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  1. #1
    Big Traveler Keebler's Avatar
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    Hughes Autoformer

    I have been running into more and more situations where my EMS is triggering a shutoff due to a low voltage situation.

    This has me considering a Hughes Autoformer. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MXL9YJV...v_ov_lig_dp_it

    They aren't cheap, so before diving in, I am interested in hearing feedback from anyone that has one.
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  2. #2
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    I've had one since the early 2000's. I wouldn't be without it. That being said I don't use it very often but when needed it works well. For us, we typically use it at Corps parks (the older 30 amp ones) in the summer. It usually allows us to run 2 AC's and a fan to stay cool. All other appliances on LP of course and not when using the microwave.

    Hope that helps Red.
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  3. #3
    Seasoned Camper Clanker24's Avatar
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    I purchased one in the spring as well as a friend of mine. Have only used it once. My buddy plugged his into the pedestal before unhooking and it showed a bad plug so he move sites. Last summer staying at an older park with sketchy 30 amp power my ac was cycling and my bar fridge overheated and quit working. The guy behind me had one of theses and he was running ac, water heater and frig on electric with no issues.
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    Site Sponsor Jerryr's Avatar
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    I’ve had one for 2 years. I need it when connecting to my friends barn because when my ac turns on voltage drops below 104 volts and my EMS shuts down power to the trailer.

    The Autoformer boosts voltage up to 10% only if needed. If I see voltage at a campsite drop below 108 volts on my EMS Digital display I pull out the Autoformer and connect it. I have the 50 amp version with me when I travel.

    I bought my friend a 30 amp Autoformer as a gift. He lost 2 ac motors on his trailer that was plugged into with the low voltage barn 30 amp circuit. Now with the Autoformer he hasn’t had any more problems.
    Jerry & Linda
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  5. #5
    Big Traveler Keebler's Avatar
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    I have been seeing voltages drop to around 105, when my AC kicks in; the 10% boost should prevent my EMS from shutting down power. I appreciate the EMS protecting my AC motors, but on a hot day, it's very frustrating.

    Are these capable of a sustained 10% boost?
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  6. #6
    Site Sponsor Jerryr's Avatar
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    Yes it will boost a 105 v to about 114 or so and maintain that as long as needed.

  7. #7
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    Quote Originally Posted by Keebler View Post
    I have been seeing voltages drop to around 105, when my AC kicks in; the 10% boost should prevent my EMS from shutting down power. I appreciate the EMS protecting my AC motors, but on a hot day, it's very frustrating.

    Are these capable of a sustained 10% boost?
    Yes. With that said we've only used ours for a long weekend, several times. We only get it out when we need it.

    Red
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  8. #8
    Site Team traveldawg's Avatar
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    I had one on my previous RV that I left connected all the time. It helped a lot. To save weight I decided not to carry it in this rig. Mistake - could have used it 2 campgrounds ago as voltage was getting dangerously low (near 106v). So in it goes this fall when I get home.
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  9. #9
    Seasoned Camper
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    I have the 30 amp version and plugging it in is the first thing I do at the campground. I’ve found low voltage, blown fuses, etc. I never hookup without it. IMHO it is a necessary accessory for RV camping.
    Vince and Peg
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  10. #10
    Long Hauler offtohavasu's Avatar
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    Just beware that more and more park may prohibit their use. Whether or not they enforce it is another topic:

    NFPA 70, Article 551 "Recreational Vehicles and Recreational Vehicle Parks"

    Part II, 551.20 "Combination Electrical Systems"

    (E)"Autotransformers. Autotransformers shall not be used."
    Curtis, Christine, Cole, and Charlotte

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