Best RV Surge Protector in 2022 | Surge Protector vs. EMS | 30 Amp vs. 50 Amp

Whether you are an experienced RVer or just a newcomer, you should be aware that every RV trip is a real adventure. Since RV travelling doesn’t imply detachment from the outer world and technological conveniences anymore; any RVer will always rely on various electronics and on-board appliances to stay in the habitual zone of comfort of the modern life. And if you want to defend your gadgets against voltage surges, shore power problems or any other electrical failures, an RV surge protector (suppressor) might be the best way to go.

What is the best surge protector for RV? Whether you are looking for a portable surge suppressor or more sophisticated hardwired EMS model you should take into consideration the following: the advanced unit will grant multi-mode protection of your 30 Amp/50Amp RV against the majority of supply failures and wiring issues of shore power pedestals. The improved design of these surge protectors should feature the enhanced microprocessors, digital/LED display for continuous monitoring of power status and potential failures. Also these surge protectors should come in rugged all-weather design contributing to versatility and durability in use.

RV Surge Protectors Compared

Types of RV surge protectors | Comparison and Reviews

The goal of this comprehensive buying guide is to provide additional understanding of the electrical complexities of surge protectors. Thus you will have better understanding of the applicable electrical parameters and performance of these units. Hereafter, we’ll make a research of different types of surge protectors and EMS models, and find out the difference between them.

Surge Protector vs. EMS

Firstly, you should not confound traditional surge protectors for domestic use, also known as power strips with the RV counterparts. Residential surge protectors are used in our homes to ensure protection against electrical power surges; thus, these units save multiple domestic appliances and sensitive electronics at your household.

RV’s surge protectors have similar principles of operation and functionality to the traditional power filters. They are able to protect your electronics from severe voltage drops/spikes which might be provoked by a lightning stroke, blown transformer, defective campsite pedestal, etc. But in general, “surge protector” is a term which can be used for the vast majority of all devices offered on the current market that protect RV’s electric systems and appliances from different power failures. These devices usually come in a user-friendly design making its installation and operation pretty simple. Thus, even complete beginners will have no troubles with handling of these devices.

The majority of the RV surge protectors come in the form of detachable units with extension cables contributing to overall portability. For instance, this would be a perfect option if you practice RV renting on a constant basis. The Progressive Industries EMS-PT50X Portable RV Surge Protector is a bright example of the advanced 50 Amp, 120/240V surge suppressor in a compact but rugged design. The latter allows using this device outdoors under any weather conditions. It features up to 3,580J and 88,000A surge protection capacity to prevent your RV’s appliances and electronics from damaging power. This model comes in an upgraded design which also includes state-of-the-art microprocessor, integrated scrolling digital display, secure locking bracket and a sturdy pull handle.

Nevertheless, despite many advantages of the basic RV’s surge protectors, their capacity is restricted in a way that they can tackle only large power spikes.

And here it comes for EMS (electrical management system). They are very similar in functionality to the above reviewed devices. In fact, EMS is a surge protector, as well. And initially, EMS line for RVs has been launched by Progressive Industries. However, it’s important to specify some important differences between an EMS and a basic surge protector.

EMS is an upgraded version of its traditional counterparts which is designed to protect your RV electrical system and monitor for most potential damaging power problems. These include extreme power spikes, constant high or low voltage rates, reverse polarity, open ground and open neutral, and other wiring issues of defective shore power pedestals. Some hardwired devices come with an additional wired display which can be arranged inside your RV to monitor the faults and the current voltage/amperage status at any time you like. Overall, the EMS models provide comprehensive electrical protection. And the Progressive Industries HW50C Hardwired EMS can prove the above said with its outstanding electric protection capacity. This 50A / 120V/240V / 12,000W model has to be wired with the electrical system of your RV.

It provides 5-mode 3,580J and 88,000A surge suppression and protects your recreational vehicle against sharp voltage fluctuations and power surges, as well as provides A/C frequency protection. Besides, it can detect any incorrectly wired campground pedestal. Its remote scrolling digital display allows you monitoring power source data while staying inside your RV.

The Hardwired EMS-LCHW30 RV Surge & Electrical Protector is another decent option from the Progressive Industries which obviously deserves a closer look. Coming with 30 Amp/120-Volt/3,600-Watt ratings this hardwired model is designed for 30 Amp RVs. Its 3-mode 1,790J and 44,000 Amp surge protection capacity allows for detection of voltage drops/spikes, open ground, open neutral, and reverse polarity. The built-in digital display scrolls continuously through power parameters with indication of error codes and previous user codes.

Considering the above-mentioned outstanding performance of the EMS models, it becomes clear that they are mainly offered at a higher cost. Also, you should bear in mind that EMS models are hardwired RV surge protectors that have to be installed into the RV’s electrical system. This work can be done by professionals or someone with sufficient electrical experience.

Summarizing the above-mentioned, it goes without saying that you will do need a surge suppressor to protect your rig from various electric problems. And before making your choice you’ll have to compare the features of different models. In general, all of them are dedicated to protect your RV from electrical spikes. But, EMS takes the lead here, as it is commonly offered with greater versatility to be on the safe and higher efficiency to be on the safe side in any most tremendous electric mishaps on your way.

30 Amp vs. 50 Amp

This choice should be made depending on your RV’s power needs. Your RV’s electrical system will commonly be either a 30 Amp or a 50 Amp service. The difference between these types of connection may be determined by checking the number of pins on plugs in your RV. Most 30 Amp plugs will have three pins, and 50 Amp plugs should have four pins. Usually, a 30 amp connection is more common for smaller RVs with lower load requirements. Camco 55301 30 Amp RV Power Defender Voltage Protector is one of the industry-leading options on the current market.

