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Have you ever wondered how important it is to use a generator with a surge protector? In today’s world, electricity is a vital part of our lives, and power outages can cause significant inconvenience and even danger. Generators provide an alternative source of power during blackouts, but they can also pose a threat to your electronics and appliances if used without proper protection.
Especially if your portable generator is not an inverter model or if you have a whole-house generator, it’s critical to use a proper surge protector. Cheap power strips may work for some devices, but many household appliances require additional protection against surges and fluctuations that generators can produce. A surge protector is a crucial component in safeguarding your devices from the harmful effects of power surges and spikes.
Choosing the right surge protector can be overwhelming, with numerous options available on the market. The number of outlets, surge protection rating, and price are all essential factors to consider. To help you make an informed buying decision, I’ve compiled a list of the 10 best surge protectors for use with any type of generator in your home, RV, or workshop.
What are the 10 best surge protectors for generators?
If you’re looking for a surge protector to safeguard your electronics and appliances during a power outage, you’re in luck. Below, you can find a list of 10 popular but quality-made surge protection products from trusted brands. To help you make an informed buying decision, I have collected some useful information about each product based on my personal experience, reviews I got from friends and colleagues, and online reviews.
However, before you choose a surge protector, it’s essential to know which type you need. Depending on the generator you use, you will either require a stationary surge protector that you install along with your house’s transfer switch or a portable surge protector that you can use outside of your home or in your RV.
A stationary surge protector is ideal for whole-house generators as it is installed in the main panel where the transfer switch is located.
On the other hand, a portable surge protector is more suitable for portable generators, and it can be used outside of your home or in your RV, providing you with an additional layer of protection against power surges and spikes.
Without further due, here you have a list of the top 10 surge protectors for a generator.
APC PE76W Surge Protector
A basic and very affordable surge protector from APC. It has 7 outlets for standard 5-15 plugs. It also has a convenient surge protection status LED.
The APC PE76W is a surge-protecting power strip made to save your electronic equipment from voltage surges and spikes. It has a 6-foot cord and APC’s “SurgeArrest” protection system, which is designed to dissipate high-voltage spikes and move them away from your valuable appliances.
- 1440 Joules surge protection energy rating
- 7 outlet surge protector power strip
- 6 foot power cord with flat-end 90 degree space saving plug
- Recessed power switch and keyholes for wall mounting
In addition to providing 1440 joules of surge protection, this power strip offers EMI and RFI filtering, which guards against data errors and keyboard problems brought on by electrical interference. It has a lifetime warranty from APC and is UL listed. The APC even has a $50,000 protection policy for equipment connected through this surge protector.
Modern circuitry in this APC surge protector protects your safety electronics and appliances against power fluctuations from both a portable generator and a home electric grid.
In addition to that, the APC Essential SurgeArrest series surge protectors that are sold in the US provide optimal performance with a let-through rating of less than 500V, and for items sold globally, a rating of less than 15%. This means, your sensitive devices will not get significantly affected by a high electric spike when compared to other brands of surge protectors.
Amazon Basics 8-Outlet Surge Protector
Another affordable but well-made surge protector. It has a high level of surge protection with its 4500-joule energy rating. Amazon Basics surge protector has a simple but user-friendly design. Its widely-spaced outlets have sliding covers. There are convenient LED indicators that will let you know when your devices are surge-protected. A reset button is conveniently located on the side of the surge protector preventing it from accidental presses.
- IN THE BOX: Surge protector power strip for protecting computers, TVs, and other electronic devices from potentially damaging power surges
- OUTLETS: Includes 8 outlets
- SURGE PROTECTION: 4500 joules rating; green LED light indicates active surge protection and grounded wiring for all outlets
- ADDED SAFETY: 15 amp overload resettable circuit breaker; fireproof MOV for added protection from surges and spikes
- SPECIFICATIONS: 15 amps, 120 volts, 1800 watts
It is ideal for use with a generator that is powering sensitive devices like computers, multi-functional systems, TVs, communication devices, data lines, and more. The use of fireproof MOV technology provides additional protection against surges and spikes.
