How To Choose The Best Generator For Your RV

If you want to camp remotely, then you will need a reliable source of power. Although most RVs come equipped with all the necessary convenience of a home, you will still need to be able to power extra accessories such as refrigerators.

This means that you will carry your own power supply, to enjoy your camping trip to the fullest. RV generators will also come in handy, when you encounter power outages at home or during weather emergencies.

There are numerous options available in the market today. Therefore, choosing one for your RV will depend on certain factors.

Here is how to choose a generator for your RV:

Use Of The Generator

If you are using your generator as the primary source of power for your RV, then you will require a 50 or 30-amp connection. Some RV generators are fitted with an RV-ready outlet, which allow you to plug in directly.

In other situations, you may be required to use an adapter, if you want to use one air conditioner. If you want to power two laundry pieces and air conditioners, then you will be required to have a 50-amp connection from your generator.

If you are using your generator at a worksite, it is recommended that you use multiple 120-volt outlets, as well as features such as wheel kits and tow handles, to make it easy to move the generator from one place to the other.

Amount Of Power Needed

Via: www.homedepot.com

People’s wattage needs vary depending on certain creature comforts and size of the RV. However, most RV generators produce an average of 2,000 watts.

With that amount of power, the conventional RV user can comfortably live with that power, with the ability to power majority of recreation equipment, high power appliances, as well as lighting tools.

With this amount of power, the generator will also be able to power an air conditioner of around 13,500 BTUs. If you are cash-strapped, then you can go with a smaller generator. For most of the outdoor applications, it is always advisable to have a bigger generator instead of a smaller one.

A generator with a minimum of 2,000 watts will provide a good balance in terms of affordability and power, for normal RV uses or event paint your RV.

Type Of Fuel

The type of fuel used on the generator largely depends on whether you intend to have a portable or onboard generator.

What you need to know is that portable generators are equipped with built-in fuel tanks, thus run on normal grade gasoline.

If you go with an onboard generator, then you can fuel it with diesel, liquid propane or gasoline. Therefore, the amount of fuel mainly depends on what the RV runs on as well as what is readily available.

Most diesel powered RVs will mostly carry diesel powered generators while gasoline powered motorhomes carry gasoline generators. LP powered generators are typically found on towable RVs like travel trailers or toy haulers.

Noise Levels

Via: norwall.com

Depending on the location that you intend to use the generator, noise levels are important to consider, when selecting the best RV generator. If you want a generate to use when you are out in the wilderness, then you need one that operates as quietly as possible.

This will ensure that your generator will not disturb your fellow campers, as well as your sleeping family. This means that you should avoid as much as possible to carry your noisy backup generator for your camping.

Thanks to advanced technologies, modern RV generators come with noise levels that are significantly reduced for both onboard and portable generators of different output facilities and sizes.

Therefore, if you are purchasing the generator, check the noise levels to ensure that you purchase one that has reduced noise levels. Some generators also come with soundproofing features, as well as other additions, to keep noise levels down.

Size And Weight

It is important to have a powerful generator. However, their major setback is their size. This implies that you should avoid a bulky generator, since it will give you many issues, when moving it around.

A balanced should be established between power and weight.

The ideal weight should be around 80 pounds. Anything beyond that is too much. Although 80 pounds is not lighter, it is manageable and can be hauled comfortably by male adults. On the other hand, it is big enough to provide the amount of power needed to power your accessories.

Run Time

When you are out recreating, then last thing you want is spending your entire camping time refueling your generator. It is very inconveniencing, as well as risky, especially if you are camping somewhere remote.

You should go for a generator that comes with an extended run time. Long runtime of around 50% maximum load, combined with good fuel efficiency are two factors that make a good RV generator.

However, you should remember that power demands have a direct impact on your generator. The more power you draw from it, the shorter the runtime. This translates to a higher frequency of refueling.

Construction And Design

If you are a frequent camper, then your generator will have to be transported over many miles. With that in mind, it is advisable to go for a generator that is simple in construction and design.

Go for a simple generator that is easy to use and maintain, as well as repair.

Go for one that does not have complicated controls and or electronics.

That is why you should opt against inverter generators, which tend to be more complex in terms of construction and design. They are also more difficult to run, when compared to conventional RV generators.

Price

Price is always a tricky issue and should not be used as the main determinant when choosing an RV generator.

This is because price is determined by factors such as convenience, noise levels, and efficacy. The more reliable the generator is, the higher the cost.

The right type of generator for RV will mainly depend on the number of appliances that you intend to run. Smaller generators produce less noise, although they are less powerful.

On the other hand, large generators are more noisy but more powerful. Whichever your preferences are, just go with a generator that suits your needs adequately.

Christina Powell Author of Articlre

Christina Powell is a chief editor at WheelOnRoad.net - a blog that is focused on sharing tips and tricks about automotive. She has a passion for car when she was young. You will discover and learn about driving safety tips, basic car care and guides to everything you need to know about autos.