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Best RV Surge Protectors – Buying Guide & Reviews

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Staring at his newly purchased RV slowly engulfed and eaten away by a raging fire from afar, Gary was devastated.

Being a proud owner of the pre-owned recreation vehicle, he invested a lot of his money into refurbishing the camper with good quality and durable electrical equipment and appliances.

But getting a surge protector for his RV was the last thing on his mind.

Big mistake.

It was a stormy night and Gary and his family were out camping near a lightning-prone area.

As the rain was too heavy and with thunders and flashes of lightning racing across the sky, Gary and his family decided to wait out at a nearby shelter facility.

25 minutes later, they saw quick and bright lightning whipping across the sky, chased by a deafening thunder. 

Risks of NOT getting RV surge protector

A split moment later, they heard a very loud explosion. 

Their RV which was parked 20 meters away, went up in flames.

Gary could not believe his luck.

How could it happen to him of all people??

Gary could have avoided the mishap had he invested in a surge protection device for his RV. 

And all it takes is one damaging distant lightning bolt to burn away everything he owns.

Why take the risk?

Are RV Surge Protectors Worth Getting?

A surge protection device should be one of the most important things you should buy for your RV.

Without a doubt, you may have RV friends who have never experienced any power surge issues but anything could happen.

For example, even plugging in your RV power cord directly to the power pedestal at RV Parks or campgrounds is like playing Russian Roulette. 

You will never know when or where you will come across one that has a faulty power grid nearby. The faulty grid could trigger a voltage spike and potentially cause detrimental damage to the electrical components and appliances inside your camper.

Below are some reasons why it is highly recommended to get a surge protector for your RV as soon as possible if you have not gotten it already.

4 Key Reasons Why You Should Invest in RV Surge Protectors

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Lightning StrikesLighting during bad weather – all it takes is a bolt of lightning and a huge power spike to have all of your prized electrical equipment, in-vehicle appliances, or even entertainment system fried.

Miswired shore power pedestal – It is not uncommon for non-certified electricians to be hired to wire up the power pedestals at RV parks or campgrounds.

If one of those electricians doesn’t know what he is doing, all it takes is one mistake on his part to cause instant damage to all the electrical appliances or wiring inside your motor home.

Defective power pedestal at campgrounds – It is very common to chance upon power pedestals that have issues like no neutral, reverse polarity and no ground.

Such issues will again cause unexpected damage to the electrical equipment and built-in appliances inside your entire rig.

Poorly maintained power outlets – some of these power outlets that lack maintenance may cause under-voltage, or over-voltage problems that cause your appliances to operate below or above their usual operating voltage allowance.

When this happens, heat will inevitably build up and will cause catastrophic damage to your RV and all connected electrical appliances within.

RV Surge Protectors – What Are the Real-World Benefits You Can Expect?

Real-World Benefits

Powerful Surge and Spikes Protection – Whether you are constantly on the road or not, whenever a bad storm turns up, and distant lightning bolts strike, you will feel assured that your prized electrical systems and everyday appliances are well protected.

Miswired Pedestal Protection – As I mentioned earlier, it is not uncommon to see a miswired power pedestal set up by improperly trained electricians. Why take the chance when you do not have to?

Protection against Defective Power pedestal – poorly maintained RV parks and campgrounds can be found everywhere hence what are the chances that you will never get a problematic power source that could potentially fry your electrical systems?

‘Necessary Evil’ Investment – RV surge suppression devices are not cheap by any means, yet, it is an obvious choice when you think about how much money it could potentially save you during an unexpected power spike or plugging your RV into a defective power pedestal.

Peace of Mind – No more playing Russian Roulette whenever you plug into a power pedestal at any campground or RV park.

Owning one of these RV surge protection units will put your mind at ease and allow you to focus on the more important things when you are out enjoying your outdoor adventures.

Disclaimer Note: This Fact May Shock You!

Most RV surge protectors are NOT going to provide much protection for your motor home.

So what’s the core difference between a typical surge protection device and one that comes with a built-in electrical management system (EMS)?

Well, as obvious as it may be, a typically good surge protector protects against power surges, e.g. huge voltage spikes, especially from lightning and some basic fault indicators. And that’s about it.

Such devices will NOT protect you from anything else like harmful effects from defective power pedestal (an open ground, open neutral or reverse polarity), miswiring, high and low voltages and so on.

