Embarking on an RV adventure offers unparalleled freedom, but true independence often hinges on one crucial piece of equipment: a reliable generator. It’s the difference between true off-grid bliss and searching for the nearest hookup. This buyer's guide on Choosing the Best RV Generator is designed to cut through the noise (both literal and metaphorical!) and equip you with the knowledge to select the perfect power companion for your rig. We’ll help you navigate the essential choices so you can enjoy every moment, whether you’re deep in the wilderness or simply tailgating in comfort.
At a Glance: Key Takeaways for Your Generator Hunt
- Size Matters (Watts): Match your generator's power output (running watts and startup watts) to your RV's actual needs, especially if you plan to run air conditioning.
- Silence is Golden (Decibels): Prioritize quiet inverter generators for a peaceful experience and respectful neighboring. Aim for under 60 dB.
- Fuel Your Adventure: Choose between gasoline (common), propane (convenient, cleaner), or diesel (efficient, heavy-duty) based on your RV's setup and preferences.
- Portability vs. Power: Balance the generator's weight and ease of transport with the power output you require. Sometimes two smaller units beat one big one.
- Safety & Warranty: Never compromise on essential safety features like CO shutoff and low-oil shutdown. Always look for a robust warranty.
Why a Generator is Your RV's Best Friend (and Worst Enemy if You Choose Wrong)
Imagine waking up to the chirping of birds, brewing your coffee, and enjoying a comfortable temperature in your RV, miles away from the nearest power pole. That’s the dream a good RV generator enables. But choose poorly, and you might find yourself with a noisy, inefficient, or underpowered unit that sours your serene escape. The right generator provides consistent power, enhances comfort, and extends your adventures beyond the campground. The wrong one brings frustration, fuel headaches, and possibly annoyed neighbors.
The Big Five: Your RV Generator Decision Factors
When it comes to picking an RV generator, there are five non-negotiable factors you must weigh. Think of these as the compass points guiding your decision.
Power Output: The Wattage Whisperer
Every appliance in your RV demands a certain amount of electricity, measured in watts. Generators are rated by two key wattages:
- Running Watts: The continuous power the generator can supply to keep your appliances operating. This is your baseline.
- Startup Watts (or Max/Surge Watts): The brief, higher burst of power many appliances (especially those with motors like air conditioners or refrigerators) need when they first kick on. This is crucial for avoiding trips.
It’s tempting to grab the biggest number on the box, but oversizing can mean wasted fuel and unnecessary bulk, while undersizing leaves you in the dark. We'll dive into calculating your exact needs shortly.
Quiet Operation: Decibels and Your Sanity
Nobody wants to listen to a jet engine hum while enjoying nature. Generator noise is measured in decibels (dB), where 0 dB is silence, 50 dB is a normal conversation, and 100 dB is a jackhammer.
- The Sweet Spot: For an RV, you're generally aiming for generators that operate below 60 dB, with premium inverter models often dipping into the high 40s or low 50s. Quieter generators are not just for your comfort; they're a mark of respect for your fellow campers.
- Inverter Advantage: As you'll learn, inverter generators are typically the quietest option, making them a popular choice for RVers who value tranquility.
Fueling Your Adventures: Gas, Propane, or Diesel?
Your generator needs to drink something. The type of fuel you choose impacts convenience, emissions, and even power output.
- Gasoline: The most common. Widely available and generally offers high power. The downside? Odor, flammability, and the need to carry extra fuel cans.
- Propane: Cleaner burning, less odor, and often sourced directly from your RV's built-in tanks, eliminating the need for separate fuel storage. While incredibly convenient, propane may offer slightly less power output compared to gasoline for the same engine size.
- Diesel: Typically reserved for built-in generators in diesel motorhomes, drawing from the main fuel tank. Diesel engines are highly fuel-efficient and boast longer lifespans. Portable diesel generators are rare, heavy, and expensive, usually not practical for most recreational RVers.
Portability and Practicality: Can You Lift It?
Will your generator live in a dedicated compartment, or will you be hauling it in and out of your tow vehicle? Its weight and dimensions are vital. A heavy generator might mean sacrificing space or struggling with setup. Consider how you’ll transport, secure, and refuel it. The best generator for you is one you can actually manage.
Price vs. Value: What's Your Investment?
Generators range from a few hundred dollars to several thousands. Don't just look at the sticker price; consider the long-term value. A more expensive, quiet, fuel-efficient inverter generator might save you money on fuel and drastically improve your camping experience over years of use, making it a better value than a cheaper, louder, less efficient alternative.
Decoding Generator Styles: Finding Your Perfect Match
Generators aren't one-size-fits-all. Understanding the different styles will help you align power, portability, and price with your RVing habits.