Overall, it’s a well-made, attractive surge protector that does the job. When compared to some surge protectors on the market, you can tell that the plastic parts are smoother and stronger. It is also extremely reasonably priced. If you’re going to use it between a generator and appliances you will always have a piece of mind knowing that your sensitive electronics are always protected from surgest that can come from a running generator.
Addtam Surge Protector with 10 Outlets
This one is an amazing and very convenient surge protector for your generator that is designed with space-saving in mind. It has some unique features like 3 USB-A and 1 USB-C charging port, on/off switch overload protection, and 10 US household AC outlets.
The Addatm surge protector has a sturdy 6-foot cord, a LED indicator, and a reset switch. Its surge protection rating is 2700 joules. With all those features, this surge protector is also very affordable.
- ★ Multi Function Power Strip:Power strip surge protector with 10AC outlets & 4 USB charging ports, 6-foot Heavy Duty power extension...
- ★ Power Strip with USB C: 4 USB ports total 3.1 A/15.5W. Built- with smart technology, detecting charging devices and deliver optimal charging...
- ★ Surge Protector Power Strip:The 3 level complementary Surge Protector Circuit which composed of TVS (transient voltage suppressor),MOV (metal...
- ★ Wide Spaced Outlets: 2 Special design widely spacing AC outlets with 2 inches space in between, larger than standard 1.5-inch/1.8-inch...
- ★ Safety and Certificate: ETL safety certified, with extension cord and other major components certified by UL. The over current protection...
It’s a unique surge protector with ETL safety certification and UL certification for the extension cord and other key parts. The over-current protection switch restricts the power strip’s working current to a specific setting, keeping it from overheating while in use. Fire resistance and environmental protection PC shell with flame retardant at 1382°F increases durability and longevity. Angled plug at 45 degrees to prevent other outlets from being obstructed by its cord.
You can safely run all your appliances from a non-inverter generator or a home power grid without worrying that your sensitive devices will get damaged by power fluctuations. It has a three-level complimentary surge protector circuit, which is made up of the components TVS (transient voltage suppressor), MOV (metal oxide varistor), and GDT (gas discharge tube).
Overall, it is a very well-made and reliable surge protector that you can use with your generator.
Eaton CHSPT2SURGE
In case you’re taking surge protection seriously and want to make sure all your household appliances are safe, pay attention to whole-house surge protectors like this one by Eaton. This one is a very good choice for an affordable and reliable surge protector. If you’re running a generator as a home backup or if you just want to protect your sensitive devices against spikes coming from your home’s electric grid, the whole-house surge protector is a wise choice.
Eaton CHSPT2SURGE provides 36,000 Amps surge protection. It is easy to mount into your distribution box but it is suggested to have a qualified electric engineer perform the installation. This surge protector is single phase and it is compatible with any manufacturer’s breaker box. It comes with two indicator lights, one for power and one for surge protection status. You will know that your household equipment is surge-protected when both LEDs are lit.
- Ac power protection
- Universally connects to any manufacturer’s load center (breaker box)
- Quick connect design—easy to mount cable protection modules
- Country of origin: China
This surge protector by Eaton is one of few approved by Mike Holmes. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. It is UL 1449 certified and recognized. It comes with a 5-year warranty for the SPD itself and a $25,000 warranty for devices connected through this surge protector.
Overall, the thing is quite well crafted. The price is astounding given the level of protection you receive and the money you could save by possibly avoiding the need to purchase new appliances due to power outages. Installing an SPD like this is especially important if you frequently use a portable generator to provide backup power for your home and the generator is not an inverter.
Bad Wolf HSD240V
The Bad Wolf HSD240V is a heavy-duty surge protector that must be installed into the main panel of your home. It offers 260K amps of protection and is built with commercial-grade components. Its multistage circuitry separately covers each line for added durability and faster reaction times. The product is covered by a million-dollar policy and five-year warranty, and it’s half the size of competitors while offering twice the surge rating.
It protects electrical equipment from high energy transient voltage spikes caused by lightning, EMPs, and solar flares, as well as internal and external surge causes, such as compressor start-up and grid line changes. The manufacturer recommends installing the device using a special double pole circuit breaker and advises a current rating of 20A or greater. This surge protector is a perfect choice for those planning to power their homes with a generator during blackouts or has an unstable power grid.
