You've taken the step to get a camper or RV. Sit back. Relax.
And watch your batteries drain away. Or you can power up and add an RV
generator to keep you going even when camping away from hookups.
You have a lot of choices available - it really depends on what your needs
are, your budget, and the size of your rig. There are 4 big categories to
cover - you'll need to decide which best suits your individual needs. Or
let your wallet do it for you - as there's a big difference between a
recreational generator and an integrated RV generator.
Tip: You can go a lot of
different ways with RV Generators. If you have a top of the line
RV, most will opt for the insulated made-for-RV generators from brands
like Onan & Guardian. Lots of power & insulated quiet, plus the
fit nice and tight inside your generator cabinet. BUT - they're
expensive.
For many RV users and (5th
wheels, campers, etc.) a mid sized Portable Generator provides great
versatility and enough power to run your air conditioner and everything
else. They're less expensive, portable, and can be used at home
too during power outages. Stick with the mid-sized or large
portable models.
Cost: Varies on size. Can be
self-installed or taken to shop. Much more expensive than
portables.
Best For: Can power small homes, even air
conditioners. Popular on construction sites - power equip.
Compare RV and Portable Electric Generators
Tip: This is a tricky question. If you just have a camper,
then the portable option is obviously your choice. If you're an RV
owner, you have to consider costs of installation and convenience of
having a flexible/portable generator to one that's location is fixed.
If you use your RV a lot, a true RV Generator is a slick option - no
wires, push button start and variable ramp wattage. They also
typically have larger fuel storage capacity - meaning you don't have to
top off the gas as often.
Still, we sell more
portable electric
generators based on their overall versatility. Form a sheer power
standpoint, both will do the job and at the mid-high end models cost
differences for the purchase itself can be comparable.
