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Old 05-04-2017, 09:14 PM   #21
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An inverter generator refers to a generator that produces DC electricity much like an alternator in a car would, then uses a built-in inverter to convert the DC electricity to AC. A regular generator actually generates AC and does not convert the electricity. The benefits are the inverter generators are usually a lot quieter and typically generate cleaner electricity since the DC is converted to AC by the inverter, small changes in the RPMs don't affect the frequency or voltage of the AC. Makes your electronics much happier.

In order to get any electrify from the generator it does need to be running. The inverter in it is not able to be hooked up to your batteries. You can get an inverter to hook to the batteries for AC power, but don't expect that to last very long if your AC loads are high.
Thanks that's basically what I was thinking. I am just looking for something to charge my phone/laptop and watch some TV here and there. Don't need the a/c or fridge running off power so if I have 2 batteries I'm thinking it will last a bit. I thought about going solar instead but it seems just a lot more work than a simple generator
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Old 05-07-2017, 08:02 PM   #22
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Thanks that's basically what I was thinking. I am just looking for something to charge my phone/laptop and watch some TV here and there. Don't need the a/c or fridge running off power so if I have 2 batteries I'm thinking it will last a bit. I thought about going solar instead but it seems just a lot more work than a simple generator


In that case a 1500w or 2000w generator would be plenty for those needs. I would consider a champion, Honda, or Yamaha. Pay special attention to the decibel levels when at load. Also you may consider a 3100/3400w generator as while they are bigger and heavier, would be capable of running your entire camper including the air conditioner should it be necessary. You could always go with 2 2000w generators as we'll and use them in parallel if you want.
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Old 05-07-2017, 09:10 PM   #23
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I'd get a 3000 watt continuous inverter generator if I were you. Generators are a lot like tow vehicles, eventually you'll get a larger one. Why not just get the 3k generator and you'll be set for a long time. Running a larger generator than your current needs will extend its life as it isn't working as hard when in eco mode.

Shoot, my converter requires 1300 watts at max capacity and I used that once when I screwed up and ran my fridge on inverter battery power while towing in overcast weather. I needed the generator to run overnight to recharge my batteries, power central heat, and provide fridge/TV/DVD and microwave power. Afterwards, it was 100% solar the rest of the camping trip.

I run solar 95% of the time but do bring the generator just in case I need air conditioning. I'm also a firm believer to having backup plans. If your propane regulator fails, you'll still have a way to run your fridge and provide heat, if needed-assuming you have a small portable heater which is a must.

Generators I recommend:

1. Champion 3400; 3400 watts peak but 3100 watts continuous it weighs 110 lbs

2. Bolily 3,300 watts peak, 3000 watts continuous <-- its the lightest generator in its class, weighs about 78 lbs which is easier on my back.
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Old 05-11-2017, 12:45 PM   #24
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Damn. I should of jumped on the amazon deal for the champion 3100. It's up to $769 now. $200 price jump
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Old 05-17-2017, 12:18 AM   #25
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Does anyone know if the champion will go on SALE again anytime soon?
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Old 05-17-2017, 12:29 AM   #26
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Does anyone know if the champion will go on SALE again anytime soon?
Nope.. crystal ball is broke
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Old 05-17-2017, 02:31 AM   #27
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Does anyone know if the champion will go on SALE again anytime soon?
Give Jeff Bezos a call😉😉
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Old 05-17-2017, 02:59 AM   #28
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Give Jeff Bezos a call😉😉
LOL..........possibly you can do brunch.
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Old 05-17-2017, 09:54 AM   #29
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I just didn't know if that was a once in a lifetime sale...mistake..or these things randomly go on big sales every once in awhile
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Old 05-17-2017, 09:58 AM   #30
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I just didn't know if that was a once in a lifetime sale...mistake..or these things randomly go on big sales every once in awhile
Just giving you a hard time. I'm thinking it was a mistake as the price was quickly corrected. Don't usually see big sales on any generators.
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Old 05-17-2017, 10:02 AM   #31
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Just giving you a hard time. I'm thinking it was a mistake as the price was quickly corrected. Don't usually see big sales on any generators.


Oh ok. That was my first search on amazon for them when I saw that price. Didn't realize it was a fluke. So these normally go for about 7-8 hundred?
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Old 05-17-2017, 10:04 AM   #32
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Just giving you a hard time. I'm thinking it was a mistake as the price was quickly corrected. Don't usually see big sales on any generators.
It may not have been a mistake.

They were on sale for that price several weeks ago (for one or two days) and then the price shot back up.

Everyone online speculated it was either a mistake or they were closing that model out.

Two weeks later... same sale, same price. Go figure.

Will it happen again?... my crystal ball is in the same shop as NMWildcat's!
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Old 05-17-2017, 10:07 AM   #33
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Oh ok. That was my first search on amazon for them when I saw that price. Didn't realize it was a fluke. So these normally go for about 7-8 hundred?
Here is the best place I've found for pricing on Champion generators. (excepting the afore mentioned one day sales)

Bottom Line Trading
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Old 05-17-2017, 08:06 PM   #34
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Cheaper here...

https://www.electricgeneratorsdirect...FY9MDQodhi4IXA
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Old 05-17-2017, 08:08 PM   #35
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Costco has the manual start for $699. May just go that route
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Old 05-18-2017, 07:14 AM   #36
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They are easy to start and usually on the first pull
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Old 05-18-2017, 07:44 AM   #37
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Install a micro air soft start module in the a/c unit and you can skip the heavy 3k generator and stick with a 2k Honda or whatever. That module ramps up the compressor gradually and avoids the startup surge. Once it is running, the amperage draw is manageable.

I also have built a hush box for my Honda which reduces the already quiet genny to nearly imperceptible.
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Old 05-18-2017, 08:15 AM   #38
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I vote 2 hondas ... love being able to lift with out hurting myself and the flexibility to only run 1 when the extra power isn't necessary.
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Old 05-18-2017, 08:27 AM   #39
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I vote 2 hondas ... love being able to lift with out hurting myself and the flexibility to only run 1 when the extra power isn't necessary.


If I had an extra $2k to spend I would. I wouldn't use it enough to justify the price. This summer I have 5 trips planned. Only one isn't full hookups
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Old 05-18-2017, 09:36 AM   #40
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If I had an extra $2k to spend I would. I wouldn't use it enough to justify the price. This summer I have 5 trips planned. Only one isn't full hookups
I hear that !! I never park at Rv parks with hook ups so enough juice for us was necessary.
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