Recreational vehicles (RVs) offer the freedom to travel and experience the great outdoors without sacrificing the comforts of home. However, to enjoy amenities like air conditioning, cooking appliances, and entertainment systems, a reliable power source is crucial. This is where a generator comes into play. Selecting the best generator for your RV requires careful consideration of various factors including power output, fuel type, noise level, portability, and budget. This guide aims to help you make an informed decision by exploring the top options available on the market and the key features to look for.
Understanding Your Power Needs
Before diving into specific models, it’s essential to assess your power requirements. The total wattage needed depends on the appliances and devices you plan to use. Here’s a breakdown of typical power consumption for common RV appliances:
- Air conditioner: 1,500-2,000 watts
- Microwave: 1,000-1,500 watts
- Refrigerator: 600-800 watts
- Television: 200-400 watts
- Lights: 50-300 watts
Add up the wattage of all the appliances you expect to run simultaneously to determine your total power needs. It’s also wise to add a buffer of about 20-30% to account for power surges and future needs.
Types of RV Generators
Inverter Generators
Inverter generators are renowned for their fuel efficiency, quiet operation, and ability to produce clean, stable power suitable for sensitive electronics. They adjust the engine speed to match the required load, which enhances fuel efficiency and reduces noise. Inverter generators are typically compact and lightweight, making them an excellent choice for RV use.
Portable Generators
Portable generators are versatile and can be used for a variety of applications beyond RVing, such as home backup power and outdoor events. They generally provide higher wattage compared to inverter generators but are often bulkier and noisier. Portable generators are available in various fuel types, including gasoline, propane, and diesel.
Built-in Generators
Built-in generators are permanently installed in the RV and integrated into its electrical system. They are convenient and powerful, often running on the same fuel source as the RV’s engine. While they offer seamless operation, built-in generators can be expensive and add weight to the RV.
Key Features to Consider
Power Output
Choose a generator that meets or exceeds your calculated power needs. Generators are rated by their running watts and surge (or starting) watts. Running watts indicate the power the generator can produce continuously, while surge watts cover short bursts of higher power required to start certain appliances.
Fuel Type
Gasoline: Readily available and generally inexpensive, but has a shorter shelf life and higher carbon monoxide emissions.
Propane: Burns cleaner and has a longer shelf life. Propane generators are often quieter, but propane is less energy-dense, requiring more frequent refueling.
Diesel: Efficient and has a longer shelf life than gasoline. Diesel generators are durable and often used in built-in models, but diesel is less commonly available than gasoline or propane.
Dual Fuel: Offers flexibility by running on either gasoline or propane, providing the benefits of both fuel types.
Noise Level
Generators can be noisy, which can disturb your peace and quiet, as well as your neighbors’. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). A quieter generator operates at around 50-60 dB, which is comparable to normal conversation. Inverter generators are generally quieter than conventional portable generators.
Portability
Consider the weight and dimensions of the generator, especially if you plan to move it frequently. Handles and wheels can make transportation easier. Built-in generators, while less portable, eliminate the need for manual handling.
Runtime
Runtime indicates how long a generator can operate on a full tank of fuel. Look for models that offer sufficient runtime to meet your needs without frequent refueling. Inverter generators tend to have better fuel efficiency, providing longer runtimes on smaller fuel tanks.
Price
Generators vary widely in price based on their features, power output, and brand. While it’s important to stick to your budget, investing in a reliable, high-quality generator can save you from headaches down the road.
Top Recommendations
Honda EU2200i
The Honda EU2200i is a popular choice among RV enthusiasts due to its reliability, quiet operation, and fuel efficiency. With a running wattage of 1,800 watts and a surge wattage of 2,200 watts, it’s ideal for powering essential appliances. Its noise level is just 48-57 dB, and it can run up to 8.1 hours on a single tank of gas. The Honda EU2200i is lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport.
Yamaha EF2000iSv2
The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 offers similar features to the Honda EU2200i, with 1,600 running watts and 2,000 surge watts. It’s known for its quiet operation (51.5-61 dB) and long runtime of up to 10.5 hours at a quarter load. This inverter generator is also lightweight and portable, making it a great option for RVers.
Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel
For those needing more power and fuel flexibility, the Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel inverter generator is an excellent option. It produces 3,100 running watts and 3,400 surge watts, and can run on either gasoline or propane. The noise level is 59 dB, and it offers up to 7.5 hours of runtime on gasoline or 14.5 hours on propane. The built-in handles and wheels make it easy to move.
Westinghouse iGen4500
The Westinghouse iGen4500 provides higher power output with 3,700 running watts and 4,500 surge watts, making it suitable for larger RVs with more demanding power needs. Despite its higher output, it operates quietly at 52 dB and can run up to 18 hours on a full tank. Its digital display provides real-time information on fuel level, power output, and remaining runtime.
Onan QG 4000
For those considering a built-in option, the Onan QG 4000 is a robust choice. It offers 4,000 watts of power and runs on gasoline. The Onan QG 4000 is known for its reliability and ease of use, integrating seamlessly into the RV’s electrical system. It features a sound-attenuating enclosure to reduce noise, making it one of the quieter built-in options available.
See Also WHAT SIZE GENERATOR IS NEEDED TO POWER A REFRIGERATOR
Conclusion
Choosing the best generator for your RV depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as power output, fuel type, noise level, portability, and budget. Inverter generators like the Honda EU2200i and Yamaha EF2000iSv2 are excellent choices for their quiet operation and fuel efficiency, while the Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel and Westinghouse iGen4500 offer higher power outputs and dual-fuel capability. For built-in solutions, the Onan QG 4000 stands out for its reliability and seamless integration.
Investing in the right generator ensures that you can enjoy all the comforts of home while exploring the open road. By carefully evaluating your needs and the features of each generator, you can find the perfect match to power your adventures.