Working thru Electrical Issues, They never end for this newbie

[LovingLife]

I have a 2018 Reflection 337RLS I just bought and have home. Trying to figure out the electrical system. For now I'm connected through my 50 amp cable to a Progressive Industries EMS-PT50X then a 50-30 amp converter to a 30 amp to 30 amp generator converter. I'm using a Briggs & Stratton 5500 Watt Storm Response portable generator. All my 120V circuits work but when I start the fireplace, even with all other breakers shut off my EMS shuts off power to the RV. It also happens when I try to turn on the water heater the same way. Does anybody have a clue as to what may be happening?

[Calbar]

I have a 2018 Reflection 337RLS I just bought and have home. Trying to figure out the electrical system. For now I'm connected through my 50 amp cable to a Progressive Industries EMS-PT50X then a 50-30 amp converter to a 30 amp to 30 amp generator converter. I'm using a Briggs & Stratton 5500 Watt Storm Response portable generator. All my 120V circuits work but when I start the fireplace, even with all other breakers shut off my EMS shuts off power to the RV. It also happens when I try to turn on the water heater the same way. Does anybody have a clue as to what may be happening?

Don't know for sure what is happening but does your electrical all work without the EMS? That would be the first thing I would try.

Rob

[J&J___]

I have a 2018 Reflection 337RLS I just bought and have home. Trying to figure out the electrical system. For now I'm connected through my 50 amp cable to a Progressive Industries EMS-PT50X then a 50-30 amp converter to a 30 amp to 30 amp generator converter. I'm using a Briggs & Stratton 5500 Watt Storm Response portable generator. All my 120V circuits work but when I start the fireplace, even with all other breakers shut off my EMS shuts off power to the RV. It also happens when I try to turn on the water heater the same way. Does anybody have a clue as to what may be happening?

Does your EMS throw an error?

[jkwilson]

Often, those types of generators are a little slow responding to the application of significant loads. My guess is the EMS sees the generator slow down and detects a power problem.

[RickLight]

Are you using a bonding plug?


Most generators don't have their frame ground bonded to the neutral, as is done in buildings. EMS consider this a fault. Usually it's instantaneous, but something might be partially fooling your system. The easy test is to bypass the EMS and see if things work.

[Jerryr]

What error code is your EMS showing at the display?
https://www.progressiveindustries.net/troubleshooting

Error codes in link above

[LovingLife]

THANKS for the input. I am nervous to try that because I've heard never to run power to an RV without EMS because of the damage that can be caused. Everything seemed to work when I did my PDI at the dealers lot. At first my generator was throwing 135 volts at 69 Hertz so I adjusted it down. Now throwing 118-122 at 57 Hertz. If I didn't have the EMS would the 135 volts have fried anything? That's the sort of thing that gets me nervous.

[LovingLife]

I've gotten both E-3 and E-6. While I start at very near 120 Volts I am guessing that the loads of of the fireplace or A/C are bring down the voltage when they start. I can understand the A/C but the fireplace or water heater, I don't know. And how often are Progressive Industries EMS's shipped out defective?

[LovingLife]

Are you using a bonding plug?


Most generators don't have their frame ground bonded to the neutral, as is done in buildings. EMS consider this a fault. Usually it's instantaneous, but something might be partially fooling your system. The easy test is to bypass the EMS and see if things work.

My generated is bonded through the frame. Is it safe to not use a EMS with this application? I've heard elsewhere to never go without some sort of a power protection system.

[LovingLife]

You are most likely right. I here the generator slow a little but am not outside to see the EMS's readings. Are there better brands of generators that have better responses to loads being added?