Surge protector

The main reason I went to a different protector was the portable was a 30 amp, out current rig is a 50 amp. I like Soundguys idea if a place would be close by

Old Duck wrote:
I've had both portable and now hard wired. Decided on our current rig to go hard wired and a buddy purchased the portable one. Overall, the cost of the unit was simular, then a small amount of labor I paid to have my mobile RV guy do the install. Now, I have the thing in use when ever I'm plugged in.

As do those of us who purchased a PORTABLE unit and wired it into our rig ... same difference, except if for any reason I want to remove mine from the system entirely I can simply unplug each end and butt the two cable ends together ... much easier & quicker than removing a hardwire unit. :W

I've had both portable and now hard wired. Decided on our current rig to go hard wired and a buddy purchased the portable one. Overall, the cost of the unit was simular, then a small amount of labor I paid to have my mobile RV guy do the install. Now, I have the thing in use when ever I'm plugged in.

Progressive hard wired

handsome51 wrote:

rfsod48 wrote:
I want to get a surge protector and I am considering one that is installed permenently. How difficult would that be for someone to do? I have no background as an electrician .

What is your reason for wanting one permenently installed. I have had mine in line on the power cord since I bought my 5th wheel in 2006. It is no problem to have on the end of the power cord. And if you get another trailer it can go with you.

I have the Progressive Industry ems-hw50c. For me it is just simpler to have my unit hard wired. I also like that I have the remote display which allows me to monitor my power usage when on 30 amp.

It's simply a matter of personal preference.

Hi! me again.

Actually, my Outback has a very easy accessible cabinet where the shore power cord comes into the trailer and connects to the main line going to the power converter. Because this is an enclosed compartment, it would be very easy to pull the entire power cord into the camper, plug and all. Inside the camper, it would be very easy to plug in an in-line - portable protector and then using a 30 amp extension cord, just feed it back through the hole. If you get a 50 foot extension cord, you'll be able to reach almost any shore power plug anywhere. The protector is inside the camper and not suspect to theft.

I'm sure your camper also has a similar compartment where the shore power cord rolls up into. You could install the portable version right there, use an extension cord (for you camper amps) and then feed the extension through the wall. This way, you don't have to worry about wiring anything.

It's just an idea if you don't want to do the wiring yourself or hire anyone. It's an alternative idea.

Ron3rd wrote:
I've looked at the instructions online and the Progressive hard-wire units look like a pretty basic install. I'm no electrician, but can handle basic electrical work, kind of like a handy man. I see one in my future. The portable units are fine too IMO, the only issue is theft.

Well... OK. But the main consideration for me is the inside monitor for my PI HW50C plus there is no temptation to not install a portable unit.

It took as long to route the data cable for the remote as to install the basic unit. But your rig may vary.

BTW The cost for my current rig was $0, however it was a little more for the last rig.

I bought the built-in 30 amp and "converted" it to a portable. I bought 3' of 10/2wG romex and put a 30 amp twist lock plug and socket on it. I then cut it in half and installed the two halves on the EMS. Then I cut the wire from the shore cord/generator just before the breaker box, and installed a matching set of 30 amp twist lock plug and sockets. Then, I just plugged the EMS in and screwed it down.

If I ever have a problem with the unit, I can just unplug the unit, plug the original wiring back together, and I am good to go.

Ron3rd wrote:
The portable units are fine too IMO, the only issue is theft.

I solved that by installing my portable unit inside the camper ... no different than a hardwire but more convenient 'cause if I want to remove it I simply unplug it and connect the two cable ends together.

We self installed out Progressive industries surge protector with remote display.

1- Clear, short instructions.
2- Can't lose it
3- Can't forget it
4- Can't be stolen
5- Never have to think much about it again