Surge protectors 50 or 30 or both

[callans1]

We just bought a new outback TT and it is 50amp. What if we go to a campground that has only 30amp? Can we use an adapter to change the 50 to a 30 or do we need to buy 2 surge protectors, one for 50 and another for 30? Reading all these posts on the subject are making me nervous and jittery so I think we are wise to invest in one....or two?

[tvman44]

All you need is a 50 amp model, works just fine on 30 amp supply, we do it all the time. Do it right the first time get a Progressive Industries unit. 🙂

[HappyKayakers]

callans1 wrote:
Good point Happy. There is a camping world about 60 miles from me, so I might take a trip there.

I've only seen them carry Surge Guard but you can call to make sure.

[callans1]

Good point Happy. There is a camping world about 60 miles from me, so I might take a trip there.

[HappyKayakers]

callans1 wrote:
thanks for the advice. Now I feel better and so does my wallet.....Next question, we are leaving this weekend for our first trip with the TT....anyone know of a place where we can purchase one right away? PI has shipping only....

Time to stop and think about that. You may be able to purchase a Surge Guard immediately but it only has a 1 yr warranty. PI has a lifetime warranty.

[DutchmenSport]

More than likely, your local RV dealer sells them. They might be a little higher priced than an Internet price, but you also do not have to wait. I bought ours from our dealer. (30 amp) A simple phone call to any of the RV dealers parts store in your area will save a lot of driving miles too.

[callans1]

thanks for the advice. Now I feel better and so does my wallet.....Next question, we are leaving this weekend for our first trip with the TT....anyone know of a place where we can purchase one right away? PI has shipping only....

[kregli]

You don't need both. I'd get a 50 amp surge protector and a short 50 to 30 amp plug adapter. Then you are good to go at either a 30 or a 50 amp campsite. The (50 amp) surge protector will protect your electrical system at both sites.

The only thing you have to watch out for is that you don't try to draw more than 30 amps when you are plugged into a 30 amp site - if you turn on both A/Cs and the microwave you'll probably trip the circuit breaker at the pedestal.

[Larryect]

You should use a 50 amp unit for a 50 amp rig. No problem plugging it into a 30 amp outlet with an adapter.

[Tequila]

A 30 amp surge protector will be OK, it will just shut down if you try drawing more than 30 amps. The ampage does not come from the supply, it comes from the collective draw of the appliances you run.