On the other hand, RV surge protectors (Portable & Hardwired) that come built-in with EMS will provide your RV with features (depending on the brand and model you get) like:

  • Over/Under Voltage Protection
  • Reverse Polarity|Open Ground|Open Neutral Detection
  • Accidental 240V Protection
  • Miswired Pedestal Indication
  • Surge Failure Indication
  • A/C Frequency Protection


Buying Guide for Best RV Surge Protectors

After filtering through many brands and models, our team has come out with only a small handful of surge protection models that are truly the best in the market.

Before we go into that, let’s show you our criteria for picking out RV surge protectors that offer the best protection for your RV.

Our Selection Checklist
Below is a checklist we use when picking out the most suitable RV surge protector for our clients.

  • Built-in EMS functions [A Must-Have]
  • Over/Under Voltage Protection [A Must-Have]
  • Open Ground, Open Neutral & Reverse Polarity Detection, and Protection [A Must-Have]
  • Accidental 240V Protection [A Must-Have]
  • Miswired Pedestal Indication [A Must-Have]
  • Surge Failure Indicator
  • A/C Frequency Protection
  • Time Delay [optional]
  • Built-in Display [optional]
  • Weather Resistant [optional]
  • Locking Bracket [optional]
  • UL Certified [optional]
  • Surge Suppression Joules [Above 1790J]

Most importantly, RV surge protectors should not come with an exorbitant price.

The price range for RV surge protectors should ideally be between $350 to $500 which is considered a great investment. Think about how much it would otherwise cost you if you needed to replace all the damaged electronic appliances and equipment inside your RV.

Below is a list of 5 RV surge protectors which consists of both Hardwired and Portable types.

All of them come with various EMS (Electrical Management System) features which are additional layers of protection that guard your motor home against all sorts of nasty and harmful electrical conditions like what we mentioned above.

We Highly Recommend these 5 Best RV Surge Protectors


5 Best Recommended Models
Model Name
Joules Ratings
LCD Display?
Amp/Voltage
Warranty
Our Reviews
Portable EMS-PT30X Black RV Surge Protector

Progressive Industries EMS-PT30X RV Surge Protector

1790J

No

30A | 120 Volts

Lifetime Warranty

Read Review
Southwire Surge Guard 34950 RV Surge Protector

Southwire Surge Guard 34950 RV Surge Protector

4200J

Yes

50A | 120/240 Volts

Limited Lifetime Warranty

Read Review
Camco 50 Amp RV Power Defender Voltage Protector

Camco 55306 RV Surge Protector

4200J

No

50A | ?

12 Months Warranty

Read Review
Progressive Industries HW50C Hardwired EMS RV Surge Protector Protector

Progressive Industries ‎EMS-HW50C
RV Surge Protector

3580J

No

50A | 120/240V

Lifetime Warranty

Read Review
50 Amp Southwire Surge Guard 35550 RV Surge Protector Protector

Southwire Surge Guard 35550 RV Surge Protector

3850J

No

50A | 120/240V

Limited Lifetime Warranty

Read Review

1Progressive Industries PT30X RV Surge Protector Review

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Portable RV Surge Protector Portable EMS-PT30X RV Surge Protector , Black

9Expert Score
What We Think?

EMS-PT30X is not within the affordable price range for most people.

But for folks who can afford it, this RV surge protection device is worth every single cent with the number of enhanced design features and protection capabilities.

If you own quite a bit of costly RV appliances and electronics, the EMS-PT30X is a necessary evil you should not avoid getting.

If you are looking for an RV surge protector that has most, if not all, of the surge protection capabilities of all its competitors in the market, you have to mark EMS-PT30X from Progressive Industries on your shopping list.

This 1790 joules portable RV surge protection device not only protects your camper against electrical surges but is also able to shield against unexpected voltage fluctuations and incorrectly wired shore power which may severely damage the appliances and electronics inside your RV.

You will also be glad to know that EMS-PT30X comes with some enhanced design features like weather-resistant shield assembly, a built-in scrolling digital display as well and a locking bracket that provides peace-of-mind security.

I especially like the rugged pull handle that makes it so much easier to detach the power plug from power posts.

If having robust housing is your thing, you will love the tough Lexan Housing that protects sensitive electronics inside EMS-PT30X.

This 30 Amp RV surge suppressor comes with a lifetime warranty and is a worthy investment if the asking price does not break your bank.

