Portable generators can be a lifesaver when you are camping. They can keep things running when you’re dry camping or boondocking (camping with no connected utilities) and ensure that you’ll still have access to your RV’s amenities that require power.
Yamaha Portable Generator
Let’s take a look at what a portable generator does and how it can help you out while RVing.
What does a portable generator do and do I need one?
A portable generator supplies your RV and batteries with 120-volt power (The same ‘type’ of power you get when you plug in at a campground). This allows you to use certain features you otherwise couldn’t when you are only using battery power (without an inverter). Plugging your RV into a generator also charges your house batteries. However, a portable generator is not right for everyone.
If you are ALWAYS connected to power via full hook-ups, you don’t need a portable generator.
If you already have an on-board generator, you probably don’t need a portable generator. There are two main reasons you may need a portable generator:
- To recharge your batteries (if you don’t have solar)
- To use 120-volt electronics and appliances
If you are dry camping for a few days, you need a way to re-charge your batteries and possibly use some of the appliances in your RV. Unless you have enough amp-hours stored in your batteries to last your whole trip, you’re going to need a generator.
You also might need it at times because some things in your RV will not work without it. Some typical things that won’t work without 120-volt power are your household power outlets (if you don’t have an inverter), your air conditioner, your microwave (in most cases), and televisions that require a 120-volt power source.
Additionally, if you have the most common type of RV batteries, lead-acid batteries, they should never be brought down to more than a 50% charge. (Lithium batteries are different, but most people don’t have lithium.)
Lithium Battery Installation
Lead-acid batteries need to be charged back up to 100% charge any time they get close to 50%. They can easily get down to (or below) 50% daily, depending on your power consumption. Allowing your batteries to go below more than 50% charge over and over will prematurely, and quickly, ‘kill’ the batteries.
Plugging your RV into a portable generator is a great way to get the batteries re-charged. While you are plugged in to charge your batteries, you will also have 120-volt power available to you inside your RV.
This means you can use most anything in your RV, being cautious to not use two power-hungry devices at the same time, such as your microwave and your air conditioner, as doing so can exceed the amount of power the generator is able to produce.
How do I use a portable generator?
Well, it’s simple. Plug your RV power cord into it! Oh, but wait. Some generators don’t come with a power outlet that will fit your RV plug. In such a case, you simply need a ‘dogbone’ adapter that fits your RV plug and fits the generator outlet. Some generators come ready to accept your RV plug. Many do not.
To connect, turn your generator on according to manufacturer’s instructions. Let it run a minute or two, then plug your RV power cord in, and boom… you have 120-volt power and you are automatically charging your batteries!
What size/power do I need?
Generators come rated to produce specific wattages (power output). One very common and suitable small size for smaller power needs is a 2000-watt generator. However, generators come rated up to 5500 watts and more.
How do you know which size is enough for you? We cannot answer this one for you. You need to know how much wattage the most power-hungry appliance you want to run needs to start. It could be the air conditioner or curling iron. Be aware that starting watts are higher than running watts. Find yourself a guide online and find out what you need. Here’s an example of one.
Wen Portable Generators
How do I store my generator?
You will need to keep it somewhere where it will not tip over during travel. The gas and oil in the machine will come out otherwise, as it’s not meant to be on its side. The leakage makes a mess and might cause your generator to not work.
Camp Addict Kelly built a box to house both of her two generators so they wouldn’t fall over in the back of her truck. (After one of them fell over in the back of her truck!)
Don’t store your generator inside your RV. NEVER run your generator inside of your RV. It produces carbon monoxide, which is a very deadly gas.
If you need to store it somewhere where you will also be, such as in an SUV, we recommend finding an airtight container with a lid that can contain the entire generator. This will keep gasoline odors from leaching into your breathing space. With a larger generator such as a 3500-watt generator, this may be difficult.
Shouldn’t my RV come with a generator?
Most motorhomes come with an on-board generator. Some toy hauler trailers do as well. Most regular travel trailers do not. I suppose most people who get a travel trailer are expected to be in a campground connected to power. Plus, there is a cost issue associated with an on-board generator – they are pricey, and people want cheap trailers. We wish they would all come with on-board generators, but they don’t.
How much maintenance does a portable generator need?
Not very much. Treat them right and they will treat you right (if you buy good quality). We recommend keeping gas from sitting in the lines by getting a brand that allows you to shut off the flow of gas before you turn it off. This will eventually cause the generator to shut off on its own as the gas leaves the lines.
Leaving gas sitting in the fuel lines (and fuel tank) too long is a great way to kill an engine. Gas eventually evaporates, leaves some residue behind, then this ‘gums’ up the carburetor and potentially the fuel lines.
Portable generators need oil changes (check with your manufacturer for frequency) and they should be run periodically (drain the fuel lines and tank before storing).
