If you’re an RVer, you know how important it is to have power. Without it, you’ll be stuck in a campground with no hookups or even worse, unable to charge your devices while you’re on the road.
Luckily, there are plenty of generators on the market that can meet your RV’s needs. However, the type of generator you buy will depend on several factors, including cost, size, and noise.
Cost
The cost of buying RV generators can vary depending on the type and size. They range from portable units, which you can take with you from one rig to another, to generators that are designed specifically for RV use.
The first factor to consider when calculating the generator size you need is how much power it needs to run your appliances. This can be done by adding up the wattage of all your appliances and devices.
Once you have that total, you can then multiply it by the battery capacity or size you need. For example, if you have two AC units that each require 13,500 watts of power, and your batteries are 12V, then you need a battery bank that is 250Ah.
The fuel source for your generator also plays a role in the cost. Most RVs run on gasoline, but some models are equipped with diesel generators. Using diesel will typically be more expensive, but it is less volatile than gasoline and provides greater power.
Size
Most larger RVs come equipped with built-in generators that draw directly from the fuel tank or burn propane. These are safe to use during transport and can be programmable to turn on or off at different times of the day.
The size of a generator is determined by the number of watts it can generate. This number will depend on how many appliances you have in your RV and their running watts.
A generator producing between 3,000 and 4,500 watts can handle most of your power needs. If you need more than that, it’s time to look for a bigger model.
A generator that produces between 5,000 and 6,600 watts can be a real workhorse, able to run two air conditioners at the same time. These models can also handle heavy loads like washers and dryers, electric heaters, and other personal electronics.
Noise
A generator is a must-have accessory for most RVers, as it helps to power everything from lights and appliances to water pumps and battery systems. But, as the name suggests, generators can also make a lot of noise.
If you’re not comfortable with the sound generated by your RV generator, there are a few ways to reduce it. These options include:
Firstly, place your generator on a surface that will dampen the noise rather than amplify it. This can be a grassy area, gravel, or other soft ground.
Another option is to build a soundproof box around your generator. This is a good idea for permanent setups and can be built from acoustic plywood.
In addition, you can also try placing a hose pipe dipped in a few gallons of water into your exhaust pipe. This method won’t eliminate the noise completely, but it will significantly lower it compared to other methods.
Fuel
RV generators consume a lot of fuel. They can guzzle up to one-quarter to three-quarters of a gallon per hour, depending on the size of the generator and how well it is maintained.
The most common generators are fueled by gasoline, diesel, or propane. Choosing the right type of fuel will depend on your budget and needs, as well as the types of appliances and electronic devices you want to power.
Gasoline generators tend to be cheaper and easier to find than diesel ones, but they have a lower fuel efficiency and a shorter lifespan. In addition, they are prone to spark-plug and carburetor problems.
Gasoline generators can be improved with fuel stabilizers, which prevent evaporation and help keep the gas from going bad. To make sure you have the right fuel stabilizer for your RV generator, consult with your retailer or RV manufacturer.