Determining the right size generator for your travel trailer hinges on understanding your power needs. A 2000-watt generator is often a good starting point for basic necessities, but for running air conditioning and multiple appliances simultaneously, you’ll likely need a 3000-watt or larger model.
Understanding Your Travel Trailer’s Power Requirements
Selecting the right size generator for your travel trailer is crucial for a comfortable and hassle-free camping experience. Too small, and you’ll be stuck rationing power and potentially damaging your appliances. Too large, and you’ll be lugging around unnecessary weight and fuel. This article breaks down the process of calculating your power needs and choosing the ideal generator for your specific travel trailer setup.
Calculating Your Wattage Needs
The first step is to determine the total wattage required to run all the appliances you plan to use simultaneously. This involves identifying each appliance’s starting wattage (the power needed when the appliance initially starts, which is often higher than the running wattage) and running wattage (the power needed to keep the appliance operating).
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Identify Your Appliances: Make a list of every appliance you plan to use in your travel trailer, including:
- Air Conditioner
- Refrigerator
- Microwave
- Television
- Coffee Maker
- Lights
- Laptop/Phone Chargers
- Electric Heater
- Water Pump
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Find the Wattage Information: Check the appliance labels or manuals for the starting and running wattage. If the information is in amps, you can convert it to watts using the formula: Watts = Amps x Volts. (Most RVs operate on 120V). If you can only find the amperage, assume a slightly higher starting wattage than running wattage.
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Calculate Total Wattage:
- For each appliance, note the starting wattage and running wattage.
- Identify the appliance with the highest starting wattage. This is crucial as your generator needs to handle that initial surge.
- Add the starting wattage of that appliance to the running wattage of all the other appliances you plan to run concurrently. This sum represents your total wattage requirement.
Example:
Let’s say you plan to run the following:
- Air Conditioner: Starting Wattage: 2200W, Running Wattage: 1500W
- Refrigerator: Starting Wattage: 200W, Running Wattage: 150W
- Lights: Running Wattage: 100W
- Television: Running Wattage: 50W
In this case, the air conditioner has the highest starting wattage (2200W). Your total wattage requirement would be: 2200W (AC starting) + 150W (Refrigerator running) + 100W (Lights running) + 50W (Television running) = 2500W
It’s wise to add a safety margin of 10-20% to this total to account for fluctuations and unexpected power demands. In this example, adding 10% would bring the required generator size to approximately 2750W.
Choosing the Right Generator Size
Once you have calculated your total wattage requirement, you can choose a generator that provides adequate power.
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Consider the Generator’s Surge Capacity: Generators have a rated wattage and a surge wattage. The rated wattage is the continuous power the generator can provide, while the surge wattage is the maximum power it can provide for a short period, typically only a few seconds. Make sure the generator’s surge wattage is high enough to handle the starting wattage of your most demanding appliance.
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Factor in Efficiency: Generators operate most efficiently when loaded to around 50-75% of their rated capacity. Choosing a generator that’s significantly oversized can lead to wasted fuel and reduced engine life.
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Consider Noise Levels: Different generators produce different levels of noise. Check the decibel rating (dB) before purchasing. Inverter generators are typically quieter than traditional generators. Campgrounds often have noise restrictions, so choose a generator that meets those regulations.
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Think About Portability: Consider the generator’s weight and size. If you’re frequently moving your travel trailer, you’ll want a lightweight and portable generator.
Types of Generators Suitable for Travel Trailers
There are primarily two types of generators suitable for travel trailers:
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Inverter Generators: These generators produce cleaner power, making them safer for sensitive electronics like laptops and smartphones. They are also typically quieter and more fuel-efficient than traditional generators. Inverter generators are generally more expensive.
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Traditional Generators: These generators are often more affordable but produce less clean power and are typically louder. They are suitable for powering basic appliances but may not be ideal for sensitive electronics.
FAQs: Your Travel Trailer Generator Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process of selecting the right generator for your travel trailer.
FAQ 1: Can I run my travel trailer air conditioner with a 2000-watt generator?
Answer: It depends on the size of your air conditioner. Smaller air conditioners (around 5,000-8,000 BTU) might run on a 2000-watt generator, especially if it’s an inverter generator with good surge capacity. However, you likely won’t be able to run any other significant appliances simultaneously. For larger AC units (13,500 BTU or higher), you’ll need a 3000-watt or larger generator. Always check the starting wattage of your AC unit before making a decision.
FAQ 2: What is the difference between starting wattage and running wattage?
Answer: Starting wattage is the amount of power an appliance needs to initially start its motor. This is typically much higher than the running wattage, which is the power the appliance needs to keep operating once it’s running. Generators must be able to handle the starting wattage of the most demanding appliance you plan to use.
FAQ 3: How do I convert amps to watts?
Answer: Use the formula: Watts = Amps x Volts. Most RVs operate on 120V, so if an appliance draws 5 amps, it consumes 5 x 120 = 600 watts.
FAQ 4: Are inverter generators worth the extra cost?
Answer: Yes, for most travel trailer owners, inverter generators are worth the extra cost. They provide cleaner power, are quieter, and more fuel-efficient than traditional generators. The cleaner power is crucial for protecting sensitive electronics. The noise reduction is appreciated by both you and your campground neighbors.
FAQ 5: Can I connect two smaller generators together to get more power?
Answer: Yes, many inverter generators have a parallel capability, allowing you to connect two units together to double the power output. However, you need to ensure that the generators are specifically designed for parallel operation and use the correct parallel cables. This can be a more flexible solution than purchasing a single, larger generator.
FAQ 6: What kind of fuel should I use in my generator?
Answer: Most travel trailer generators run on gasoline. Some models can also run on propane. Always consult your generator’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations on fuel type and octane rating.
FAQ 7: How often should I service my generator?
Answer: Regular maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your generator. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in the owner’s manual. Generally, you should change the oil every 50-100 hours of use, clean or replace the air filter, and inspect the spark plug regularly.
FAQ 8: Where can I safely store my generator while traveling?
Answer: Never store your generator inside your travel trailer while traveling. Gasoline fumes are dangerous and can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. The best option is to store it in a well-ventilated compartment on the exterior of your trailer or in the bed of your truck, securely strapped down.
FAQ 9: What is a “soft start” capacitor for air conditioners?
Answer: A soft start capacitor reduces the starting wattage required by your air conditioner. This can allow you to run your AC on a smaller generator than you otherwise would need. It’s a relatively inexpensive upgrade that can significantly improve your generator’s performance.
FAQ 10: Are there any quiet generators specifically designed for travel trailers?
Answer: Yes, many manufacturers offer generators specifically marketed for RV use, emphasizing quiet operation. Look for models with a decibel rating (dB) of 60 or lower. Inverter generators are generally quieter than traditional generators.
FAQ 11: What is the “running time” of a generator, and how is it calculated?
Answer: The running time of a generator is the amount of time it can operate on a single tank of fuel. It’s calculated based on the generator’s fuel tank capacity and its fuel consumption rate at a specific load. The manufacturer’s specifications will usually provide estimated running times at different load percentages. Remember that running time will vary depending on the amount of power you’re drawing.
FAQ 12: What safety precautions should I take when using a generator with my travel trailer?
Answer: Safety is paramount. Never run a generator inside your travel trailer or in an enclosed space. Ensure the generator is placed in a well-ventilated area away from windows and doors. Install a carbon monoxide detector in your travel trailer and test it regularly. Use a heavy-duty extension cord designed for outdoor use and check it for damage before each use. Disconnect the generator from the travel trailer before refueling.