crcr wrote:
Could someone possible lay out a detailed primer on these, with model numbers plus pros and cons of each unit? It would be a great service to a lot of RVer's, particularly part time campers (such as myself), who want electrical protection for our campers, but want to do so as economically as reasonable. I suspect a majority of part time campers use 30 amp as opposed to 50 amp, though I don't know that for sure.
I'm very knowledgeable about electric wiring and as such have done my own electrical work (always to code) my whole life. But having said that, looking at the great variety of these devices on Amazon, ranging from $70-80 to several hundred $, I wonder which ones are adequate, which ones do the job, and which ones might be overkill. Also, some idea as to reputation of the manufacturer when it comes to warranty issues would be great. I'm sure others here are interested in purchasing one of these, but face a similar quandary in making the right decision.
I certainly can't provide a primer but I can share my experience. I started off with a portable 50amp Surge Guard. After 3-4 years, it failed. I called the company and they provided no help since it was past the 1 yr warranty. Having nothing to lose, I took it apart and found about 1 cup of water inside which caused enough corrosion to kill the unit.
I started looking for a replacement and found a used Progressive Industries portable 50 amp, which I purchased. About 1 yr later, it developed problems. I contacted the company and after a brief discussion, I boxed it up and mailed it back at my expense. They rebuilt the unit and mailed it back. I was back up and running in less than 1 week. Again, my only out of pocket expense was postage one way.
As far as recreational campers vs fulltime RVers, I don't think it makes much difference. If you only get 1 vacation a year do you really want it ruined on the second day by an electrical problem killing your AC and frig and entertainment?
