Best RV Generator

When you head out in your motorhome, you’ll want all the creature comforts of home when you stop to camp and for this, you’ll need a source of power. Most campgrounds have “shore power” or outlets for AC power so you can connect your RV and enjoy your favorite television or radio shows.

However, if you decide to head off the grid into the backcountry far from the maddening crowds, or if you get to a campground and all the AC outlets are taken, you are going to need an additional source of power.

Depending on the size of your motorhome and the number of people traveling with you, additional sources of power can include battery chargers, extra battery packs, or solar panels. A generator is another excellent source of power that will provide enough power for a large RV carrying several people.

If you decide to head off the grid into the backcountry, you are going to need an additional course of power in the form of a generator.

So, what are the best portable generators for RVs, campervans, and motorhomes?

Things to Consider When Buying an RV Generator

There are several factors to consider when buying a generator for your RV such as how much power is required for the motorhome and its accessories like lights, air-conditioning and heating, entertainment systems, and coffee machines, etc.

Other factors to think about are where and how the generator will be stored while traveling, the availability of fuel for the generator, whether it makes a noise, and the carbon footprint it leaves on the environment. And, of course, the cost.

1. Type of Generator: Conventional vs. Inverter Generator

There are two types of generators: conventional and inverters. A conventional generator runs on a simple engine at a regular speed, while inverter generators operate with a microprocessor that regulates and monitors a current. This current changes the throttle on the engine to produce power specifically for the load carried.

The simple electronics in conventional generators can be sensitive to surges, which can cause them to short, so most RV generators are inverters. Inverter generators are also far more fuel-efficient than conventional generators.

Inverter generators operate with a microprocessor that regulates and monitors the current.

2. Power Output

The second most important consideration to make when shopping for a generator for your RV is that of power output. The generator will need to produce enough power to cover all your appliances. Devices such as air conditioners and microwaves require a lot of power so if you want to run them regularly, make sure your generator has a high enough wattage output to handle it.

3. Maneuverability: Portable vs. Permanent

Permanent generators can be installed directly into the RV and connected to an onboard fuel source or backup RV battery. Portable generators are less expensive and are great for camping, tailgating, or using in your home.

A generator will need to generate enough power to cover all your needs whether it’s an air-conditioner or a coffee machine. Tragbares Stromaggregat SEA, Thiemo Schuff / WikiCommons / CC BY-SA 3.0

4. Noise Emission

Noise is another important consideration to make when shopping around for a generator. If you plan on spending a lot of time in campsites, you’ll want a generator that makes minimal noise. Most national parks have regulations on the amount of noise they are willing to tolerate from generators.

5. Fuel Consumption

Obviously, the higher the load on the generator, the more fuel it will use, so you’ll want to get a generator with good fuel consumption.

Noise is another important consideration to make when shopping around for a generator. Power generator Rosenbauer by Reise Reise / WikiCommons / CC BY-SA 4.0

What Type of Fuel Is Best for Recreational Vehicle Generators?

Generators can operate on three types of fuel: diesel, gas, and propane, all of which have pros and cons.

Diesel – Diesel is very efficient and burns cleanly, meaning a diesel generator will produce more power per tank than a petrol one and leave less of a carbon footprint. However, they can be very noisy and smelly, so are not a popular choice.

Gas – Gas generators are one of the more popular choices for use in RVs. While they are common, gas can be expensive, however, many generators have a dual fuel option that runs off gas and propane.

Propane – Propane is becoming more popular as an option for fuel as it is very efficient and less expensive than gas.

Overall, our recommendation is to either get a permanent Cummins Onan RV generator (which is made specifically for RVs) or to grab the Honda EU3000i or Champion 3400-Watt Dual-Fuel generator if you prefer something portable.

Best RV Generator

Best Overall: Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter

The Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter is the best option on the market. Weighing in at just under 100 pounds, the unit isn’t lightweight, however, provides 3,400 watts of starting power and 3,100 running watts of power.

The generator has a convenient electric start with a three-position ignition switch and is very quiet with a noise level of 59 decibels at 23 feet. The machine can be run on both gas and propane, and you will get 7.5 hours of power on a 1.6-gallon tank of gasoline or 14.5 hours on 20 pounds of liquid propane.

The Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter is parallel-compatible and can be connected to a second unit for additional power.