- Over 260,000 Amps Of Protection Built With Commercial Grade Components and Tested to MIL-STD Requirements.
- Unique Multistage Circuitry Provides Faster Response Time And Protects Each Line Independently For Increase Durability
- Most Advanced Home Surge Protection Available Half The Size Of Our Competitors And Twice The Surge Rating
- 5 Year Warranty And backed by a million dollar product policy
- Veteran Owned Made In America Company Built To Last
This surge protector can be easily installed inside the service panel thanks to its compact size. It can alternatively be installed outside the panel to make it easier to monitor it. The manufacturer highly recommends that this SPD be fitted using a special double pole circuit breaker that is placed adjacent to the main disconnect or power entry connections. It is also advised that the circuit breaker installed has a current rating of 20A or greater.
CARMTEK RV Surge Protector 30 Amp
The CARMTEK RV Surge Protector is a device that is designed to protect your RV’s electrical system from surges in voltage. It is designed to be plugged into a 30 amp RV power outlet, and it will protect against voltage spikes or surges. This surge protector defends your RV’s electrical equipment from harmful high/low voltage, electrical disturbances, and abrupt power surges brought on by thunderstorms by absorbing high-voltage spikes up to 2100 Joules.
But this is not all. The CARMTEK RV surge protector also acts as a circuit analyzer when connected to a portable generator or a campground pole. It enables you to check that the power source is properly wired and helps to detect the majority of wiring errors. It makes it possible for you to test the quality of your electricity before connecting your RV.
- ✔ SURGE PROTECTION - Absorbs high-voltage spikes up to 2100 Joules and protects the RV electrical equipment from dangerous high/low voltage,...
- ✔ CIRCUIT ANALYZER - Allows you to test the quality of your power before connecting your RV, by verifying if the power source is correctly...
- ✔ ULTRA-SAFE EQUIPMENT - Carmtek 30 Amp RV Surge Protector is built from flame-retardant material making it extra safe to use. Specially...
- ✔ EASY TO USE - The RV Surge Protector's plugs are designed with ergonomic power grip handles to safely and easily plug and unplug it,...
- ✔ TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - Surge Protection: 2100J, Ratings: 30A / 125V / 3750W / 50/60Hz, Plug Type: 30-Amp male (NEMA TT-30P) / 30-Amp...
The following wiring errors are indicated on the 30A RV Circuit Analyzer Diagnostic Chart:
- Correct Wiring
- Open Ground
- Open Neutral
- Reverse Polarity
- Hot/Ground Reversed
- No Power
The Carmtek 30 Amp RV surge protector is safe and flame-resistant, weather-resistant, and thermally protected for outdoor use. It has ergonomic power grip handles and right-angle male connectors for easy and safe plugging/unplugging with minimal damage. It can handle a surge of up to 2100 joules, designed to protect 30 amp electrical systems at 125V and 3,750 Watts. It’s well-built, reliable, and highly rated.
The ergonomic power grip handles on both plugs make it simple and safe to plug and unplug them. Additionally, they contain right-angle male connectors that attach to your power source with dependability, minimal damage, and little bend.
Overall, the CARMTEK 30 Amp RV surge protector is a great choice for protecting your RV’s electrical system from voltage surges. It is not cheap for sure, but it is well-built and a very reliable device. It has high ratings and is considered a best-seller. Users praise it for its quality built, features, and ease of use.
EyGde RV Surge Protector 50 Amp
This one is another surge protector for the RV electric system. It is designed to be durable and withstand the rigors of life on the road. It is built with high-quality components and is rated for use in harsh outdoor environments namely due to its sturdy build and IP67 waterproof rating.
- All-in-1 RV Surge Protector 50 Amp - The EyGde upgraded 5000 Joules smart rv surge protector 50amp is a must have for rv campers. It can identify...
- RV Circuit Analyzer with Indicator Light - The resettable 50 Amp rv surge protector has the circuit analyzer function and the diagnostic chart....
- RV Certified 50A RV Surge Protectors - The EyGde 50amp rv trailer surge protectors with Certified, very safety and reliable. There are 3 level...