And of course, if your RV utilizes 50 AMP electrical service, then you may want to consider EMS-PT50X which packs a whopping 3580J worth of surge suppression joules.

EMS-PT30X

Specification Table

Dimensions ‎18 x 6.25 x 5 inches
Net Weight 4.2 pounds (1.9 kg)
LCD Display No
Operating Temperatures -40c to +105C
Amp/Voltage 30A/120 Volts
Joule Ratings 1790J
Response Time Less than 1 nanosecond
Warranty Lifetime Warranty
PROS:
  • 1790 Joule Ratings
  • Security Locking Bracket
  • Weather-resistant Assembly
  • Rugged Pull Handle
  • Tough Lexan Housing
  • 44,000A max current spike
  • Less than 1 nanosecond response time
  • Over/Under Voltage Protection
  • Open Ground, Open Neutral & Reverse Polarity Detection and Protection
  • Accidental 240V Protection
  • Mis-wired Pedestal Indication
  • Surge Failure Indicator
  • A/C Frequency Protection
  • Time Delay
  • Built-in Scrolling Digital Display
  • Display of Previous Error Code
  • Lifetime Warranty
CONS:
  • The Lifetime Warranty does NOT include heat damage to the male plug or heat damage to the front receptacle

Check Price

Back to Comparison Table

2Southwire Surge Guard 34950 RV Surge Protector Review

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Southwire Surge Guard - Full Protection Portable with LCD Display, 50A Black

9Expert Score
What We Think?

This surge protection unit from Surge Guard is worth your investment if you are looking for a quick power-up time delay of only 10 seconds.

We also love the fact that any internal wiring or electrical faults inside the RV can be detected and prevented.

Do bear in mind though, that only the 34950 model comes with Open Neutral protection from the RV side. Although the price point is a little bit on the high side, we still need it as one of those surge protectors that is worthy of long-term investment if you are out on the road most of the time.

When it comes to manufacturing top-notch quality RV surge protectors, Surge Guard (from Southwire) is probably the only brand that is somewhat on par with Progressive Industries.

What is unique about Surge Guard 34950 is that it comes with a patent-pending open neutral protection at the RV end to help avoid hazardous touch voltages that may be present.

It also comes with a new brighter LCD which is a huge plus in our book, not to mention the commercial-grade brass receptacle.

Alternatively, do consider their 30 amps model if your RV comes with 30 amps electrical service.

Another impressive feature that I particularly like is that it will only take 10 seconds for this Surge Guard protection unit to analyze if there are any nasty electrical conditions from power pedestals out at campgrounds or RV parks.

Most importantly, Surge Guard 34950 also comes with a locking ring to deter away envy eyes and hands (theft).

This EMS surge protector comes with a limited lifetime warranty and you should seriously consider getting it if the price point is not a big deterrent for you.

Surge Guard

34950

Specification Table

Dimensions ‎23.38 x 5.63 x 5.63 inches
Net Weight 5 pounds (2.26 kg)
LCD Display Yes
Trip Time 7 Seconds
Clamping Voltage <300 VAC
Joule Ratings 4200J
Operating Voltage 120/240 Volts
Warranty Limited Lifetime Warranty
PROS:
  • 4200 Joules Ratings
  • Over/Under Voltage (Input)
  • Open Neutral Protection (Input & RV Side)
  • Protection Against Open Ground
  • Over Heating Plug/Receptacle Protection
  • Reverse Polarity Protection (Input)
  • Surge Failure Indicator
  • Miswired Pedestal Indication
  • Time Delay at Power Up (10 Sec)
  • Built-in LCD Display
  • Source Power Connection Diagnostics
  • Weather Resistant
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty
CONS:
  • Maybe a tad heavier compared to other top brands

Check Price

Back to Comparison Table

3Camco 55306 Power Defender Voltage Surge Protector Review

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Camco 50 Amp RV Power Defender Voltage Protector/Monitor with Integrated Surge Protection, Designed with Easy to Use PowerGrip Handles (55306)

7Expert Score
What We Think?

If you are looking for slightly above basic RV surge protectors (without EMS features) for your RV at an affordable price, then Camco 55306 should be your best bet.

There are also some concerns regarding its bright yellow housing as it may be an eye-catching victim of theft. It does come with a one-year limited warranty.

Despite having a hefty price, this RV surge protector from Camco does come with lots of useful features and protection capabilities.

