Forum Discussion

dboliek1112's avatar
dboliek1112
Explorer
Oct 18, 2017

New Surge Protector or Leave It Alone?

Our 2000 Winnebago Chieftain 35U has an OEM PI EMS-HW30B surge protector. I spoke to tech support which couldn't provide an owner's manual because the threw them all away when they moved... and was told the "B" hasn't been manufactured in more than 10 years.

When I asked what was the difference, I was told it is in the electronics and then something about red wires and black wires that sorta didn't register.

I also know that someone lived in our unit for several years, but I have no idea what may or may not have happened that involved the surge protector. The module shows an E-0 function which means it's working.

So, friends and advisors, would you install a new surge protector or stay with the OEM unit?

Thank you.
  • MEXICOWANDERER's avatar
    MEXICOWANDERER
    Explorer
    Oct 19, 2017
    ENERGY ERROR LOAD SHED would be a more appropriate title for these devices. EELS.

    YEAH! ELECTRIC E.E.L.S.

    "Oh my Leonard! We have a Storm surge. Look how far out the water has retreated"

    The new English. No wonder kids listen to thumping and braying on their car stereo.
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Oct 19, 2017
    time2roll wrote:
    wa8yxm wrote:
    Consider having the MOV's replaced.. that's doable (In fact it's a DIY project for an electronics tech, like me) but easier to let the factory do it.
    Can MOVs be tested or inspected to determine need for replacement?


    Yes and no.. IF they have taken a major hit (I saw some 120 volt Surge Strips that got hit with over 200 volts) Well it's obvious.

    But normally no.. they can not be tested and there is not much point to testing them anyway as doing so will cost you at least an hour's labor

    Replacement should not take more than that

    And the MOV's themselves.. Well. Not very expensive
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Oct 18, 2017
    wa8yxm wrote:
    Consider having the MOV's replaced.. that's doable (In fact it's a DIY project for an electronics tech, like me) but easier to let the factory do it.
    Can MOVs be tested or inspected to determine need for replacement?
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Oct 18, 2017
    I would grab the manual for the HW-30C and the chart(s) above.

    I would not bother replacing it so long as it appears to be working.

    HOWEVER.. If you happen to be near PI's Plant.... Consider having the MOV's replaced.. that's doable (In fact it's a DIY project for an electronics tech, like me) but easier to let the factory do it.
  • dboliek1112's avatar
    dboliek1112
    Explorer
    Oct 18, 2017
    time2roll wrote:
    At least keep the error codes handy if the power goes off.
    As best I can tell these are same across all models.



    Got it. Thank you.
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Oct 18, 2017
    At least keep the error codes handy if the power goes off.
    As best I can tell these are same across all models.

  • dboliek1112's avatar
    dboliek1112
    Explorer
    Oct 18, 2017
    agesilaus wrote:
    Is THIS it? Look's like a progressive industries model. But otherwise I agree, apply the second law of engineering: "if it ain't broke, don't fix it!"


    That's the 30 C. I have the 30 B... and the second law of engineering sounds appropriate. Thanks for your research.
  • agesilaus's avatar
    agesilaus
    Explorer III
    Oct 18, 2017
    Is THIS it? Look's like a progressive industries model. But otherwise I agree, apply the second law of engineering: "if it ain't broke, don't fix it!"

About Technical Issues

Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,199 PostsLatest Activity: Feb 17, 2025