5 Best RV Surge Protectors Reviewed
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Hey there, traveler – it’s time to make sure you’re safe!
Here’s a guide to the best RV surge protectors available.
Living the RV life brings its fair share of ups and downs, but one thing we don’t want fluctuating is our voltage.
Just like the best experiences, we want our power to be stable and reliable.
That’s why I’ve put together this detailed review of the top RV surge protectors!
I’ve considered many factors, but above all, I’ve focused on the level of protection, the value for money, and how much peace of mind each product brings with its dependability.
Rest assured, there are no bad choices here.
Here’s the big reveal: Power Watchdog Hughes Autoformers is the best of the bunch.
It works flawlessly with nearly any RV, and its lifetime warranty means you’re covered for life.
But if that doesn’t quite settle your mind, don’t worry.
Keep reading to find hardwired options, budget-friendly picks, and some innovative choices.
There’s no shortage of surge protector reviews here.
The best part? I’ve already done all the hard work for you.
I’ve gone through the manuals and the fine print of warranties so you don’t have to.
If you’re here, you want to know which RV surge protector is the best, and I’ve got the answers for you – eight of them, to be exact.
I’ve sorted them by RV types and what different travelers need.
Get ready for some clarity.
5 Best RV Surge Protectors
You’ve encountered the problems, now it’s time for the solutions.
Whether you’re carrying a small coffee grinder or a big espresso machine in your RV, a surge protector will help keep it safe.
There are eight great options to choose from.
Here are the top 5 RV surge protectors, designed to meet the needs of every kind of traveler.
1. Hughes Autoformer Power Booster with Surge Protection
When it comes to reliable performance, the Hughes Autoformer Power Booster is a top choice.
It combines surge protection with power boosting to ensure a steady and strong current, even when the voltage is low.
Surprisingly, it’s the only device in the US with a patent for boosting voltage.
This feature can increase the voltage by up to 10% when the power dips.
For example, if your voltage drops to around 90-92 volts, the Hughes Power Booster kicks in and brings it back up to around 100, keeping things running smoothly.
There are a couple of other features I really like, in addition to its solid performance and durability.
One of them is the replaceable surge module, which significantly extends the life of the product.
If a surge occurs, you can just swap out the module and continue using it, without having to replace the entire unit.
The main downside is the price.
Surge protectors can be pricey, and the 30-amp and 50-amp models of this unit are more expensive than others on the market.
But honestly, I think it’s worth it. Protecting all your other equipment and extending its lifespan is important, and with the power-boosting feature, you get even more out of your gear.
It’s a great combination of protection and performance.
Overall, I give two thumbs up to the Hughes Autoformer Power Booster.
2. Progressive Industries EMS-PT30X/50X
If you’re looking to save money, make some room in your RV because Progressive Industries is offering a great deal without breaking the bank.
If the last couple of devices were too expensive, this one is a more affordable option.
It includes all the important features, and it’s priced much lower.
Progressive Industries is well-known in the RV world for making reliable products, and this one is no different.
For a cheaper, portable surge protector, it’s surprisingly tough.
The EMS-PT has:
- A weatherproof cover
- Thermal protection
- A strong Lexan housing
- A locking bracket with a sturdy handle
At about half the price of some of the more expensive models, it doesn’t cut corners when it comes to build quality.
Plus, it offers solid protection against the challenges of RV life.
That said, it’s not perfect.
In terms of power surge protection, it doesn’t quite match the Southwire and Hughes models.
Also, it would have been nice if Progressive Industries included a lock with the device, especially considering its price.
But, I guess that’s what you get when you’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
Overall, the Progressive Industries EMS-PT30X/50X offers a solid RV surge protector at a much lower price.
It’s from a trusted brand, works well, and is affordable.
3. Southwire Surge Guard EMS-35530/35550
Here comes a great deal! Maybe the Progressive Industries EMS-PT was just what you were looking for – the right price, solid performance, and a great fit for your RV.
But if you’re after a budget-friendly, hardwired surge protector, Southwire’s EMS-355 is the perfect choice for both you and your appliances.
Made by Southwire, the same brand behind our top pick, this hardwired unit works just like the EMS-PT.
