Top 10 RV Surge Protectors (Basic, Budget and Premium Picks)

Whether you’re camping at your favorite park or boondocking in a remote location, reliable power is imperative. That’s what makes RV surge protectors a must-have. Our guide will provide the information you need to make an informed choice. Considering what’s at stake, it’s a worthwhile investment.

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Buying Guide

Surge protectors go the gamut from your basic power strip to more sophisticated models meant for handling large loads. These products protect your appliances and other devices during a voltage spike, such as a lightning strike. Let’s face it. Shore power has its hiccups, which can wreak havoc on any powered device in your rig.

Features to consider include:

• Types of Electrical Management System (EMS): Surge protectors have metal oxide varistors (MOVs), which take the hit to the ground instead of your stuff. An EMS does the same thing but also safeguards your rig by tripping the electricity source to keep the spike from damaging anything. They are the premier choice between the two.
• Kinds of RV Surge Protectors: Primary models sit between the power source and your house, or in this case, your RV. The secondary ones include various forms of power strips. You’ll also see uninterrupted power supply surge protectors, which keep the juice flowing with a battery.
• Standard Features: Specs vary with the type, but ones you may see include max spike current, energy rating, amps, Underwriter’s Laboratory certification, and MOV indicator lights.

Buying Recommendations

Best Budget RV Surge Protectors

1. CyberPower CSP600WSU Surge Protector – Editor’s Pick

The CyberPower CSP600WSU Surge Protector is a handy device if you have limited space. The device includes two USB ports so that you can save the outlets for other things. The unit has an indicator light, which we always like to see on these devices.

2. AmazonBasics 6-Outlet Surge Protector

The AmazonBasics 6-Outlet Surge Protector is a value buy if you need multiple outlets in a small space. The design is compact. You can also mount it to save space. You get two, six-outlet strips with your purchase. They also have indicator lights on them so that you know they’re still working correctly.

Premium RV Surge Protectors

1. Progressive Industries SSP-50XL Surge Protector – Editor’s Pick

The Progressive Industries SSP-50XL Surge Protector provides excellent protection up to 50 amps. The product is well-built to handle the elements. The LED display lets you know the state of your system. It’s hard to beat the fact that it also has a lifetime warranty.

2. Hughes Autoformer PWD30 Power WatchDog Surge Protector

The Hughes Autoformer PWD30 Power WatchDog Surge Protector takes safeguarding your rig and gear to the next level with smart technology. You can monitor the unit’s operation remotely using the manufacturer’s mobile app. It is well-made and backed by a manufacturer’s warranty.

Basic Power Protection

1. GE Outlet Surge Protector – Editor’s Pick

The GE Outlet Surge Protector has the features you’d expect from a company with decades of experience. Safety features include twist covers on each of the six outlets, a must-have option if you have small children. You get your choice of cord length, which we appreciated.

2. AiJoy Surge Protector

The UL-certified AiJoy Surge Protector is a welcome space-saver for smaller campers. It has eight outlets and four USB ports with two fast-charging ones. The unit also has a built-in circuit breaker to protect you from voltage spikes. The design leaves enough room around each outlet to avoid crowding.

30 Amp Surge Protector

1. Camco 55312 Circuit Analyzer – Editor’s Pick

The Camco 55312 Circuit Analyzer is an excellent choice if you want to monitor the state of the power going into your camper. A series of LED lights provide real-time info. It includes things such as open neutral and reverse polarity. While it is weather-resistant, it is not waterproof.

2. Surge Guard 44280 Portable Surge Protector

The Surge Guard 44280 Portable Surge Protector keeps your rig safe with real-time info on the state of your power source and the unit itself. The LED display is easy to read. It’s a sound investment for protecting your camper and device against campground power problems.

50 Amp Surge Protector

1. Southwire 34950 Surge Guard – Editor’s Pick

The Southwire 34950 Surge Guard covers all the bases for protecting your right against spikes and problems with shore power, such as a misfiring pedestal. That allows you to identify issues quickly before they cause damage. It offers excellent surge protection for larger rigs.

2. Hughes Autoformers PWD50-EPO-H Smart Surge Protector

The Hughes Autoformers PWD50-EPO-H Smart Surge Protector is another excellent all-around product that both diagnoses and prevents damage from power spikes automatically. It is well-made with an easy-to-read display. You can also replace the surge module if an event occurs.

Final Thoughts About RV Surge Protectors

While RV surge protectors aren’t sexy products, they are critical for keeping your rig and devices safe. They are a worthwhile investment that will pay for themselves the first time they prevent damage from natural causes or your shore power sources.

Last update on 2020-02-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API