucial factors that will help you confidently pick the right RV surge protector for your road trips.
Surge Protectors Comparison Table
Here’s a detailed comparison of surge protectors based on parameters like price, protection rating, compatibility, portability, etc.
| Brand | Southwire Surge Guard | Progressive Industries EMS | Hughes Autoformer Power Watchdog |
| Image | |||
| Price | $34.97 – $100 | $65 – $350 | $135 – $379 |
| Time Delay for Reset | 128 seconds | 136 seconds | 136 seconds |
| Installation Type | Plug-in | Plug-in | Plug-in |
| Protection Rating | 4,200 joules | 1,500 joules – 2,000 joules | 3000 joules – 6100 joules |
| Voltage Monitoring | High and low detection | High and low detection | High and low detection |
| Weather Resistant | Durable, rugged construction suitable for use in various weather conditions | IP56 weather resistance | IP65 rating provides rugged, outdoor protection from dust and rain |
| Display Type | LCD | LED | LED |
| Automatic Shutoff | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Compatibility | Compatible with both 30-amp and 50-amp RV power systems | Compatible with both 30-amp and 50-amp RV power systems | Compatible with both 30-amp and 50-amp RV power systems |
| Portability | Compact and lightweight built | Compact and easy to store | Compact and lightweight |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty | Limited lifetime warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
1. Southwire Surge Guard: Our Choice for Pocket-Friendly Surge Protectors
Source: https://www.southwire.com/power-management/recreational-power/surge-guard-30a-model-35530/p/35530
Price:
Approximately $201.45 (for 30-amp)
Features:
- Voltage Protection
- If the AC voltage falls below 102 volts or exceeds 132 volts for more than 7 seconds, the surge protector will automatically cut off power to prevent damage, ensuring a safe voltage range for your RV.
- LCD Display
- An intuitive LCD allows you to monitor key electrical readings and alerts you to potential issues, including power surges, open ground, reverse polarity, abnormal ground voltage, open neutral, overheating plugs, and voltage levels above 136 or below 102 volts.
- Specifications for 30-amp Service
- For those with 30-amp service, the surge protector boasts a total Joule rating of 2,450, a surge current capacity of 6,500A, and a maximum wattage of 3,600 watts.
- Specifications for 50-amp Service
- For 50-amp service users, the protector offers a higher Joule rating of 4,200, the same surge current of 6,500A, and an increased maximum wattage of 12,000 watts.
- Pros:
- Automatic Voltage Shutoff: The surge protector automatically shuts off power if the voltage drops below 102V or rises above 132V, protecting the electrical system.
- User-Friendly: It is easy to install, providing peace of mind.
- Portable: It is compact and convenient to use in various setups.
- Cons:
- Voltage Range Limited: It only triggers for a specific voltage range. As a result, other electrical issues may not be covered.
- Restricted Usage: Its construction may not support high-power loads.
2. Progressive Industries EMS: Our Choice for Surge Protectors With Innovative Features
Our Choice for Surge Protectors With Innovative Features
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
04/07/2025 06:45 am GMT
Price:
$65 – $350
Features:
- Automatic Power Shutdown:
- The surge protector automatically cuts power when the AC voltage goes below 104 volts or above 132 volts.
- Safety Measures
- It prevents power if reverse polarity, open neutral, open ground, or 240 volts are detected. It also has a 136-second delay for safe power resumption.
- Outdoor Durability
- An all-weather shield feature, sturdy bracket, and locking mechanism protect against weather and theft. It is equipped with LED indicators that make it useful in low-visibility situations as well.
- Compatibility
- EMS-PT30X is for 30-amp service with 1,790 joules, while EMS-PT50X supports 50-amp service with 3,580 joules.
- Pros:
- Comprehensive Protection: Automatically shuts off power for voltage fluctuations, reverse polarity, open neutral/ground, or high-frequency deviations.
- Durability: Equipped with a weather shield and theft-resistant locking bracket; ideal for outdoor conditions.
- Easy Usage: The design incorporates a pull handle, allowing for convenient setup without installation.
- Lifetime Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty ensures peace of mind for long-term use.
- Cons:
- Costly Option: It has a higher initial cost as compared to basic surge protectors.
- Power Reset Delay: The 136-second delay for power reset may be inconvenient during power interruptions.
- Compact Yet Bulky: The design may still be somewhat large for some RV setups.
3. Hughes Autoformer Power Watchdog: Our Choice for The Most Reliable Surge Protectors
Our Choice for The Most Reliable Surge Protectors
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
04/07/2025 06:47 am GMT
Price:
$135 – $379
Features:
- Safe to Use:
- Ensures safe operation during low-voltage conditions. Also issues alerts for low or high-voltage conditions.
- Surge Protection:
- Protects against electrical surges and spikes with a joule rating of 3,000 (30-amp) or 6,100 (50-amp).
- Offers reliable surge absorption.
- Wireless Connectivity:Its patented Bluetooth connectivity allows users to monitor live park power conditions on their smartphones. It can also wirelessly monitor voltage, amperage, and wattage on smartphones in real-time.
- Portability:
- Is lightweight and has easy-grip handles that offer ease of transport. It can be stored in outside compartments with an optional installation kit.
- Pros:
- Built-In Surge Protection: Enhances the safety of your RV’s electrical system by absorbing electrical surges and spikes.
- Enhanced Flexibility: Can be stored in an outdoor compartment using an optional kit.
- Cons:
- Comparatively Heavier: At 3 pounds (both 30-amp and 50-amp), it’s relatively heavy, which may complicate storage.
- Limited Campground Use: Some campgrounds don’t allow the use of voltage boosters like this, which limits usability in certain locations.
- Warranty Limitations: Hardwiring voids the warranty, limiting options for permanent installation.
How We Compared and Determined the Best Surge Protectors
We evaluated several surge protectors using key parameters to help you find the best product for your needs. Here are some of the parameters we took into consideration:
- Voltage Protection Range: We assessed whether each unit safeguards effectively within a suitable voltage range. We looked at surge protectors that could issue alerts when the voltage falls outside the range.
- Surge Absorption Rating: High joule ratings were prioritized to handle power spikes.
- Automatic Reset: We checked for automatic reset functions for quick recovery from minor power fluctuations. The time taken to reset was also kept in mind.
- Weather Resistance: Outdoor durability is crucial, so we focused on weatherproof designs that could withstand rough outdoor conditions.
- Warranty: We looked at surge protectors that provided a good warranty, essential for long-term reliability and peace of mind.
Make an Informed Choice: Protect Your RV with the Best Surge Protector
Choosing the best surge protector for your RV is essential for safe travels. While reviewing different models, we were focused on factors like voltage protection, surge absorption, weather resistance, and warranties to help guide your choice. Each protector provides varying levels of protection, from basic safeguards to advanced voltage-boosting features. For a complete breakdown and comparison of these protectors, check out our in-depth guide on how you can pick the best RV surge protector.