Suitcase Style: Light, Quiet, and Nimble
- The Rundown: These are the darlings of the small RV and minimalist camping crowd. Weighing around 40-50 lbs, they're incredibly portable. Many portable RV generators fall into this category.
- Power Profile: Typically offer over 2000 max watts. Great for basic needs: lights, refrigeration (on electric mode), furnace, TV, water pump, and one high-wattage device like a coffee pot or microwave.
- The AC Catch: Generally not powerful enough for air conditioning.
- Fuel & Runtime: Small fuel tanks (around 1 gallon) mean about 3 hours of runtime at max load, though external tanks can extend this.
- Noise Level: Extremely quiet and fuel-efficient, often operating at conversational levels.
- Ideal For: Tent campers, small trailers, boondockers prioritizing extreme portability and quiet over AC.
Dual Suitcase Setup: Double the Power, Double the Fun
- The Rundown: Can't quite power that AC with one suitcase unit? Pair two of them with a parallel kit. This effectively doubles your power output (e.g., two 1600-running-watt units combine for 3200 running watts).
- Power Profile: This configuration can comfortably run an RV air conditioning unit.
- The AC Limit: Still generally insufficient for multiple AC units.
- Portability Perks: You get increased power while retaining much of the portability; two 50lb units are often much easier to manage and lift than one 100+ lb unit.
- Ideal For: RVers needing AC capability without sacrificing portability entirely, or those with varied power needs (run one for light loads, both for heavy).
Mid-Size Marvels: The Workhorses
- The Rundown: These single units offer power similar to dual suitcase setups (2800-3600 running watts) but are often a more budget-friendly, lighter, and less complex single package.
- Power Profile: A good example might be 4000 startup watts / 3500 running watts, which can handle a single AC unit and other appliances.
- Noise Level: Quieter than older, standard generators, but typically a bit louder than small enclosed inverter generators (e.g., 67 dB vs. ~50 dB).
- Ideal For: RVers who need more consistent power for single AC operation and don't mind a slightly larger, heavier unit than a suitcase model.
Dual Mid-Size Generators: Powering the Whole Camp
- The Rundown: Combining two mid-size generators with a parallel kit offers substantial power, often including a 50-amp outlet.
- Power Profile: This setup provides enough wattage to run two air conditioning units and a full suite of other appliances, offering excellent flexibility for extended off-grid use.
- Ideal For: Larger RVs, fifth wheels, or those who truly need home-like power capabilities away from hookups.
Large & Mighty: For the Power-Hungry RVer
- The Rundown: When you need to run multiple appliances simultaneously, including multiple air conditioning units, you're looking at a large generator.
- Power Profile: These units typically have large fuel tanks for extended runtime and high wattage outputs (e.g., 6500W and above).
- The Modern Advantage: Newer models are often designed to significantly reduce size, weight, and noise compared to older, standard large generators (e.g., 45% more compact, 30% lighter, 60% quieter for a 6500W unit).
- Ideal For: Big motorhomes, large travel trailers, or anyone who wants to run their entire RV just as they would at home.
The Silence is Golden: Understanding Decibels and Inverter Tech
We've mentioned noise levels several times, and for good reason. A noisy generator can quickly ruin the peace of your campsite.
Understanding Decibels (dB):
- 0 dB: The threshold of human hearing.
- 30 dB: A whisper.
- 50 dB: Normal conversation, quiet office.
- 60 dB: Normal conversation at 3 feet. This is often a good target maximum for RV generators.
- 70 dB: Vacuum cleaner, busy street. Getting loud for a campsite.
- 100 dB: Jackhammer, motorcycle. Definitely not what you want at a campsite!
Enter the Inverter Generator:
These aren't just quieter; they're smarter. Traditional "conventional" generators run their engines at a constant, high RPM to produce a steady 120V AC power. Inverter generators, however, use a digital inverter to convert raw AC power into DC, and then back into a "pure sine wave" AC power.
Why is this important?
- Quietness: Because they produce power digitally, they can adjust their engine RPMs based on the power demand. Less power needed means lower RPMs, which means less noise and better fuel efficiency. A highly quiet inverter generator might produce as little as 48 dB at a low load, climbing to around 57 dB at max load. To learn more about specific RV generator decibel levels and what they mean, it's worth a deeper look.
- Fuel Efficiency: Lower RPMs directly translate to less fuel consumed.
- Clean Power: The "pure sine wave" output is crucial for sensitive electronics like laptops, smartphones, and even modern RV appliances, preventing damage that a "modified sine wave" or "square wave" from a conventional generator might cause.
- Lighter & Smaller: Their advanced design often makes them significantly more compact and lighter than conventional generators of similar output.
- Parallel Capability: Many inverter generators can be linked together with a parallel kit, allowing you to combine the power of two smaller units for greater output when needed, then run just one for lighter loads. This flexibility is a huge advantage.
