We all know that RVs come in different sizes and shapes, but have you ever stopped to think about what size generator you need to power your home on wheels! We’ll take a look at some of the factors you need to consider when choosing a generator for your motorhome.
We’ll also help you figure out how much power you need to run your RV’s essential appliances. So whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned RV owner, read on for everything you need to know about picking the right generator for your motorhome.
If you’re like me, then you enjoy spending your summers RVing with family and friends. Sure, there are a lot of things to consider when planning an RV trip – from where you’ll go to what kind of food you’ll pack – but one of the most important things is making sure you have the right gear.
And if you’re wondering whether or not you need a generator for your motorhome, then this post is for you. Keep reading to learn more about the different size generators available and find out which one is best for running your RV. So the question is generator users is that what size generator do you need!
Now you don’t need to be a math expert to figure out the answer to this question. All you need is a simple equation that takes into account the wattage of your appliances and the voltage of your RV.
What size generator do i need to run a motor home?
Generator size is usually given in kilowatts (kW), and you’ll need to know the wattage of your RV’s appliances in order to calculate the size generator you need. Most RVs have a 30-amp electrical system, which means that you can use up to 7,200 watts of power at any given time.
But keep in mind that this number is the maximum amount of power you can use – it doesn’t mean that you should use all 7,200 watts all the time. In fact, using too much power can trip your RV’s circuit breaker or blow a fuse.
To figure out how much power you’ll actually need, start by making a list of all the appliances and electronics you want to run at the same time. Then, look up the wattage of each one and add them all up. The total number is the minimum amount of power you’ll need from your generator.
For example, let’s say you want to run a TV, laptop, and coffee maker at the same time. The TV uses 120 watts, the laptop uses 60 watts, and the coffee maker uses 1,000 watts. That means you’ll need at least 1,180 watts of power to run all three appliances simultaneously.
Of course, you won’t always be running all your appliances at the same time. So it’s a good idea to have a little bit of extra power available, just in case. A good rule of thumb is to add an extra 500 watts to the total number. So in this example, you would need a generator that can produce at least 1,680 watts of power.
There are a lot of different generators on the market, and it can be tricky to decide which one is right for you. But don’t worry – we’re here to help. In the next section, we’ll take a look at some of the most important features to consider when choosing a generator for your RV.
When shopping for a generator, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind:
The wattage :
This is the amount of power the generator can produce, and it’s important to make sure it’s enough to run your appliances.
The size :
You’ll want to choose a generator that’s easy to transport and store.
The noise level :
Some generators are louder than others, so you’ll want to find one that’s comfortable to use.
The fuel type :
Some generators run on gasoline, while others use propane or diesel.
The price :
Generators can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
Once you’ve decided on the features you’re looking for, it’s time to start shopping. But be careful – not all generators are created equal. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right one:
- Make sure the wattage is high enough to power your appliances.
- Choose a generator that’s easy to use and maintain.
- Opt for a quieter model if you’ll be using it in populated areas.
- Pick a fuel type that’s easy to find and store.
No matter which generator you choose, make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using it. And always use caution when operating a generator – they can be dangerous if used incorrectly.
Now that you know everything there is to know about generators, it’s time to pick one out and hit the open road! We hope this guide has been helpful – happy travels!
How to power a whole home with a generator?
Portable generators are a great way to provide power for your home during an outage. But if you’re going to use one, it’s important to know how to do it safely. Here are a few tips:
First, make sure the generator is properly installed and grounded. Then, connect it to your home’s electrical system using a transfer switch. This will prevent the generator from back feeding into the utility lines and harming utility workers.
Next, plug your appliances into the generator using heavy-duty extension cords. Be sure not to overload the generator by plugging in too many appliances at once. And never run the generator indoors – the fumes can be deadly.
Finally, always keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an accident. And be sure to shut off the generator and unplug all appliances before refueling.
Following these tips will help you use your generator safely and avoid any accidents.
FAQs:
Q 1) How do I know how much power my generator needs to produce?
A: To find out, add up the wattages of all the appliances you plan to run on the generator. A good rule of thumb is to add an extra 500 watts to the total number. So in this example, you would need a generator that can produce at least 1,680 watts of power.
Q 2) Can I use my generator indoors?
A: No – generators should never be used indoors. The fumes can be deadly.
Q 3) What should I do if I smell gas from the generator?
A: Shut off the generator and unplug all appliances immediately. Then call 911 and evacuate the area. Do not try to restart the generator.
Q 4) Can I run my air conditioner on a generator?
A: Depending on the size of your AC unit, you may be able to run it on a small portable generator. Check the wattage rating of your AC and make sure the generator can produce at least that much power.
