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10 Best Portable Rv Generator
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Portable Generators
Buying Guide for the Best Portable Rv Generator
Choosing the best portable RV generator can make your camping or travelling experience much more comfortable. The right generator will keep your essentials powered, from air conditioning to lights and small appliances. It's important to balance your power needs with features like portability, noise levels, and how easy it is to use, so you can enjoy reliable electricity without the hassle.Power Output (Wattage)Power output, measured in watts, tells you how much electricity the generator can provide. This is crucial because it determines what appliances or devices you can run at the same time. Small generators typically offer up to 2,000 watts, good for lights, charging devices, and maybe a small fan. Medium generators (2,000-3,000W) can handle a microwave, small AC, or fridge, while larger models (above 3,000W) can power several devices or larger AC units. To pick the right one, list all the items you plan to use at once and add up their wattage; choose a generator slightly above this total for safe and smooth operation.
Portability (Weight and Size)Portability refers to how easy it is to move and store the generator. This is especially important if you plan to travel often or don’t want extra hassle when setting up camp. Lightweight models (around 40-60 lbs) are easy for most people to carry alone, but may offer less power. Medium-weight units (60-100 lbs) might offer a good balance but could need two people to handle. Heavier models are less convenient unless you plan to set up in one place for a while. Consider your physical ability, available space in your RV, and how often you’ll be moving the generator.
Noise Level (Decibels)Noise level tells you how loud the generator is during operation, usually measured in decibels (dB). Quiet generators (below 60 dB) are ideal for campgrounds and respecting neighbors, sounding similar to normal conversation. Mid-range options (60-70 dB) are manageable, while louder ones (above 70 dB) might bother you or others, especially at night. Think about your camping habits and how much noise you’re willing to tolerate – quiet models are worth it for most RVers.
Fuel Type and Tank SizePortable RV generators typically run on gasoline, propane, or sometimes both (dual fuel). Gasoline is widely available but can be messier to store, while propane is cleaner and often easier to store in tanks. Tank size or propane runtime will affect how long the generator runs before needing a refill: smaller tanks might last 4-6 hours, while larger tanks or fuel-efficient models might stretch to 10-12 hours per fill. Choose the fuel type that’s easiest for you to obtain and store, and consider tank size based on how long you want the generator to run between refuels.
Outlets and ConnectivityThis refers to the types and number of electrical outlets on the generator. You’ll find standard household outlets, RV-ready outlets, and sometimes USB ports. More outlets and variety mean more flexibility for plugging in different devices. An RV-ready outlet is handy if you want to connect your entire RV system easily. Look at what you plan to plug in, and ensure the generator supports those needs with enough outlets and the right types.
Starting MechanismGenerators can be started manually with a pull cord, or automatically with an electric push button or remote. Manual start models are usually lighter and have fewer electronics to go wrong, but can be difficult for some people to use. Electric start is more convenient, especially if you’ll be starting your generator frequently or don’t want to deal with pulling a cord. Pick the option that matches your comfort and convenience preferences.
Inverter TechnologyInverter generators provide cleaner and more stable power, which is safer for sensitive electronics like laptops and TVs. They’re also usually quieter and more fuel-efficient, but may be pricier or offer slightly less raw power for the size. If you need to run delicate electronics or value quiet operation and efficiency, going for an inverter generator is a smart choice.