Given these benefits, it's clear why inverter generators are often the preferred choice for RVers who prioritize quietness, fuel economy, and protecting their valuable electronics.
Powering Your RV Life: A Deep Dive into Wattage Needs
Calculating your RV's actual power needs is the most critical step in generator sizing. Don't guess – measure!
How to Calculate Your RV's Power Demands
Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure your generator can handle everything you throw at it.
Step 1: Reduce Your Load First
Before you even start adding things up, reduce your electrical load where possible.
- LP Gas Mode: Set your RV refrigerator and water heater to 'LP Gas Mode' if they have it. These appliances use substantial electricity when running on electric, but very little when on propane. Operating them on propane allows you to potentially opt for a smaller, more portable generator for your remaining electrical needs.
Step 2: Sum Up Your Running Watts
This is the continuous power your generator needs to supply. Grab a pen and paper (or your phone's calculator) and list every appliance, fixture, and accessory you plan to use simultaneously.
- Find the Running Watts: For each item, find its 'running watts' specification. Manufacturers often prominently advertise 'maximum watts' or 'startup watts,' but it's the running watts you need for continuous operation.
- Add Them Up: The sum of these 'running watts' is the minimum running watts your generator needs.
Running Watts Estimates (Typical RV Appliances):
| Appliance | Running Watts (Approx.) |
| :--------------------------------------- | :---------------------- |
| Microwave Oven (800W) | 625W |
| 7,000 BTU Air Conditioner | 650W |
| 10,000 BTU Air Conditioner | 750W |
| 13,500 BTU Air Conditioner | 1,300W |
| 15,000 BTU Air Conditioner | 1,600W |
| Built-in RV lights (Halogen/Incandescent) | 10W (each) |
| Built-in RV lights (LED) | 2W (each) |
| Range Hood (Fan+Light) | 35W |
| Furnace | 150W |
| RV Refrigerator (LP Gas Mode) | 25W |
| Residential Style Refrigerator | 600W |
| Water Pump | 50W |
| Built-in RV electronics & accessories | 100W |
| 42″ LCD TV | 120W |
| Coffee Maker | 1000W |
| Hair Dryer | 1250W |
| Phone Charger | 10W |
| Laptop Charger | 100W | - Don't Forget the Basics: Always include the refrigerator (even on propane, it uses a little for its control board), water heater (if on electric), water pump, and built-in RV electronics/accessories in your calculation, as they often operate automatically or are always on.
Step 3: Account for Startup Surges (The AC Challenge)
Many appliances, especially those with motors, require a much higher surge of 'starting watts' for the first few seconds they turn on. Air conditioners are the biggest culprits here.
- Identify Surge Items: Your AC unit(s) will almost certainly be your primary concern for startup watts.
- Add Startup Watts: Take the 'running watts' sum from Step 2, and then add the additional startup watts for your AC unit(s). Crucially, this is additional power, not the total startup power for the AC.
- Compare to Max Watts: This 'total startup watts' figure must not exceed your chosen generator's 'Maximum Watt' (or 'startup/surge watts') rating.
Additional Startup Watts for Air Conditioners:
| Air Conditioner Size | Additional Startup Watts (Approx.) |
| :------------------- | :--------------------------------- |
| 7,000 BTU | 1,050W |
| 10,000 BTU | 1,250W |
| 13,500 BTU | 1,500W |
| 15,000 BTU | 1,750W |
- Example: If your RV runs a 13,500 BTU AC (1300 running watts) plus other items totaling 500 running watts (e.g., fridge, lights, TV). Your total running watts needed is 1800W. But when the AC kicks on, it needs an additional 1500W. So, your generator needs to handle 1800W running, and have a maximum/surge capacity of at least 1800W + 1500W = 3300W to prevent tripping when the AC starts. This is why understanding RV AC power needs is so important.
Step 4: Add a Safety Buffer (Conservative Sizing)
It’s always a good idea to choose a generator with some watts to spare – maybe 10-20% above your calculated running and startup needs. This prevents annoying circuit breaker trips, premature wear on your generator, and provides flexibility if you decide to plug in an extra device. If you're willing to manage power consumption (e.g., turn off the AC to use a microwave), you can sometimes opt for a slightly smaller generator, but it requires diligent awareness. For a detailed breakdown on calculating your RV's power requirements, check out our in-depth guide.
Fueling Your Journey: Pros and Cons of Each Type
The choice of fuel type can significantly impact your RV experience. Let's break down the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Gasoline: The Common Choice
- Pros:
- Widely Available: You can find gasoline almost anywhere.
- High Power Output: Gasoline generators often produce more power per engine size than propane equivalents.