Pros

• Runs on both gasoline and propane
• Very quiet
• Long-running time

Cons

• It may not be powerful enough for large RVs
• May experience carburetor clogs
• Expensive

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Best Lower-Powered RV Generator: Westinghouse iGen 2200 Super Quiet

The Westinghouse iGen 2200 Super Quiet is a lightweight generator with good fuel efficiency and a decent run time. Weighing just 46 pounds, the generator produces 800 rated watts and 2200 peak watts and is ideal for multiple devices, small appliances, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning).

It can run for 12 hours from a 1.2-gallon gas tank, making it very fuel-efficient and it automatically adjusts the engine speed to produce only the electricity needed. The generator is also very quiet with a noise level rating of just 52 decibels, which is lower than that of normal conversation. The machine is parallel-compatible and can be connected to a second unit to double the power output.

Pros

• Very fuel-efficient – can run on gas and propane
• Quiet operation
• Ideal for small devices and HVAC
• Parallel-compatible

Cons

• Requires a break-in with no electric load
• May experience carburetor clogs

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Best High-Powered RV Generator: DuroMax XP4400E

The DuroMax XP4400E is an excellent option for those wanting a high-powered generator for a large RV with many appliances. The all-metal generator produces a peak wattage of 4,400 watts of power and has a consistent power rating of 3,300 watts and a four-gallon gasoline tank can provide eight hours of operation at the 50-percent output.

This powerful generator can run 240 or 120 volts and can handle heavy loads, from several lights and a home air conditioner to a refrigerator, and has a low oil shut-off feature that automatically shuts the generator off when it senses that the oil is low. Surge-arrest technology protects the electronic devices,

Pros

• High output of power
• Can be run on 120 or 240 volts
• Durable and sturdy
• Low oil shut-off feature
• Surge-arrest technology protects the electronic devices

Cons

• High decibel level – noisy
• Complex set-up process

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Best Built-In RV Generator: Cummins Onan QG 2800

The Cummins Onan 2.8HGJBB-1120 RV QG 2800-Watt Gasoline Generator is a great option for RV-owners who want to avoid the hassle of loading, unloading, connecting, and disconnecting a portable generator.

The permanent generator provides 2,800 watts that can power appliances, HVAC, and other devices and it is easy to install. The compact, lightweight machine runs on gas and is completely enclosed with a muffler. It also comes with a three-year warranty.

Pros

• Easy to install and no need to load/unload/connect/disconnect
• Ideal for small devices and HVAC
• Enclosed with a muffler

Cons

• Very expensive
• Not as quiet as expected
• Unit needs to be uninstalled for repairs

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Best Solar-Powered RV Generator: Bluetti EB 240 Portable Power Station with Solar Panel

Many RV owners are turning to more energy-efficient options such as solar power for firing up their appliances, small devices and heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning. The Bluetti EB 240 Portable Power Station with Solar Panel produces 2,400 watts of solar power via a two-piece solar panel that captures the sun’s rays and charges the generator. The generator can also be charged from an AC wall outlet.

Weighing in at 57 pounds, the generator comes with two foldable solar panels that weigh 14 pounds and has eight outlets, including USB ports. Features include an LCD screen that displays real-time information about charging, remaining power, and errors.

The generator automatically shuts off when the generator reaches full capacity and when there is no demand, eliminating standby waste.

Pros

• Compact and portable
• No noise, no air pollution
• LCD screen that displays real-time information
• Automatic shut-off system

Cons

• Very expensive
• Long charging time if using solar power alone

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Best for Manual Start: Powermate PM123250

The Powermate PM123250 is a gas-powered generator with a manual start that produces 3250 watts and boasts a runtime of 15 hours at 50 percent load. Powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine, the generator can run on propane or gasoline and an automatic shut-off system that senses when the oil is low and turns the machine off.

The four-stroke Powermate PM123250 generator produces a whopping 12,000 starting watts and 9,500 running watts of power and can handle heavy loads from air-conditioning and refrigerators to lights and high amperage power tools. It can run on 120 or 240 volts and is EPA and CARB approved.

Pros

• Good power output
• Low-oil automatic shut off
• Oversized wheels for easy portability

Cons

• No battery charger
• Manual start

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Best Value: Honda EU 3000i

One of the biggest, and most reliable, names in the generator business, the Honda EU 3000i is no exception. This powerful generator produces enough energy to run a 13,500 BTU air conditioner and charge batteries, as well as smaller, sensitive electronics that can be regulated by a microprocessor.

