There are many benefits to having a portable generator for RV camping. A portable and best RV generator can offer power when Boondocking or camping at primitive sites. Portable generators for your RV also provide a great backup system in case the power goes out at your campsite.
Having a generator as a backup means that you can avoid wasting food in your refrigerator and keep your mobile devices charged. You can also enjoy comforts like air conditioning, kitchen appliances, and television.
This blog post will answer frequently asked questions about generators and suggest the 7 best RV generators for RV camping.
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Portable RV Generator FAQs
Can I use a portable generator to power my RV?
You can use a portable generator to power your RV if you own a camper without a built-in model. According to RV Magazine, "Generators serve two purposes for RVers: charging the battery bank and running the 120-volt AC systems and appliances."
Most experts advise placing the portable generator 5-10 feet away from your RV because it emits carbon monoxide. It is important to ensure the generator is placed at a safe distance from other campers and RV owners who are camping near you. You should also consider the direction of the wind and if there are any pet enclosures or tie-outs in your or neighboring campsites.
Even if the pets are outdoors, it is not safe or humane for pets to continually breathe in exhaust fumes from portable generators.
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How often should you run your RV generator?
If you actively use your portable RV generator, you can run it as frequently as you like. There are some rules of etiquette around generator use in addition to carbon monoxide safety considerations. Some campgrounds have written rules about when and if a generator can be used.
If you are not actively using your portable RV generator, start and run your generator once a month for 5-10 minutes. Always run your generator in a well-ventilated outdoor area, even if you only use it for a few minutes.
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Is it okay to run an RV generator all night?
It is not recommended that campers run their RV generators at night. The most significant risk of using a portable RV generator is carbon monoxide poisoning. There is also the risk of fire when using your portable RV generator.
Both of these hazards are more deadly when they happen while people are sleeping. If you are asleep or have as much time to react to a fire, you will not notice the initial symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Additionally, many campgrounds prohibit using generators at night to maintain a quiet, peaceful environment. Some campgrounds do not allow the use of portable generators at all.
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What size generator do I need to run my RV?
When deciding what size generator you need to run your RV, the first thing to consider is how much energy each appliance uses. Most generator manufacturers and retailers have an online calculator that you can use to identify the right size for your needs, like this one at Electric Generators Direct: Portable Generator Wattage Calculator.
Other considerations when deciding what size generator you need to run your RV are the space you need to store your RV when not in use and the weight of the generator.
You should incorporate the importance of the generator and all related accessories in your load's total weight.
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Is a 2000-watt generator enough for an RV?
A 2000-watt generator is a popular choice for campers and RV owners. Most 2000-watt generators are compact in size and power essential appliances.
According to Blue Diamond Machinery, "The 2000-watt generator is a great size for camping applications; commonly used for charging car batteries, as a backup to solar power and as a reliable source of power to run appliances directly from, like kettles, washing machines, air-conditioners, blow dryers and microwaves."
It is important to understand that a 2000-watt generator may not allow you to use all those devices simultaneously. You will likely need to use one of them at a time or just rely on it to power your most essential appliances like your refrigerator or air conditioner.
What type of generator is best for an RV?
There are four main ways to power a portable generator for RV camping. Options include gasoline, propane, diesel fuel, and solar power.
Within those options, there are many other things to consider when deciding what type of generator is best for an RV.
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In addition to figuring out how many watts you need to power your devices, you will want to decide what fuel is most convenient and affordable. Gasoline, propane, and diesel fuel must all be purchased and have varying shelf life and efficiency.
Solar power is free of cost, is a cleaner form of energy, and is ecologically friendly.
Check out these 7 best portable generators.
EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA Max
Features:
- Runs on free solar power
- Can add more solar panels to create more power
- Charges even on cloudy days
Jackery Explorer 1500 Portable Power Station
Features:
- 1800 Watts and 1534Wh capacity
- Zero-cost, safe, green energy from the sun
- Quiet and easy to use
Goal Zero Yeti 1500X Portable Power Station
Features:
- Safe, clean, portable power
- Can add larger-sized solar capabilities for faster charging
- Charges in as little as 18 hours from free solar power
Best portable gasoline generators for RV camping
WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator
Features:
- Extremely quiet
- Up to 8.5-hour runtime
- 3800 Watts
- Gasoline powered
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
Features:
- Up to 12-hour run-time
- Remote, electric starter
- 12500/11200 Peak Watts and 9500/8500 Rated Watts (Gas/Propane)
Honda EU3200i Portable Generator for RV Camping
Features:
- 3200 watts
- It Runs 8.6 hours on 1.2 gallons of gasoline
- Quiet, lightweight, with remote operation
GENMAX GM6000iED 6000 Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator with CO Detect
Features:
- 6000 watts
- Dual Fuel can use gasoline or propane
- CO detector built-in
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