- Cons:
- Odor: The exhaust fumes and the fuel itself can be smelly.
- Storage: Requires carrying separate, often bulky, fuel cans.
- Flammability: Gasoline is highly flammable and requires careful handling and storage.
- Emissions: Generally higher emissions than propane.
Propane: Clean, Convenient, and Quiet
- Pros:
- Convenience: Can often tap into your RV's existing propane tanks, eliminating the need for extra fuel containers.
- Cleaner Emissions: Burns cleaner than gasoline, producing nearly odorless and less offensive exhaust fumes.
- Storage: Propane stores indefinitely without going stale, unlike gasoline.
- Noise: Propane generators tend to run a bit quieter than gasoline models of comparable size.
- Cons:
- Lower Power Output: You might experience a slight reduction in power output compared to gasoline for a generator of the same size (e.g., a 3400W generator might offer 3060 starting watts / 2790 running watts on propane).
- Availability: While common, propane refills aren't quite as ubiquitous as gasoline stations in all areas.
Diesel: The Heavy-Duty Workhorse
- Pros:
- Fuel Efficiency: Diesel engines are roughly 35% more fuel-efficient than gasoline engines.
- Longevity & Durability: Known for their longer service life and extended service intervals.
- Single Fuel Source: If your motorhome is diesel, the generator draws from the main fuel tank, simplifying fueling.
- Cons:
- Cost: Portable diesel generators are rare, very heavy, and expensive.
- Noise: Can be louder than gasoline or propane generators, especially older models.
- Practicality: Generally not recommended for recreational camping unless you have a large diesel motorhome with a built-in unit.
Each of these RV generator fuel types has its niche. Your choice will depend on your RV type, storage capabilities, and personal priorities for convenience and performance.
Beyond the Basics: Essential Features & Considerations
Once you've narrowed down your choices by the big five factors, delve into these critical details.
Safety First: Protecting You and Your Rig
This is non-negotiable. Look for generators with these essential safety features:
- CO Shutoff Sensors: Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless killer. A CO shutoff sensor will automatically turn off the generator if dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are detected, protecting you and your family.
- Overload Protection: Prevents damage to the generator and your appliances by automatically shutting down if the electrical load exceeds its capacity.
- Low-Oil Shutdown: Protects the engine from severe damage by shutting it off if the oil level drops too low.
- Clean Sine Wave Output: As discussed with inverter generators, this protects your sensitive electronics from power surges and irregularities.
Making sure your generator has these RV generator safety features is paramount.
Warranty & Support: Peace of Mind on the Road
A generator is an investment. A good warranty (typically 2-3 years) and readily available customer support from the manufacturer are crucial. Imagine being hundreds of miles from home and your generator quits – knowing you have support can save your trip.
Finding the Sweet Spot: Generator Sizing Calculators
While we've given you the tools to calculate your needs manually, many manufacturers and RV-specific websites offer online generator sizing calculators. These tools can simplify the process, helping you double-check your figures and ensure you're considering all your appliances. They typically ask for your RV type and list common appliances, guiding you to the right wattage.
Your Top RV Generator Questions, Answered
Let's tackle some common queries RVers have about generators.
Can a generator run the 12V power system in an RV?
Yes, absolutely. When you plug your generator into your RV (typically via the shore power inlet), its 120V AC output feeds your RV's electrical system. Your RV has a built-in 120V AC to 12V DC power converter (often called the "converter/charger" or "power center"). This converter takes the 120V AC from the generator and converts it to 12V DC, which then supplies power to all your RV's 12V built-in systems (lights, water pump, furnace fan, control boards) and also charges your RV's house batteries. So, your generator effectively powers both your 120V and 12V needs.
Can I run my RV air conditioner from a generator?
Yes, you can, and many RVers do. However, as noted in our wattage calculation section, your RV's air conditioning unit is often the single largest consumer of electricity, especially during startup. A 13,500 BTU RV AC unit typically needs about 2,800W for startup and 1,300W for running. This means you’ll likely need a generator in the 3000-4000 (or higher) max watt range to comfortably run a single AC unit alongside other basic appliances. The decision to power an AC with a generator largely depends on your personal preference for comfort versus the increased cost, weight, and sometimes noise of a larger, more powerful generator.
Ready to Power Up Your Adventures? Your Next Steps.
Choosing the best RV generator doesn't have to be a daunting task. By methodically evaluating your power needs, prioritizing quiet operation, considering fuel type, and assessing portability, you're well on your way to making an informed decision. Remember, the right generator is an investment in your freedom and comfort, allowing you to venture further and stay longer in the places you love.
Now that you're armed with the knowledge to make smart choices, your next step is to explore specific models that fit your criteria. Dive into detailed reviews and comparisons to find the best RV generator that will flawlessly power your next great escape. Happy travels!