The generator has an onboard muffler that keeps the machine very quiet while in operation and it has an electric ignition as well as a pull-start back up with a start/stop choke, making it easy to start. It can run for up to 20 hours on just 3.4 gallons of fuel and can be connected to other generators if extra power is needed.

Pros

• Compact and portable
• Extremely efficient
• Electric ignition and pull-start backup
• Parallel-compatible

Cons

• Heavier than expected
• The wheel cart is sold separately

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Good Value: Energizer eZV2000P 2000W

The Energizer eZV2000P is one of the most affordable generators on the market. Compact, small, and lightweight, the generator produces a stable output of 2,000 watts peak and continuous 1,600 watts running 1,600 watts and is extremely quiet.

This high-power inverter generator has some great features including a remote start that is very convenient for starting the generator from the comfort of your RV. It also has a newly designed single-outlet parallel that allows the gene to connect to another for extra power. It has a quiet running volume at just 56 decibels and is very affordable.

Pros

• Compact and portable
• Extremely efficient
• Parallel-compatible
• Great value for money

Cons

• Not as powerful as other generators
• Can be loud on a heavy load

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Good Value: Yamaha EF 2000iSv2

The Yamaha EF 2000iSv2 is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an economical, trailer-ready generator. Super reliable, compact, and sturdy, this small gas-powered generator produces 1600 watts that are ideal for charging and running small appliances and devices.

Features include a fuel gauge on the operating mechanism and a smart throttle that automatically adjusts the fuel to the load you’re running. An onboard muffler makes it quiet and an inverter system with pulse modulation helps to avoid putting too much strain on sensitive electronic devices.

Pros

• Smart throttle that automatically adjusts the fuel to the load you’re running
• Extremely efficient
• Onboard muffler
• The fuel gauge on the operating mechanism
• Pulse modulation

Cons

• Not as powerful as other generators

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Notable Mention: Pulsar Products G450RN Portable Inverter with Remote Start

The Pulsar Products G450RN Portable Inverter with Remote Start is a powerful generator producing 3,800 watts with an automatic fuel shut-off. The generator can run for up to 15 hours at half load on 3. 2 gallons of fuel and features a convenient wireless remote start that allows you to operate the unit from up to 80 feet away.

With a noise level of 63 decibels, it is a quiet generator for its size and power and its compact design boasts an extendable handle and wheels for easy handling and storage.

Pros

• Powerful and long-running
• Convenient wireless remote start
• Automatic fuel shut-off
• Quiet operation

Cons

• Expensive

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Best for Sturdiness: Generac 7127 iQ-3500

The Generac 7127 iQ-3500 is a highly durable, lightweight, portable generator. This portable inverter generator offers the option of two engine speeds with an impressive power rating of 3,500 watts.

A digital smart LCD shows a digital wattage meter, remaining run time, and the fill level status, and it has reduced noise and fuel consumption. The generator is easy to use due to an electric start and power dial with three important operation settings.

Pros

• Powerful and long-running
• Convenient wireless remote start
• Automatic fuel shut-off
• Quiet operation

Cons

• Expensive

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Most Compact: Briggs & Stratton P2200

The Briggs & Stratton P2200 is a compact, portable generator that produces 1,700 running watts and features a control panel that displays essential information to monitor performance. The generator has three indicator lights that display low oil shutdown, overloading, or smooth running, and the machine is environmentally friendly, providing clean energy for charging personal devices.

The Briggs & Stratton P2200 has a one-gallon tank that can run up to eight hours on a small load and it has a reasonably low noise level. State-of-the-art Quiet Power Technology serves a three-fold function in reducing gas emissions, engine noise, and fuel usage.

Pros

• Compact and portable
• Control panel that displays essential information
• Environmentally-friendly
• Quiet Power Technology

Cons

• Not high powered enough for large appliances

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Best for Budget: A-iPower SUA2000iV

One of the cheapest RV generators on the market, the A-iPower SUA2000iV may not be a well-known brand but it offers a fantastic option for a budget RV generator. Boasting a running power of 1,600 watts, this generator is perfect for powering devices and small electronics like mobile phones, laptops, television, and tablets.

This super portable gene provides up to seven hours of run time at just half of its load before refueling is required and it has a built-in fuel gauge that accurately indicates when the generator is running low. It comes with a two-year warranty on the generator if it is exclusively for residential use.