Changing Generator Oil
Inverter generator or contractor generator?
This question tends to be a hotly debated topic. However, Camp Addict fully supports only having inverter generators. First, an inverter generator produces a ‘cleaner’ type of power than a contractor generator produces.
A contractor generator can damage electronics.
Additionally, and quite possibly more importantly, who wants to listen to the constant very loud drone of a contractor generator? Even if you don’t mind the noise, we guarantee you that your neighbors will NOT be happy.
Trust us, even distant neighbors will hear it. Contractor generators are so loud that they carry for surprising distances.
Inverter generators have become much more affordable in the past few years. These days, there is no excuse not to have one.
Conclusion
Even if you have a giant solar array, a portable generator can be very helpful. You could have multiple cloudy days, need to use your air-conditioning, or be able to use your Instant Pot without draining your batteries over their limit. These are just a few examples of when a portable generator comes in handy, even if you have solar.
If nothing else, if you have a generator, you have peace of mind that you can still have power if something goes wrong with your 12v system.We do recommend having one for those ‘just in case’ moments!
You might also be interested in these related videos and articles:
- Basic RV Generator Maintenance: What To Review Annually
- How To Winterize An RV Generator
- 120-Volt Electrical Basics: Part 1
- 120-Volt Energy Management: Part 2
- Essential Guide To 120-Volt Power Converters For RVs
- Running 12 Volt Appliances On Generator While Boondocking:
About the authors: Marshall Wendler and Kelly Beasley are the co-founders of Camp Addict. Both are full-time RVers and boondockers with a combined 9 years on the road. They became friends and started caravanning together in early 2016. Shortly thereafter they created Camp Addict.
Some water damage and structure damage.
I just want to share my recent experience with using 2 inverter generators with a parallax connector. The setup is a 2000 watt unit and a 2500 watt unit. I hooked them up and used a dog bone adapter to use the 30 amp outlet to plug into my 50 amp shore power connection.
The camper would not power up any of the AC receptacles, the microwave, or the air conditioner. I used a volt meter and confirmed that I was getting required voltage to the shore power plug.
After much research including asking an experienced RV mechanic who was no help, I found an article that explains the “floating ground” that is common for inverter generators. The camper’s surge protection would it recognize the voltage with the floating ground.
The solution was a $16 neutral ground bonding plug. Simply plug it into one of the 110 outlets on one of the generators and problem was solved.
Hope this helps you out!
I want to know if my 1600 generator is enough power. And wil it work with power converter without battery
Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert knowledge. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hundreds of hours of Premium content.
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Thanks!
We dry camp with an a electric refer which dictates we run 12.5 kw genset a lot which at 6$ a gallon of diesel gets expensive. I would like to run a small portable generator but the transfer panel wont accept cuz it says the ground is open. How can wire it to accept it?
Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hours of Premium video content.
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Thanks!
What size of engine is on 2003 Ford fourwind motorhome
Hello Antonio,
Here’s what the experts had to say about your question:
There were a few different sizes used from that manufacture. The best way to know for sure is to contact them directly with the VIN and they can tell you what was installed.
https://www.thormotorcoach.com/customer-care/
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
Total newbie here. I have decided on a 3500W inverter generator for our new-to-us trailer as the 2000W models will be too heavily taxed for our rig. The problem is – it weighs 100 lbs. I’ve heard the bumper mounted racks have failed frequently and the one that mounts over the propane tanks up front makes it difficult or impossible to refill the tanks. I’d love to know I’m wrong about both! But I’m thinking about keeping the generator in the back of the truck and I’m wondering what you think of that idea. Is it OK to run it without taking it down to the ground? Does anyone have clever ways of getting a heavier unit up and down?
Hello Greg,
As long as the generator still has good air flow you can keep it in the back of the truck. The biggest downfall of the truck is it is further away and hard to plug in depending on where your power cord is. You are correct about the racks, the front rack is stronger but harder to fill. I know people that use a siphon system to fill the tank as it is hard to lift cans that high. The rear bumper racks can be flimsy but you can get bumper supports and other things to make them stronger. You can always have someone weld something as well for supports. Having the generator on the front or in the truck does add a lot more tongue weight as well. It is best to find a good place to mount without having to move it. If your cord can reach, the truck bed is a good option but if the cord is in the rear I would look into the bumper mount with more supports.
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club
Newest of Newbies here. Is it necessary to use a surge protector with a generator?
Hello Noel,
Thank you for contacting us.
I would recommend it. It is actually common for failed components in generators to create power surges. This can happen from a failed voltage regulator or other failed components. It is always best to be safe and use a surge protector whenever you are connected to a 120v power source. Typically I don’t if I’m on a reducer adapter to just get the fridge cold but whenever I do connect to a campground or generator I always have mine connected.