- RV Surge Protector 50 Amp Waterproof - Our travel trailer accessories reset 50a rv surge protector is designed with a high quality clear...
- Technical Specification and Replacement Policy - Item Type: 50 Amp RV Surge Protector. Surge Protection: 9-Mode / 5000J. Ratings: 50A / 125V /...
The EyGde is more than just a surge protector. It features a circuit analyzer and a diagnostic chart with LED indications for the following wiring conditions:
- power on
- open neutral
- open ground
- missing L1 and L2 125 volts
- reverse polarity
- L1 and L2 ground reversed
- an open circuit
Having the lights on to verify the campsite grid is secure is reassuring.
The EyGde 50A trailer surge protector is UL certified. It is very reliable and safe to use. In this surge protector, there are three tiers of complementary surge protection circuits made up of a TVS (transient voltage suppressor), a MOV (metal oxide varistor), and a GDT (gas discharge tube). This reduces the risks of the electrical components of your RV being damaged by lightning strikes and abrupt surges. It offers an incredible 5,000 joules of surge protection. This is a very good rating for such an affordable RV surge protector.
The plug features a convenient grip handle. The outlet is covered with a transparent rain-protecting cover that allows the use of bigger plugs than other similar surge protectors. There is also a convenient anti-theft hang ring for locking.
Overall, it is a great choice when using a portable generator or a campground receptacle to power your RV and have a piece of mind that your electrical system is safe from sudden spikes of electricity. It is also very conveniently designed for outdoor use.
ECHOGEAR Surge Protector with 2 USB Ports & 6 Rotating AC Outlets
With a number of features made to make it practical and simple to use, the ECHOGEAR Rotating Surge Protector Power Strip is a very convenient sure-protecting power strip.
Its six spinning AC outlets are one of its primary features. In order to make better use of the available space, the outlets can be rotated and adjusted to stay compatible with big, bulky power adapters.
The power strip contains two USB connections for charging gadgets like smartphones, tablets, and other USB-powered devices in addition to the spinning outlets. You can do this to charge several gadgets at once without using up all the AC outlets.
- Power & protect up to 8 devices at once with 6 rotating AC outlets and 2 USB ports. 1080 Joules of quality surge protection stands up to even the...
- Cramped quarters? Maximize your space. AC plugs rotate 90º each way to help make room for all your chargers.
- There's even space to charge your burner phone. Includes 2 USB ports for quick, efficient device charging (up to 2.4 amps). Keeps all your...
- Is Thor defending the world outside your window? Your gear will be protected, and you'll get to see some great abs. Built with a fireproof MOV...
- Mountable design lets you hang the power strip anywhere you need. We've even UL tested & certified this power strip for safety. Plus, it comes...
To assist shield your electronics from voltage spikes and power surges, the ECHOGEAR Rotating Surge Protector Power Strip also features surge protection. This can help your devices last longer and keep them safe from harm brought on by power fluctuations. A 1080 joule rating means that this power strip can absorb a significant amount of energy before it fails, providing a high level of protection for your devices.
It is constructed with a fireproof MOV that prevents your home from catching fire in the event of a strong lightning surge.
Additionally, the power strip’s 6-foot-long wire provides you the freedom to position it wherever you want it to be easily accessible.
Overall, the ECHOGEAR Rotating Surge Protector Power Strip is a fantastic choice for anyone searching for a practical and adaptable power strip with integrated surge protection and USB charging capabilities.
It can be used both at home and when traveling with a portable generator as its power source.
DEWENWILS 8-Outlet Metal Power Strip Surge Protector
It features 8 outlets, 2 USB connections, and a 15-foot flat plug extension chord. With its flat plug design, this power strip can conserve space and keep the cord from getting in the way of other outlets, making it perfect for use in a variety of settings. Additionally, it has Surge protection built-in which will help to protect your valuable electronics from power spikes and surges. It’s also sturdy and durable with a metal housing, designed to withstand impact.
- 【Multi-Outlets with 2USB Ports】8 grounded AC outlets (15A/120V/1800W), charge all devices simultaneously, 3 outlets widely spaced for bulk...
- 【Superior Safety Protections】1440 Joules protection rating keep devices from surges, lightning strikes, or AC contamination; 15amp circuit...