Pros

• Great value for money
• Compact and portable
• Perfect for small devices and appliances
• Control panel that displays essential information

Cons

• Low power
• Noisy

Best Safety Feature: Briggs & Stratton P4500

If you are looking for a generator for your RV that is safe when it comes to carbon emissions, the Briggs & Stratton P4500 is your best bet. This generator has a built-in carbon monoxide tracking system, which monitors CO levels and automatically shuts down when it gets too high.

This generator boasts several great features such as Quiet Power Technology that reduces gas emissions, engine noise, and fuel consumption, an automatic low oil shutdown feature, and inverter technology that ensures clean power.

The Briggs & Stratton P4500 weighs 115 pounds and has a 3.5-gallon gas tank that provides 16 hours run time at a quarter load, making this a fairly economical and very fuel-efficient generator.

Pros

• Built-in carbon monoxide tracking system
• Compact and portable
• Automatic low oil shutdown feature
• Long-running time

Cons

• Low power
• Noisy

Best Hybrid: DuroMax XP13000HX Dual Fuel Portable Generator

The DuroMax XP13000HX Dual Fuel Portable Generator that can be run on propane or gas, provides peak power of 2,200 watts and 1,800 running watts and is portable and powerful. This dual-fuel generator is environmentally-friendly and can be connected to a second generator for increased power output.

The generator can run for seven hours on gasoline and 19 hours on propane at 50% of its load and it boasts all-copper windings that make the machine super durable and long-lasting.

Pros

• Dual-fuel operation
• Environmentally-friendly
• Extremely efficient
• Parallel-compatible

Cons

• Low power

Tips to Care for Your New Generator

A generator is a costly investment, and you will want it to last a lifetime – or as long as possible! Here are a few tips for caring for your generator to keep it in tip-top shape for years.

1. Correct Storage

Generator engines need to be kept dry and away from moisture and wet weather, which can cause damage. It is important to store your generator in a dry place to prevent water damage. Before storing your generator for the winter, be sure to wipe down the exterior, fill the full tank, add a fuel stabilizer and run it a while to work the stabilized fuel through the system, and change the oil/oil filter. You can also drain the fuel and lines before winter storage.

2. Regular Services

It is important to service your generator regularly to ensure a long lifespan. Regular services will clear clogged fuel lines and keep general engine wear and tear at bay.

3. Run the Gene Regularly

To keep your generator in good shape, you need to run your generator at least once a month. This not only guarantees proper function, but it also helps to find out whether any issues may become a problem in the future.

4. Always Use New Fuel

One of the most important factors for maintaining the longevity of your generator is never to use old fuel as this can create a build-up in the engine that can decrease the performance. For best results, always keep your generator filled with fresh fuel. Another way to do this is through fuel cycling.

5. Lubricate Regularly

A generator works best when it is well-oiled, particularly if the generator is gas-powered. Your generator must be adequately lubricated at all times as this not only ensures optimum operation but also promises lower noise levels. It is also important to perform oil and filter changes at least every six months, much like your car.

6. Keep Batteries Clean

Just like the engine of your car, you should make sure that the battery lines are always kept clean. It also helps to disconnect the batteries and the battery lines while your unit is not in use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of generator is best for an RV?

Diesel generators are your best bet if your RV runs on diesel fuel as this allows you to use a single fuel source for both your generator and your camper. The best diesel generator for RVs also produces more power than propane and is safer to store because it’s non-explosive.

What size generator do I need for an RV?

You will need a generator that produces between 2,000 and 4,000 watts as most RV generators put out between 2,000 and 4,000 watts of electricity.

What is the quietest generator for a motorhome?

The quietest generator on the market is the gas-powered Honda Inverter Generator EU2200i. Weighing less than 47 pounds, this quiet RV generator can be easily moved from place to place.

What size generator do I need for a 30-amp RV?

A 3,000-watt generator will power most 30-amp RVs, including the AC unit.

What Size RV Generator to Run Air-Conditioning Units?

Air-conditioning requires a large amount of power and can run at anything up to 2,000 watts. If you have an air-conditioning unit and want to run it off-grid, you’ll need a powerful generator or at least 3,500 watts.

How Do I Charge the 12-volt Battery Bank from the Generator?

If your camper is fitted with a battery converter (or battery charger), it will continue to operate in the same way without any adaptations. You can charge a 12-volt battery bank with the same extension cord that you use to connect your RV to the generator. If your cord isn’t compatible, you can use an adaptor.

Do I Need to Ground a Portable RV Generator?

In short, yes! NEVER use a portable generator unless it’s grounded.

Happy traveling!