It has a similar joule rating, a similar shut-off feature, and comes at a similar price.
The main difference is that it’s hardwired, not portable.
Whether you prefer one over the other is up to you.
It’s nice to know that you can get solid, budget-friendly surge protectors in both styles.
For those who enjoy the tech side of things, there’s an option to add a Remote Power LCD Monitor.
If you like keeping track of your RV’s performance, this could be a useful tool to have.
Otherwise, it’s very similar to the Progressive EMS-PT, but at a lower price with just a slight reduction in protection.
It’s a bit disappointing that the monitor isn’t included and costs extra, but that’s the trade-off with budget-friendly options.
Think of the Surge Guard EMS as a close relative to the Progressive EMS.
If you prefer a hardwired option and don’t want to overspend, this is the best choice.
It’s reliable, sturdy, and offers great value for your money.
4. Camco Power Defender Voltage Protector
Get ready for the road, folks, and don’t forget to plug this one in.
The Camco Power Defender is built to handle whatever nature throws at it.
This weather-resistant protector can survive harsh conditions, whether it’s the intense heat of the southern deserts or the freezing cold of northern mountains.
The copper terminals inside and the easy-to-grip handles make it even more durable and simple to install.
When it comes to protection, this device delivers.
It has a strong joule rating and is designed to handle both open ground/neutral and reverse polarity situations with its built-in detection.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to install — just plug it in, and you’re good to go.
One downside is that it doesn’t have any anti-theft features.
With its bright yellow color, it’s easy for someone to spot and steal.
While it does its job as a protector, you’ll have to keep an eye on it yourself.
That said, theft depends on where you are and how you travel.
This surge protector is tough, simple, and portable.
Full-time RVers might want something more heavy-duty, but for weekend campers or families at campsites, it offers great value for the price.
If you want something durable that can stand up to tough weather without the hassle of a complicated setup, the Camco Power Defender is a solid choice.
5. Progressive Industries EMS-HW30C/50C
Portable surge protectors are known for being easy to install, and that’s exactly what they’re made for.
But what about a hardwired protector? How simple is it to set up?
The Progressive Industries EMS-HW30C/50C is known for being simple to install.
You don’t need to be an expert in electronics to get it working.
The instructions come with clear pictures and easy-to-follow text to help guide you through the process.
And if you run into any trouble, their customer support is ready to assist.
Apart from the easy installation, this unit provides strong electrical protection.
While I’d prefer a higher joule rating, it still offers more than enough coverage.
Plus, it has a digital display to show you important details about the power source.
There are a few small issues.
One is with the warranty—Progressive only offers replacement parts and doesn’t usually replace the entire unit, which means you might be stuck with repair costs or labor charges.
That’s a bit frustrating, but it’s a minor issue in an otherwise smooth experience.
These units don’t tend to fail, and since it’s easy to install and keep secure in your RV, the warranty concerns aren’t a huge problem.
In the end, the Progressive Industries unit is perfect for RV owners who want the simplicity of a portable protector but need the reliability of a hardwired one.
Why settle for less when a simple solution gives you peace of mind?
Our Verdict
Now you’re all set for the adventures of the road, with all its ups and downs, and plenty of open space to explore.
I hope it’s clear by now—surge protection for your RV is a must.
You’re heading out with a vehicle that can cost a lot of money, and it will be packed with equipment worth even more. Not protecting it is a risky decision.
If you’re looking for the best surge protection for your RV, you can’t go wrong with the portable Southwire Surge Guard 35530.
It’s easy to use and offers great value for its performance.
But if you prefer a hardwired surge protector, we’ve got that too!
Consider the Hughes Autoformer Power Booster with Surge Protection.
Not only does it protect your system, but it also helps boost your voltage, giving you more flexibility in your RV’s electrical setup.
Either way, make sure to get one.
This isn’t just another optional luxury like an air conditioner or washing machine!
A surge protector is essential for life on the road.
Or, you could skip it.
Then, when a sudden lightning storm ruins your whole electrical system, you’ll wish you had listened to me.
And then you’ll have to buy a new surge protector for your entire system.
Stay safe out there, fellow travelers! And always make sure to lock up your surge protector—thieves can be anywhere, even in the most remote places.