subject: RV Expert Bruce Bernhart on Buying the Right RV Generators [print this page] How do you know what size generator you need for your RV? This primer by RVBasics is an excellent overview of the basics, plus a few thoughts of my own.
To determine the proper size generator for your RV you need to know how much electrical power you will use.
1. Determine what electrical devices you will want to run from the generator. Survey your RV for appliances that run on 120 volts. TV, microwave and other kitchen appliances generally require the most power but smaller appliances can add up. Most RV lights are 12 volt but some may be 120 volt. Your RV A/C is the biggest power user.
2. Add up the power requirements, in watts, for all the devices that you are likely to operate at the same time. Wattage ratings are printed on light bulbs; other devices like hair dryers and electric heaters are also described by their wattage requirements. If the device doesn't provide a wattage requirement, you can determine watts by multiplying volts times amps. Be aware that some electrical devices have starting wattage requirements that are larger than the running watts. If so, use the starting wattage requirement for the largest of the devices you want to run and the running watts for all other devices.
3. Add together the wattage requirements for all the electrical devices that you want to use at the same time. This is the minimum wattage you will need from a generator. You should also consider a generator with a power rating somewhat higher than your minimum requirement. It's is possible to get along with a smaller generator if you don't really need to run everything at the same time. But you're not likely to want to turn off the TV when you use the microwave.
When it comes to RV generators, cheaper is not always better. You want the generator to last as long as the RV, basically, so stick with quality brands to get the most durability from the your RV generator. And, of course, noise is an important consideration since many campgrouns have noise limitations, so always try to hear the new RV generator running before you make a purchase decision.
RV Expert Bruce Bernhart on Buying the Right RV Generators
By: Bruce Bernhart
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