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3536, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Lindsay
RV Repair Club Video Membership
how long do they can last mine alreaday has 1000 hrs on it still running fine used synthetic oil on it 10 w30 mobil 1
Hello Jacques,
Thank you for contacting us.
What is the year, make, and model please?
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3536, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Lindsay
RV Repair Club Video Membership
the slide light over the kitchen sink and the 2 lights over the couch will not work and the power outlet in the same area does not work. I’m thinking that the power wire for the slide is loose or worn. where would I find the connection for that? the microwave and range work fine.
Hello Gary,
What is the year, make, and model of your RV?
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3536, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Lindsay
RV Repair Club Video Membership
Adding Extra propane tank for a/c
new to any rving just bought a used toy hauler and don’t know how to operate anything so looking for things to learn it is an 18 foot with air, heat, shower toilet sink small kitchen with stove top and small dorm size refrigerator. Can’t find any manuals for anything and forest river could not help
Hi Glenn,
Thank you for reaching out. I would need more information from you, what is the year, make and model?
Sincerely,
Shelley
RV Repair Club Video Membership
Hello, I have an electrical tounge jack on my r pod 180 and it gradually lost power and stopped working. The trailer battery is fully charged though. I was hoping one of you fine professionals there could walk me through some troubleshooting steps before having to hire an electrician. Any tips would help.
Thank you,
Jason R
These are simple circuits so there can only be a few issues. Loose connection, blown fuse, bad switch or bad motor. The first thing to do is check the connections and fuse. A lot of jacks use the mounting screws as the ground connection so if they are rusted it is a good idea to back them out a little bit and re install them to establish a better connection and test again. If it still does not work then you will want to check the switch. You can check the connections at the switch and then test the output voltage of the switch. If there is no output voltage, the switch is bad and will need replaced. If the voltage is fine then the motor is bad and the jack will need replaced.
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
How to convert to lap?
Hello Steve!
Great question! We need a bit more information regarding your question and what the year, make, and model of your RV is.
Thank you!
Jessica
RV Repair Club Video Membership
What causes interior lights to dim then brighten continually? I have 2 new 6 volt golf cart batteries installed because I thought the 1 old battery had gone bad, but it still does this with new batteries. Also, should you have to lea e the battery switch on when hooked up to shore power?
You always want the battery switch to be “on” when plugged into shore. When the switch is off it isolates the batteries and the converter and the batteries won’t get a charge. Only put it in off when the RV is not in use to preserve the voltage during storage. As for the lights dimming this is typically caused by voltage fluctuation from the converter. Some times it can be cause by a loose connection at the converter, fuse panel or chassis ground so you will want to make sure to check all of the wires and connections and make sure they are secure. If you don’t find an issue with the wiring then most likely it is the converter itself and replacing it is the only way to fix it.
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
I am looking for a generator. Considering a Westinghouse WGen5300DFv Dual Fuel Portable Generator. Any thoughts for using this with my RV?
Hi Ray,
Thank you for contacting us. Regarding generators. If you’re using amps, multiply them by 120V to find the exact wattage you’ll need. In general, a 3,000 watt generator should be sufficient for a 30-amp RV, however, if possible, it’s best to calculate your own individual approximate usage. Check your owners manual.
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3536, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Joan
RV Repair Club Video Membership
What kind of solar system do I need to go solar and how does it hook up to my 5th wheel?
Hello,
Thank you for contacting us.
What is the year, make, and model of your RV?
Thanks!
Looking for a solar power portable system to change or maintain an AGM 12 battery.
Frank,
There are many out there now but one I really like is from Battery Tender. They have been a trusted name in chargers for years and one of the advantages of theirs is the controller. It has a smart controller and prevents over charge of the batteries when they reach full. Many others do not do this and in the long run can damage the battery. They can also be used on any type of battery including AGM so it should be a great choice. You can get roof mounted ones or portable that remove easily and have easy setup. I will share their product page with some more information. I hope this helps!
https://www.batterytender.com/solar-panels
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
Is there any infornation listing the volts of RV appliances to use a generator safely?
Hello Bill,
Thank you for contacting us. If you use the search window and enter Appliance Volts I think you will find the information you are looking for. There are videos pertaining to this subject.
Sincerely,
Joan
RV Repair Club Video Memberhsip
A few thoughts.
An inverter/charger with a decent sized battery bank and a generator are a match made in heaven. The 100 amp charger side of our inverter will bring the batteries to full charge with a 2 hour generator run. I do this mid day when most of our neighbors are away, then the evening and morning are quiet.
Unless your RV has a high amperage smart charger it will take just about forever for the charger in the power converter to charge the battery.
Get a propane powered generator. No stinky gasoline that goes bad, and refueling a hot generator is completely safe and can be done in seconds.
Where can I find a small Propane only generator to charge an 12 V auto battery? I need this for emergency power. Most dual fuel Gens will not ship to California. I hope to RV later. Thank you so much