How Do You Hardwire Hughes Watchdog Surge Protector 30A In RV?

Updated 10/23/2025 | Published 09/23/2025

Question:

How do you wire in the Hughes Watchdog HU72VR on a 30A RV? Does it go before or after the transfer switch?

asked by: Greg

Expert Reply:

Greg, the Power Watchdog Surge Protector # HU72VR gets wired as the first stop on your shore power cord, right where it enters the coach. That way it protects the transfer switch if you have one, your breaker panel, and all appliances.

With a transfer switch: Pedestal > Cord > # HU72VR > Transfer Switch > Distribution Panel

Without one: Pedestal > Cord > # HU72VR > Distribution Panel

You’ll cut your main cord, land the pedestal side on the # HU72VR input lugs (bottom of surge protector), and the RV side on the output lugs (top of surge protector), then mount the box in your compartment or cord storage bay where you can see the Bulldog face.

Do you think you’ll tackle the wiring yourself, or have a tech handle the hookup?

expert reply by: Andrew N

Greg

10/23/2025

Thanks, that helps a ton. Just to be sure, since my transfer switch is built into my power center, I can still mount the HU72VR in the front bay near the cord inlet, right? I just want to make sure it’ll protect everything downstream without any issues.

Andrew N.

10/23/2025

@Greg Exactly right, Greg - you can mount the Watchdog in that front bay by the cord inlet and it’ll still protect the entire system, even with your integrated transfer switch. The key is making sure it’s the first thing your shore cord connects to before power reaches that switch or distribution panel. Keep the Bulldog face visible if you can so you’ll see fault alerts and Bluetooth signal easily.