If you haul equipment, livestock, or heavy loads in Pennsylvania, your trailer brakes are not something you can ignore. It’s not just about stopping. It’s about control, stability, and protecting your investment (and everyone else on the road).

Two of the most common braking systems are electric brakes and hydraulic brakes (often called surge brakes). Each has its strengths and trade-offs, and the right choice depends on what you haul, where you haul it, and how you want your trailer to perform.

How Trailer Brakes Work…

Electric Brakes: Electric trailer brakes use a brake controller inside your tow vehicle to send an electrical signal to magnets inside the trailer’s brake drums. When you press the brake pedal, the controller adjusts how much braking force is applied to the trailer wheels.

Hydraulic Brakes (Surge Brakes): Hydraulic trailer brakes are self-contained. When your tow vehicle slows down, the trailer’s forward momentum compresses a master cylinder in the coupler, which sends hydraulic fluid to the brakes. This pressure activates the brake shoes or pads without any electrical connection to the tow vehicle’s brake pedal.

Pros and Cons of Electric Brakes

Electric brakes are popular with many trailer owners because they offer more control than most other systems. With a brake controller mounted in your tow vehicle, you can adjust braking force to match different loads and road conditions, which means smoother stops and better stability. They’re also relatively affordable compared to hydraulic setups, and since parts are widely available at trailer supply shops across Pennsylvania, maintenance and repairs are usually straightforward.

For many haulers, that combination of affordability and flexibility makes electric brakes a practical choice.

That said, electric systems aren’t without drawbacks. Because they rely on wiring and a controller, any electrical failure can quickly reduce performance. They also don’t hold up as well when trailers are frequently submerged in water, which makes them less than ideal for boat owners.

And while setup isn’t overly complicated, you will need a compatible brake controller installed in your tow vehicle before the system will work.

Pros and Cons of Hydraulic Brakes

Hydraulic brakes, often called surge brakes, operate differently. They’re self-contained, which means you don’t need a brake controller or an electrical hookup for them to function. This makes them especially convenient for people who use multiple tow vehicles or want a system that works right out of the box.

They’re also better suited for marine use since water exposure won’t interfere with electrical components. When it comes to performance, hydraulic brakes deliver strong, consistent stopping power, which can be a big advantage on Pennsylvania’s steep grades and hilly roads.

The trade-off is that hydraulic systems offer less adjustability. Because they work on momentum rather than direct input from a controller, you can’t fine-tune braking force from inside the cab. They also require more complex maintenance since lines, cylinders, and seals need regular inspection and occasional replacement. On top of that, the initial installation tends to cost more than electric setups.

Which System Fits Your Needs?

The right braking system really depends on what you’re hauling and how you plan to use your trailer. Electric brakes are usually the better option if you carry varying loads and want precise control over how your trailer responds on the road. They’re also a cost-effective choice if you’re looking for a system that’s easy to repair and maintain.

On the other hand, hydraulic trailer brakes may be the smarter pick if you’re launching boats, switching between tow vehicles, or regularly pulling heavy loads on steep terrain. They provide strong, reliable braking in those situations, even if they come with higher upfront costs and more complex upkeep.

Pennsylvania-Specific Considerations

State law requires trailers over 3,000 pounds GVWR to have brakes on all wheels. If you’re hauling in rural areas with steep grades, like the Laurel Highlands or Pocono Mountains, braking performance becomes even more critical.

For commercial operators, reliability and compliance aren’t optional – they’re part of staying in business.

Final Thoughts

Both electric and hydraulic brakes can be safe and effective when properly maintained. The best choice comes down to your hauling environment, the type of loads you carry, and how much control you want over braking performance.

If you’re unsure which system fits your needs, we can help you compare options, explain maintenance requirements, and match you with a trailer setup that keeps you safe and compliant on Pennsylvania roads.