What is the Difference Between the Power Watchdog # HU67FR and # HU42VR?

Updated 05/29/2026 | Published 05/23/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Portable Power Watchdog Surge Protector with Bluetooth, WiFi, and Emergency Shut Down - 30 Amp

(991)

$339.99

Portable Power Watchdog Surge Protector with Bluetooth and Emergency Shut Down - 30 Amp

(991)

$309.99

Question:

What is the difference between the Power Watchdog Surge Protectors: HU67FR and HU42VR? Thanks.

asked by: Kevin G

Expert Reply:

Hello Kevin,

Thanks for writing in.

The main difference between the Power Watchdog Surge Protectors # HU67FR and # HU42VR comes down to the monitoring capability, housing design, and surge protection rating.

The # HU67FR is the newer Generation 2 model. It has both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows you to monitor the system remotely through the app even when you are away from the RV, as long as the unit has access to Wi-Fi. It also has an updated housing design with improved weather protection and a higher 3,000 joule surge protection rating.

The # HU42VR is the earlier generation version and uses Bluetooth only, so you need to be within Bluetooth range of the RV to monitor it through the app. It still offers excellent protection with automatic shutoff during unsafe voltage conditions, but it has a lower 2,300 joule surge protection rating.

Both are great options, but if you want the newer design, remote Wi-Fi monitoring, and the higher surge protection rating, I would go with the # HU67FR.

What trip are you looking most forward to this summer?

expert reply by: Kate F

Watchdog
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Donna

5/28/2026

I love my power watchdog! Purchased it because we bought a new Rockwood Mini-lite and I wanted to protect the 12volt system in our unit. I know of other people that had issues with power in campgrounds and didn’t want to experience that. An after thought - I always lock up my watchdog at campgrounds because I don’t want it stolen.

Kate F.

5/29/2026

@Donna Always better to be safe than sorry Donna! Thanks for the response!

Charles H.

5/28/2026

The Watch Dog has performed very well. Particularly liked the Bluetooth and WiFi capabilities. I used at on my 30 amp outlet and while camping.

Kate F.

5/29/2026

@CharlesH Thanks for the response Charles, happy to hear you are staying protected =)

Kevin

5/28/2026

The Watchdog has saved our trailer twice in one month. First, the so-called electricians ran a remote box from the panel. Instead of bringing out 120v they mistakenly wired for 240v. The Watchdog didn't like that. Second, when they supposedly rewired it for only 120v they mistakenly switched the hot and neutral to the back of the 30amp outlet. The Watchdog caught it again and the ability to see this on my phone via Bluetooth was awesome.

Kate F.

5/29/2026

@Kevin Oh my gosh, what a nightmare Kevin! Well I guess it could have been more of a nightmare if you didn't have the Watchdog. Thanks for sharing =)

Chris F.

5/28/2026

I use the HU67FR watch dog, even though my camper has a built in surge protector still i use the watch dog for added protection

Kate F.

5/29/2026

@ChrisF Great choice Chris!

David

5/28/2026

I've been happy with my power watchdog. I feel very secure that my RV is protected. I have the earlier generation version with the RV receptacle inside the unit under a cover, but the picture of the newer Generation 2 model looks like the RV receptacle is out in the open. Not sure why they changed that. How would the connection be protected from rain?

Kate F.

5/29/2026

@David That's a great question David. The Gen 2 models use a different design, but the connection is still intended for outdoor use. The plug and receptacle are molded and weather resistant, and Hughes designed the unit with a clamshell-style cover around the connection point to help keep water away from the electrical contacts. As long as everything is plugged in fully and the connections are in good condition, rain shouldn't be an issue during normal campground use. I can definitely see why the older design looks more protected at first glance, though. Having the receptacle tucked completely under a cover does provide a little more visual reassurance.