is a surge protector necessary for a basic travel trailer?

[trailernovice]

A couple of questions re. surge protectors:

I read in another 'surge protector' thread that they are most necessary in units with finely tuned electronics...

Our trailer (in signature) is quite basic...no slides, no electronic control panels, no internal computers--we have 'electrics', but the only things I'd categorize as 'electronics' would be the thermostat, the microwave and maybe the 'how full are the tanks' monitor panel...

is surge protector actually necessary (understanding having one in place wouldn't hurt)? Also, we normally are on shore power but occasionally run off a portable inverter generator to keep it 'exercised'....if necessary, is that only when on shore power, only when on generator, or both?

[valhalla360]

gbopp wrote:
It's not necessary until lightning hits a tree about 15' from your camper.
Then you will give serious thought to installing one. Trust me.

Of course, 15 ft away, is likely going to blow right thru the surge protector anyway... There are limitations to what they can handle.

They are good things to have but don't get too paranoid about them. Low voltage likely kills more RV appliances, so get a $10 voltage meter that plugs into an outlet. Then keep an eye on it. If you get below 108v, start worrying. Then if you feel the need, put it on the to list to buy one.

[Bears_Den]

I learned the hard way. It’s like an insurance policy, you don’t need it til you need it.

[Mike134]

They are a great marketing toy. Have an RV surge protector on your incoming house wires? me either.

[gbopp]

It's not necessary until lightning hits a tree about 15' from your camper.
Then you will give serious thought to installing one. Trust me.

[Yosemite_Sam1]

And useful for generators too with more frequent fluctuating voltage.

[pianotuna]

Get an energy management system.

[JKJavelin]

Got a refrigerator?
Got a furnace?
Got an air conditioner?
Yup, you need one.
But.... what you really need is an EMS for true protection.
JK