First off, I like the Auto-Connect and Disconnect feature which is probably the most significant feature to have since the “life” of your RV depends on it whenever a powerful voltage current comes about.

The Disconnection feature kicks in whenever an abnormally strong voltage current is detected plus the Auto-connect feature will help resume the power source when the normal operational condition returns.

Similar to other top brands and models, this Camco surge protector, too, safeguards your RV against adverse conditions like faults for reverse polarity, wiring issues, and other potentially dangerous power conditions that may cause detrimental damage to your RV electronics and appliances.

This 4200 joules surge protection device for RV can withstand adverse weather conditions if it is installed in an upright position.

I must also note that Camco PowerGrip 55306 (50 amps) and Camco 55301 (30 amps) do come with a comfortable grip handle that makes plugging and unplugging quick and easy.

Is this RV surge protector worth the asking price?

If you do not have budget constraints, this Camco surge protector is a good investment to have to protect your RV from many potentially hazardous conditions out there as you embark upon your daily outdoor adventures.

Camco 55306

Specification Table

Dimensions ‎27.5 x 5.4 x 5.9 inches
Net Weight 6.82 pounds (3.09 kg)
LCD Display No
Trip Time 8 – 10 seconds
Clamping Voltage <300 VAC
Joule Ratings 4200 J
Max. Spike Current 6,500 Amps per MOV
Warranty 12 months
PROS:
  • 4200 Joules Ratings
  • Protects against High (>132 VAC) and Low Voltage (<102 VAC) levels
  • Automatic disconnection from dangerous voltage
  • Automatic re-connection upon power stabilization
  • Diagnostic lights for visual indication of faults like reverse polarity, open neutral and power pedestal wiring issues.
  • Integrated surge protection
  • Weather Resistant
  • 12-month worry-free Warranty
CONS:
  • Camper plug may reach the ground when used on a low-power pedestal
  • It could be heavy at 3kg for some folks

Check Price

Back to Comparison Table

4Progressive Industries EMS-HW50C RV Surge Protector Review

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Progressive Industries HW50C Hardwired EMS Surge & Electrical Protection- 50 Amps

9.5Expert Score
What We Think?

It's hard not to like this 3580J EMS-HW50C with its remote scrolling digital display of various power source information without stepping out of your RV.

We especially like the fact that RV owners like you do not have to constantly that your expensive surge protector will get stolen in the middle of the night.

If you are frequently traveling in and out of Canada, it makes perfect sense to have a surge protection device that meets the Canada safety standards.

If you are like me, who is never looking forward to carrying portable electrical components with you wherever you go, this hardwired RV surge protector which is ultra-light in weight could be for you.

Installation of EMS-HW50C is a one-time effort – you can even do it yourself if you are technically trained.

It has all of the EMS features from all of its portable counterparts and best of all, it is not nearly as pricey. 🙂

What sets it apart from its competitors is that this RV surge suppressor device is UL-certified and it meets CSA standards (Canadian Standards Association).

What excites me is its remote display feature which means there is no need to get outside your RV just to read the digital displays during harsh weather conditions.

If you ever plug into a 240V power source unknowingly, you will be glad that EMS-HW50C has you protected.

This 3580 joules hardwired EMS device also comes with a 30 amps model and both models come with a lifetime warranty as well.

‎EMS-HW50C

Specification Table

Dimensions ‎4 x 9 x 5 inches
Net Weight 2.49 pounds (1.12 kg)
LCD Display No
Operating Temperatures -40C to +105C
Amp/Voltage 50A, 120/240V
Joule Ratings 3580 Joules
Response Time < 1 nanosecond
Warranty Lifetime Warranty
PROS:
  • 3580 Joules Ratings
  • Over/Under Voltage Protection
  • Open Ground, Open Neutral & Reverse Polarity Detection and Protection
  • Accidental 240V Protection
  • Mis-wired Pedestal Indication
  • Surge Failure Indicator
  • A/C Frequency Protection
  • Adjustable Time Delay
  • Remote Display of
  • Display of Previous Error Code
  • UL Certified
  • Meets CSA Standards
  • Lifetime Warranty
CONS:
  • Can be costly if you hire an electrician to help with the setup

Check Price

Back to Comparison Table

5Southwire Surge Guard 35550 RV Surge Protector Review

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Surge Guard 35550 Hardwire Model - 50 Amp

8Expert Score
What We Think?

