Regardless of whether you choose a portable or hardwired, we recommend getting an EMS over just a surge protector. Your RV was not cheap, and neither is replacing or repairing electrical components or appliances in your home on wheels!
Do I really need an EMS for my RV?
RV electrical systems are very sensitive. Costly damage can be done if these systems are exposed to surges or low voltage. … After learning more about RV surge protectors, I found the better options are electrical management systems (EMS) which do more than just protect against surges.
Are RV surge protectors really necessary?
If you own an RV, owning an RV surge protector is a must. It’s a small investment that protects all of your expensive appliances and electronics in the RV. You can’t go wrong with Progressive Industries or Southwire Surge Guards as they are both great products!
Do I need a 30 amp or 50 amp surge protector for RV?
If you have a 50 amp RV you should have a 50 amp RV surge protector, if you try and use a 30 amp surge protector you will only be able to use 30 amps worth of power whenever you plug it in. Some campgrounds only have 30 amp service and it’s ok to plug your 50 amp surge protector into the 30 amp outlet.
How do I choose an RV surge protector?
Surge protectors come in 30 Amp or 50 Amp versions, so you’ll need to choose the one that goes along with your RV. A 50 Amp surge protector can only be used on a 30 Amp RV if an adapter is used, and vice versa. Otherwise it won’t provide the proper protection.
What is the difference between a surge protector and EMS?
EMS refers to “Electrical Management System,” and it’s a product line from Progressive Industries. “Surge protector” is a more generic term for a range of devices from different companies that protect your RV’s electronics form large spikes in power. Progressive’s EMS is a surge protector.
How long do RV surge protectors last?
That said, our professional advice is to replace your surge protectors every 2 years. However, you’ll want to replace your surge protector now if any of the following has occurred since the surge protector was installed: Your area has had several power outages.
Does a surge protector protect against low voltage?
MOVs are resistant to low-voltage current, so during normal operation they won’t conduct electricity, allowing the current to pass directly to the connected device. During a power surge or power spike, the surge protector directs the excess voltage to the ground plug.
Can you use a power strip in an RV?
One of the frustrations about RVing is having enough power outlets for all of our electronic gadgets. Here’s an easy solution. A small power strip with USB ports. … Be sure not to overload any one outlet in your RV with to many high energy devices plugged into the strip.
Are more campgrounds 30 or 50 amps?
Typically, RVs come equipped with either a 30 amp or a 50 amp electrical system. The majority of RVs are equipped with a 30 amp electrical system. Using the 30 amp electrical system in your RV is quite different than using a 200 amp electrical system at home.
Can I plug my 30 amp RV into a 50 amp?
Can I Plug My 30-Amp RV Cord into a 50-Amp Power Pedestal? Yes! … You can plug a 30-amp RV cord into a 50-amp power receptacle, such as a power pedestal at a campground, by using an adapter. The female end of the adapter will plug into your RV cord, and the male end will plug into the power pedestal.
What size Surge Protector do I need for my RV?
Choosing the right RV surge protector or EMS product is pretty easy. If you have 50 amp service, buy a surge protector for 50 amp RVs. For RVers with 30 amp service, a 30 amp surge protector is sufficient.
Why are RV surge protectors so expensive?
Complete surge protectors are the most expensive due to the high level of protection they offer. Some are also incorporated with electrical management systems to increase the level of protection to your RV. They protect from high- and low- line frequency, high and low voltages, open ground, and faulty wiring.