The installed capacity of this portable model allows providing surge protection up to 2,800 Joules. In particular, it helps to protect your 30 Amp RV from dangerous voltage levels and various wiring issues. The auto connect/disconnect feature is one of the most advantageous characteristics of this unit. It will disconnect this surge protector as soon as dangerous voltage levels are detected, and will be reconnected after restoration of the normal operating conditions. Reconnection occurs with the delay in time to prevent sensitive electronics like AC units, from damage. Also, this model features diagnostic LEDs, power grip handles for easier plugging/unplugging and weather resistant design for outdoor use.

I would also like to highlight another 30 Amp product, the Southwire Company 44380 Surge Guard 30A Portable, namely. This 120V portable model is offered at an affordable price. Nevertheless, it can handle multiple power issues at high power consumption rates. It notifies about power supply status and checks wiring conditions. Also, this unit comes with surge protection indicator and thermal sensor to prevent overheating of the plug/receptacle. This model is designed for outdoor use thanks to its weather-resistant housing and a rain-proof cover.

The Progressive Industries PSK-30 Surge Module is one more budget-friendly option suitable for 30 Amp RVs. It is offered as a kit consisting of a separate receptacle tester and a power surge module. The latter is rated for 22,500A max spikes/up to 1,100 Joules, and it has a surge protection indicator. The LED tester serves to indicate different wiring issues like open ground, open neutral, and reversed polarity of a shore power source.

In general, you should get the RV surge protector or the EMS that is suitable for your RV’s electrical system. In particular, if you have a 30 Amp connection, choose a unit for 30 Amp RVs. And vice versa, if your RV uses a 50 Amp connection, choose a surge protector for 50 Amp RVs. The Surge Guard 35550 Hardwire Model is the reliable and highly recommended option for 50 Amp RVs from one of the trusted brands in the industry. This permanently installed device from Southwire Company is capable of power surge protection of up to 3,850 Joules. It will automatically shut off the electric system of your RV in case of different power and wiring failures including open ground, open neutral, reverse polarity, voltage fluctuations beyond admissible limits, etc. The 35550 features 128-second reset delay system to protect the A/C compressor from damage.

The Progressive Industries SSP-50XL Surge Protector is another prominent 50 Amp option. It comes in a portable design and doesn’t require installation, unlike the previous hardwired counterpart. This 120V/240V unit comes with 5-mode, 1,650J and 45,000A surge ratings to protect your 50 Amp service RV from the majority of potential electrical mishaps. Its integrated polarity tester (dual line for 50A) checks the status of shore power source prior to use. The SSP-50XL is suitable for outdoor usage thanks to its all-weather resistant design and thermal protection. In addition, it features a bright 3-color LED indicators and rugged pull handle for greater convenience in use.

Most RVers purchase special, so called, dogbone adapters additionally to surge protectors for greater versatility. It may happen that you have the 50 Amp RV and appropriate 50 Amp surge protector, but the shore power outlet is rated for 30 Amp only, and vice versa. So, you have to pay attention to what you are using. If you have 50 Amp adapters, your 30 Amp connection RV won’t receive more power than it can handle. On the contrary, if you use 30 Amp adapters for the 50 Amp RV, you’ll be limited to the power output by the amperage of the adapter.

You also should be aware that with dogbone adapters, it’s better to use a second adapter with overcurrent protection. This means it should be connected in line between the dogbone adapter and your RV’s power cord. In this case, any potential damage to your RV’s electrical system caused by sudden overload would be excluded.

Trusted Brands

It goes without saying that each RV surge protector shall meet specific requirements appropriate for certain applications. And here the average customers have to deal with electricity issues which may appear quite complicated for understanding. Thus, instead of miring in the exhaustive information, your slam dunk would be to get one of the decent options by a reliable brand. And, by the way, some of them are mentioned below, to make your choice easier.

Progressive Industries – it is a highly-recognizable brand for many professionals and experienced RVers which offers a wide range of the cutting-edge electrical solutions. It is the U.S. based company which was established in 1998. Since 2017 the company belongs to Power Products, LLC, a global manufacturer and supplier of electrical products for transportation, industrial power, marine and many other professional- and residential-grade applications. The company owns multiple industry-leading brands, including the Progressive Industries. The latter provides a broad lineup of portable RV surge protectors for both 30-Amp and 50-Amp services, and a range of hardwired EMS models of the superior quality for enhanced electric system protection.

Camco Manufacturing Inc – this company was established in 1966 as a manufacturer of antifreeze with one employee only. Today it has 5 U.S. locations with Greensboro, NC, headquarters, as well as 5 international locations. Camco Manufacturing Inc. is focused on manufacturing and distribution of diversified products, including superior cleaning, camping, hardware, marine, towing and RV products. The company is proud of its traditions and long-lasting expertise in the RV industry. Already in the mid 70’s of the XXth century Camco was bound up with its work on developing and manufacturing new products for RVs like water heaters, hoses and heat tapes. Gradually, the company was enlarging its product range. The modern lineup of RV’s products includes a variety of portable surge protectors (30 Amp and 50 Amp) which offer high quality and outstanding durability in use.

Southwire Company, LLC – is the private, family-owned company which was found in 1992, in Carrollton, Georgia. Unlike Progressive Industries, Southwire’s core activities relate to production of wiring, cables and a variety of accompanying accessories. The company conducts the integrated R&D, manufacturing and distribution processes which makes it a major single source for wire and cable in the country, and allows servicing its customers worldwide with great success. Their line of Surge Guard* power protection units for RVs is presented by 30 Amp/50 Amp options in portable and hardwire designs.

Best-Selling RV Surge Protectors | Comparison Table