Introduction
The Power Watchdog PWD30 is a portable 30 Amp Bluetooth surge protector designed to safeguard your electrical equipment from power fluctuations and surges. It offers 3,000 Joules of advanced surge protection and includes Bluetooth connectivity for real-time monitoring of park power conditions via a smartphone application. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your device.
Setup
1. Physical Connection
To set up your Power Watchdog PWD30, ensure the power source is off before connecting the device. Plug the male end of the Power Watchdog into the 30 Amp shore power pedestal. Then, connect your RV's 30 Amp power cord to the female receptacle of the Power Watchdog. Ensure all connections are secure.
Figure 1: Power Watchdog PWD30 connected to a power source.
2. Bluetooth App Installation and Pairing
The Power Watchdog PWD30 features Bluetooth connectivity for remote monitoring. Download the free Power Watchdog mobile application from your smartphone's app store. Once installed, open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to scan for and pair with your device. Ensure your phone's Bluetooth is enabled.
Figure 2: Power Watchdog PWD30 with a smartphone displaying the monitoring application.
Figure 3: Close-up view of the Power Watchdog mobile application interface, showing real-time power data.
Operating Instructions
1. LED Park Power Diagnostics
The Power Watchdog PWD30 features a diagnostic LED panel that provides immediate feedback on the power conditions. Observe the LEDs on the device for quick status checks:
- Power On: Indicates the unit is receiving power.
- Open Neutral: Alerts to an open neutral condition.
- Open Ground: Alerts to an open ground condition.
- L1 & Neutral Reversed: Indicates reversed line and neutral wiring.
- No Power: Indicates no power is being received by the unit.
A red LED indicates a fault condition, while green indicates a safe condition. If a red LED is illuminated, disconnect from the power source and consult the troubleshooting section.
Figure 4: Detailed view of the LED diagnostic indicators on the Power Watchdog PWD30.
2. Real-Time Monitoring via App
Once paired, the Power Watchdog app allows you to wirelessly monitor critical electrical parameters in real-time:
- Voltage (V): Displays the incoming voltage.
- Amperage (A): Shows the current draw.
- Wattage (W): Indicates the power consumption.
- Energy (KWH): Tracks cumulative energy usage.
The app also provides customizable alert thresholds, allowing you to set warnings for conditions that fall outside a specified safe range.
Maintenance
The Power Watchdog PWD30 is constructed for heavy-duty use in various outdoor conditions. To ensure optimal performance and longevity:
- Keep the unit clean and free from excessive dirt or debris.
- Store the unit in a dry place when not in use.
- Inspect the cables and plugs periodically for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion.
- Do not attempt to open or repair the unit yourself. Refer to qualified service personnel.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Power Watchdog PWD30, refer to the following common scenarios:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Red LED illuminated (e.g., Open Neutral, Open Ground, L1 & Neutral Reversed) | Hazardous wiring condition at the power pedestal. | Immediately disconnect from the power source. Do not connect your RV until the wiring issue is resolved by a qualified electrician or you move to a different power source. Contact Hughes Autoformers if the LED remains red after moving to a known good power source. |
| No LEDs illuminated / No Power | No power from the pedestal or faulty connection. | Check the circuit breaker at the power pedestal. Ensure all connections are secure. Try a different power outlet if available. |
| Bluetooth app not connecting | Bluetooth is off, device out of range, or app issue. | Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone. Move closer to the Power Watchdog unit. Restart the app or your phone. Re-pair the device in the app settings. |
| Inaccurate readings on app | Temporary communication glitch. | Restart the app. Ensure the app is updated to the latest version. |
For issues not covered here, or if problems persist, please contact Power Watchdog customer support.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | PWD30 |
| Product Dimensions | 14 x 11 x 3 inches |
| Item Weight | 3 pounds |
| Amperage | 30 Amp |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Surge Protection | 3,000 Joules |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Special Features | Lightweight, Portable, Easy Grip Handles |
| Manufacturer | Hughes Autoformer |
Warranty and Support
The Power Watchdog PWD30 is manufactured by Hughes Autoformer. For specific warranty details, including coverage duration and terms, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Power Watchdog website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty claims, please contact Hughes Autoformer customer service directly.
You can find more information and contact details by visiting the Power Watchdog Store on Amazon.
