Using Surge Protector on 50 amp RV with a 30 amp Power Pedestal and a 15/20 amp Residential Outlet

Updated 01/24/2022 | Published 01/23/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Portable Power Watchdog Surge Protector with Bluetooth and Emergency Shut Down - 50 Amp

(879)

$369.99

Valterra Electrical Adapter - 30 Amp to 15 Amp

(28)

$5.21

Mighty Cord RV Power Cord Adapter - 50 Amp Female to 30 Amp Male - 12" Long

(1316)

$42.52

Question:

We will soon own our first RV, a 50 amp Airstream. We are interested in the Hughes auto former 50amp watchdog. Wed also make sure we have every dogbone needed, for connecting to both 30amp receptacles as well as at home regular outlets. If we were to purchase the 50 amp surge protector hu87fr do you plug that into a dog bone before connecting to the campground receptacle or do we need specific surge protectors for each type of connection? Thank you!

asked by: Matt P

Expert Reply:

The Portable Power Watchdog Surge Protector, # HU87FR rated at 50 amp, will go into the power pedestal at the campsite. You will then plug your 50 amp RV power cord into this. Please note the linked product review and installation video below. When you do not have 50 amp service available to you and need to plug into 30 amp service, use the Mighty Cord RV Power Cord Adapter - 50 Amp Female to 30 Amp Male, # A10-3050FHVP. This goes into the 30 amp power pedestal, then the above configuration plugs into it.

The Valterra Electrical Adapter - 30 Amp to 15 Amp plug, # A10-0014VP is available but designed for temporary use only. This is used for adapting a 30 amp power cord to be used with a 15/20 amp plug but I don't suggest doing this with for a 50 amp vehicle unless you verify it is okay with your RV's owners manual or check with the dealerships service department first. You need to ensure that there are not any changes in settings needed for your RV's electrical distribution box before plugging in to 15/20 amp service. Be aware that if the residential outlet is a GFI you may trip the house side of the circuit and you will only have enough power operate the battery charger and a few lights. Maybe the refrigerator too if you are lucky but I doubt you will be able to operate the AC unit. Happy Camping!

expert reply by: Michael R