Generator size

[sunnman]

I am sure this has been asked before, searched but can’t find it. What size generator do I need? We don’t really plan on much dry camping, but on long trips for a night or two we probably will (state parks, Walmart’s, truck stops, etc). We will be wanting to run the air, probably tv, water pump. What size is best, what is bare minimum I could “get by with”? Are there different types of units regarding actual power generation? I am just looking for basic numbers, will go bigger than minimum, just need starting point. TIA

[cbvp]

I carry 2 Honda 2000's Operate on one until more power is needed. Then parallel them together for 4000 watts max, 3200 watts continuous power.


C.B.

[007matman]

It seems like the going trend is to get somewhere around 3500 watts.

There is a number of ways you can get there. Two smaller units that are Daisy-chained together and easier to lift or one larger unit that is more heavy but all in one.

For me it would depend on how much I felt comfortable lifting and if I had help doing it. For me it would probably be a larger all-in-one system. I'd leave it in my truck and get a longer cable to plug in to my RV.

Some of the units will run on propane too. I think I would look for that feature on a new one.

[Teamfour]

I’m using a Champion 3400 watt inverter generator. Runs my 15k a/c just fine and is quiet. Can’t run the microwave with a/c though.

[jeffnick]

For price and features you can't beat the Champion. I can start the generator and have the air conditioner running without getting out of bed.
https://www.amazon.com/Champion-3100...enerator&psc=1

[polishdon]

I also use the Champion 3100. Will run my 15K A/C, tv and lights, but I need to run the fridge and water heater on propane or it's too much draw.

[CedarCreekWoody]

Be sure you get an inverter style generator. The open frame style are much louder, not allowed in many campgrounds.

[paverdave]

Originally Posted by Teamfour

I’m using a Champion 3400 watt inverter generator. Runs my 15k a/c just fine and is quiet. Can’t run the microwave with a/c though.

Looking to buy one...I'm hoping it will run my 15k a/c...Could you tell me the elevation that you run it at? Thanks..

[formerFR]

several things to consider: if you don't 'think' you'll really be 'off-grid' more than a night at a time, and only very infrequently, then why even bother with the storage, fuel, and sound issues of a generator?
- your TV may already work off your batteries, if it is a 12v type. Your water pump certainly does, as all your lights. Any rv fridge will also work off of 12v and/or propane, as well as your water heater.
- a small Power Inverter, off the shelf at W*mt and other places can easily power your TV, if it is 120v.
- carrying fuel now becomes as issue... where to carry it/store it, how much, etc.
- what 'size'? that's totally up to you... but if you are really trying to power an air conditioner, even by itself, it will need to be 'sizable', and not easy to handle.

I would suggest not jumping into the generator thing right at the start. Take some trips. Find out how you 'really' camp. It temperate whether, you may not need AC, so it becomes much easier - only the TV could be a question. For a quick overnight just 'every now and then', it's probably overkill to carry around a generator and fuel just for those 'rare' scenarios, especially if you really are most always at electric hook ups where you travel.

[hybridlife]

Research micro-air easy start for your A/C and you might be able to get by with only one generator (2000 watt). I run a Honda Eu2200 and have the easy start...runs my A/C no issues. Agreed that I can't run the micro and A/C at the same time.

m

[Teamfour]

Originally Posted by paverdave

Looking to buy one...I'm hoping it will run my 15k a/c...Could you tell me the elevation that you run it at? Thanks..

Below 1500’.