Stars101
NY
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Joined: 04/04/2012
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We have a TT. I've never used a surge protector, but this is our first new TT. The others were all older and not worth much. What could happen if we don't use one? I understand for a high end Diesel pusher or a FW. But ours is less than $10,000. Or could it damage the fridge, AC, etc?
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parkdep
Lapeer Michgan USA
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Joined: 11/17/2004
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Here is a article that may help you on surge guards, I wont leave home without one: Surge Guards
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2oldman
Winchester WA
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Joined: 04/15/2001
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If you wish to read them I have all kinds of links to previous discussions on this often-asked question.
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Desert Captain
Tucson
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Joined: 02/19/2011
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About half of the folks here say it will never be a problem and the other half feel you can't live without one. Yes a power surge can destroy just about anything plugged in and AC's and refrigeration systems can get pricey to replace. I guess the biggest risk are the older RV parks and CG's where the electrical system is ancient and suspect. For the record I finally broke down and bought a surge protector and an AC meter to monitor voltage. The SP was about $100 and the meter another $12. A full EMS system that will also protect you from low voltage runs around $350. Whatever you buy protect it from thieves as these things tend to walk away. I use a short length of chain that fits around the pedestal but can't be lifted up and off. 
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smkettner
Southern California
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Joined: 03/21/2005
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If you check polarity and ground with a $5 tester and periodically check voltage you have covered most of what the protectors do. When you get bored with checking in a few years then get the protector or not.
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M GO BLUE
Southgate, MI
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Joined: 01/29/2001
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Voltage regulators, voltage testers, etc. etc. do nothing for you unless you are watching them 24/7 and enven then you could be screwed...
The price of a good multi-function is ~ $250 (30A) to $350 (50A)...now compare that to having to replace your converter, inverter (if so equipped), water heater, TV's, refrigerator, microwave, stereo, AC and any other electronic equipment you have should "bad" power get into your RV...
I won'y plug into anything without first pluggin into my surge protector and then plugging the surge protector into the outlet...
The smart choice would be to invest the money and get a good multi-function surge protector...
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Stars101
NY
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Thanks everyone. I know that this has been covered extensively, but I find the RV.net search engine wonky. It never gives me the info that I am looking for.
I think I'll get one. My husband is getting really crabby about all my "research" on this forum. Mostly b/c it leads to more work for him! As he has stated (quite LOUDLY), "I have enough hobbies of my own that I can't get to. I don't need to add your TT as another one. Stop reading that #@!& RV.net forum before you drive me crazy!"
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CincyGus
Cincinnati
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Just let him know that your reading here, may very well save you enough money or find better ways to do things that make it easier for both of you. That is, as long as you stay out of the modification forum ;-)
2011 Silverado Crewcab 4x4
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smkettner
Southern California
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Portable is easy install.
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vic46
Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
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M GO BLUE
I wouldn't plug into anything without first pluggin into my surge protector and then plugging the surge protector into the outlet...
I think you would be wise to reverse your process. V/R first to the pedestal and let it do it's thing, then plug the RV into the V/R.
As far as monitoring a volt metre, when you see a spike or brown, it has already gone through your electrical system and quite likely the damage is already done!
Vic
Lack of common sense is the greatest mental illness known to mankind.
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