One of the ways people choose the right RV for them is by the features that come with a model, from comfy furniture to handy appliances. That’s understandable because your RV is your second home. To keep all the appliances and your rig running, you’ll need a good power source.
Most RV campsites give you an electrical grid to connect to, but that’s not going to help you if you’re boondocking. That’s why most RV owners invest in a generator. They’ll supply the power no matter where your vehicle is!
Narrow Your Choice
Before you invest in a generator for your RV, keep in mind that not all generators are built the same. You have to find the right machine for your RV to ensure that you get your money’s worth. Start by making sure the generator can support the complete wattage of your rig.
For this, you have to do some math. Each appliance in your RV has a wattage attached to it. You have to tally up all those numbers to see the complete wattage. Then decide if you want the generator to supply power to some appliances or the whole rig and for how long.
Also consider how you’re going to power your generator. After all your generator needs some source of power to supply your RV with electricity. Generators have three main fuel sources: propane, gasoline and diesel. With each option, you have some pros and some cons, so you’ll want to think about what makes the most sense financially and is the most efficient for what you need.
Finally, keep in mind that your RV will also play a factor in what you choose, beyond just how much wattage it’ll need to run. Your RV’s fuel type might affect your final choice. A diesel-powered RV may require you to get a diesel generator (often, appliances for these rigs also run on diesel).
Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your RV generator doesn’t take long, but it’s important to do regularly. You don’t want your generator to die on you when you’re in the middle of nowhere and trying to stay either warm or cool. Check the hour meter and change the oil consistently (about every 200 operating hours). During the months you don’t use your generator or RV, make sure to run a heavy load at least once a month to keep it properly functioning.
Precautions
Most RV owners use generators without any incident, but there is a serious threat that can come from them. They emit carbon monoxide, which, as you may know, can be lethal to humans. The first preventative step is making sure your exhaust system is functioning properly. This will funnel the fumes outside the rig and prevent buildup inside it. You’ll also want to invest in a carbon monoxide detector. Even the most mechanically-sound vehicles can have leaks, so the best way to prevent a horrible accident is to get a detector.
This information is for educational purposes. VIARV shall not be responsible nor retain liability for RVer’s use of the provided information. Prior to making any RV service decision, you are advised to consult with an RV professional.
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