This article compares the Hughes Autoformers Power Watchdog Gen I and Gen II surge protectors, essential tools for RVers seeking reliable power protection. We've put both generations to the test, detailing their features, performance, and app functionality to help you decide which model best suits your needs. Our review covers everything from surge protection capabilities and real-time power monitoring to the key differences in their connectivity options and user interfaces.The original Gen I, a 30-amp unit with Bluetooth connectivity, has served us faithfully for years. However, the newly released Gen II, a 50-amp model, boasts significant upgrades, including Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring and control, a dimmable dog-shaped light, and a more user-friendly app. This comparison will highlight the advantages of each generation, ultimately guiding you towards choosing the optimal surge protector for safeguarding your valuable RV equipment and ensuring peace of mind on the road.
Pros And Cons
- All features of Gen 1
- Replaceable surge unit
- Dimmable light controllable via app
- Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring and alerts even outside of Bluetooth range
- Can turn off neutral faults for the EPO
- Remote power shutoff via app
- Great surge protector
- Emergency power off for high and low voltage
- Bluetooth app for tracking volts, amps, watts, and frequency
- Replaceable surge unit
- Durable; has been used on many trips without issue
- Bright light on the face; requires a sticker to dim it
- Bluetooth only; no remote monitoring outside Bluetooth range
Read more: AMI Meter Reading Guide: Understanding Your Smart Electricity Meter
Introducing the Hughes Autoformers Power Watchdog
For years, the Hughes Autoformers Power Watchdog has been a staple for RVers seeking reliable surge protection. Its robust design and effective protection against voltage fluctuations have earned it a loyal following. The original model, a 30-amp unit, featured a distinctive dog-shaped light and offered Bluetooth connectivity for monitoring power usage. This older model proved incredibly durable, accompanying us on countless trips.
Beyond basic surge protection, the Gen I also offered real-time monitoring of voltage, amperage, wattage, and frequency, all accessible through a user-friendly app. This allowed for proactive identification of potential issues before they could damage sensitive RV equipment. The replaceable surge unit ensured long-term usability and minimized repair costs. Despite its many features, we found its bright light to be somewhat excessive.
The Gen II Upgrade: Enhanced Features and Connectivity
Hughes Autoformers recently released the Gen II 50-amp Power Watchdog, promising significant improvements over its predecessor. The new model boasts a sleeker design with a side-mounted power cord, replacing the bottom-mounted cord of the Gen I unit. The dog-shaped light remains, but it's now dimmable via the app, addressing a common complaint about the Gen I's brightness. The most significant upgrade is the addition of Wi-Fi connectivity.
This Wi-Fi capability provides remote monitoring and control, even when away from the RV. The app will send notifications regarding voltage fluctuations, allowing you to take action if necessary, even remotely. This ensures peace of mind and protection for your investments. This feature is a huge improvement over the Gen I's Bluetooth-only capabilities.
App Comparison: Gen I vs. Gen II
The Gen I and Gen II units utilize distinct apps. The Gen I app is simple and displays key power metrics, along with error messages. However, its Bluetooth-only functionality limits its usefulness when outside of range. The Gen II app, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive interface with the added control of Wi-Fi.
The Gen II app provides a more user-friendly interface, showing both line one and line two for 50-amp units. It allows for remote power shutoff and offers much-improved notification options, extending its reach far beyond Bluetooth range. In our testing, the Wi-Fi functionality proved reliable and offered a significant advantage in remote monitoring.
Additional Features and Verdict
Both units share the benefit of a replaceable surge protector, ensuring longevity and reducing long-term costs. The Gen II also adds options for adjusting the neutral fault setting, providing extra flexibility in various power environments. A helpful addition is the ability to easily dim the dog light on the Gen II. Along with the surge protectors, Hughes also sent a handy digital AC voltmeter that allows for real-time voltage monitoring.
After extensive use of both generations, we definitively recommend the Gen II. The Wi-Fi capability and remote monitoring features alone make it worthwhile. While the Gen I is a reliable unit, the Gen II's enhanced features and remote monitoring make it a superior choice for any RVer valuing peace of mind and comprehensive power protection. The added features, coupled with the improved app, make the Gen II worth the upgrade.
