Protecting Your Airstream or RV: Choosing a Surge Protector

www.streamingairheads.com/surge-protector

If you’re not an electrician, the decision-making process regarding a surge protector can be quite daunting.  Right off the bat, I recommend doing some research by reading forum posts, visiting manufacturer’s websites, and checking out shopping sites such as Amazon for reviews and other information. 

Wondering if you even need a surge protector?  I did too. I did some research and found that most experts and veteran RVers recommend a surge protector in addition to any internal system safeguards your unit may have to provide extra protection.  Frankly, I feel the extra peace of mind and added protection is worth the cost to protect your unit’s systems.

There are two types of surge protectors available: portable surge protection units that you can plug into the power pedestal in the campground or units that can be hard-wired into your coach as a permanent fixture.  I chose a portable plug-in unit at this time and may look to a hard-wired solution at some point in the future after our manufacturer’s warranty ends.  Being the cautious ones, my wife and I are hesitant to make any major systems changes during our warranty period.   

I wanted an easy answer to protecting the electrical circuitry in our Airstream, Shining Hope, and found what I believe to be the best value for our needs: Progressive Industries EMS-PT30X (30 amp) and EMS-PT50X (50 amp) surge protectors. It’s a portable unit that we plug into the post at the campground and then plug our main power cord into it.  It comes with a LIFETIME warranty – doesn’t get much better than that!

Progressive recommends their EMS units to provide the best protection for your RV.

Some surge protectors do just that – protect your RV’s electrical stuff from a power surge only. These are often the less expensive choices. Then there are surge protectors like the EMS-PT30C that protect from a power surge and do much more – like protect from faulty wiring at the post, protect from voltage fluctuations at the power pedestal, and even provide important informational readouts and statuses.   

Progressive Industries EMS Power Protectors

Progressive’s latest surge protector models provide added features and improvements such as an all-weather shield assembly, a rugged pull hand, an improved secure locking bracket, built-in scrolling digital display, and a tough Lexan housing. 

My wife and I like to buy Made in USA products whenever possible.  So it’s a bonus that Progressive Industries products are proudly made in America. What’s more, their warranty is excellent. We had to replace our 50 AMP this year and were sent a brand-new unit at no charge!

What about you?  Which surge protector are you using? Please share your feedback in the comments area below.   

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Respectfully,

Major Airhead

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