- 【15Ft Long Cord & Flat Plug】14 AWG heavy duty power cord is durable and wear-resistant, 15 feet long cord sufficient for any conceivable...
- 【Wall mountable】Design with cord holder for wrapping the cord or hanging on, two mounting keyholes on the back, mount metal power strip on...
- 【Durable Metal Housing】Sturdy appearance with a metal casing, great for using in harsh environment like workshop, jobsite, garage, office,...
Overall, the DEWENWILS 8-Outlet Metal Power Strip Surge Protector with 2 USB Ports is a very convenient power strip with a variety of outlets that can simultaneously power several devices and guard them against voltage spikes. It is also a great choice if you want to plug it between your appliances and a portable generator that produces a lot of fluctuations when running.
This surge protector is a robust and reliable device that can guard against voltage spikes and provide power to multiple devices at once. It has a 1440 Joules surge protection rating, a 15-foot flat plug extension chord, durable metal housing, 2 USB connections, UL certification, and a 15 amp circuit breaker that guards against overloads and short circuits. You can safely plug it in between your appliances and a portable generator.
EIGSO Weatherproof, Waterproof Surge Protector
The EIGSO USB Outdoor Power Strip is an ideal solution for protecting outdoor appliances and electronic devices. This surge protector comes equipped with 6 AC outlets and 3 USB charging ports, making it versatile enough to meet all of your power needs.
Built to withstand severe conditions, it boasts a weatherproof and waterproof design that has an IPX6 rating. This means that it can withstand rain, water splashes, and even water flow, however, it can not be entirely submerged in water. In addition, it has rubber covers on the switch and USB ports for additional safety. It is however important to note that this surge protector must be unplugged and kept dry when not in use.
The heat-resistant ABS+PC material used in its construction is also designed to protect your devices in the event of a fire. The surge protection on this device is rated at 1,500 Joules, providing a moderate level of protection for your sensitive appliances and electronic devices.
This surge protector has 6 AC outlets, and 3 USB charging ports and is weatherproof and waterproof. The device is made to be used outside and is meant to offer an easy and secure solution to power outdoor appliances like lights, fans, and other electrical appliances.
- 【9-in-1 Power Extension】 6 waterproof outlets and 3 USB ports simultaneously charge for 9 devices. The AC outlets provide 1875W/15A rated...
- 【Definition of IPX6 Waterproof】 IPX6 rated waterproof surge protector can withstand rain, water splash, and even water flow. But it can't be...
- 【Electric Shockproof Outlet】 Only a US standard plug can exclusively match the deliberately designed structure of the socket, which is...
- 【All-round Safety Design】 The built-in circuit breaker can automatically shut off when overloaded, preventing overheat-caused fire. The...
- 【Easy to Install in 2 Ways】 A versatile hanging bracket is included in the box, which can be easily adhered to a smooth surface indoor, or...
In general, the EIGSO Outdoor surge protector is a well-designed product that can provide a terrific way to safely power outdoor devices.
It should be noted that while this surge protector is intended to keep electrical equipment safe, it cannot be used as a long-term solution. When not in use, it must be unplugged from a generator or the home electrical grid and kept as dry as possible.
Bottom line
In conclusion, investing in a high-quality surge protector for your generator is crucial to protect your electronics and appliances from power surges and fluctuations. In this article, we’ve provided you with a list of the 10 best surge protectors for use with both portable and whole-house generators. Each product on this list has been carefully selected based on its quality, durability, and customer reviews, ensuring that you can choose a surge protector that meets your specific needs.
However, it’s important to note that the type of surge protector you require depends on the type of generator you use. For whole-house generators, a stationary surge protector must be installed in the main panel where the transfer switch between the electric grid and the generator is located. For portable generators, a portable surge protector is more suitable, providing you with an additional layer of protection against power surges and spikes in any location, including RVs.
Overall, using the proper surge protector for your generator can help prevent costly damage to your electronics and appliances, providing you with peace of mind during any power outage or emergency. With the wide range of options available on the market, you can choose a surge protector that best fits your needs and budget. So, be sure to invest in a surge protector for your generator today and safeguard your devices against power surges and fluctuations!
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