Generators to Run All of Your RV Appliances
A recreational vehicle has a battery that runs the appliances inside--that could be air conditioning, an oven, lighting, and a washing machine. But, to keep these appliances running smoothly, you need an RV generator that will ensure that the RV’s battery is fully charged when you go out on those long trips and campouts with family and friends. Here's a guide to help you make the right choice when shopping for an RV generator.
Types Rv Generators
We can sort out RV generators by the way that they’re powered:
By Fuel Type
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Gasoline: Gasoline-powered RV generators are the most common since you can always plan to fuel them up alongside the vehicle itself. It makes sense to match the vehicle’s fuel type, for easy refill. Gasoline-powered RV generators come with a portable fuel tank, enough to store fuel to last a long time.
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Diesel: Diesel and gasoline RV generators function using the same mechanism, except the diesel ones can power more heavy-duty appliances. What determines your choice between these two are the appliances you have available in your RV. Generally, diesel RV generators deliver more energy per gallon than gasoline-powered alternatives.
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Propane (LP): The energy per gallon rate with propane RV generators is quite low compared to their diesel and propane counterparts. This means they certainly consume more fuel to keep them running. They, however, burn cleaner, resulting in less soot and carburetor issues compared to gasoline-powered generators.
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Dual (LP & Gasoline) Use: Interestingly, there are also RV generators that operate using either gasoline or propane to generate power. While the LP option is clearly the most worthwhile choice, this dual option is also desirable for being more flexible.
By Generator Method
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Alternator: The alternator type of AC-producing RV generator operate by spinning the armature within the stator to generate power. Meanwhile, to keep the alternating current going with the regular 120 V, 60 Hz power, you'd need more expensive alternator generators. These generators generally have more vibrations, producing more noise.
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Invertor: Inverter types of RV generators operate electronically and silently to produce standard 120VAC. During times when the load on the inverter type is reduced, the RV generator automatically reduces the number of vibrations. This in turn reduces the noise and fuel consumption of the generator.
What Reviewers Have to Say
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Why not just the built-in generator: It’s true that most RV vehicles come with built-in generators to power your appliances and devices. But not all trailers have this functionality. One of the top reasons why you'd definitely need an RV generator is to provide comfort during those long trips and campouts you love. Batteries or solar power would never be able to provide the level of power you need to run your air conditioner. So that’s where portable RV generators come in.
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Ensure that solar batteries remain charged in your RV: What if you have to recharge your cellphone or laptop battery, or end up with used solar batteries after a day or two camping out? Having a backup RV generator is a reasonable and practical choice as a power source on long-distance trips. They are also the perfect source of power for impromptu tasks like inflating a tire or powering up your inflatable boat on trips.
Important Features
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Wattage: In ensuring the generator powers up your electrical activities efficiently, you should check for its power output (given in watts). An RV generator that delivers more watts will have a higher power output to support your electrical appliances.
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RV generator size: Consider the size of the generator size to make sure it’s compatible with the available space in the RV. It’s best to go with a modestly-sized generator since it’s not really an indicator of its power output and functionality.
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Cost: We'd advise you to go for top brands when shopping. The prices vary across a few trusted brands, based on their functionality, packaging, and durability.
Top-Rated Brands
- Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator: This popular dual-fuel generator comes with a convenient electric start feature for easy ignition. Its 59dBA Ultra-Quiet feature makes it the preferred choice for camping out to avoid attracting so much attention. It operates at a frequency of 60Hz, requiring 3400 watts to start running, and continuous output power of up to 3100 watts.
- WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Generator: WEN RV generators have always been people's choice especially for their remarkable functionalities and package design. With the WEN 56200i brand, users stand to get a gas-powered RV generator that is CARB and EPA III compliant. The 2000 surge watts operating generator has safety features for powering highly sensitive electrical appliances like computers, television, tablets, and the like.
- Westinghouse iGen2200: Westinghouse outdoor power equipment is generally known for the longevity they provide to users. Notwithstanding, this Westinghouse generator never stops delivering, with its dual 120v 20A outlets for steady power output. This blue-black RV generator offers 52dBA of noise, and a 12-hour run time, to allow you to keep your RV powered for as long as you wish.
- Pulsar PG2300iS 2300-Watt Gas/Inverter Generator: A Pulsar RV generator has amazing features, such as low oil shut-off, a recoil start, and AVR compatibility. The generator comes with two 120 V 13 A outlets that are strong enough to power indoor electrical appliances, as well as other outdoor extras. Its stable sine wave feature allows you to power even highly sensitive gadgets without any worries.
