The best generator for your travel trailer strikes a balance between power output, portability, noise level, and fuel efficiency, with inverter generators often topping the list due to their clean power and quiet operation. Ultimately, the ideal choice depends on your specific power needs, camping style, and budget.
Understanding Your Travel Trailer Power Needs
Before even considering brands and models, understanding your trailer’s power demands is paramount. This involves assessing the wattage requirements of all appliances you plan to use simultaneously. A common mistake is underestimating the power surge required to start appliances like air conditioners.
Identifying Essential Appliances and Their Wattage
Compile a list of every electrical device you plan on using in your travel trailer: air conditioner, refrigerator, microwave, television, lights, coffee maker, etc. Each appliance will have a wattage rating printed on its label or in the owner’s manual. Pay close attention to two values:
- Running Watts: The continuous power an appliance needs to operate.
- Starting Watts (Surge Watts): The extra power an appliance needs for a brief period when it first starts.
For example, an air conditioner might require 1500 running watts but 3000 starting watts. Always prioritize the starting wattage when choosing a generator. Add up the running watts of all devices you anticipate using concurrently, and then factor in the highest starting wattage of any single device. This combined figure represents your minimum generator wattage requirement.
Calculating Total Power Needs
Once you have a list of your appliances and their wattage requirements, you can calculate your total power needs. This isn’t just a theoretical exercise; it directly impacts your comfort and convenience on the road. It’s better to overestimate slightly than to be caught short. Consider scenarios where you might want to use multiple appliances simultaneously, such as running the air conditioner while also using a microwave.
Pro Tip: Invest in a Kill-A-Watt meter to measure the actual power consumption of your appliances. This provides a more accurate picture than relying solely on the manufacturer’s specifications.
Types of Generators Suitable for Travel Trailers
Several types of generators are suitable for powering travel trailers, each with its own set of pros and cons.
Inverter Generators: The Quiet and Efficient Choice
Inverter generators are generally considered the best choice for travel trailers due to their clean power output, quiet operation, and fuel efficiency. They produce AC power, convert it to DC, and then invert it back to AC, resulting in a stable and consistent power supply. This “clean” power is essential for sensitive electronic devices like laptops, smartphones, and TVs.
- Pros: Quiet operation, clean power suitable for sensitive electronics, fuel-efficient, often lightweight.
- Cons: Typically more expensive than conventional generators, may have lower power output compared to some conventional models.
Conventional Generators: A Budget-Friendly Option
Conventional generators are typically less expensive than inverter generators and offer higher power output. However, they are significantly louder and produce less clean power, which can potentially damage sensitive electronics.
- Pros: Lower initial cost, potentially higher power output.
- Cons: Noisy operation, less clean power, less fuel-efficient, generally heavier.
Dual-Fuel Generators: Flexibility in Fuel Source
Dual-fuel generators can run on either gasoline or propane, offering flexibility in fuel source. This can be advantageous if you prefer to use propane for your travel trailer’s appliances and want to avoid carrying gasoline.
- Pros: Flexibility in fuel source, potentially lower fuel costs when using propane (depending on location), gasoline backup.
- Cons: Often heavier than single-fuel models, may experience a slight power reduction when running on propane.
Key Features to Consider
Beyond the type of generator, several key features should influence your decision.
Power Output: Enough to Meet Your Needs
As discussed earlier, selecting a generator with sufficient power output is crucial. Consider the starting wattage and running wattage of your appliances and ensure the generator can handle the load. It’s always advisable to have some headroom to accommodate unexpected power demands.
Noise Level: Respecting Your Neighbors
Generator noise can be a significant issue, especially in campgrounds. Look for generators with low noise ratings, typically measured in decibels (dB). Inverter generators are generally much quieter than conventional generators. Some campgrounds have specific noise restrictions, so be sure to check before you go.
Portability: Ease of Transport and Storage
Travel trailer space is limited, so portability is essential. Consider the generator’s weight and dimensions. Some generators have wheels and handles for easier transport.
Fuel Efficiency: Maximizing Run Time and Minimizing Costs
Fuel efficiency is important for both cost savings and convenience. Look for generators with good fuel economy ratings. Some generators have features like Eco-Mode, which automatically adjusts the engine speed based on the load, further improving fuel efficiency.
