1. Introduction
The Southwire Surge Guard 35530 Hardwire RV Power Protection System is designed to provide comprehensive electrical protection for your recreational vehicle. This device continuously monitors incoming shore power for various electrical hazards, automatically disconnecting power to your RV when dangerous conditions are detected. Its hardwire installation ensures permanent protection and reduces the risk of theft or damage from external elements.
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Surge Guard 35530. Please read it thoroughly before installation and use to ensure safe and effective performance.
Figure 1: Southwire Surge Guard 35530 Hardwire RV Power Protection System. This image displays the front of the Surge Guard unit, showing the indicator lights for power, caution, line status, and surge protection, along with the model number and electrical ratings.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Installation of this product involves high voltage electricity. Installation should only be performed by a qualified electrician or RV technician. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.
- Always disconnect shore power before attempting any installation, inspection, or maintenance.
- Ensure all wiring connections are secure and comply with local electrical codes and RV manufacturer specifications.
- Do not operate the unit if it appears damaged.
- This product is designed for indoor, hardwire installation within the RV's electrical bay. Do not expose to direct weather elements unless properly enclosed.
- California Proposition 65 Warning: This product may contain materials cautioned by California Proposition 65.
3. Product Features
The Surge Guard 35530 offers advanced protection and convenience features:
- Automatic Reset: The unit automatically resets and restores power once safe electrical conditions are detected.
- Multi-Mode Surge Suppression: Provides comprehensive protection against various types of power surges.
- A/C Compressor Protection: Features a 128-second reset delay to protect your RV's air conditioning compressor from rapid cycling.
- High Surge Protection: Offers 2450 Joules of power surge protection.
- Continuous Monitoring: Detects and protects against:
- Power Surges
- Open Ground
- Open Neutral
- Low Voltage
- Excessive Voltage
- Miswired Pedestals
- Reverse Polarity
- Hardwire Installation: Permanent installation within the RV bay for enhanced security and protection from elements.
- Optional Remote LCD Display Port: Allows for convenient remote monitoring of RV electrical power (remote display sold separately).
Figure 2: Feature Diagram of the Surge Guard 35530. This illustration highlights key components and protective functions, including multi-mode power suppression, built-in intelligence, protection against faulty park power, 120V 30A electrical rating, protection against power surges, open ground, open neutral, and weather resistance.
4. Installation (Hardwire)
The Surge Guard 35530 is designed for hardwire installation. This process requires electrical knowledge and should be performed by a qualified professional.
4.1. Pre-Installation Steps
- Disconnect Power: Ensure the RV is completely disconnected from all external power sources (shore power, generator, inverter).
- Select Location: Choose a dry, protected location within the RV's electrical bay or compartment, close to where the main shore power cable enters the RV and before the main breaker panel. Ensure adequate ventilation and space for wiring.
- Mounting: Securely mount the Surge Guard unit using appropriate fasteners. Ensure the unit is oriented correctly with the "LINE" input and "LOAD" output terminals as indicated on the device.
4.2. Wiring Instructions
- Identify Wires: Identify the incoming 30 Amp shore power cable (LINE) and the cable leading to the RV's main breaker panel (LOAD). These typically consist of a hot (black), neutral (white), and ground (green/bare copper) wire.
- Cut and Strip: Carefully cut the incoming shore power cable at the chosen installation point. Strip approximately 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the hot, neutral, and ground wires for both the LINE and LOAD sides.
- Connect LINE Input:
- Connect the incoming Hot (Black) wire from the shore power cable to the terminal labeled "LINE HOT" on the Surge Guard.
- Connect the incoming Neutral (White) wire from the shore power cable to the terminal labeled "LINE NEUTRAL" on the Surge Guard.
- Connect the incoming Ground (Green/Bare) wire from the shore power cable to the terminal labeled "LINE GROUND" on the Surge Guard.
- Connect LOAD Output:
- Connect the Hot (Black) wire leading to the RV's main breaker panel to the terminal labeled "LOAD HOT" on the Surge Guard.
