Generator Questions

[jmedina]

Do I need a pure sine wave inverter generator if I use a surge protector? Or can I purchase a regular generator and just use a surge protector to protect electronics?

 

[docj]

Although a surge surge protector may help to smooth some of the worst aspects of a modified sine wave waveform, it is, by no means, the same as having a pure sine wave generator. Some devices, such as induction cooktops, may never work with an MSW waveform no matter what you do to clean it up. I strongly encourage RVers to purchase pure sine wave devices so they don't inadvertently damage their hardware.

 

[jmedina]

Although a surge surge protector may help to smooth some of the worst aspects of a modified sine wave waveform, it is, by no means, the same as having a pure sine wave generator. Some devices, such as induction cooktops, may never work with an MSW waveform no matter what you do to clean it up. I strongly encourage RVers to purchase pure sine wave devices so they don't inadvertently damage their hardware.

So, get a pure sine wave generator and use a surge protector?

 

[sanda]

Please don't ever use a construction grade generator in a campground. Your neighbors will hate you.

 

[docj]

Please don't ever use a construction grade generator in a campground. Your neighbors will hate you.

IMHO having an EMS (energy management system) is more important to an RVer than having just a surge suppressor. Pretty much all EMS systems will contain surge suppression elements but in my experience RVers are more likely to incur damage from low or high voltage, incorrectly wired pedestals, etc., (all of which an EMS can prevent damage from) than they are to incur damage from a voltage spike.