Ways to test for electrical damage
Starting a new thread since the other one is overloaded with negative responses. What are some good surge protectors and ways I can check for electrical damage to inside appliances related to power...
Forum Discussion
xnizstudio,
Most of the damage to motor driven devices is caused by low voltage. My comfort level is nothing below 108 volts.
Unfortunately the top of the line 'surge' devices do not disconnect until 103.5 and 104 volts.
A clamp on ammeter may be able to detect damage by showing higher than normal amperage draws. But unless there is a "base line" measurement prior to the partial failure it may not be definitive.
Some of us believe in correcting low voltage, rather than sweltering in the heat from a disconnect, by using an autoformer.
I do have surge in place--but it was purpose built for me. It won't protect the unit from a lightning strike, but should take care of fluctuations at campgrounds due to other RV's cycling their air conditioners on and off.
The best practice may be to check polarity and voltage under load before plugging in the RV. I do this every time before I plug into a new source, using an adapter, polarity device, kill-a-watt meter, and hair drier.
Most of the damage to motor driven devices is caused by low voltage. My comfort level is nothing below 108 volts.
Unfortunately the top of the line 'surge' devices do not disconnect until 103.5 and 104 volts.
A clamp on ammeter may be able to detect damage by showing higher than normal amperage draws. But unless there is a "base line" measurement prior to the partial failure it may not be definitive.
Some of us believe in correcting low voltage, rather than sweltering in the heat from a disconnect, by using an autoformer.
I do have surge in place--but it was purpose built for me. It won't protect the unit from a lightning strike, but should take care of fluctuations at campgrounds due to other RV's cycling their air conditioners on and off.
The best practice may be to check polarity and voltage under load before plugging in the RV. I do this every time before I plug into a new source, using an adapter, polarity device, kill-a-watt meter, and hair drier.
