After digesting a lot of info on previous threads etc it seems the consensus for high & low voltage abnormalities is the Progressive Industries EMSPT50C for around $350 new. I've found a Progressive Industries SSP50 Smart Surge for $110...is there a huge difference in these models? Will the SSP50 provide the same protection? ~ Bill
yes
No
From the Progressive Industries website
The Smart Surge 240V/50A provides 5-mode, 1650 joules, and 45,000 amp surge current rating. The built in surge status indicator notes the condition of the surge protector.
Additionally, the dual line circuit tester checks for: Reverse Polarity, Open Neutral and Open Ground prior to use. Sleek, compact, portable design makes it easy to use.
EMS-PT50C High/Low Voltage Protection:
Whenever AC power falls below 104 volts, or rises above 132 volts, the EMS automatically shuts down power to the RV. The EMS will monitor the power and once the AC power rises above 104 volts, or below the 132 volt level, the time delay indicator flashes for the preset time and then automatically restores power to the RV.
Time Delay for A/C Compressor:
If the AC power is interrupted, or the EMS detects a fault condition, the built-in time delay is activated. There is 136-second (02:16) time delay.
5-Mode Surge Protection:
This feature provides full surge protection L-N, L-N, L-G, L-L and N-G. Total Joule rating is 3,580, 88,000A surge current. Response time of <1 nano second.
Surge Indicator:
In the event of a power surge, and the surge protector circuit is damaged within the EMS, L-N or L-G, the digital display error code will read E-10. This indicates the EMS needs to be serviced.
Reverse Polarity Protection:
If AC power is a reverse polarity condition, the EMS will not allow power to the RV and the error code will read E-1.
Open Neutral Protection:
If AC power has an open neutral condition, the display will not light, and the EMS will not allow power to the RV.
Open Ground Protection:
If AC power has an open ground condition, the EMS will read an error code of E-2 and power will not be allowed to the RV.
AC Frequency Protection:
If AC power frequency deviates +/- 9 hertz from 60 cycles per second, the EMS will shut down power. An error code of E-7 will be displayed when the frequency is high; and an error code will be displayed when frequency is low.
Accidental 240V Protection:
If 240 volts is detected when plugging into AC power, the EMS will NOT allow power to the RV. If this condition occurs while power is applied to the RV, the EMS shuts off power instantly. The display will read the voltage and E-3 for the error. (NEVER BYPASS THE EMS WHEN THIS OCCURS.)
Display:
Continuously scrolls all of the AC power information, including voltage, current, frequency, error codes and previous errors. Each reading is displayed for two (2) seconds.
Previous Error Code:
This feature tells the user what the previous error was and why power was interrupted to the RV. To read a previous error code, put a "P" in front of the "E" code. This is only displayed if an actual error occurs. The error is deleted when power is disconnected from the EMS.
Weather Resistant:
Can be exposed to the elements, however, may not be submerged.
Microprocessor Controlled:
The computer is driven by a state-of-the-art microprocessor that is programmed with software to drive the entire EMS.
Built-In Lock Bracket:
Allows the user to secure the EMS to power source to prevent theft.
If you want total protection, spend the bucks. I would not have anything but the EMS-HW50 with remote monitor. You get what you pay for. JMHO
EMS unit will disconnect power if voltage is below or above normal. The SSP50 will not disconnect power in these situations.
Thanks everyone. I guess my Dutch heritage was showing. Us Hollanders are hardwired to go the less expensive route if possible. I'll be ordering the EMSPT50C today.
As they say...two heads (or hundreds) are better than one!
~Bill
We learned about Dutch frugality while living in Antwerpen back in the early 80s.... I recall hearing the story of how copper wire was invented... by two Dutchmen fighting over a penny! :))
BTW, we also have an EMSPT50C...wouldn't be without it!