What Size Generator Do I Need to Run an Rv?
Imagine traveling long distances in an RV with a nice bed, power, and more. You need a smooth power supply to get the most out of an air conditioner, microwave, or electronics. This is possible only with a powerful generator.
Campervans with the right energy source offer complete flexibility. Sleep, shower, and utilize your devices without recharging concerns. Traveling with the right-size camper generator will not stop you from having fun. But the important question is, how do you choose the right generator size to power your campervan efficiently?
This article will help you choose the right generator size for your campervan. Keep reading till the end!
What size generator do I need for my camper?
The generator size you need depends on the type of RV you own and the appliances you plan to power. Take a look according to the kind of RV you own.
1. Class B RV (campervans)
Class B RVs are often smaller and use fewer watts, so the 2,000 to 3,600-watt-range generator would be a good fit. This is enough to power a small air conditioner, about 1,200 to 2,400 watts, and typical appliances like a microwave or fridge. A 3,600-watt will easily handle everything you need without overloading the system.
2. Class C RV
Class C RVs are mid-sized and have the most amenities in class B campervans. You will likely want an additional generator in the 2,800 to 4,000-watt range. This should be sufficient power for larger AC units and any other devices you want to run, like a coffee maker, microwave, or small electronics. A 4,000-watt generator would be good if you wanted a little extra starting power for appliances with higher.
3. Class A RV
Class A RVs are the largest and usually consume the most power. For a Class A RV with one air conditioner, a 5,500 to 7,000-watt generator would be suggested. But if your RV has two or more air conditioning units, you will require a generator with an output between 7,000 and 12,500 watts so everything runs well. Anything bigger than that, which involves a lot of power, like the large appliances from the kitchen will be covered by the generator on the higher end of this range.
4. Five wheeler RV
Fifth-wheel RVs are similar to Class A in power requirements. If your fifth wheel has one or two air conditioners, opt for a 5,500 to 7,000-watt generator. However, those with so many big appliances and entertainment systems will greatly benefit from bigger generators, even up to 10,000 watts for steady power.
Types of camper generator
Several types of generators are designed for campers, but not all fit your needs and requirements. Let's take a look at the types of generators and how they fit your needs.
1. Solar generators
Many remote RV owners choose solar-powered generators because they are quiet, don't produce emissions, and are good for the environment. One potential downside is that it might not function properly in low light, overcast, or nighttime conditions when the surface area is not entirely exposed to sunlight.
2. Inverter generators
They are highly efficient and generate clean, stable power, which makes them ideal for sensitive electronics like laptops or phones. They are quieter and more fuel-efficient than the traditional models, giving them a top spot on the chosen list of RV users.
3. Propane generators
Propane-powered generators are quiet and friendly to the environment compared to diesel or gas but are less efficient and output in terms of power.
4. Diesel generators
Diesel engines are known for their outstanding power and efficiency. However, this makes them bulky and noisy and sometimes releases harmful gases, so people use them less.
How many watts does a camper use?
The appliances and gadgets that campers use affect how much power they use. Every day, a tourist will use between 1,500 and 4,000 watts. For example, a typical RV refrigerator uses between 400 and 800 watts.
On the other hand, an air conditioner is one of the power-hungry appliances, using between 1,200 and 2,400 watts. This is on top of the 600 watts needed for lighting, water pumps, and chargers.
Campers with TVs, ovens, or heaters will likely need closer to the higher end of that wattage range, 3,000 to 4,000 watts per day. Because your RV's size and features differ, planning for how much power it needs will help you avoid overloading.
What size generator do I need for a 30-amp RV?
A 30-amp system usually needs a generator with 2,500 to 4,000 watts of power for smaller RVs. The power from this size will be enough to run simple tools like your coffee maker, microwave, and even a small air conditioner. For example, a 3,600-watt generator can make the same amount of power as the shore power system in your RV.
What size generator do I need for a 50-amp RV?
For bigger RVs, you'll need a 50-amp setup with a generator. The size of the generator depends on how many appliances you want to use at the same time. It can be anywhere from 5,500 to 12,000. Usually, you need a more significant generator to power more than one air conditioner, kitchen tools, and entertainment devices.
How do I choose a solar generator for my camper?
Purchasing a solar generator for your RV could be overwhelming if you've never done it before. Solar generators aren't something you just go out and buy; there are many things to consider when choosing for your RV.
1. Power capacity
Start by calculating the power needs. How many watts will your fridge, lights, and small tools use altogether? With 1500W of output and 1000Wh or more capacity, it can power many tools or heavy loads.
2. Portability and weight
To make your travel easier, select a lighter and portable generator. Most solar generators are manufactured to be easy to move around, so they are perfect for RV trips.
3. Battery type and capacity
The generator should have a LiFePO4 battery with a high lithium capacity. These batteries keep their power for a longer time.
4. Solar panel compatibility
Find out if the solar panels can charge the engine and how fast it can be charged. For life off the grid, the faster the charging time, the better.
5. Inverter quality
A built-in inverter converts DC power from your solar panels into AC power that will run your appliances. It has to be powerful enough for your energy needs as well.
Conclusion
When picking out a generator for your campervan, think about the tools you want to power as well as the size and type of the RV. Class B RVs usually use between 2,000 and 3,600 watts of power. On the other hand, class A or fifth-wheel RVs can use up to 12,000.
You can choose a diesel, propane, inverter, or solar generator according to your power needs and environmental requirements. By ensuring that the generator's wattage matches the needs of your RV, you can drive without worry and use all of your appliances without any problems.
FAQs
1. Will a 2000-watt generator run a 30-amp camper?
A 2000-watt generator can power some appliances in a 30-amp camper, but air conditioners and other big appliances that need much power will damage it badly. You will need about 3,600 watts to run everything smoothly in a 30-amp setup. A 2000-watt generator can power lights, small cooking appliances, and charging devices, but it might not be enough to power all at once, huge appliances like air conditioners.
2. Will a 1500-watt generator run a camper?
In the small camper, a 1500-watt generator will power pretty essential appliances, but it won't be able to handle bigger loads like air conditioners, microwaves, or freezers. So, most of the time, you'll only be able to light things up or charge phones. Generators with higher wattages, usually between 2,500 and 3,600 watts, let you run more tools. If you want a great camping trip, get one with higher wattage.
3. Can I run my RV AC with a 2000-watt generator?
A 2000-watt engine can power smaller air conditioners, but not standard-sized ones. Most RV air conditioners use between 2,000 and 3,500 watts, mostly when they are first turned on. It's usually a bigger generator for stability and dependability, but in an ideal world, a 2000-watt generator could power smaller ACs.
