On July 1, Hughes Autoformers unveiled an enhanced device that will broaden consumers’ control over electric power entering an RV. The supplier’s second-generation Power Watchdog Smart RV Surge Protector supplies consumers with an abundance of features to ease use.
The supplier infused the new version with Wi-Fi abilities, which enables consumers to control the device from anywhere using the Hughes mobile app. According to Hughes Autoformers General Manager Brett Thomas, the first-generation surge protector’s Bluetooth abilities, paired with the mobile app, was a giant leap for the RV surge protector industry, but limited control to within approximately 100 feet of the device.
RVers can connect or disconnect power remotely with the Power Watchdog EPO model. Thomas said this feature is useful during lightning. He said a lightning strike could cause a power surge.
According to Thomas, while surge protectors safeguard against power surges caused by lightning strikes, “the best way to protect your RV is to actually be disconnected.”
Consumers can also monitor data such as high and low voltage through the app.
Thomas said the data monitoring “really puts consumers in the know,” about the RV’s electrical status.
Hughes updated the Power Watchdog’s appearance. The second-generation surge protector features a lockable clamshell design that provides weather protection. An LED light positioned in the bottom compartment illuminates space around the device to help consumers connect the surge protector in the dark.
All other features remain the same as the original version. Consistencies include an emergency power shut-off feature, a replaceable surge module and the limited lifetime warranty.
The surge protector is available to pre-order in base models or EPO models. EPO models have power shut-off/turn-on features while base models do not. Each model comes in 30-amp and 50-amp versions.
According to Thomas, the company plans to make hardwired versions. Hardwired surge protectors mount within the RV rather than outside. The company anticipates the model’s release by the end of the year.
Hughes expects to have the updated devices ready for distribution by mid-August.
To learn more about the second-generation Power Watchdog, click here.
