GENERATORS - INVERTERS

 

A generator, sometimes called a “contractor” generator or an “open frame” generator is a large, generator that is designed for use
with power tools, lights, and other construction equipment, and is typically seen as a backup for residential use and commercial power.

They provide high power for low price, and therefore low cost-per-watt.
They are also extremely loud, typically producing noise levels equivalent to a lawn mower. Not something you want running in a campground!


 

If you’re out boondocking in the middle of nowhere, and you don’t mind the noise, But also consider they don’t produce clean
AC power that electronics are sensitive to.

An inverter generator is a better choice  and they do not directly generate AC power. Rather, the engine spins a generator that produces 12-volt DC power,
and then  uses a pure sine wave inverter for AC power conversion.
This allows the generator to be lighter, smaller, quieter, and more fuel efficient.
Many inverter generators are so quiet you can hold a conversation right next to them!

Additionally, they produce clean  AC power that can run anything that would normally run on AC power,  as long as it is below the
generator’s power output. They are typically more expensive than a “contractor” generator, but may be worth it if you plan on using it frequently.

How big of a generator you need:

Let’s take a look at the AVERAGE power draws for appliances.
Note these are only typical averages,

• Microwave: 1300–1500W
• Television: 75–100W
• Hair Dryer: 1000–1500W, depending on heat/fan setting
• Electric Heater: 1500W on high
• Laptop Computer: ~150W
• Air Conditioner: 1500W running, can be double or triple that momentarily on compressor startup
• Converter/on-board battery charger: 450W
• Smartphone/Tablet Charger: 10–20W
• Oscillating Fan: 75W




I would not consider a generator under 2000 watts for most RV uses. A 2000 watt generator will allow you to run the microwave,
recharge your batteries, and run other devices, but not all at the same time.

Anything under 1500W will not allow you to run some of the higher-drain devices in your RV.
If you want to run your air conditioner, you will need a generator that produces at least 3000 starting watts, and 2600–2800 running watts,
for a standard 13,500 BTU RV A/C.
If you have two air conditioners on your RV, you will need double this wattage, so a 6000 starting watt generator would be a minimum.
It is difficult to find inverter generators in this power class, but they do exist, and are very expensive.