Top Recommended Generator Models
Based on comprehensive research and user reviews, here are a few top-recommended generator models for travel trailers, categorized by power output and features:
- Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator: A popular choice for its balance of power, portability, quiet operation, and dual-fuel capability.
- Honda EU2200i Inverter Generator: Renowned for its reliability, quietness, and clean power output. A great option for smaller travel trailers.
- Westinghouse iGen4500DF Dual Fuel Inverter Generator: Offers high power output, dual-fuel capability, and remote start, making it a convenient option for larger trailers.
- Generac GP3000i Inverter Generator: Known for its affordable price point and decent power output, a good entry-level inverter generator.
FAQs: Your Travel Trailer Generator Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process of selecting the best generator for your travel trailer.
Q1: What is the difference between running watts and starting watts?
A1: Running watts are the continuous power an appliance needs to operate once it’s running. Starting watts (or surge watts) are the extra power an appliance needs for a short period when it first starts up. It’s crucial to consider starting watts when selecting a generator, as many appliances, especially those with motors, require a higher initial power surge.
Q2: Can I use a generator to power my travel trailer’s air conditioner?
A2: Yes, but you need to ensure the generator has sufficient power to handle the air conditioner’s starting wattage. Air conditioners typically have high starting wattage requirements. Look for generators specifically designed for RV air conditioner use.
Q3: Are inverter generators really quieter than conventional generators?
A3: Yes, inverter generators are significantly quieter than conventional generators. They often have noise levels below 60 dB, while conventional generators can easily exceed 70 dB. The difference is noticeable and makes a big difference in campgrounds.
Q4: What is “clean power” and why is it important for travel trailers?
A4: Clean power refers to a stable and consistent electrical current with a low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). Inverter generators produce clean power, which is essential for sensitive electronic devices like laptops, smartphones, and TVs. Conventional generators produce less clean power, which can potentially damage these devices.
Q5: How do I maintain my travel trailer generator?
A5: Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity of your generator. This includes changing the oil regularly, cleaning or replacing the air filter, checking the spark plug, and stabilizing the fuel. Consult your generator’s owner’s manual for specific maintenance instructions.
Q6: Can I run my travel trailer generator while driving?
A6: Generally, it is not recommended to run your generator while driving. This is due to safety concerns related to ventilation, fuel spillage, and potential exhaust fumes entering the trailer. Check local regulations as some areas may prohibit this practice.
Q7: How do I properly ground my travel trailer generator?
A7: Grounding your generator is important for safety. Consult your generator’s owner’s manual for specific grounding instructions. Typically, you’ll need to connect the generator’s grounding terminal to a grounding rod driven into the earth.
Q8: How much fuel does a travel trailer generator typically consume?
A8: Fuel consumption varies depending on the generator’s size, load, and fuel type. Inverter generators are generally more fuel-efficient than conventional generators. Check the generator’s specifications for fuel consumption rates at different load levels.
Q9: What is Eco-Mode and how does it work?
A9: Eco-Mode is a feature found on some inverter generators that automatically adjusts the engine speed based on the load. When the power demand is low, the engine slows down, reducing fuel consumption and noise. When the power demand increases, the engine speeds up to meet the demand.
Q10: Can I connect two generators together for more power?
A10: Yes, some inverter generators are designed to be paralleled, meaning you can connect two identical units together to double the power output. This requires a special paralleling kit and is only possible with generators specifically designed for this purpose.
Q11: What safety precautions should I take when using a generator in my travel trailer?
A11: * Never run the generator indoors or in an enclosed space. Carbon monoxide is deadly.
* Ensure the generator is properly ventilated.
* Use a carbon monoxide detector inside your travel trailer.
* Store fuel safely in approved containers away from the generator and living areas.
* Follow all manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Q12: How do I store my travel trailer generator when not in use?
A12: Proper storage is essential for preventing fuel degradation and other issues. Drain the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent gasoline from going stale. Store the generator in a dry, clean place. Cover the generator to protect it from dust and moisture. Consult your owner’s manual for specific storage instructions.
Choosing the right generator for your travel trailer requires careful consideration of your power needs, camping style, and budget. By understanding the different types of generators and their key features, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your travel experiences and provide reliable power wherever you go. Remember to prioritize safety and follow all manufacturer’s instructions.