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Topic: Surge Protection Plugged into 110? (Read 519 times) previous topic - next topic

Surge Protection Plugged into 110?

I am wondering if I should use a surge protector when I am plugged into 110 when storing my coach? I am using a 50amp to 110 adapter and plugging straight in.
Brian & Lisa Freeze
1996 U295 36FT Build #4914
Motorcade #18760

Re: Surge Protection Plugged into 110?

Reply #1
I always use a surge protector when plugged in. Damage can happen with 110 volts same as with 220 volts.
Why take a chance?
Just my two cents
Ron
Ron Clark
Sherwood,Arkansas
1999 U 295 40 foot Build # 5550
2020 Jeep Gladiator
Motorcade # 18173
FMCA # F485593

Re: Surge Protection Plugged into 110?

Reply #2
Thank you Ron. Do you use the same type you plug a computer into or is there a special type you use?
Brian & Lisa Freeze
1996 U295 36FT Build #4914
Motorcade #18760

Re: Surge Protection Plugged into 110?

Reply #3
Thank you Ron. Do you use the same type you plug a computer into or is there a special type you use?

I have a 50 amp progressive industries I use all the time. I would use it and use a 20 amp to 50 amp dog bone to down size. If I didn't have it I would use any means to reduce to the 20 amp. I have not had to reduce to 20 amp much because I have 50 amp to keep coach plugged in at home. The computer type strip surge protectors with 4 or 5 plugins are not much good. my thoughts only.
I hope this helps.
Ron
Ron Clark
Sherwood,Arkansas
1999 U 295 40 foot Build # 5550
2020 Jeep Gladiator
Motorcade # 18173
FMCA # F485593

Re: Surge Protection Plugged into 110?

Reply #4
I have a Surge Guard 50amp protector I use when plugged into 50 amp. Did not think it would work with 20 amp but think I will give it a try.
Brian & Lisa Freeze
1996 U295 36FT Build #4914
Motorcade #18760

Re: Surge Protection Plugged into 110?

Reply #5
Surge protectors are inexpensive protectors that may do little to protect coach electronics. They are often more marketing than utility.

Most surge protectors contain MOV's that often cost less than a dollar each:

Surge Protection | HowStuffWorks

West Florida Components: Search

Over/under VOLTAGE protectors like Progressive Industries EMS will do a great job protecting electronics. Don't put Surge Protectors and EMS type protectors in the same category.

EMS protects by turning off electricity if voltages are above or below preset levels, like when a campground voltage drops when everyone turns on air conditioners.

Re: Surge Protection Plugged into 110?

Reply #6
The combined surge suppressor/EPO from Hughes autoformer has worked great for us. It has shut off power when it detected an undervoltage condition and sent me a message via bluetooth saying so. It monitors and turns power back on when the voltage is within a safe range. The surge suppressor is also user replaceable so I don't need to toss it if it does do it's thing. 

Power Watchdog
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1998 36' WTFE U320  #5314 Motorcade #17711
USAF 1975-1995
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2003 Subaru Legacy touring car
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Re: Surge Protection Plugged into 110?

Reply #7
The new Hughes EPO works well with one difference when compared to PI-EMS: When using the hardwired versions, PI-EMS with remote monitor, has an important manual override bypass switch to let electricity flow. Original EPO did not include a bypass option. Could be important if unit fails or is shutting off at a voltage level that could be just beyond a threshold where operator would be willing to manually observe for a while.

PI-EMS also has a user-replaceable surge protection board. Our PI-EMS units have saved us from failing generator voltage regulator and campground anomalies, as would the Hughes EPO.

Run roof air with too low voltages, motors could burn out. Surge protectors are not cheap and they do nothing to protect from campground anomalies.

In over 25 years we have never had a surge protector activate, but can not say the same for over/under voltage EPO/EMS protectors.

We prefer hard wired over plug in models. Theft is one big reason, but the main reason, protection is always on, not just when we want to carry it out and put it on the pedestal.

Re: Surge Protection Plugged into 110?

Reply #8
A worthwhile past thread dealing with the EMS started by Barry and Cindy two years ago.
Where to Install a hard-wired Progressive Industries EMS
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