Generator and Shore Power

[izzaboomer]

Lots of times I am running the Generator when I arrive at my campsite. I may be running A/C or whatever. My question is can I plug in shore power and then cut generator off. Can I do this in that order and not cause any problems with running A/C or whatever. Also can I do the reverse, start Generator while plugged into shore power?

[Flybob]

Generally yes, but a little more information is needed . What RV do you own? Does it have a transfer switch?

[youroo]

I would hope a Sunseeker with a Fac Installed Gen would have a Transfer Switch! Whole house Gen systems have a Transfer Switch and they Auto-Switch From Full City Power that "Drops" to Gen Power without any On/Off action from Homeowner! Youroo!!

[Hoglou]

Do a seach on "gen auto" on the forum, look for the thread started 04/03/13. I had the same question....

[formerFR]

funny you asked this question just now...

I would answer that 'yes', it's no problem since you generator is normally the 'primary' power even when you are on shore power, and therefore will not create any issues since your transfer switch is designed to transfer power from one source to another... and,

I was just watching a video from Entegra Coach, with a young host named PJ, who provides information for new coach owners. One topic was the transfer switch, the generator, and shore power. He states that in situations where you only have 30a shore power, and the shore power plug has no 30a breaker of it own, it is PREFERABLE to have the generator ON when plugging in.

[izzaboomer]

I don't understand that. Why even be plugged in if you are going to run the generator?

[bubbles]

Originally Posted by Hoglou

Do a seach on "gen auto" on the forum, look for the thread started 04/03/13. I had the same question....

I believe this thread is for auto switching when shore power is lost but it does illustrate that switching from one power source to another with loads (AC etc.) turned on when switching is not a big deal. It's possible that arching of the OP.s transfer switch contacts will occur and perhaps over time may cause issues with conductivity across them but maybe not. I personally have not encountered any issues doing what the OP is asking about. Of course this is predicated upon all systems functioning normally. If in doubt, turn it off first.

[bubbles]

Originally Posted by izzaboomer

I don't understand that. Why even be plugged in if you are going to run the generator?

It's not running gen when plugged in, it's switching from one source to the other with loads applied. Arriving at a full hookup campsite with the genny running is quite common due to needing AC for the passengers aft of the cockpit. Sitting in line in July waiting to get into Fort Wilderness etc.. Wanting to switch over to genny when leaving campsite and having uninterrupted AC and many other reasons.

[izzaboomer]

So the answer is SURE.

[RudysWorld]

Not sure about Sunseeker or what year you have, but my 2011 Georgetown does not have a transfer switch. I have to physically unplug shore power cord from the generator outlet and plug into the pedestal at the campground. In my case I always turn A/C and generator off before going from generator to shore power or the opposite way. In talking with Onan generator representative it is not recommended to do this also. I know everyone will then bring up the auto transfer switches and that is exactly what they do transfer the load immediately. He said this is for convenience but not good for the generator. Good Luck!