Although this 35550 model is almost as good as those from Progressive Industries, we do not quite like the fact that we have to fork out additional cash just to get the remote LCD feature which may not make sense for most RV owners.

Since it is a hardwired surge protection unit, the remote LCD should be given by default. Another thing that concerns us is that there is an absence of protection against plug and receptacle overheating.

Beyond that, we still think it is a worthy buy for RV owners who are out on the road most of the time.

If you are not a big fan of RV surge protectors for RV from Progressive Industries, fret not.

Southwire also has an equally powerful EMS feature-packed surge protector for your motor home.

These 3850J 50 amps surge suppression unit provides round-the-clock protection against all sorts of harmful power sources before they have a chance to cause damage to any electrical appliances and equipment inside your RV.

Just like the models from Progressive Industries, having a hardwired unit within your RV coach will prevent potential damages from unexpected harsh weather conditions.

And since it is hardwired into your RV, this should provide you with peace of mind as it has no chance of being stolen during the night.

Do also note that Surge Guard 35550 is an upgraded version of its previous model 34560. It also comes with a 30 amps 35530 model.

Surge Guard 35550

Specification Table

Dimensions ‎12 x 6 x 4 inches
Net Weight 5.5 pounds (2.49 kg)
LCD Display No.
Trip Time 8 – 10 seconds
Clamping Voltage
Joule Ratings 3850 J
Operating Voltage 120/240 Volts
Warranty Limited Lifetime Warranty
PROS:
  • 3850 Joules Ratings
  • Over/Under Voltage (Input)
  • Open Neutral Protection (Input)
  • Protection against Open Ground
  • Reverse Polarity Protection (Input)
  • Surge Failure Indicator
  • Miswired Pedestal Indication
  • Time Delay at Power Up (128 Sec)
  • Remote LCD Display (additional $100)
  • UL Listed
  • Source Power Connection Diagnostics
  • Weather Resistant
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty
CONS:
  • Do not have a Bypass feature like EMS-HW50C
  • No LCD Display unlike Surge Guard 34950

Check Price

Back to Comparison Table

Should I get a Portable or Hardwired Surge Protection Device?

As you may already know, portable RV surge protectors are simply plug-and-play. And there are zero hassles although you will have to plug it into the park pedestal whenever you are.

There are no requirements for electrical skills and knowledge at all.

Whereas for the hardwired type, you may have to either possess electrical skills or pay extra cash for someone to wire it into your RV for you.

And obviously, you would not run the risk of the surge protection device getting stolen.

Hence whichever you choose, it should all boil down to whether you are technically trained or you would rather get the portable ones and have it plugged in wherever you are.

Bottom Line – Which One Should I Get?

Progressive Industries and Surge Guard (Southwire) are two of the most popular brands in the U.S. and their customer service is really top-notch. Not to mention the lifetime warranty they provide for most of their products.

I would go for one from Progressive Industries if I had to choose one.

Have you ever calculated the amount of cash you have to fork out should your entire RV get burnt up?

This should include all the expensive furnishings and electrical appliances inside your RV.

The 5 best RV surge protectors recommended above could potentially save you lots of money when unnecessary damage to your RV is prevented.

What about those unknown 3rd party RV surge protectors you get from shopping malls? Well, they may be cheap but they may cause untold damage to your RV once your luck runs out.

FAQs

FAQs When Getting RV Surge Protection Devices

Can I use an RV surge protector with a generator?

Yes, you can use an RV surge protector with a generator, ensuring that the power supplied to your RV is safe and surge-free.

Can I use an RV surge protector with solar power?

Yes, some RV surge protectors are compatible with solar systems, ensuring that power from your solar panels reaches your RV safely.

Are RV surge protectors easy to install?

Portable models are generally plug-and-play. Hardwired versions may require professional installation, depending on your skill level.

Is an RV surge protector different from a regular one?

Yes, RV surge protectors are designed to handle the unique electrical requirements of RVs, including 30A or 50A power connections.

Can I use an extension cord with an RV surge protector?

It’s best to avoid using extension cords with surge protectors, as they can compromise the device’s effectiveness and safety.

 


Marc Edwards
Marc Edwards

Marc Edwards is the co-founder of GagtheSurge and is actively involved in writing review and information articles for the site. He loves traveling and has been to most of the countries across the four major continents. Besides working and traveling, he also enjoys jungle explorations and deep sea diving.

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