- Connect the Neutral (White) wire leading to the RV's main breaker panel to the terminal labeled "LOAD NEUTRAL" on the Surge Guard.
- Connect the Ground (Green/Bare) wire leading to the RV's main breaker panel to the terminal labeled "LOAD GROUND" on the Surge Guard.
- Secure Connections: Ensure all terminal screws are tightened securely to prevent loose connections, which can cause overheating or intermittent operation.
- Verify Wiring: Double-check all wiring connections against the diagram provided with the unit and ensure correct polarity.
4.3. Post-Installation
Once wiring is complete, carefully close any access panels. Reconnect shore power and observe the indicator lights on the Surge Guard unit.
5. Operation
The Surge Guard 35530 operates automatically once installed and connected to shore power. It continuously monitors the electrical supply and provides visual feedback through its indicator lights.
5.1. Indicator Lights
The unit features several LED indicator lights to communicate its status:
- POWER ON (Green LED): Illuminates when the unit is receiving power and is operational.
- CAUTION WHEN FLASHING (Amber LED): Flashes to indicate a detected fault condition that has caused the unit to disconnect power to the RV. Refer to the troubleshooting section for specific fault interpretations.
- LINE 1 (Green = OK, Red = Fault) (Green/Red LED):
- Green: Indicates the incoming Line 1 (Hot) connection is good.
- Red: Indicates a fault on Line 1, such as low/high voltage or reverse polarity.
- SURGE (No Protection When Lit) (Red LED): Illuminates when the internal surge protection components have been compromised or used up due to a significant surge event. The unit will continue to pass power but will no longer provide surge protection. Replacement of the unit is recommended.
5.2. Power Restoration Delay
Upon initial connection to shore power or after a power interruption, the Surge Guard 35530 will perform a diagnostic check. There will be a 128-second delay before power is supplied to the RV. This delay is crucial for protecting sensitive appliances, especially the air conditioning compressor, from damage caused by rapid power cycling.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Surge Guard 35530.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power to RV, CAUTION light flashing. | Detected fault: Open ground, open neutral, low/excessive voltage, miswired pedestal, or reverse polarity. |
|
| LINE 1 LED is Red. | Fault detected on Line 1 (Hot wire). |
|
| SURGE LED is lit (Red). | Surge protection components have been consumed. |
|
| Unit does not pass power when connected to a portable generator. | Portable generators often have a floating neutral/ground, which the Surge Guard interprets as an open ground fault. |
|
| Faint humming sound from the unit. | Normal operation of internal electrical components. |
|
7. Maintenance
The Southwire Surge Guard 35530 is designed for minimal maintenance.
- Periodic Inspection: Annually, or after any significant electrical event, inspect the unit and its wiring connections for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose terminals. Ensure all connections remain tight.
- Cleaning: Keep the unit clean and free of dust and debris. Use a dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Surge Protection Status: Regularly check the "SURGE" indicator light. If it is lit red, the surge protection has been compromised, and the unit should be replaced to ensure continued protection against surges.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 35530 |
| Brand | Southwire |
| Amperage Rating | 30 Amps |
| Voltage Rating | 120 Volts |
| Surge Protection | 2450 Joules |
| Dimensions (L x W x D) | 12 x 8 x 10 inches (Approximate) |
| Item Weight | 3.72 pounds |
| Special Features | Multi-mode surge suppression, 128-second A/C compressor delay, automatic reset. |
Figure 3: Measurement Specifications for Surge Guard 35530. This image provides the length (11.12"), width (5.30"), and depth (4.39") of the unit, aiding in installation planning.
9. Warranty and Support
Southwire stands behind the quality of its products. For specific warranty details, including coverage period and terms, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Southwire website.
For technical support, troubleshooting assistance beyond this manual, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact Southwire Customer Service.
- Manufacturer: Southwire
- Website: www.southwire.com (Please check the product packaging or official website for the most current contact information and support resources.)
