Surge Guard FAQ

Can 50 Amp models be operated on a 120V/30 Amp, 120V/20 Amp, or 120V/15 Amp power source?
Yes, in most cases, purchased RV adapter cord sets can be used with your Surge Guard products. Note that the adapter must be congured to supply power
to both input lines of the 120/240V, 50A Surge Guard. Also, the power source should be protected by a properly rated circuit breaker, so the adapter cord is
not overloaded.
The unit “hums” when operating, is this dangerous?
Typically this is a normal electrical phenomenon caused when the contactor coil “vibrates”. Check to see if other symptoms are present (i.e. signs of
overheating or erratic power). Try removing and restoring power to the unit several times. The supplier of the contactor indicates this condition often will
subside with continued operation. If the condition persists or other symptoms are observed, contact the manufacturer for instructions by calling 1-800-780-
4324 x 20311.
How are Surge Guard devices different from a voltage booster?
Voltage boosters are only able to correct for minor out of specications low voltages and provide only limited surge protection for itself and not for the coach.
Voltage boosters offer no protection for extreme over/under voltage and open neutral condition.
Is it safe to switch to the bypass mode?
Some discontinued models do provide the bypass function. We have since removed it from all our products for safety reasons. Bypass mode is for emergency
use only in a high/low voltage situation. There is no protection for over/under voltage and open neutral when in bypass mode.
What should be in line rst, the voltage booster or the Surge Guard device?
We recommend that the voltage booster be rst, then the Surge Guard device.
Why has my Surge Guard unit failed?
Surge Guard unit components will sometimes fail when subjected to excessive temperatures, input voltages or surges that might otherwise result in damage
to electrical/electronics equipment in the coach. In this event, even though the unit is rendered inoperative, it will likely have protected your expensive
equipment in the coach from damage.
You lose shore power and everyone around you has power. Is it the Surge Guard unit or is it the input power?
Please refer to the “Before You Call” guide located on our www.rvpower.southwire.com website.
What are the approximate dimensions for the Surge Guard units?
35530 5.30"W x 11.12"L x 3.78"D 40100 7.78"W x 10.00"L x 5.10"D 41290 8.84"W x 14.50"L x 5.27"D
35550 5.30"W x 11.39"L x 4.93"D 40240 5.84"W x 14.50"L x 5.27"D 44260 2.41"W x 14.40"L x 1.85"D
34830 4.68"W x 21.50"L x 3.86"D 40250 8.84"W x 12.75"L x 5.21"D 44270 3.06"W x 15.86"L x 1.85"D
34850 4.68"W x 22.75"L x 3.86"D 41260 8.84"W x 12.75"L x 5.21"D 44750 2.10"W x 20.15"L x 2.10"D
Can I install the hardwire Surge Guard unit myself?
The manufacturer recommends that the hardwire units be installed by a qualied licensed electrician. However, as long as the unit is properly installed
warranty is still valid.
For all units, the manufacturer recommends that initial power be applied to the Surge Guard unit with the coach disconnected. If the Surge Guard unit
operates normally, remove power and carefully connect the remaining load wires. Apply power for normal operation.
Can the hardwire units be mounted horizontally?
The manufacturer recommends mounting the unit any way other than at where the label is facing the sky. Vertically or horizontally upside down (label facing
the earth) is advised.
What does the “CAUTION WHEN ILLUMINATED” light mean?
A potentially dangerous condition exists. Disconnect/remove power and verify that power to the unit (from the power source) is not miswired. If the unit is
properly wired, it may not be adequately grounded, causing the CAUTION WHEN ILLUMINATED light to be on.
Why does the Time Delay light blink for several minutes when the unit is rst connected and power is applied
or reapplied?
This is normal. When the blinking light goes out after blinking for 2 minutes, 16 seconds, power is available for the coach.
If the LCD display went out is there a backup for power and fault indication?
Yes, there are three LEDs on the face of the unit as a secondary backup for power and fault indication.
My unit makes a single large “clunk” 2 minutes, 16 seconds after power is applied (or when switched to
bypass mode). Should I be concerned?
This is a normal sound and is caused by the power contactor (relay) inside the unit energizing. This indicates “normal” power is available to the RV.
Visit www.rvpower.southwire.com for additional Surge Guard product information.
For technical assistance, please call 1-800-780-4324 x 20311
Manufactured by Southwire Company, LLC, 5250 140th Avenue North, Clearwater, Florida 33760
© 2017 Southwire Company, LLC. All rights reserved. * Trademark of Southwire Company, LLC. Registered in the United States.
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